Episode 4: How Buying in Belize Really Works — Step by Step

Most people start by scrolling listings. David says that's backwards. In this episode, we walk through how buying in Belize actually works—from the homework you do before shopping, to offer and contract, to closing, and what happens after.

In This Episode:

• Myth of the Week: "Buying in Belize is just like buying back home, just with palm trees"
• Why you should start with education, budget, timeline, and goals—NOT listings
• How offer and contract work in Belize
• What closing actually looks like and how long it takes
• Why closing is the starting line, not the finish line
• Listener Question: "Do I really need a Belize attorney if my agent is good?"
• Deal Spotlight: A canal-front lot where due diligence saved the buyer from inheriting big problems

The Buying Process:

Step 1: Start With Clarity
• Your education
• Your budget (including closing & setup costs)
• Your timeline
• Your risk tolerance
• Your primary goal: income, lifestyle, or both

Step 2: Offer & Contract
• Letter of Intent or Offer to Purchase (in English, Belize law)
• Formal contract, escrow deposit, due diligence
• Local closing company or lawyer representing YOU
• Title verification, central bank approval, lien checks

Step 3: Closing
• Know Your Client paperwork
• Wire transfer of funds
• Documents executed, title transferred
• Registration with Lands Department
• Timeline: weeks to 45+ days depending on complexity

Step 4: After Closing (The Starting Line)
• Management: Who handles guests, maintenance, issues?
• Accounting: How are you tracking income/expenses?
• Insurance: Are you properly covered?
• On-the-ground support: Who solves problems while you're away?

Key Takeaway:

A good property with bad management performs like a bad property. Plan for what happens AFTER closing before you buy.

Connect:

📧 david@1stchoicebelize.com
🏠 RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize

Next Episode: The Real Costs of Buying in Belize (Beyond the Sticker Price)]]>