Real estate agent Taniel Chemsian is a renowned figure in the Timothy Real Estate Group and a professional who has earned international recognition within the sector. His name and face are undoubtedly familiar to fans of the real estate-focused television program, House Hunters International, broadcast in over 60 countries by the US channel HGTV. In the reality show, Chemsian guides individuals, couples, and foreign families seeking to acquire a house in Puerto Vallarta, while also taking the time to explore the city’s attractions alongside them. Recently, he completed his 19th episode as the show’s host, allowing Vallarta Real Estate Guide to have an in-depth conversation about his background and professional journey.
Born in Lebanon and raised in Los Angeles, Chemsian’s early years were marked by the armed conflict that erupted in his home country in the early ’80s. After studying Telecommunications, he ventured into film and television production and post-production for a period of time. On top of that, he also managed a family-owned marble and tile business. It was during this time that Chemsian’s only connection to the real estate industry was through his sister, who was already working in the field in California.
Chemsian’s first encounter with Puerto Vallarta took place in November 2001, and he instantly fell in love with the city. This infatuation eventually led him to make plans for a permanent move. However, it wasn’t until October 2006 that he decided to explore the region’s real estate market in collaboration with Carl Timothy.
“At the time, I owned a clothing store on Rodolfo Gómez street. Carl Timothy’s company, which he was a partner in before founding Timothy Real Estate Group, also happened to have an office on the same street. Although I didn’t know him very well, I took a chance and approached him for an opportunity. It took me six months to make my first sale, but once it happened, I knew I was on the right track,” Chemsian recalls with a smile.
Chemsian’s dedication and commitment began to bear fruit, and in no time, he became the primary sales and listings agent working alongside Carl Timothy. In 2010, Timothy Real Estate Group was established, making Chemsian a partner in 2015. The company has gained recognition for its rapid expansion and impressive sales volume.
Due to his exceptional performance in the real estate sector and his natural on-camera presence, Chemsian was selected to host the television program House Hunters International in Puerto Vallarta. In 2011, the production team of the reality show approached Timothy Real Estate Group, seeking collaboration to film the series’ inaugural episode in the bay. The recording took place in January 2012, and this partnership has continued ever since.
“The success of House Hunters International lies in its unique blend of a travelogue and a game show, where viewers speculate on which property buyers will ultimately choose. With each new episode, our goal is to showcase the very best of Vallarta, from local establishments to top attractions. Furthermore, our collaboration with HGTV has resulted in the House Hunters International Charity Event, which generously supports local nonprofits,” Chemsian explains with pride.
Chemsian has also collaborated with various US media outlets, including The Huffington Post, where he shares occasional articles focused on investment opportunities in Banderas Bay.
Reflecting on the industry’s transformation over the past decade, Chemsian notes, “In the past, the majority of our buyers were Baby Boomers, but that has dramatically changed over the past five years. Today, we have a significant increase in buyers around the age of 30, mainly investing in the Romantic Zone, which is the bay’s primary rental market. Although many do not possess $800,000 or a million dollars in their accounts to purchase a property, they rely on credit lines from US banks. Typically, they invest in apartments valued between $150,000 and $250,000. Consequently, we are witnessing the construction of smaller units in this area to meet this growing demand.”
Additionally, Chemsian shares his perspective on 2019, expressing that further developments are on the horizon for the Romantic Zone. However, he predicts that investors may soon turn their attention to other communities such as Bucerías, Amapas, or Conchas Chinas. Furthermore, he anticipates the emergence of smaller buildings in neighborhoods like 5 de Diciembre, Fluvial Vallarta, and Emiliano Zapata.
To conclude our conversation, Chemsian recommends that those interested in acquiring more information about the real estate industry attend the seventh edition of the Vallarta Real Estate Fair. Organized by Timothy Real Estate Group, this event will take place on Saturday, February 16th, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Rivera Molino Plaza. The fair will provide valuable insights and information to both buyers and sellers, with real estate agencies and related organizations participating.
For more real estate insights and to learn more about Taniel Chemsian’s exceptional journey, visit Ratingperson.