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Secret Beach blog

Where Secret Beach is, how to get there, and the full RE/MAX Belize archive on buying, retiring, and living on Ambergris Caye.

From the archive

The Secret Beach library, brought back

Start with the guide to the beach itself. Older market notes keep their original dates — they are the record, not current pricing.

Overhead view of filled canal lots near Secret Beach

Living on Ambergris Caye

Whether you’re looking to retire in Belize or just planning a getaway trip away from your home country to even work remotely, then you are definitely not alone. Belize is an ever-increasingly place and also the perfect place to come settle in. Many people come and end up at the perfect setting which is Ambergris…

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Top Reasons to Purchase Property in Belize

Do you think about Belize when thinking about where to build your vacation home? My guess would be yes! But if it’s a no then that must be because you probably do not know a lot about the things Belize has to offer. This Caribbean country has plenty to offer to you, your family, and…

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Top Reasons to Invest in Belize Real Estate

Reasons to Invest in Belize -Ownership is the same for non-citizens as it is for the citizens. No Capital Gains Tax. Fee simple title. No Inheritance tax. There are many opportunities to invest here in Belize. Belize’s Government focuses on providing an enabling environment for private enterprises so that Both local and foreign investors become…

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Benefits of Buying a Vacation Home in Belize

There are many benefits to building homes anywhere in the world. Nevertheless, the benefits of building a house in Belize are top-tier, including not only long-term benefits but short-term benefits as well. Now, with Belize being a dream spot, wouldn’t you want to invest in real estate? Just imagine, building a house whether it be…

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Home Insurance in Belize

In Belize, we have something called “all-perils insurance.” All perils insurance covers everything from rental damages, flood, fire, and hurricane. All perils (including Hurricane) insurance is available here on buildings and structures through local insurance companies (Atlantic Insurance, ICB, RF&G, and Home Protectors are the primary providers). Insurance here is very reliable, and all insurance policies are re-insured through US carriers. Deductibles are normally 5% of the sum insured on storms and less for fire. There are…

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Advantages to Owning Belize Property in an IBC

An IBC is an International Business Company. It’s similar to an LLC or Corporation in US or Canada. An IBC operates in foreign markets as an international entity. When you purchase a property in Belize using an IBC, you own the IBC and the IBC owns the property with a fee simple title. The advantages…

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Real Estate Transaction Growth in Belize 2019 to 2021

While there is no nationwide MLS for Belize to track sales data, RE/MAX is the largest real estate company in Belize with 75 agents in 9 offices, and I am pleased to share the stats for RE/MAX Belize. Total sales volume increased 8.7% from 2019 to 2020, followed by a staggering 167.7% from 2020…

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Buying Land & Building vs Buying a Resale Property

Belize shares many parallels to the US and Canadian markets, but also has a lot of unique characteristics as well. In Belize, and especially on Ambergris Caye, the buy and build over buying something resale has more advantages than just customization. The unique market conditions of Ambergris Caye have made buying and building a far better way to get the most out of your investment.…

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Owning a Home vs Owning a Condo in Belize

In Belize, generally, people have the choice between buying a condo within a development, buying land to build, or securing a single-family home. When it comes to buying an investment property in Belize, the ownership structure and rental income of a home far outweigh a condo. Let’s take a look at the Belize market and…

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Belize Market Data to Maximize Real Estate Investment Cashflow

Much of the post-2020 market is largely speculation, and we wouldn’t want anyone to make an investment decision strictly based on a hunch. That is why we use actual historical and current data trends to educate potential buyers and investors to make informed decisions. In 2019, 20% of all lodging was booked through Airbnb. That…

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Exodus of Americans to Belize

No matter who wins the election, the events of 2020 have led many to rethink their lives and where in the world would provide the best future. This is shown by the recent migration stats. Americans are leaving the country or seeking foreign visas in record numbers, according to immigration lawyers and expatriate organizations, during…

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Buying Land in Belize

The country of Belize is one of the most truly breathtaking destinations on the planet. With jungles filled with wildlife, white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and extremely low tax rates… What’s not to love? That is why many Belize investment property owners and retirees purchase land in Belize. But, before you dive into the…

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Things to Know About Buying Real Estate in Belize

Buying property internationally can be a pain and often riddled with hurdles. There are all kinds of red tape, bureaucracy, and legalities that one must trip their way through. However, for those looking to buy property in Belize, most of that is thrown out the window. Belize is not only one of the most beautiful…

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What to Know When Belize Reopens Tourism August 15

The government of Belize has started its reopening strategy as the International Airport will reopen on August 15, 2020. On that date, the open entry will apply for chartered flights, private aviation, and international leisure travel. The reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport marks a phased reopening for leisurely travel, beginning August 15. Arriving travelers can either present a…

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Using Belize Real Estate as a Strategic Investment Strategy

Belize Real Estate: A Strategic Investment Strategy During Economically Tough Times Recessions are not a new thing, they are part of any economy. The US just came off a long bullish market. Just because a recession happens, doesn’t mean investment stops, strategic investors look to new avenues and leverage cost-effective ways to place capital. When economies turn, people no…

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Belize: The First Country in the Americas that is COVID-19 Free

Belize was luckily the last country in the Americas to report its first coronavirus case on March 23, 2020. What is even more impressive is that Belize is also the first country in the Americas to report no active cases of COVID-19. On May 5th, thе Dіrесtоr оf Неаlth Ѕеrvісеѕ in Belize announced thаt thе…

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Appreciation of Belize Real Estate in 2020

I want to start off this post with a quote; “Never Waste a Good Crises” -Winston Churchill Over the last ten years, the typical land parcel in Ambergris Caye has appreciated by approximately 850% in value. This is no exaggeration. In fact, it’s not uncommon to hear a local resident remark about the days…

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Banking in Belize with Luigi Wewege at Caye International Bank

I often get asked questions about banking in Belize, the currency, and how the system works. I turned to Luigi Wewege the Senior VP and Head of Private Banking at Caye International Bank (the only international bank on Ambergris Caye). Check out the video interview for answers to a number of frequently asked questions about…

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Owning Property Through a Belize IBC

Ever Since the ‘International Business Companies Act’ of 1990, international business owners have been able to register their company as an International Business Company through the Belize government. The International Business Companies Act is a piece of legislation that was initially adopted in 1990 and further extended and amended in 2000 and revised in 2011.…

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Tips For Investing in Belize Real Estate

It is widely known that investing in real estate is one of the best ways to secure a tangible and secure asset that can provide a substantial return on investment. Real estate can maintain value, and build wealth unlike many other forms of investment. Owning and investing in real estate is a great way to…

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What it’s Like to Live in Belize as Opposed to the USA or Canada

Belize is a tropical destination in Central America made up of the mainland and numerous islands. The country has the Caribbean ocean that makes it one of the most stunning, and gorgeous places on Earth. The landscape of Belize is diverse, from the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters to the mountainous terrain. Belize…

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Ambergris Caye International Airport Plans

There have long been whispers of a new International Airport on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize. This concept took a massive step forward in 2017, when a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by the government of Belize. This memorandum gave permission to finance, manage, and work with an outside contractor in order to…

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A Guide to Belize Real Estate Value Appreciation

Generally, the term “appreciation” has a positive connotation whether it be the appreciation of a person or the appreciation of value. In Real Estate, “property appreciation” refers to the value of real estate increasing over time, this is largely due to an increase in demand for that property. As real estate becomes more scarce but…

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Top Reasons to Invest in Belize Real Estate in 2019 & 2020

The Belize real estate market has been booming over recent years, it has become one of the most sought after destinations for real estate investors in the Caribbean. Belize real estate is a popular choice for investments for people from many different income brackets, particularly as the market goes into the 2019 and 2020 seasons.…

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How to Buy Real Estate in Belize

Belize is one of the hottest real estate markets in the world right now. The popularity of Belize is due in large part to the booming tourism industry. The Caribbean country of Belize draws in tourists, expats and investors all looking to enjoy the tropical charm of Belize and the island of Ambergris Caye. Whether…

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A Brief History of Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is one of the most popular and beloved of Belize’s beautiful, sunny destinations. Ambergris Caye is a haven for local Belizeans, sun-seeking tourists, and retirees looking to make a new home in their golden years. But how did Ambergris Caye become such a popular destination? And what are some of the hidden secrets…

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Best Places to Stay While Visiting Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is one of the most popular destinations in all of Belize, receiving the majority of overnight tourism to the country. The popularity of Ambergris Caye is in large part due to the great atmosphere, beautiful beaches, popular restaurants, and friendly locals. When visiting Ambergris Caye, there are several different options for accommodations, and…

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Important Questions to Ask When Buying Land in Belize

Are you thinking of buying land in Belize? If so, you are not alone. Belize is a stunning country with plenty to offer, whether you intend on living there yourself or purchasing property to rent or sell to others. The Belize market is ‘booming’ and real estate is affordable compared to other areas in the…

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Discovering San Pedro Town

San Pedro Town is one of the most popular destinations in Belize as well as the primary focus for visitors to the island Ambergris Caye. San Pedro Town is highly popular with new tourists, seasoned travelers, retirees and locals who want to enjoy the very best that Ambergris Caye has to offer. Most of San…

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Ambergris Caye Infrastructure

Ambergris Caye, like most areas in Belize, has a unique infrastructure that helps make life in Ambergris Caye more modern and convenient for all its residents and tourists who visit. Residents of Ambergris Caye, expats and tourists visiting the popular destination should familiarize themselves with the standard infrastructure used in Ambergris Caye so they can…

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Belize Qualified Retired Persons Program (QRP)

Belize offers retired expats more than just desirable climate and beautiful beaches. The Qualified Retired Persons Program offers an incentive and easy transition for people looking at retirement in Belize. In the US it is estimated that 59% of Baby Boomers are planning on relocating for their retirement. The cost of living in the United…

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5 Must Try Restaurants in San Pedro

San Pedro is one of the most popular destinations in Belize, with plenty to offer both locals and visitors in terms of things to do, places to see and of course—food to eat. And as anyone who has ever set foot in San Pedro will tell you, it has some of the best restaurants in…

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Best Time to Travel to Belize

Are you looking to travel to Belize in the near future? If so, you’re not alone: it is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world for everyone looking for some fun and relaxation in one of the most beautiful places to stay and visit. If you’re like most travelers, then you no…

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Banking in Belize

If you’ll be moving to Belize in the near future, whether it’s for business or retirement or something in between, then you’ll need to know the ins-and-outs of the banking system; this will ensure that your financials are properly taken care of when you move to a new country. The following is an essential guide…

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Starting a Business in Belize

Belize has the potential to be a lucrative business option for anyone who is willing to put in the work and effort it takes to open a business tailored to Belize’s unique markets. If you want to know the basics about starting up your own business in Belize, consider this following guide to get you…

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5 Reasons To Retire In Belize

As the most popular real estate company in Belize, we get inquiries from clients across the world about this lovely Central American nation, with a distinct Caribbean character. Does it make sense to retire in Belize? We get that question all the time. Yes, it does, as Belize is one of the most beautiful places…

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The Ambergris Caye Property Market: What to Expect?

Are You Looking for the Best Land For Sale Ambergris Caye? The island of Ambergris Caye in Belize is blessed with incredible natural beauty. This island of 20,000 people has a lot going for it. Indeed, it is easy to see why there is so much demand for land for sale Ambergris Caye. Perfect weather,…

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Currency in Belize

So are you planning to buy property in Belize? Then you should know two things; very important… What’s the currency in Belize? What’s the exchange rate of the Belizean currency vs the U.S. Dollar? The unit of currency in Belize is the Belize Dollar. The Belize Dollar is tied to the U.S. Dollar. 1 Belize…

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Belize Education System

Are you considering moving to Belize soon? Belize is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with pristine beaches, perfect weather and friendly people. The lifestyle here is decidedly relaxed and laidback. But the question is, how is the Belize education system like? If you are a parent, this is the #1 thing…

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Real Estate Financing In Belize

Are you considering investing in a property in Belize? The thought of buying a house or land in Belize is certainly enticing. Belize is after all one of the most beautiful countries in the world, known for its picturesque beaches, amazing Mayan ruins, and a diverse culture. But what’s the best way to finance your…

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Medical Care In Belize

Are you planning to buy a house, condo or land in Belize? You’re no doubt concerned about the medical care in Belize. Is it as good what you we have back home in the US, Canada or the UK? Well, not exactly, Belize is a developing country after all. But the medical care delivery system…

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Why Moving To Belize Is NOT As Hard As you Thought

For some people, the idea of moving to Belize is daunting—after all, the idea of packing up and moving to another country can definitely be daunting, and that’s not even taking into consideration the financial costs of moving abroad. But what if we told you that moving to Belize is actually not that hard, both…

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5 Places to Live in Belize

Belize has become a premier tourist spot in the Caribbean and the countries popularity continues to grow. This tiny country that is bordered by Mexico to the North and Guatemala to the east has an irresistible charm that brings in tourists around the world. It is one of the few places in the Caribbean where…

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15 Reasons to Retire in Belize

Where can you retire on a beach spending $1500 per month while living the good life? Top of the list would be Belize. This is the tiny country that is found to the south of Mexico and east of Guatemala, on the coast of the Caribbean Sea. Belize is breathtakingly beautiful, no wonder its biggest…

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Why Buy Ambergris Caye Land?

Where else would you find beachfront property for $290,000? Belize is an undiscovered real estate gem for anyone looking to invest in a retirement or luxury home in the tropics. This is a small country on the East Coast of Central America, bordered to the north by Mexico, and to the west by Guatemala. Its…

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Getting The Best Flights To Belize

Belize is a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful beaches, warm weather, amazing sights and vibrant culture. Because of its popularity, many airlines are providing travelers with competitive rates to try and get you to use them for your next trip to Belize. Right now, there are 7 international airlines that fly into Belize,…

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5 Things To Do Before Moving To Belize

Now that you’ve got your vacation or investment property in Belize, it’s time to prepare for your move! It’s an exciting time for you so in order to make sure you have everything in order, we’ve prepared some helpful tips on what you should do before you make the big move. 1 – Get…

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Belize Tax Incentives For Foreign Investors

If you’re interested in investing in property in the beautiful country of Belize but have been on the fence about actually committing to it, you’ll be happy to hear that you’ll get a few tax incentives for a piece of paradise! Having a property in Belize can provide you with great tax write-offs that will…

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Types Of Properties For Sale In Belize

Belize Property Belize’s property market is like any other in the world, offering a number of different properties to suit the needs of any foreign or domestic real estate investor. The properties on Ambergris Caye in Belize are beautiful paradise homes that can be used for private vacations, rented out vacation properties or simply to…

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Why Belize Is One Of The Best Places To Own Real Estate

Belize Real Estate Belize is a beautiful Central American country that offers plenty of enticing amenities for both travelers and investors looking to own real estate there. On one side of the country is the Caribbean Sea and the other are Central American jungles, so there are plenty of things to do in the small…

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Why Purchase Property On Ambergris Caye

You want to buy a house in Belize, one of the most popular overseas property destinations in the world. But the question is where? Where should you buy property in Belize? Consider the island of Ambergris Caye – it’s the best place to buy a home in Belize. Ambergris Caye is a delightful coastal community…

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Top Reasons to Buy Belize Property

Are You Planning to Buy Property in Belize? Belize is a small Central American country known for its dazzling beauty. Belize has a picture-perfect climate, friendly locals, and a relaxed way of life. Nothing ever happens in Belize in a hurry. There is a great deal of interest in Belize from Americans, Canadians, and Britons…

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How to Finance Your Property in Belize

Are you considering investing in a second home or holiday property in Belize? Belize is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with stunning beaches, friendly locals, stable government and a growing economy. Investing in a property in Belize is a good idea as it’s going to pay off handsomely for you over…

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Top 10 Attractions in Belize

Are you planning to buy property in Belize? Why Belize? Well, to begin with, Belize is an incredibly beautiful country with pristine beaches, sand dunes, diverse and inclusive culture, friendly locals and a stable government. Belize is also a veritable tropical paradise with a distinctly Caribbean flair about it. While geographically Belize is a part…

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Curious About Belize Real Estate Opportunities In 2018?

A lot has been happening down here in Belize over recent months, the market continues to grow and opportunities continue to arise. We have compiled a Q1 webinar report to show all the growth and development that has taken place recently. Some of the recent and upcoming highlights include: Tourism Growth On Ambergris Caye Continues…

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Top 3 Real Estate Deals In Belize Today

With all the latest attention going to the Secret Beach area on Ambergris Caye, we are seeing the tipping point for significant growth and equity appreciation, and the buzz of the area is really taking off. In the past 4 months, we have had some serious developments that have made the surrounding area (specifically these 3…

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The Future Challenges of Americans Seeking Relocation

Often times I have people come to me and express their wish and desire to have invested in the Caribbean years ago, so they could have secured a nice location for retirement when values were lower and more affordable. As the US continues down its current path, we’re seeing more and more interest in relocation. As…

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Top 5 Reasons to Invest in Belize Real Estate

Belize real estate is becoming more and more of a hot topic for Americans, Canadians & Europeans as more learn about the tremendous benefits of owning real estate in Belize. Whether it be for investment or lifestyle purposes, Belize stands out amongst other countries in the Central America region for several reasons. These are the…

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How To Buy Belize Real Estate

Belize іѕ considered bу so many people аѕ bеіng “thе most bеаutіful undіѕсоvеrеd vacation ѕроt thаt аllоwѕ thеm tо еnjоу the сulturаl quаlіtіеѕ of a Lаtіn / Cаrіbbеаn Country wеll vеrѕеd іn thе еnglіѕh Lаnguаgе. Bеlіzе is knоwn fоr іtѕ beauty аnd mаgnіfісеnt natural wоndеrѕ such аѕ: the many іѕlаndѕ іn оur bеаutіful wаtеrѕ, іtѕ…

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What is the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion?

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) allows US citizens or holders of the US green card to exclude the income they earn outside the US from being taxed. This tax includes wages and income that may have come from self-employed income. To qualify for the FEIE, one has to work and live outside the US. This…

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Belize Ban On Oil Activity on All Its Waters

Belize has for long been touted as the undisputed champ of Caribbean flourishing tourism industry. The island’s more than 190-km stretch of pristine coastline has always attracted millions of tourists from far and wide, raking in billions in revenue for the government coffers. So the smart move by the government to ban oil activity in…

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Learn About Lots Available At Belize Secret Beach For $3,000 Down

It seems like every week there are new progressions taking place in the Secret Beach area of Ambergris Caye, Belize. For those of you who don’t know, Secret Beach has seen a growth in popularity over the past year for its peaceful ocean views, sandy beaches & calm culture. As result, many commercial businesses are opening up in…

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Why You Should Buy in Ambergris Caye Belize

Belize as a country is a heaven on earth for inhabitants and millions of tourists it attracts each year. That’s why buying property in Belize may well be the smartest and easiest decision you’ll make when it comes to buying real estate. Belize, or more specifically Ambergris Caye, is fast burgeoning to become one of…

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Belize Tax Advantages

Belize is perhaps known for its touristic charm. It attracts tourists to the tune of 1.4 million each year, making it one of the most desirable destinations in the Central American and Caribbean region. But, the country has also gained increased popularity for another thing: Belize tax advantages. The tax advantages of Belize have drawn…

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Getting A Belize Building Permit

One of the most common questions I receive from real estate investors who are looking to maximize their return on investment is, “How do I obtain a building permit in Belize?” Unlike some other countries throughout Central America, the permitting process in Belize is very straightforward, so long as you have the correct documentation prepared…

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Palm Gardens A Belize Investment Opportunity

Recently, investors have taken notice of the development surge taking place on the West Coast of Ambergris Caye, Belize. To understand the growth and development that is taking place we have to look at the history of Ambergris Caye. Specifically, there was recently the infrastructure put in place for the first East to West road ever…

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How to Buy Property in Belize

Belize landscape and favorable economic development are contributing to continued growth in the country’s real estate market. The attractive investment climate due to the foresight of its leadership is attracting investors from the US and Canada, Belize offers numerous incentives, a favorable tax system, and freehold ownership for foreign property owners. However, before you decide…

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Owning Property: Leasehold vs Freehold

When investing in a foreign market it is important to know the ownership rights. When you buy property, the term on your document will determine whether you own the property or properties in perpetuity or for a predetermined period of time. The terms should specify what and how much to pay and determines what you…

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Facts About Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is in the Caribbean Sea and the largest island of Belize. The island is geographically contiguous to Mexico, but my stroke of providence and the Maya intervention at dredging and expanding the north canal end of the Caye brought it under Belize rule. San Pedro Town is the largest town of Ambergris Caye…

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7 Benefits of Investing in Belize Real Estate

Belize is located in the Central American on the eastern coast bordered on the north by Mexico, on the south-west by Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea is on its eastern border. It has an estimate area size of 22,800 square kilometers with a population estimate of 387,879 (2017). The country has diverse ecosystems and abundance…

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