Real Estate in Belize

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Belize is to start by researching online, such as through real estate websites or online listings. You can also look into local newspapers or social media pages to find listings. Additionally, it is recommended to visit the area, in person, to get a better sense of the local real estate market and to explore possible options. Once you have narrowed down your search, it is highly recommended to contact the local landlords, estate agents, and rental companies directly to find the most suitable place to live," said one person in Belize.

"I choose the San Ignacio area as it has the best local downtown, expats and locals mix well together, the folks are so friendly and the Expats are like my other family ! I found my home, thru Rainforest Realty www.rainforestrealty.com," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Belize City.

"Originally San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, but after 4 years it got over populated and prices went way up. Moved to the mainland Northern Belize were there is less rain and humidity and 15 minutes from Chetumal where you can get low cost everything," explained one person living in Corozal, Belize.

"1 bedroom apt. Washer/Dryer, Internet. A couple of steps away from the beach. Living on an island [Ambergris Caye], you are NEVER to far from the beach. Yes, several expats live in the suburb type area," explained one expat living in San Pedro, Belize.

"The cost of housing in Belize varies depending on the location, size and condition of the home. The average cost for a small, one-bedroom house or apartment in a city can range from $550 to $800 per month. A mid-size home may cost between $800-$1500, while luxury homes and large estates on the beachfront may cost upwards of $3000 or more," said one person in Belize.

"MUCH LOWER! Property taxes are around 30 dollars a year!!! Car insurance is less than 150 a year! WOW!," said one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"We purchased a lot along the sea and had a local builder construct a home for us. It was all done primarily through email correspondence and money transfers. He sent us regular pictures and reports to keep us informed," remarked one member in Hopkins Village.

"Purchased a home in an auction. It was very easy. We purchased before we were even residents of Belize. To do that we needed a us dollar bank acct here, it was easy to do," explained one expat living in Belize City, Belize.

"When buying property in Belize, it is important to research the market thoroughly before making a purchase. It is important to ensure that you are working with a reputable real estate agent and lawyer to guide you through the property purchase process. Additionally, Belize real estate is sold on a 'fee simple ownership' basis and foreign buyers are required to obtain an 'Alien Landholding License' to purchase property. It is also important to note that some areas of Belize are only available to a limited number of applicants due to restrictions on foreign ownership. As such, prospective buyers may encounter a lengthy application process. Lastly, it is vital to be aware that some areas may have restrictions on the types of development allowed on the property," explained one foreigner living in Belize.

"The Caribbean is great (and inland is also very nice), but I would be very wary of "investment opportunities." In Belize, it is easy to buy, but MUCH harder to sell. There is always a consortium planning an " ideal" development that never seems to come to fruition. I have been watching the 4Sale signs from one guy that have been up from before I moved here... 7 years ago," said one in Belize.

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Belize. The government of Belize has established a legal framework that allows foreign nationals to purchase and own real estate in the country. Foreigners can purchase property in their own name, or through a Belizean corporation. The process of purchasing property in Belize is relatively straightforward and can be completed in a relatively short period of time," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Belize.

"No, I don't believe so. Belize is a welcoming country...at least where we live anyway," explained one person living in Sittee River, Belize.

"Typically the kitchen is fully setup, the appliances are included, washer and dryer are included," remarked one foreigner who made the move to San Pedro.

"Expats can search for homes in Belize by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and networking with other expats who have already settled in Belize. Additionally, expats can look for rental listings in newspapers, online forums, and social media groups," explained one person living in Belize.

" Keep in mind that there is no comprehensive “MLS” system in Belize. So when searching for properties, you have to contact all the local real estate offices to see what properties they have listed. Make a list of all the real estate offices and any of the properties you are interested in that are listed through each office. Then contact a realtor from each office to give you the info on the listings you like. In the end, I used one realtor to represent me, but I had to do all the digging within each office’s listings to find the properties I wanted to make offers on. Don’t expect one realtor to expose you to any and all available properties that meet your needs. It just doesn’t happen. Someday soon I hope Belize gets their sh*t together and starts to use a full MLS system where the buyer can view ALL available properties online," said one expat in Belize.