Sat. morning I woke up and got all of my recording devices together and headed to town. I just happened to stop at George's Country Kitchen and have breakfast when I priviledged to overhear (as opposed to eavsdropping on) a conversation of two men (at least one was a developer talking about real estate on the island). After that I made my way downtown and passed by some familiar real estate company signs. They have listings taped to the doors so I browsed a bit. I walked into Coldwell Banker/Triton Properties because they not only answered my email, but I got a good vibe from the way that they responded (some of the other responses were a little cold or I didn't get one at all). I met Fran and Roger and spoke with them a bit. They were very accomodating (even though I told them I would be in Friday afternoon). I asked them if they still had time to show me some properties and they basically showed me anything that I wanted to see and gave me there perspectives on living on the island and real estate trends. This included a boat ride all the way to Mexico Rocks. We would have gone further, but there was lightning ahead of us and the water was getting a little rough. While we were gassing up I looked straight ahead to see a sign on a bar "CHOLOS".
After looking at a few more places I pretty much figured that they had put me way ahead of my schedule. I kinda lounged around the rest of the day and I finally got to meet up with O Jackie.
I took a 3 1/2 bike to the South end of the island and then to the North (up to Captain Morgans). I spoke with a few other managers of condos/villas while on my trip.
All in all it was a great trip. I have learned so much in so little time. Would I like to spend more time there? DEFINITELY! Did I buy anything? NO! It's a matter of dollars and cents now. I found some places that were beyond my budget, but I think I at least know what the prices ranges are and what areas I like. I even rode over to the not as nice areas of the island and had a chance to speak briefly with a surveyor in the government housing section. The chance that I do buy something in the future is at least 50%.
I was fortunate to meet a number of people that live on the island and all were delightful. I even met up with Tim and his partner and friends (what a great group of guys).
I have already booked my next flight for late November. If I go before then, it's real serious.
The food was good the people were friendly and most of all, I can see myself blending right in (literally). Spanish classes start next week.
There's so much more, but I've said enough here.

Nate

I like your style.

Good travelogue !
Thanks for sharing.

Don't stop now Nate....tell us more! We all (or at least most of us) love to hear all about people's experiences.

Nate - nice report! Wonder when in November you plan to be in AC. We will be going Nov 16 to 24, but only the last three days or so in AC. We like to see other parts of the country on each trip. If you are there the same time we are we would be happy to meet with you and share our experiences in buying property in Belize. We have been visiting Belize for 8 years now and are just starting our construction (for various reasons).
Glad you enjoyed your trip.

I won't be getting in until the 29th. I'll be up in Cancun before then (my annual visit). Who knows, I may have to pay another visit before then. I'll be meeting with some friends (and potential partners) later today to discuss my trip. Hopefully I can get them to fly down in the next couple of months to check out things for themselves.
What area did you decide on?

Nate

We bought 1.3 acres beachfront about 2 1/2 miles north 7 years ago. However. I'm not sure what I would do now given the higher prices. I did entertain swapping my property for a condo at one point. Decided against it after much deliberation. Your best bet is probably a condo if you can find one that is well run and doesn't have too many strings attached. However, what looks well managed today may not be tomorrow. You need to have a complete understanding of what you are buying into, especially if you will need to rent out the property to make your purchase possible. Good luck.