Belize, Real Estate

ambergris caye  real estate update

COULD YOU LIVE HERE ?

COULD YOU LIVE HERE?

Been extremely busy the past few months.  The Recovering Real Estate market here on the island has made nice strides in 2010.

TAKE IT EASY !

TAKE IT EASY !

What has been driving our island market has been the great deal and negotiating abilities of buyers, sellers and the agents that bring them together. We have clients buying property for as little as 10 % down at 10% with a term of up to 5-8 yrs. People who have not been able to get in the market are now making their move.

THIS COULD BE YOUR FRONT YARD

THIS COULD BE YOUR FRONT YARD

Telecommuters (on-line workers) and International workers (sales people, oil rig workers, International contractors) are now calling Belize their home. The friendly people and the turquoise waters are not the only reasons they are moving to Belize. Another big reason seems to be TAXES! We have some clients that live in some states that are squeezing them for more money$ in new and higher taxes. The Fed Government threatening to raise capital gains, the constantly increasing cost of medications and health care, the dwindling economy, unemployment on the rise are all reasons that are forcing Americans to rethink where they want to live the rest of their lives. This will continue to stimulate our local economy that has  needed a shot in the arm because of tourism being down.

ROOM WITH A VIEW

ROOM WITH A VIEW

The reasons why people are taking less vacations are the same reasons there are more and more people exploring living abroad in other English speaking countries.

RAT RACE ? NO THANK YOU. KAYAK RACE FINISH LINE !

RAT RACE ? NO THANK YOU. KAYAK RACE FINISH LINE !

The people we speak to are amazed how simple and fun  it can be to relocate. The people that can’t make the move now are locking themselves in for the future by taking advantage of the loans being offered by the sellers. They are buying their piece of paradise with a land purchase, commercial property, a condominium or whatever  fits their dreams . We have been watching  the 2 and 3 bedroom condo inventory on the MLS thin out over the past 4 months. This is guaranteed to stimulate the market for houses.

Donations for the Public Schools

Update on the islands largest public school (Roman Catholic School ) . We have many public schools here on the island  , we choose to help this school because they are the most in need of supplies . We have many private schools that are not adequately funded . This school has over 875 students ,  (Holy Cross) a school across the bridge has taken many children this year . This has helped

Palapa finished recently By Ms. Eve , nice job Eve . We are so happy to see our community pitch in and get things done . You are my hero ,

Here is the new kitchen finished by Eve and Kate , this was done first , then Eve tackled the Palapa .

I would say they are very happy children , they always make my day.

For Large donations contact someone here in San Pedro , we will contact the appropriate people , we will make it a breeze .

Big thanks to Jim and Susie , for the supplies . We thank you for your wonderful donation , The 5 subject note  books were a hit  . Mrs. Kay was thrilled , she immediately said the 5 subject notebooks will go to the teachers , and the 1 subject notebooks to the kids . Jim and Susie were very generous , this suitcase was filled (paper is heavy) . Thank -you , unfortunately I was off island on business and did not get a chance to meet you guys . XX

Contributions :   We will be happy to facilitate your donation . Remember , paper is heavy and it is the thought that counts .

The future of Belize will soon be in there hands.

We need educational tools like flash cards ,  Sticky Notes are a luxury for the principal and administration . Composition books  , rulers , PENCILS , erasers , Pens ,  band-aids , vitamins , are the easiest and needed the most . Volunteers and teachers are always welcome , contact us ;  we will put you in touch with the administration .  Next time you go to the Dentist ask for a donation for the kids . We have friends come down with boxes of toothpaste and floss , they simply asked (very generous doctor) . May your generosity come back to you 100 Times . Thanks-again Tim

Lemon Crush Belize

Look who is in prestigious “Islands Magazine“  our Lara Lennon from San Pedro Ambergris Caye . Lemon Crush Belize is a new swimwear bikini line from our island !

To the moon! (Or Ambergris Caye) < CLICK- Read article by Islands (found link)
Life gave her lemons, so she moved to Belize and made a better bikini
by Matthew miller ( based on interview-pictures mine   )

having lost her corporate dreams and her beloved husband, lara lennon found herself at a Sac o Subs in Atlantic City, asking her boxing sparring partner, “How much money do you really need to live on a tropical island?” His answer — less than you think — set her new life in motion. She flew to Belize less than two weeks later to check it out. And two weeks after that, she was living her dream on Ambergris Caye. Now she runs an island-based business designing beach-wedding-appropriate bikinis. Four years later, does Lara and her island still get along?

Q: What was your very first impression of Ambergris Caye?

A: True love. Where other people might have seen dirt roads, I saw an island that watered the streets to keep the dust down. Instead of “traffic,” I saw a charming parade of golf carts buzzing around “town.” I saw lots of water. I checked into my hotel and saw no TV, no phone, no clock. Then I turned around and saw why — the ocean literally steps outside my beachfront door. Why would you want a TV or a clock when you can look at the reef instead!
Q: Your husband died in a plane crash when you were 32. Can you describe how that tragedy combined with professional circumstances to make living on Ambergris Caye make sense?
A: My final corporate job was with a company we’d grown from 2,500 to 14,000 people. Then we got a new COO who promptly began tanking our company. I decided the next idiot I’d work for would be me! I opened an antique shop, and my husband Tom, 6-foot-7 and 240 pounds, was my moving man. After he died, my heart had just nothing in it. I was just done. Life had handed me lemons, and I had to figure out what to do with them. Then Central America came up. It was as if I said, it would be awesome to go to the moon, and someone said, “You can do that!” I just happened to do it in Belize.I pay $65 a year for property taxes here versus $7,500 in Philadelphia. I pay $50 for golf cart insurance, versus $2,500 for car insurance. I didn’t have to work anymore. Any objection I’ve had, Belize has answered. And when I finally wanted to do something again, my swimwear company Lemon Crush Belize was born.

Q: You saw a need for a dressier bikini?
A: We  live in bathing suits here. I get up and put on a bikini every single day. But when I get invited to a party or onto one of the yachts that pull up here or to a wedding, I want something a little more dressed up. Just like in the states I’d put on a pretty dress. But there was nothing for me! So I started making them myself. Then realizing I’d be out-dressing the brides at these weddings, I knew there was a bigger need for these. Think of the suits as “Jimmy Choos for your boobs!” (I don’t know how Jimmy Choo would feel about that.) If I can make a woman feel fabulous about herself while she’s mostly naked, I’ve done what I intended. The single most attractive thing on anyone is confidence.
Q: Suddenly I feel left out. Is there formal swimwear for men? Can I rent?
A: Every man asks me this! But yes, I’ll be expanding the line, adding wraps for the ladies, and eventually shoes. For men, I have a whole idea how to go about that. With the trend being smaller almost Speedo-style suits — Yuck — I need to come up with something for you guys to wear.

Q: Besides the launch of your business, what’s changed on the island?? Lemon Crush Belize catalog
A: Well, we have a road now. We have a lot more “part timers,” people who own condo and come down a couple times a year. Prices have gone up on some things, but we can get foods now that we couldn’t get when I moved. I don’t think the vibe has changed much. Ambergris Caye and Belize have such a strong energy, if you try to change it, it shakes you off fast!
Q: What do you mean?
A: Belize is who she is, and just like the personalities here, the sooner we accept each other, and her, for what we are, the better everyone will get along. This ain’t Texas, and it ain’t Philly. It’s Belize. Be malleable or Belize will break you, not the other way around.
Q: How has Ambergris changed you?
A: Molecularity. You don’t notice how it happens, but it definitely changes you. All the skills that helped you survive in the States, they don’t apply here. You learn to tune in to the island, the people, what’s going on. That’s pretty crunchy granola, but it’s true. I’ve become much more sensitive. I go to the States to eat and shop, and I quickly come home to get a hug from my island.
Q: Where do people dream about when things get too hectic on Ambergris Caye?
A: Everyone loves to “get off the rock” from time to time. Caye Caulker is close. Mainland Belize is an awesome escape. It’s completely different over there. The topography of Belize, the diversity, really, it’s amazing. I adore Guatemala. Of course, Playa del Carmen is a quick bus ride too. Belize is in the perfect location!
Q: Do you think you’d ever leave?
A: Not to be flippant, but I learned many lessons the day I got the call that Tom was dead, and one is that I have no idea where I’ll be in a couple weeks, let alone a couple months. Having said that, I just can’t imagine not having something here. I might move to a more remote part of the island at some point, but for now there’s no reason to think about moving.
Q: What advice would you give people considering a move to a place like Ambergris?
A: I’d lose my voice answering this one! The biggest thing is to look at yourself and ask what you need. Know that it isn’t the States: The power goes out sometimes. And it’s a very small place. Who you are shows through, so if you can’t be your true self, you’ll struggle. But the people here are amazingly accepting of each other, and that’s very heartwarming. All that said, if you think you wanna try it, then jump right in! The water’s fine! Even on my very worst day here, I know it’s at least 10 percent better because it’s here. END OF ARTICLE

This was Lara’s Launch party that went flawless , congratulations

Tim sure loves the Caribbean-This lifestyle is not for everyone

More pictures of the launch party CLICK HERE

you must see , this was the most fun Tina and I attended . Thanks for the invitation Lara

As Ralph says “we are not getting younger”

This fiberglass pool cost $15,100. BELIZE Dollars with all the hardware (filter, ect) . This would be perfect for an apartment complex that has, not so good occupancy . This small investment , could turn a property into a $ maker . While tourism is down ,  Apartments are in more demand, this asset will keep occupancy up . Imagine adding this to a selected home and making your own bed and breakfast , you will save a fortune by starting your own. Sometimes businesses are hard to find at competitive prices .  Folks you make your $ on the BUY,  not the sell .  You are looking for undervalued property , if you have $ now,  you did well with your investments over the years , you are no dummy . You took control before ,  it is about time you look into Belize . DID you know every 8.5 seconds a baby boomer retires , that is 7.1 per minute .  Where do you think they will go FLORIDA , ARE YOU MAD . Belize is 2 hours from Texas and about same distance out of Miami , get a passport and come visit . Don t come to buy , soak yourself in the community and have fun and see if you want to fit in .   Then see me Belize makes sense .

Lets say I have a $300,000. dollar condo in ft. Lauderdale on canal you would pay about  $9,000 property taxes per year (based on my Dads condo that he dumped) . Now that same 300K  property would be about $4oo U.S a year . Did I mention trash pick up and public services are mostly free . My golf cart insurance is $31.50 a YEAR coverage is for up to $100,000 U.S.   If you had a Major Cart pile up on the coconut drive thruway it wouldn’t be 5 K in damages . We dont have ambulance chasing lawyers here , actually if you sue me and lose YOU pay my expenses  . We dont have that crap here , not saying we have flawless system , at all .

This kind of life is not for everyone

Since we are talking being sued and liabilities , that is precisely why you may want to talk with us about cheap asset protection . We will direct you to the oldest and best Law firms . This is not really expensive ($1,300 U.S.) That is cheaper than a insurance policy . Most businesses operate under a Belize Company and don’t bother with insurance.  What do you pay in insurance ? What would you save in taxes if you moved assets ? What do you pay in insurances that you could drop once you have allocated them properly . Add all this up and divide this with your lifespan . My friend Ralf says “I look at life as a football game Timmy, there are 4 quarters in a game and time runs out .  Based on my age this is my last quarter” .  I really liked that because being from Boston I have a work ethic problem , best to admit I AM A WORKAHOLIC  ( aaahhhh……………………Glad that is out . My Doc told me I would be dead by now because of the stressful life I was putting myself threw, trying to climb the ladder of success (glad that was one I proved wrong) . That was 1 deciding factor of first moving here to Belize and the stress gets too me here too but not like up there . The Belizean people will teach you alot , they live to around 100 years old (hope it is the rum    . I learned many things from my fellow Belizeans after 5 years you would qualify for citizenship .

As  a Realtor we face all sorts of issues from one property to the next . Why are they selling , how can I make a profit if seller could not . Should I take ownership of property in a Local Company or should I  put title in my name . This is not Florida , take advice from your Local MLS service  (Ambergris Caye MLS ) .  These professionals have been working on island since the early days . The big names mean nothing here , Burger King , Walmart , Subway .

By choosing an agent from the mls above will give you the security you need when coming to San Pedro . The above companies have the networking to make your relocation easy and fun. The members of the association have been operating with the best Lawyers , Bankers , surveyors and Government officials since the beginning . When purchasing , think Ambergris MLS to help stream line your tropical dream into a reality. Tina and I or our trusted MLS  associates would love to help you with all your Real Estate needs .

This Pic should have made it to the editing floor , here is some payback for some of you that didn’t make the editing floor .

Since we are talking being sued and liabilities ,that is precisely why you may want to talk with us about cheap asset protection . We will direct you to the oldest and best Law firms . This is not really expensive ($1,300 U.S.) That is cheaper than a insurance police . Most businesses operate under a Belize Company and don’t bother with insurance.  What do you pay in insurance ? What would you save in taxes if you moved assets ? What do you pay in insurances that you could drop once you have allocated them properly . Add all this up and divide this with your lifespan . My friend Ralf says “I look at life as a football game Timmy, there are 4 quarters in a game and time runs out .  Based on my age this is my last quarter” .  I really liked that because being from Boston I have a work ethic problem , best to admit I AM A WORKAHOLIC  ( aaahhhh……………………Glad that is out . My Doc told me I would be dead by now because of the stress I was putting myself threw . That was 1 deciding factor of first moving here to Belize and the stress gets too me here too but not like up there . The Belizean people will teach you alot , they live to around 100 years old hope it is the rum    .  If you wont listen to me listen to Ralph , “what quarter of your game are you in” , when will the game be over ?  Love ya man , Ralph that was perfect .

US$$339,700 Furnished

Beachfront Condo

First floor beachfront condo with magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea and reef from the large private veranda. Tranquility House Condo located 2.7 miles south. 1400 sq. ft. with 2 bedroom and 2 bathrooms. The large master bath has a Jacuzzi bathtub separate shower. This condo is ready to move in comes fully furnished and includes the washer/dryer, and new stainless steel appliances. All new faucets throughout and new ceiling fans. Beautiful mahogany wood throughout. Laundry closet with washer and dryer. New swimming pool and new roof. All the wood in this condo is Mahogany. All the shutter, cabinets, doors, the ceilings in the bathrooms and French doors or Mahogany. There are only 6 condos in this complex. All concrete construction. This condo is right on the beach and has a pool. Maintenance fees are only US$400 per month.

For more pictures click here

San Pedro known for the Friendly People

Take a look at this article by  Islands Magazine titled  “Why I chose Belize” .  I don’t have a link , this was sent to me by e-mail , the pictures were  added by us . Margot and I chose Belize for the same reasons ,  its not all about the carefree lifestyle , turquoise waters and  cheap Taxes -Hmmmmm , Well their still good reasons  

Why I Chose Belize
By Margot Brown

It had been more than 19 years since I had been to Belize. Back then it was a two-night stay as I traveled with my husband and four of his buddies. We hired a local to boat us to Ambergris Caye. Arriving late at night, we went directly to a restaurant that had white sandy floors, excellent jerk chicken, and watermelon juice. Instead of doors separating the bar from the restaurant—there were colored beads hanging from the ceiling. I never forgot it and it spoke to me over the years, so much so that we recently decided to go back and investigate if it was as beautiful as we remembered.

We flew by Tropic Air to San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye to celebrate our 41st wedding anniversary. It wasn’t just our means of arrival that had improved—we stayed at Victoria House, a five-star luxury hotel on the outskirts of town. I felt like I was in one of those television ads, looking out at the azure water surrounded by white sand.

I noticed that everyone was smiling all the time. Babies smiled, old men smiled, and beautiful women smiled. I found my cheeks hurting because I had started smiling non-stop. It is heaven on earth here—peace and love and good vibrations.

We loved the diversity of people and cultures throughout the island. Our fancy hotel was about an hour’s walk from downtown, and we liked to walk there and back every day to get our exercise. Something happened to us on those walks that sums up Belize for me.

After a few days, people kept stopping to offer us a ride. First a beautiful mocha-skinned Belizian man with his daughter stopped for us. We thanked him for his offer but told him that we were walking for the exercise. He nodded, smiled and drove off. Then, 15 minutes later, a blond expat woman stopped on her golf cart and made the same offer—and happily left with our same reply. A little while later, a strikingly handsome dark-skinned Jamaican man stopped his golf cart and asked us, ”Would you like a ride?” What a treat! Three locals within an hour offering two strangers a ride to town. That’s Belize—beautiful people and a beautiful place. END

———————————————————————————————————

Who do you think the strikingly handsome dark-skinned Jamaican man is ?????? Moses ……Robert , Naaaa-well maybe.

San Pedro Skyline

We  know it was a matter of time,  before; all these great Real Estate deals will eventually be scooped up. This owner is off to a pretty good start, they could not have  had better timing  San Pedro  Commercial Real Estate is a terrific asset to have in your investment portfolio. Congrats ! NOW is the time to buy and build. Building prices have come WAY down, materials are much cheaper because there is less of a demand. Labor is much cheaper and easier to find these days, Tina and I are tempted to start another project. Anyone that has money knows , you make your money on the buying not the selling. Negotiating terms and prices are easier now then they will be in six months.
The economy seems to be turning around, we can feel it here in San Pedro, but it is subtle.  The MLS Ambergris Caye has seen an increase in sales. I think we will start to see much more construction in the next 6 months. Take advantage of the discounted prices while you can this won’t last much longer .

The girls playing a practical trick on ME  kids are wicked. Samantha and her partner in crime Blanca decide to have fun behind my back !
They ask if they can practice with my camera and instructed me to smile, look at the picture below (she got me).
I was wondering what the heck she was doing, almost spilled the beans. Blanca could barely hold it in-LOOK at her face .

SAMANTHA, you little goof ball. Make fun of me in front of EVERYONE !   YOUR PUNISHED-NO more singing “its a small world” on Karaoke Nights or with the band.
(The kids of S.P. always can use school supplies for Roman Catholic School, e-mail for details)

It was below 60 degrees and my buddy is getting ready to brave the cold, nice hat !

Look what Robert’s got for lunch on Wednesday. When I am in the area its nice to catch up with my old buddy .

Ra safari Bar is located at the end of San Pedro in Club Caribbean . Stop by and see him you can’t miss him,tell him Tim and Tina sent ya!

Been living here in Belize for a long time,………….. and I still don’t see the attraction. Do you THINK he had a bad experience with a Dog ? Haahaa

Coconut Leo one of the interesting characters you will hopefully see while here. If you are looking for him  , look up he spends most his time in trees.
Thanks Leo for always giving us a laugh, now let me get you a beer . Cheers Leo

Christmas in Belize

Another Caribbean Christmas in Belize , many parties and dinners .  Christmas is not commercialized like it is in states and other places .  NO Walmart , Target or shopping malls here, Holidays in Belize are all about family and friends !   (Picture of Christmas tree in town center , Thanks to Barry Bowen )

Foxy is better   in time for Christmas (tick fever) .

She had all the signs of tick fever, but; the seizures threw us off . Very Thankful to have Foxy back , we came terribly  close to losing her . Glad we gave her the medication as extra precaution ! Thanks everyone for the suggestions and well wishing .

We had a wonderful dinner at the Gibsons , Ken does amazing with that grill !  THANKS  xx

Frank in the white t-shirt telling us about the crazy day he had . Matt and I enjoying Frank’s  sense of humor , as he describes it . We think Frank has caught the Belize BUG , he has canceled his plans to return to the Northeast 3 times  .   Chances are pretty good Frank will become an island resident , he just doesn’t know it yet . We think Frank will fit in FINE .

The Gals up their belting out Christmas carols (Road Kill bar)

Crazy Canucks was jamming

Warumguma’s restaurant for pupusas  ($1.25 U.S.) is always a treat .

After the nightlife , we can be seen enjoying a walk threw town tasting different local foods . We should have bought more for breakfast the next morning .

Happy ” Boxing Day” everyone , rest up for next year !