Frequently Asked Questions about Better in Belize Eco-Community

Q: How do I reserve my lot at Better in Belize eco-community?
A: You can reserve your lot today with a $500 fully refundable deposit. Your deposit is held securely in escrow in a Canadian bank account.

Q: Once I've reserved my lot and determined that Better in Belize is the place for me, what payment options are available?
A: You can opt to pay the remaining balance in cash or in progress installment payments.

Q: How big are the lots at Better in Belize eco-community?
A: Lots range in size from ¼ acre to 1.7 acres. There is a minimum 10-foot setback from the borders of the lot. On most lots, there will be ample space for your residence, garage/workshop, organic gardens, fruit trees, etc.

Q: What are the prices of the lots at the Better in Belize eco-community?
A: Lot prices range from $18,000US (for residential lots) to $85,000US (for commercial lots) with an average price being in the $23,000US range.

Q: Do I own the property?
A: Yes. You will have 100% fee simple title to your land with the same ownership rights as Belizeans.

Q: Once I buy my lot, how do I proceed with building?
A: You will either need to furnish construction plans from an architect or design firm; or, alternately choose one of the designs that we offer. The Ecological Advisory Board (EAB) of Better in Belize needs to approve all construction plans. In order to maintain a high level of ecological compatibility, the EAB has prepared an "Eco Construction Workbook" which will serve as a guideline for planners in preparation for construction plan submissions. While some purchasers may opt for more traditional eco-friendly house designs, this is your opportunity to dream green. If you have ever dreamed of living in a yurt, earth home, tree house or dome home, here's your chance to create your dream home at Better in Belize eco-community. Bring your plans to us and let's get started!

Q: Do you provide construction services?
A: Yes, we do. You can opt to use our construction team or employ your own contractors. While the main theme of the community is the proper stewardship of the natural and cultural resources, we are also dedicated to providing quality and comfort surrounded by beauty and nature at an affordable price. Our highly qualified design and construction team can provide beautiful, functional homes and furnishings customized for you.

Q: What does it cost to build a home at Better in Belize?
A: This ranges from $65.00 per square foot depending on design, type of construction and the level and quality of accessories and finishing work you require. You can build a small 2-bedroom house, constructed mostly from cement and local materials for around $75,000. You'll want to include plenty of outdoor living spaces - balconies, patios and large, covered decks - to capitalize on the tropical weather. You can also opt to have one of the Mennonite-built prefabricated frame buildings installed on your site.

Q: What is the quality of construction and furnishings?
A: While the main theme of the resort is eco-oriented, we are also dedicated to providing quality and comfort surrounded by beauty and nature. We intend to utilize many eco-friendly home decor ideas that are stylish and good for the environment.

Q: What are some of the local building materials that can be sourced for construction?
A: Granite, tropical woods such as mahogany, Santa Maria, Caribbean pine, Cohune palm, bamboo and Sapodilla.

Q: Are there lot use restrictions at BIB?
A: Of course. This is an eco-community and there are certain guidelines that must be followed. There are construction, building footprint, and basic construction design guidelines that are in force. For more info, request a copy of our "Eco-Guidelines".

Q: Are there height restrictions on building at Better in Belize eco-community?
A: Yes - the tallest structure in Belize is a Mayan ruin and we plan on keeping it that way! The height of any residential or commercial dwelling is not to be more than a basement (which must have 30% of the walls below grade) and two stories. For more info, request a copy of our "Eco-Guidelines".

Q: Are there any commercial lots available at Better in Belize eco-community?
A: Yes, we have commercial lots available. Better in Belize is looking for talented, creative entrepreneurs who are eager to start a business in our community. We have openings for restaurants, entertainment, retail, spas, and eco tours and activities in our evolving Belize eco-community.

Q: Is this a timeshare property?
A: No. The significant difference is that you are not simply buying time at Better in Belize. You are buying a real asset which you can also either rent or sell.

Q: How often can I stay in my home?
A: As often and as long as you want. It is your house. There are no residency restrictions (as you will often find in resort properties in Belize).

Q: Are owners' guests allowed to stay?
A: Of course!

Q: Can I rent my home?
A: Yes. We believe that many people will love to vacation in our beautiful eco-community. There will be a rental pool established where management will collect the rent and remit it to you. We must be advised in advance of any rentals.

Q: If I rent my home, do guests have owner privileges?
A: Yes, they do - no additional fees are charged to guests.

Q: How do I maintain my home if I will not be living at Better in Belize full-time?
A: The management of the property will look after regular maintenance. Visual inspections of the exterior will occur daily. Interior inspections can be arranged and scheduled. In the event of rentals, interior inspections will occur the day before the current guest leaves. Any damages will be their responsibility. Management will arrange for and oversee any repairs.

Q: Do I pay monthly fees?
A.: The maintenance fees will be paid by the developer until January 1, 2011. There will be a nominal fee after that to look after the common area maintenance of the project which would include items such as security, recycling, road maintenance, etc. This will be determined by the Home Owners' Association (HOA), but pro forma budgets approximate the fee to be around $600US per annum.

Q: Who fixes the fees and controls the common affairs of the community?
A: The Home Owners' Association.

Q: What are the options for water supply?
A: Rain water catchment, water reservoir and wells.

Q: Is Internet service available?
A: Yes, through Satellite hook-up.

Q: How will hydro be generated?
A: Solar and public power through Belize Electricity Limited (BEL).

Q: What will be included on the Community Lot?
A: We plan to build a clubhouse/palapa pavilion, a sauna and an eco-friendly lagoon swimming pool. In many ways, we envision this will be the heart of our community where great gatherings and camaraderie will create memories for generations of residents.

Q: Can I grow my own vegetables and fruits?
A: We have community organic gardens with fruits, herbs, spices and vegetables. You are welcome to participate in the community garden. If your lot is suitable, you can also plant your own garden on your property. The planting of any tree indigenous to this area of Belize is encouraged in keeping with our community philosophy.

Q: Can I bring pets?
A: Yes. Domestic dogs and cats are allowed, but must have current rabies vaccinations. All pets must be leashed when outside (including cats).

Q: Is transportation available to and from the resort?
A: We provide pick-up at the Belize International Airport for a nominal fee. Tell us when you're arriving and we'll be there at the airport to welcome you!

Q: When will the eco-community be ready for occupancy?
A: Once you make the decision to purchase your home, you will be placed next in line of your phase for having your home built. At present, it should take under 6 months to have your home completed if you are buying a lot in phase 1.

Q: How do I get to Better in Belize?
A: Better in Belize is located in the spectacular Cayo District of Belize, 30 minutes from San Ignacio. From the Belize International Airport in Belize City, head to San Ignacio, the capital of Cayo. Upon leaving San Ignacio, continue on the Western Highway until you reach Benque Viejo Del Carmen. Arriving in Benque, take the first left which is a paved street; after the right bend, the road splits into a boulevard road. Turn left at the store "Long Lucky Supermarket". From there, you go 10.5 miles on a gravel road (Arenal Road). Look for a big, flat rock with a driveway sign on the left side saying "BETTER IN BELIZE". Note that this is the same road that you would take to go to the Mollejon Dam which is just ½ mile past Better in Belize.

Q: Is any of the infrastructure built yet?
A: Yes, there are about 6 miles of roads (and drainage aqueducts) that have been built in our eco-community. We have also built a dome structure Welcome Center and a 4-bedroom Eco-Lodge at Better in Belize. A small Mayan hut at the entrance provides living quarters for our caretaker. You can view our progress and Development Timeline. Substantial landscaping in and around the entranceway and buildings has taken place and our organic gardens are yielding a wonderful array of delicious fruits and veggies.

If you have a question we did not cover, please email us at info@BelizePropertyCenter.com .
Or call us at 011-501-824-0550 (Belize);
Or toll-free from North America at 1-877-836-2756.