Retirement Property in Belize

Belize is one of the most attractive countries for those looking for an ‘alternative’ overseas retirement destination for so very many reasons, and as a direct result of the increased promotion of the country the retirement population in Belize is increasing.

If you’re about to retire and are considering your options this article provides an examination of the available retirement property in Belize - from purpose built retirement communities to private and individual lots and homes - as well as discussing the overall advantages the country offers retired individuals.

Belize is a stable and democratic Central American country with a growing economy.  It is located south of Mexico and transport links to both Mexico and the USA are strong with many daily flights available to both from a number of carriers and a good road network allowing you to drive to both countries as well.

In Belize the official language is English, the legal system is based on the British system, the Chief of State is the British Queen Elizabeth II and the currency is the Belizean dollar which is linked to the US dollar.  The US, Canadian, British and European immigrants making Belize home find the transition a smooth one and the familiarity of the fundamental structure of the country appealing.

The tropical climate in Belize is stunning with many days of fantastic sunshine allowing you to enjoy the beautiful and untouched beaches, the amazing tropical forests, reefs, flora, fauna and ancient Mayan ruins the country is so famous for.  Living in Belize you get to benefit from these advantages permanently.

Those looking to retire to Belize can apply to be accepted under the Belizean Retired Person’s Incentive Program which allows qualifying individuals over the age of 45 who can financially support themselves to move to the country and enjoy their retirement income tax free, to live tax free, to import their personal effects including a car and a boat to the country tax free and to make the most of all Belize has to offer.

In terms of retirement property in Belize, until very recently there were no purpose built retirement communities; rather expatriate retirees bought homes in communities where there were already established like minded people.  Now one developer is building a sophisticated resort called Mayan Seaside on the Bay of Chetumal which is on the North coast of Belize at Consejo.  The fifty acre site is on the waterfront and offers many different sized plots for sale on which you can choose to have built any number of home designs.  You have complete control over the design and finish specifications of your home and you will be moving in with other retirees into one of the finest and most beautiful communities in this fantastic and most popular area of the country.  To learn more about this particular development visit: - http://www.caribbeanland.net/cb/belize.htm

If you want to purchase a private retirement property in Belize then you have many options open to you.  You may wish to locate yourself in bustling Belize city so that you have full access to all the facilities and amenities, you might want to move to the popular Cayes and relax into the incredibly laid back lifestyle alongside the many tourists who come to these parts to avail themselves of the nightlife, shopping, beaches and diving.  These options will cost you top dollar in Belize however as both the Cayes and Belize city are the most expensive regions in which to purchase.

If you step a little away from the beaten track and hunt around some of the less well known areas you will find retirement property bargains galore.  For example, in Northern Belize in and around Corozal you will find a strong expatriate community living in this lesser explored part of the country on far less money and in homes that cost them a fraction of the price of what you could expect to pay for similar in say, Ambergris Caye.

The trick is to visit Belize and travel round the whole country exploring in depth the different regions.  Spend time getting to know the country, its people, its immigrants and expatriates.  Spend time finding your place in this inimitably beautiful country and when you’re sure you know where exactly you want to retire to find a place to rent and spend six months making sure!  Buying property is a big commitment, relocating overseas is an even bigger commitment.  Take time making sure Belize, and a given area in particular, is right for you and only then commit to buying your dream retirement property in Belize.