Ambergris Caye

Investing in Belize

Fee-simple title, low property tax, QRP retirement, and a still-open buyer market on Ambergris Caye.

Belize real estate

A British Commonwealth market in the Caribbean

Investing in Belize real estate is an easy decision, as the country’s ongoing development yields a high return. Buying in Belize is a strong financial move, and the picturesque beaches, clear water, and growing amenities make the country highly desirable. Ambergris Caye is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for tourists and real estate investors.

Belize is a British Commonwealth country, which makes business easier — the primary language is English — and it enjoys a peaceful, democratic political system. Property values have been steadily increasing, with significant growth still ahead.

Canal and fill earthworks underway on Ambergris Caye

How it works

Buying Belize property

There are nearly endless opportunities in the Belize real estate market. Unlike other Caribbean countries, foreign investors are granted the same laws and rights as citizens of Belize. When you buy a Belize property you own it outright.

When you own a property in Belize you own it freehold, which means that with the title, the property owner can possess, reside, or rent the property as they desire. Belize stands in contrast to other countries in the region that use a two-tier ownership system or Napoleonic civil law, where foreigners have different ownership laws than locals.

Belize property tax

Belize is one of very few tax “safe havens,” even offering qualified retired individuals tax-free living. Belize has no capital gains taxes, and property taxes are extremely low, ranging from 1% to 1.5%. Closing costs on a real estate transaction are typically around 12.5%, and transfer taxes are generally 10%. As a Belize citizen, half of the taxes associated with the transaction can be waived.

Foreign investment into tax safe havens has long been considered a smart tax strategy, helping individuals protect their assets and reduce the amount of tax paid. Investing in Belize real estate is a viable option for long-term tax planning.

Aerial view of canals and mangroves on the Secret Beach coast

Retiring in Belize

The Qualified Retired Persons Incentive Act came into effect in 1999 and has offered qualified retired persons an attractive opportunity to relocate to Belize. Belize is a strong retirement destination, with affordable real estate, tropical scenery, and international accessibility.

Benefits of retiring in Belize include official residency and transport of personal assets, including vehicles. Retired individuals covered under this act are not required to pay income taxes on their investments or other sources of income outside of the country.

Grand Mayan Phase 2 canal lots from the air

Financial institutions in Belize

Belize has numerous commercial banking institutions and international banks, plus smaller banks and local credit unions. Belize financial institutions service local residents and non-residents.

The number of foreign banks and institutions in Belize is continuously growing, and they are protected under the Offshore Banking Act of 1996 as well as global regulatory bodies. Many of the international banks offer security, privacy, and asset protection for international citizens.

Ambergris Caye

Belize is one of Central America’s most beautiful and unique countries, providing the best of the Caribbean — political stability, low crime, and tropical beaches. Ambergris Caye is the jewel of Belize, drawing in over 70% of the country’s tourists.

Most of the island is dedicated national park and marine reserve, so there are strict regulations on land use and limited space for development. Ambergris Caye has frequently been named a top island destination in the world, and it is quickly becoming one of the most desirable places for retirement, investment, and vacation.

Waterfront homes along a canal near Secret Beach

Belize real estate opportunity

Belize — and especially Ambergris Caye — has been growing in popularity. Now is an ideal time for those looking to invest in Belizean real estate. On Ambergris Caye there is a multitude of properties and vacant land lots ready to be developed, with enough diversity to meet a range of budgets and financing options.

Whether you are looking for a vacation property, land investment, beachfront condo, or commercial property, contact the Belize real estate professionals at RE/MAX Belize Secret Beach.

Aerial view of Ambergris Caye’s west coast at sunset

Questions

Investing questions

Can foreigners own property in Belize?

Yes. Foreign investors are granted the same ownership rights as Belizean citizens. Title is freehold (fee simple), so you can possess, reside, or rent the property as you choose.

What taxes apply to Belize real estate?

Belize has no capital gains tax. Annual property taxes typically range from 1% to 1.5%. Closing costs are often around 12.5%, and transfer taxes are generally 10%. This is not tax advice — confirm figures with your attorney.

What is the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program?

The QRP Incentive Act, in effect since 1999, offers qualified retirees residency, the ability to import personal assets including vehicles, and relief from Belize income tax on foreign-source income.

Why invest on Ambergris Caye?

Ambergris Caye draws most of Belize’s tourists, has limited developable land because of parks and marine reserves, and remains a buyer market for lots, homes, and commercial sites around Secret Beach and San Pedro.

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