Frequently Asked Questions

Health & Safety

What healthcare facilities are accessible near Mayacan Belize?

Medical facilities and clinics are available in nearby Dangriga, Placencia, and Hopkins. 

What emergency response services are available in the area?

Local emergency response services include medical, fire, and police services based in nearby towns and communities. 

Can I live in Belize on $2000 USD per month?

Most retirees live comfortably in Belize on $2,000–$3,000 USD per month. Your monthly expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle, but this is a reasonable estimate for housing, utilities, food, and healthcare. 

Should I be Concerned about Hurricanes?

Hurricanes are certainly a concern in Belize, the way other natural disasters (tornadoes, earthquakes, fires, floods, etc) are a concern for people in other countries. Fortunately, Belize is in the southwestern part of the Caribbean, which is out of the way of traditional hurricane paths. Historically, Belize has experienced a major hurricane every few decades. Ambergris Caye was hit by a hurricane in 1942 and then again in 2000  

Are Squatters a Concern in Belize?

No.

Belize has strict anti-squatting laws protecting property unlike most Central American and Caribbean countries. Somebody can only claim title to property or easement upon proving to the Supreme Court of Belize that the person has had uninterrupted possession of the Belize property for at least 30 years on National and Conveyed lands or for at least 12 years on Registered lands. 

As long as you have title, your Belize real estate investment will be safe and secure. 

Buying & Legal

What is the property buying process in Belize?

Buying property in Belize can be boiled down to a five step process:

  1. Identify your property and agree on terms. 
  2. Conduct a title search and due diligence. 
  3. Sign the purchase agreement. 
  4. Secure financing (if needed).
  5. Close the sale through a Belizean attorney or escrow service. 

More on buying property in Belize

Is it a good idea to buy property in Belize?

Belize is one of very few countries in the world that are a tax ‘safe havens’, even offering tax free living to qualified retirees from any country in the world. There are no capital gains taxes and property taxes range between 1% – 1.5%. 

Are there restrictions for foreign ownership?

Foreigners have the same property rights as Belizean nationals, including land and property ownership. 

What are the taxes and fees associated with property purchase?

Stamp Duty: Typically, 8% of the property’s purchase price. 

Attorney fees: 1.5–3% of the property’s purchase price. 

How do I obtain residency through property ownership?

Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program or permanent residency through property investment. 

More on residency programs

Leasing

What are typical lease terms at Mayacan Belize?

Leases typically range from 1 to 5 years, with options for renewal. 

How do lease renewals work?

Tenants receive a renewal notice 90 days before the end of the term to negotiate terms for renewal. 

What is the termination policy for leases?

Early termination may incur penalties specified in your lease agreement. Standard notice for termination is 60 days prior to lease expiry. 

Home Building

Should I choose a prefab or custom-built home?

Prefab homes offer quicker timelines and predictable budgets.

Custom-built homes offer personalized design, potentially higher costs, and longer construction periods. 

What building permits are required?

All construction requires Central Building Authority (CBA) permits.

CBA Permitting Process

What are typical home-building timelines and costs?

Prefab homes: 4–6 months; Custom-built homes: 9–18 months. 

Costs range from $100 to $200 USD per square foot depending on finishes and complexity. 

Is Property Insurance Available for Belize Property?

Dependable property insurance is available in Belize, including hurricane insurance. Local companies, which are re-insured through North American and European carriers, offer rates from 1.5% for concrete structures to 2.5% for wooden structures. Deductibles are typically 5% of the sum insured on storms and less for fire.

More information on property insurance

Environmental & Sustainability

What land use regulations apply at Mayacan Belize?

Regulations comply with Belize’s Environmental Protection Act ensuring eco-friendly practices.

Are there protected species on Mayacan’s property?

Yes, Mayacan is adjacent to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to protected species like jaguars and diverse bird life.

More on the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Residents have observed an impressive range of wildlife on the Mayacan property – jaguars, jaguarundis, coatimundis, and peccaries, along with countless bird species such as pelicans, cormorants, turkey vultures, laughing falcons, hummingbirds, orioles, and countless other species.

What ecological considerations does Mayacan prioritize?

Preservation of native ecosystems, wildlife corridors, sustainable water management, and renewable energy practices. 

Banking in Belize

Can foreigners open bank accounts in Belize?

Yes, foreigners can open both personal and business bank accounts in Belize, often requiring proof of residency or investment. 

What banking services are available in Belize?

Banks offer savings, checking, loans, international wire transfers, and currency exchange. 

Atlantic Bank Belize personal banking

Utilities & Infrastructure

What utility services are available at Mayacan Belize?

Electricity can be provided on some lots with grid power through Belize Electric (BEL). Given Belize’s proximity to the equator solar is a very strong option as well.

Non-drinking water in Belize outside of large cities is gathered with rain catchment. For drinking water most residents purchase 5 gallon water jugs with refills available at most grocery stores. A third option is a well but the water usually requires additional filtration.

Wastewater (water including human waste) is managed via individual septic systems installed by the lot owner.

Garbage can be brought to any of the government transfer stations for disposal. 

Proper disposal of garbage and wastewater is the sole responsibility of the property owner.

Is the development connected to the electrical grid or reliant on renewable energy?

Mayacan utilizes a hybrid approach, integrating renewable energy sources alongside the national electrical grid. Plans to continue power infrastructure are underway. 

What internet and telecommunications options are available?

High-speed internet and cellular coverage are available through leading Belizean providers. Digi is the national telecom provider of Belize and offer cellular plans as well as home internet.

Learn more about Digi

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