Streamlined Buying Process

At Celeste Kimberly Properties, we believe in simplifying the path to property acquisition. Here's how we make it effortless for you:

• Sale Agreement: Buyers and sellers mutually agree upon the sale terms and conditions through a meticulously crafted Sale Agreement, effortlessly exchanged via email for your convenience.

• Securing the Deal: A deposit is placed into our reputable escrow account, situated in either North America or Belize, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind throughout the transaction.

• Impeccable Due Diligence: Our proficient team conducts a meticulous title search, ensuring the seller's legal ownership is intact, and the title remains pristine without any encumbrances.

• Seamless Document Signing: To facilitate a seamless process, the final transfer documents can be signed in the presence of a Justice of the Peace or a trusted Notary Public. For added convenience, we offer the option of securely exchanging documents via FedEx.

• Closing Perfection: As the transaction nears its conclusion, the buyer wires the remaining balance to our esteemed escrow account, and upon completion, the seller hands over the original title.

• Title Transfer and Registration: Our expert team promptly registers the necessary documents with the Land's Department, ensuring a swift and efficient transfer of ownership. The seller receives their rightful payment, and the buyer is bestowed with a new title bearing their name. Within approximately six weeks, the buyer's title receipt is ready for their possession, solidifying their ownership of their dream property. Note: Receipt of a land title typically takes 12 -18 months. 

Buyer's Costs 

Deposit / Earnest Money – Typically 10% of the purchase price, though it may be lower for higher value properties. This amount is included in the purchase price.

Central Bank Approval – A fee of US$100 is required for the Central Bank of Belize to approve the sale of the property to a non-resident buyer.

Stamp Duty – The buyer is responsible for paying 8% of the purchase price to the Government of Belize. The first US$10,000 of the purchase price is exempted. Belizeans and CARICOM citizens pay a reduced rate of 5%. It's worth noting that after the closing, a government valuation officer may assess the property at a higher value than the declared purchase price, which could result in an additional Stamp Duty fee.

Receiving Wire – Our escrow account bank charges a fee of US$40 for receiving wire transfers of money.

Fed-Ex – The cost of sending important documents via Fed-Ex from Belize amounts to US$55.

Closing Costs* – Typically, an attorney charges 2% of the purchase price as a fee, with a minimum charge. In certain circumstances, depending on the type of title, the buyer may choose to use an experienced property broker for a quicker and more cost-effective transfer process.

• Closing costs include fees associated with:

• Conducting a title search.

• Preparing transfer documents.

• Facilitating the transfer process for signed documents.

• Ensuring accurate assessment and payment of government "stamp duty."

• Payment of government registration fees.

• Issuing the title in the new owner's name.

• Updating the new owner's name on the property tax register.

• Paying the government stamp duty applicable to all land transfers.

It's important to note that American property laws differ significantly from Belizean laws, eliminating the need to hire an American or Canadian attorney. Your agent will likely prepare the Sale and Purchase Agreement. However, if you prefer legal representation, numerous attorneys in Belize are familiar with Belize Property Laws and can assist you. The seller does not require legal representation.