Hi! Just bought a cute new condo in Guadalupe. 2 bed 2 bath 2 patio one level , because I’m done with stairs and am not a person that sits outside much. Its only a 4 plex property with no HOAs and the perfect pied a terre to get away to and to base myself as I explore more of Mexico. My neighborhood is a thriving community with plenty to do a short walk from my door and I have a pretty level 12 to 15 minute walk to the jardin. It’s exactly what I was looking for…and yes SMA can be quite affordable because you can live high or low or anywhere in between and the further away from centro the cheaper it gets.
Something I find important is that in order to qualify for a temporary residency one must buy a property which price meets the Mexican govts guidelines. This is based on the income of Mexican citizens. Living in Mexico without any residency is risky IMO.
Independencia is dicey, a murder on the main drag just last week. You'd likely feel much safe in the condo though it is a long, long walk into town. Good luck.