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Real Estate in San Pedro, Belize | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in San Pedro, Belize

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 07, 2024

Summary: People living in San Pedro, Belize offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in San Pedro? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?

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How do I find a place to live in San Pedro?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in San Pedro involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small apartment to a large beachfront villa. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in San Pedro to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some popular areas include the downtown area, the southern part of the island, and the northern part of the island. Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online resources that list properties for rent or sale in San Pedro, such as Belize Real Estate MLS, Century 21 Belize, and Ambergris Caye Belize Properties. These websites allow you to filter by location, property type, price, and other criteria. In addition to online listings, you can also work with a local real estate agent. They can provide valuable insight into the local market and help you find properties that may not be listed online. Once you've found a few potential properties, you should arrange to view them in person. This will give you a better sense of the property's condition, its proximity to amenities, and the neighborhood it's in. Before finalizing a rental or purchase, it's also a good idea to speak with locals and expats who live in the area. They can provide firsthand information about what it's like to live in San Pedro and may be able to offer advice or recommendations. Finally, once you've found a place you like, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease or sale and sign the necessary paperwork. If you're not fluent in Spanish, you may want to hire a translator or lawyer to help with this process. Remember, finding a place to live in a foreign country can take time and patience, so don't rush the process. Take the time to find a place that you'll be happy with for the long term," explained one person living in San Pedro, Belize.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in San Pedro?

"A typical expat home or apartment in San Pedro, is often located near the beach, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. These homes are usually designed to blend in with the tropical environment, featuring bright colors and open layouts to allow for natural light and air circulation. They often have spacious living areas, modern kitchens, and comfortable bedrooms. Many homes also come with outdoor spaces like balconies or patios, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the warm weather. Some luxury apartments may even have access to shared amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and barbecue areas. Despite the tropical setting, these homes are equipped with modern conveniences such as air conditioning, internet access, and cable TV. They are often located within walking distance to local shops, restaurants, and other amenities, making them convenient for daily living," said one person in San Pedro.

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What is the average cost of housing in San Pedro?

If you are thinking about moving to San Pedro, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in San Pedro can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, you might expect to pay around $800 to $1,000 USD per month. If you're looking at a three-bedroom apartment in the same area, the cost could rise to between $1,500 and $2,000 USD per month. For those interested in purchasing property, a one-bedroom house might cost around $150,000 USD, while a larger, three-bedroom house could be priced at around $300,000 USD. However, these prices can fluctuate based on the real estate market and other factors," explained one expat living in San Pedro, Belize.

Should I buy or rent a home in San Pedro?

If you have not spent a lot of time in San Pedro, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether to buy or rent a home in San Pedro, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Belize for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Belize has a growing real estate market, and owning a property could provide you with a potential return on investment in the future. However, buying a home also comes with responsibilities and costs, such as maintenance, insurance, and property taxes. It also requires a significant upfront investment. If you're not ready for these commitments, or if you're not sure how long you'll stay in Belize, renting might be a better option. Renting a home in San Pedro gives you more flexibility. It's easier to move if you decide to leave or if your circumstances change. It also allows you to avoid the costs and responsibilities associated with homeownership. In addition, renting can give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the area and the local real estate market before making a long-term commitment. You can take your time to find the perfect home to buy, if you decide to do so in the future. In conclusion, both buying and renting a home in San Pedro, Belize, have their pros and cons. It's important to carefully consider your personal situation and goals before making a decision," remarked one member in San Pedro.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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