When people ask me what I do for fun, I tell them that I work. I like to be productive and there is nothing that I find more fulfilling than the creative process associated with real estate, architecture, and interior design.

WELCOME TO CUENCA LIVING BY DESIGN
Real Estate and Design Solutions for Expats

Jeffrey L. Schmidt, Owner

WHO WE ARE
At Cuenca Living By Design, we offer more than just real estate — we provide a complete, personalized approach to relocating and living well in Cuenca, Ecuador.

With over 30 years of experience in architecture, interior design, staging, and custom furniture, and nearly 5 years of real estate experience here in Cuenca, I bring a level of expertise that truly sets us apart in the real estate profession.

We understand that buying a home in a new country involves more than just location and price — it’s about finding a space that supports your lifestyle and long-term comfort.
Whether you're just beginning your property search or ready to buy, I along with my Ecuadorian business associate can help you determine the right location and type of home for your needs.

WHAT WE OFFER

We don’t limit our clients to only the properties we have listed — we search all current listings from the entire available market in Cuenca to find the best possible home for you.  And in order to better assist you in achieving that goal, we ask you to go to the top of the HOME page and the click on MORE and then go to the CONTACT page where you will find the link to our client questionnaire.

If you’re planning to ship furniture, the following services are included with the real estate sales transaction.  We will create a detailed layout of your new home to help you decide what furniture and accessories to bring — and what to leave behind.  And once your container arrives, we can assist you in setting up and staging your home in order to give you a sense of completion and permanency from day one.

If you are selling your home here in Cuenca we include staging services when listing your property.  Go to the top of the HOME page and click on MORE and then go to the STAGING category to learn more about the importance of staging and the options that we offer. 

HELPING SELLERS WITH FRESH SOLUTIONS
In Cuenca, there are numerous real estate listings that have remained on the market for years without selling. Often, what these properties need is a fresh perspective. Sometimes a simple restaging can completely transform the way a buyer sees the space. In other cases, a more comprehensive approach may be required — such as offering remodeling concepts, sketches, and budget estimates to highlight the property’s true potential. By presenting buyers with a clear vision of what a home could become, we help unlock opportunities that others may have overlooked.

CONSTRUCTION, RENOVATION, INTERIOR DESIGN AND CUSTOM FURNITURE SERVICES
We offer complete architectural planning for new home construction or existing home renovation, working alongside a trusted Ecuadorian architect and an experienced construction crew to ensure everything is done to local code.  Go to to the top of the HOME page and click on ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPTS to see some of our previous work both in the States and here in Cuenca.

We also provide interior design services for anyone who is in need of assistance outside of real estate transactions.

To view some of our previous interior design projects, go to the top of the HOME page and click on MORE and then go to the INTERIOR DESIGN section.

Need custom furniture? We work with local craftsmen to design and build high-quality pieces tailored to your space, style, and comfort.  Go to the top the HOME page and click on MORE and then go to the CUSTOM FURNITURE section to see some examples of our previous work.  To the best of our knowledge, we are the only firm in Ecuador that utilizes down feathers in their custom upholstered furniture.  And only down feathers can give you the aesthetics, comfort, and durability that quality furniture requires 

LOCAL SUPPORT FOR EXPATS
As a client, you’ll also receive our personally vetted list of trusted local service providers — including:
• Visa facilitators
• Shipping agents
• Attorneys
• Doctors
• Cleaning and handyman services
…and more.

We also work closely with a bilingual Ecuadorian attorney who will guide you through the legal process for your real estate purchase, ensuring that all documents are properly prepared, filed, and compliant with Ecuadorian law.

We are always happy to answer any questions you have about daily life in Ecuador, from cultural norms to practical tips for settling in.  Go to the top of the HOME page and click on MORE and then go to the CONTACT section in order to ask any questions. 

LET’S MAKE YOUR MOVE SEAMLESS
Cuenca Living By Design is here to make your transition to life in Cuenca smooth, stylish, and fully supported — every step of the way.