by Rachel Jensen 
Owning a beach home in Belize is a dream come true for many, and rightfully so. There truly is nothing more relaxing than waking up to the bright blue Caribbean waters with a fresh cup of coffee in one hand while watching the sunrise. If you are already envisioning this, you need to review the following top 7 considerations before owning a beach home in Belize.
Beach in Hopkins
1. Not all beaches are swimmable.
One of Belize’s most magical wonders is the incredible barrier reef that parallels the country. With such a strong focus on reef conservation, there are strict rules against removing any sort of marine plant life. On Ambergris Caye, where the reef is just a mere ¼ mile from the coast, there is living sea grass between the reef and land, making some beaches un-swimmable. While it is most often observed on Ambergris, this is a common thread across all of Belize. What many waterfront owners tend to do instead is build a dock where they can swim and fish from or build a seawall. Please note that you need to apply for a permit prior to constructing a seawall or dock.
A man-made beach at Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye (the west side of the island).
2. Build elevated.
If you are planning to build or buy a home on the beach or within a few rows of the coast, it is important for you to know the storm surge and tides.
If you are building your home, plan to build elevated. The height you’ll want to build up to depends entirely on your location, but anywhere between 3 to 10 feet is normal. Also, look at the other houses around. How elevated are they?
If you are buying a home already constructed, ask around to get an idea of the highest storm surge. Will the current height be enough? Or will you have to raise the home?
3. Build cement pilings down to the bedrock.
While hurricanes aren’t as frequent in Belize as they are in places such as Florida or Cuba, Belize is in the hurricane belt. When building your home, make sure the pilings are down to the bedrock and ensure you’re using cement pilings. While wood will be less expensive, they will require more maintenance and are not as sturdy.
Elevated home with concrete bodega on first floor and cement pilings.
4. Have hurricane shutters or hurricane-proof windows.
Buying a new home is a big purchase and you want to make sure your home is protected. Whether you need to add hurricane shutters or perhaps you’re building with hurricane-proof windows, it just makes sense to do it right.
5. All things metal or steel (even stainless steel and AC units) will corrode and will need to be replaced more often than you think.
Salty air is the leading factor when it comes to corrosion of items in a beach home. Expect everything from your bike chain to your doorknobs to your utensils and even your jewelry to corrode. You’ll want to factor in more frequent servicing (and eventual replacement) of the larger items such as your golf cart (or other vehicle) and air conditioning units into your budget. Frequent washing of items and appropriate stains or waxes can help mitigate damage.
The lock on my bodega was so rusty after a year that it started falling apart when I touched it!
6. Skip the rugs.
Area rugs are OK, but don’t plan to have fully carpeted homes. The amount of sand that ends up inside is more than you may have imagined. Prepare to sweep every day – especially if you have a pet that goes outside and tracks sand in!
7. HOA fees may be higher than you expect.
If your new home is in a planned community on the beach, be prepared for higher HOA fees. Due to the environmental factors, there are going to be more repairs, servicing and general work than in a community not affected by salty air.
Enjoy some R&R from your beach! Ambergris Caye, Belize
Living on the beach truly is incredible and has its perks, but you need to be savvy about your investment. I had never owned on or near the beach prior to moving to Belize and boy did I learn a lot within the first year of owning. I encourage you to do your homework and come in with clear expectations.
Thinking about owning a beach home in Belize? Reach out to me and let’s see what is available that will best suit your needs!
