The Insider's Guide to Buying Property in Belize
Welcome to the 7th Heaven Properties guide to buying property in Belize, your essential companion for navigating the enchanting appeal of this breathtaking Central American land of rainforest, beaches and reefs.
With a flourishing tourism sector that has firmly placed the country on the map, Belize currently offers one of the most exciting real estate markets in the Caribbean and Central America.
Discover the beauty of this incredible country, find out why property buyers are investing in real estate in Belize and delve into the real estate market with a showcase of property listings and blog posts highlighting its unique charm and advantages.
From the ins and outs of buying property in Belize to an essential overview of relevant taxes, this is your ultimate go-to resource.
Overview - The Belize Real Estate Market
Discover the Hidden Gem of Belize: Unparalleled Beauty Meets Exceptional Real Estate Opportunities
Nestled between the sparkling Caribbean Sea and the lush, green jungles of Central America lies Belize, a captivating paradise that beautifully combines the allure of the Caribbean with the tropical mystique of Central America. Belize has rapidly emerged as a sought-after haven for property buyers seeking a serene escape with unrivaled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a rapidly growing real estate market that boasts remarkable value for investors.
A Landscape of Boundless Wonder: From Pristine Reefs to Majestic Rainforests
Belize’s breathtaking scenery captivates the senses and inspires a deep appreciation for nature’s splendor. As home to the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, Belize lures divers and snorkelers from around the globe to explore its vibrant underwater playground, teeming with colorful marine life and spectacular coral formations. On land, lush rainforests provide a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, while ancient Mayan ruins peek through the emerald canopy, inviting explorers to unlock the secrets of a lost civilization.
Sun-Kissed Shores and Idyllic Island Escapes: The Beaches and Cayes of Belize
The mainland of Belize stretches a modest 180 miles along the Caribbean coast, hosting a collection of serene, sandy beaches that offer a perfect retreat from the bustling world. The real magic, however, lies just offshore. Belize’s cayes – over 200 tiny islands sprinkled throughout the turquoise waters – each offer their own slice of paradise for discerning property buyers. From the vibrant energy of Ambergris Caye to the laid-back charm of Caye Caulker, Belize’s islands are a true showcase of the diverse appeal this incredible country has to offer.
The Belizean Melting Pot: A Fusion of Cultures and Traditions
With a population of approximately 400,000, Belize is a unique melting pot of cultural influences. Here, you’ll find a welcoming mix of communities, each contributing to the country’s rich cultural tapestry. English is the official language, making it an easy transition for many property buyers. Additionally, Belize’s distinctive cuisine and lively celebrations, such as Belize Carnival, add a delightful flavor to life in this tropical sanctuary.
The Belizean Property Market: A World of Opportunities in an Emerging Paradise
For those seeking a piece of Belizean paradise, the property market presents a wealth of attractive opportunities. From luxurious beachfront villas on pristine sands to charming hillside hideaways overlooking verdant valleys, the diverse real estate offerings cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Belize’s property prices are enticingly affordable compared to other Caribbean destinations, making it an ideal choice for investors and second-home seekers alike.
Activities and Attractions: Delight in Belize’s Natural and Cultural Treasures
Belize offers a myriad of opportunities for adventure and relaxation, catering to a diverse range of interests. Dive into the depths of the Great Blue Hole or swim alongside majestic whale sharks in the pristine waters of the Gladden Spit. For those who prefer to remain on terra firma, Belize’s vast network of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries provide endless opportunities for exploration, birdwatching, and photography. History buffs will revel in the architectural marvels of ancient Mayan sites such as Xunantunich and Caracol, while the vibrant markets of Belize City and San Ignacio offer a taste of local life and culture.
Embark on Your Belizean Adventure: Embrace the Unspoiled Charm of a Tropical Utopia
Belize’s unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and enticing property market make it an unparalleled destination for those seeking an idyllic retreat or a savvy investment opportunity. As you venture forth into this enchanting land, you’ll quickly discover why so many have fallen in love with the hidden gem that is Belize. Embrace the warm, sun-kissed shores, explore the ancient mysteries of the Mayan civilization, and dive into the mesmerizing depths of the Caribbean Sea as you embark on the journey of a lifetime in this extraordinary tropical utopia.
“Belize’s unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and enticing property market make it an unparalleled destination for those seeking an idyllic retreat or a savvy investment opportunity”
Buying Process, Fees & Taxes
- Can foreigners buy property in Belize?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Belize and the Government of Belize welcomes investment from overseas buyers. There are no restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Belize and foreign buyers enjoy the same rights as Belizean citizens, including the right to purchase beachfront land. Unlike in many other Caribbean and Central American countries, foreign buyers are not required to obtain any kind of license or permit in order to purchase real estate in Belize.
Property can be purchased in the name of an individual or corporation.
- Buying process
Buying property in Belize is a relatively simple process, which typically involves the following steps:
- Begin your property search.
- Once you have found your perfect property, a written offer should be signed and submitted to the seller.
- Upon acceptance of the offer by the seller, the buyer will typically be required to make payment of a 20% deposit which will be held in an escrow account.
- Acceptance by both buyer and seller constitutes a legally binding agreement between the two parties.
- The next step is for due diligence to be undertaken, including a title search which is a legal requirement in Belize. The title search ensures there are no liens or encumbrances on the property and that no taxes are owed. We would advise you to engage the service of a local attorney or closing company to assist with this process. These closing costs are normally born entirely by the buyer.
- Once due diligence has been completed, an Agreement for Sale and title transfer documents will be drawn up and signed by both parties in the presence of a Notary Public.
- Thereafter the buyer will be required to transfer the balance of the purchase price into the escrow account.
- The next step is for the transfer documents to be executed and copies deposited at the Land Registry.
- The Land Registry will prepare new title documents and you will be provided with a copy.
- Fees & taxes
Transfer Tax
The buyer is required to pay a Transfer Tax (“Stamp Duty”) on the real estate transaction at the time of closing.
Stamp Duty is applied at the rate of 5% of the value of the property.
The first US $10,000 is exempt and the value of any furnishings which may have been included in the purchase are excluded.
Property Tax
Property taxes are relatively low in Belize. The taxes are based on the land value rather than any improvements (e.g. the home) and are typically calculated at the rate of 1% to 1.5% of the assessed land value. Land assessments are usually 10% to 40% of the market value.
Property taxes are levied annually in advance and can be paid by mail or in person at the Lands Department in Belmopan.
Latest Real Estate Listings in Belize
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Residency & Citizenship
- How long can a foreign citizen stay in Belize?
Citizens of the USA, Canada, EU and the UK may generally stay in Belize on holiday for up to 30 days without a visa.
Individuals wishing to stay longer than 30 days in Belize must apply for a visa from local Immigration offices. Visas are issued in one-month increments, for which there is a fee of $25 for every 30-day period.
- How do you become a resident of Belize?
An individual can apply for permanent residence after having lived in Belize legally for a period of 1 year.
Belize also operates a Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program offering residency and exemption from tax on all income earned from outside Belize.
To retire in Belize participants must be aged over 45 with a non-Belizean based monthly income of more than $2,000 USD.
- How do you become a citizen of Belize?
If you have lived in Belize legally as a permanent resident for 5 years you can apply for citizenship by naturalization.
Mortgages in Belize
Looking for financing to fund the purchase of property in the Caribbean?
Contrary to popular misconception, it is possible for foreign nationals looking to invest in Belize real estate to apply for a mortgage.
Our partner – a very well respected international financial organization – offers mortgages for qualifying non-residents buying, building or improving a second home in Belize.
For more information, see our page on: Caribbean mortgages.
How to Get There
There are direct flights to Belize’s Philip Goldson International Airport from various cities in the USA, Mexico and Central America.
Philip Goldson International Airport is located just outside Belize City on the eastern coast of the country not far from Ambergris Caye.
From the USA, American operates flights from Dallas Fort Worth and Miami. United flies from Houston, Delta Air Lines from Atlanta and Los Angeles and US Airways from Charlotte.
There are also regular flights from Mexico and Central America, including Cancun, Guatemala City and San José.
- Los Angeles to Belize 6h 30m
- Charlotte to Belize 5h 25m
- Houston to Belize 2h 30m
- Miami to Belize 2h 10m
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