Carrie D. Says:
I am currently looking at some lots for sale in Long Caye, Belize. It seems to be an island for diving and fishing, as opposed to a residential island. I am surprised to see there are so many lots available for sale.
Do you have any insight on buying property there?
IL Belize Correspondent Shane Kenny Says:
Hi Carrie,
Great question. I reached out to Frik De Meyer from Boris Mannsfeld & Associates to help. He has worked with many clients looking to purchase property here in Belize.
Long Caye is located outside of Belize’s barrier reef. That means it’s a long boat ride from the mainland, making it expensive to get to and from the island.
It’s privately owned by a group that is seeking to turn the island into an ecologically sustainable community.
The island itself is beautiful and the owners are legit. However, it is taking them longer than they had hoped to realize their vision for the island.
My advice on purchasing real estate in Belize would be the same regardless of whether it is an island, beach property, farm, or mountain home:
- Come and visit. There is no substitute for getting your feet on the ground and seeing things for yourself. Plus, you can ask around and get the real story on most properties, or developments, from the local expats.
- Get a good agent. A local agent, combined with knowledge from local expats, will help set you up for success. Your agent will know the ins and outs of what is required to actually purchase property and get it transferred into your name. They will also have their finger on the pulse of what a property is actually worth, versus what the owner thinks it is worth.
When you are ready to contact an agent, visit the website for the Association of Real Estate Brokers of Belize to find a reputable one. - Use a lawyer. No matter how much your agent tells you that a lawyer is not needed to purchase property here in Belize, the extra cost is worth knowing you have someone in your corner looking out for your rights.
Follow these three easy steps and you should have great success in locating and purchasing the perfect property.
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