They had considerable experience in Mexico having built and operated Playa de Oro RV Park  for 20 years and later Playa Elegante.

The acquisition of individual property bank trusts in 1997 eased many U.S. homeowners concerns about ownership of property in Mexico and raised the level of investment in property improvements. This investment continues as  homeowners are now retiring to live in Vista de Oro and wish to improve their home amenities.

Living in Puerto Penasco and receiving city services is similar to any U.S. city.  Retirees have found bill paying for essential services a simple matter and no longer need private enterprise to perform those deeds. Weekend and vacation-only homeowners can also handle their own bill paying by building credit at the various utility offices.

The community of Vista de Oro requires volunteer participation to function successfully.  The mix of homeowner's occupancy varies from as little as one month total per year to almost 100% (12 months) occupancy by one or two families. Absentee homeowners must  therefore rely on volunteers to ensure the "good health" of their home in Vista de Oro.

 This is accomplished by 24-hour watchmen security patrol and watchful homeowners.

 A volunteer homeowner collects the fees and disburses the payments for services. A U.S. bank is the depository for all Vista de Oro monies.

 The community maintains peace of mind through the efforts of volunteers and communication  via Email primarily and has its annual meeting followed by a potluck on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Annual treasury reports, infrastructure, security issues and plans  for the next year are discussed and everyone has the opportunity to participate.

This history was written by John Bellingham And added to by Joe Dunne and Carolyn Lowe