Real Estate in Belize

"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," said one person in Corozal.

"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 expat who made the move to 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," explained one foreigner living in Belize City, Belize.

"Expat homes and apartments in Belize typically feature soaring ceilings, balconies, bright and airy living spaces, and independent access to the outdoors. Many expat homes and apartments are brightly colored, often in the local Belizean style, with ceiling fans, air-conditioning, and a mixture of traditional and modern Caribbean-style furnishings. Typically, distance to the beach or any other amenities will have to be taken into account when searching for an expat apartment or home in Belize," said one person in Belize.

"My husband and I live in Carmelita Gardens (moved here in October 2020 and rented while we were having our home built). We have a 1BR/1BA house of 832 sq ft including our screened-in front porch and back terrace. Our home was built from Covintech which is a concrete-covered styrofoam-mesh material. We have a 6500 gal cistern, solar panels etc," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Carmelita Gardens.

"Housing cost is about 50% less if you are a owner builder. Avg for land and house is $80k US and the ROI after three years is about triple that," said one person in Corozal.

"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.

"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," explained one foreigner living in Belize.

"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 person living in Belize City, 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," explained one person living in 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," said one expat in Belize.

"Get a long term rental so you have plenty of time to check out properties, locations, and prices. It's helpful to talk to other foreigners who have moved also," said one foreigner living in Sittee River, Belize.

"Also be aware when buying a home, realtors can work for the buyer and seller so I don’t see in this case how they would chose which one to work for in their best interests. Also sellers are not legally obliged to tell you of any issues with the home so do a proper inspection before buying. Only the newer houses are built to American standards but of course they will cost more," explained one expat living in Corozal, Belize.

"I strongly recommend handling any land purchases through a Belizean law firm, to make sure the property title is free & clear, that the owner is up to date on taxes, etc. The cost of an attorney’s services is well worth the peace of mind! I made an $120k mistake by skipping this crucial step! Also, make sure the property has easy access/egress, and basic infrastructure (electricity, water, drainage.) Ask people in the area what it’s like during various seasons (dry/rainy.) Ask them where they shop for various items and where they go if they need a doctor or dentist. Based on what type vehicle you own, the distance to stores, etc. can be critical. There are tons of gorgeous properties available in Belize. Good luck," said one person in Belize.

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

"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," explained one expat in Belize.

"In Belize, most rentals come furnished since it would not be expedient for a renter to purchase furniture, large appliances, and kitchen items.," said one foreigner living in Hopkins, 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 person in Belize.

"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," wrote one expat who made the move to Belize.