A Foreigner's Guide to Buying Real Estate in Belize

By Macarena Rose </a>

Macarena Rose is a respected real estate professional in Belize and the founder of Keller Williams Belize: Team Macarena. Her story began when she first visited Belize to teach a class at Cahal Pech Resort and immediately felt called to make San Ignacio her home.

Buying property in Belize can feel exciting, but for many U.S. and Canadian buyers, it also raises a lot of questions. I remember feeling overwhelmed at the beginning because the process was unfamiliar, and I wasn’t sure how much of what I assumed was actually true. If you’re in that same place, understanding a few key points upfront can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.

Here’s what you need to know before you buy.

Can foreigners own property in Belize? The short answer is yes, they can. Foreigners are allowed to own property outright in Belize, and the ownership structure is very similar to what buyers are used to in the United States and Canada. There’s no requirement to partner with a local citizen, and ownership rights aren’t restricted simply because you’re not from Belize. Knowing this early removes one of the biggest barriers people have when they first start looking.

Why does due diligence matter more than most expect? What I didn’t fully understand at first was how important due diligence is when buying property in Belize. Not every property has the same type of title, and not all titles come with the same protections or limitations. Two properties can look nearly identical but be very different from a legal standpoint.

A proper title search isn’t optional. It’s essential. This step confirms that the property can be transferred cleanly and that there are no hidden issues tied to ownership. Skipping or rushing this process can create serious problems later, while doing it early helps you move forward with clarity.

Financing works differently than back home. Another surprise for many buyers is financing. Traditional mortgages are limited in Belize, especially for foreign buyers. Because of this, most people purchase property using cash or equity from their home country. That often means refinancing a home back home or planning funds well in advance.

Understanding this before you start shopping makes a big difference. It helps you set realistic expectations and focus on properties that actually fit your financial plan instead of running into obstacles late in the process.

Property ownership doesn’t equal residency. One of the most common misunderstandings is assuming that buying property in Belize automatically grants residency. It doesn’t. Property ownership and residency are two separate processes, each with its own requirements and timelines.

Knowing this upfront prevents confusion and helps you make decisions based on facts rather than assumptions. You can own property without being a resident, but it’s important to understand what each path involves.

Buying real estate in Belize shouldn’t feel confusing or risky. With the right information and a clear understanding of ownership, due diligence, and financing, you can move forward with confidence.

If you’re considering investing in a property in Belize and want to know more about the process, feel free to call or text me at ** ** 727-565-1507 ** ** or email me at macarenarose@gmail.com. I’m here to help.