There are nearly endless opportunities in the Belize real estate market. One of the benefits to buying Belize real estate is unlike other Caribbean countries foreign investors are granted the same laws/rights as citizens of Belize. Unlike many other Central American & South American countries, when you buy a Belize property you own it and 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 to. Belize in contrast to other countries in the region which use a two tier ownership system or Napoleonic civil law which incorporates a structure in-which foreigners have different ownership laws than locals.

Belize as a country 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% – 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 been long 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.

The Qualified Retired Persons Incentive Act came into effect in 1999 and since then it has offered qualified retired persons, an attractive opportunity to relocate to Belize for retirement. Belize is a great retirement destination, with affordable Real Estate, tropical scenery, and international accessibility. Some of the benefits of retiring in Belize include official residency and transport of the person’s personal assets, including vehicles. Retired individuals that are covered under this act are not required to pay income taxes on their investments or other sources of income outside of the country.

Belize as a country has numerous commercial banking institutions, and international banks. Belize also has several smaller banks and local credit unions that offer financial services. Belize financial institutions service local residents and non-residents. The number of foreign banks and institutions in Belize is continuously growing, and are protected under the Offshore Banking Act of 1996 as well as global regulatory bodies. Many of the banks are prohibited from doing business with Belize citizens, the international banks do offer security and privacy as well as asset protection for international citizens.

Belize is one of Central America’s most beautiful and unique countries, providing the best of the Caribbean. The advantages of Belize is the political stability, low crime, and tropical beaches. Ambergris Caye is the jewel of Belize, with all of the destinations and locations in Belize, Ambergris Caye draws in over 70% of the countries tourists. Ambergris Caye is a north Belize island, and most of the island is dedicated National Park and marine reserves, because of this there are strict regulations on land use and limited space for development. Ambergris Caye has frequently been named the top island destination in the world. Ambergris Caye is quickly becoming one of the world’s most desirable destinations for retirement, investment, and vacation.