While Ann and Al shrug into their warmest coats next week, Matt will travel to Belize to explore its natural wildlife and natural wonders, including the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.

Home to only 311,500 people, Belize is best known not only for what is on its land but also for what is under its water. Home to the famous Blue Hole, Belize boasts the Western Hemisphere's longest barrier reef, containing 600 species of fish, and more than 70 types of coral. But, with a changing climate, warming waters, pollution and urban development, this fragile reef system is under threat. Lauer will examine firsthand how climate change is affecting Belize's magnificent landscape and marine life.

National parks and nature preserves make up 42 percent of Belize. Lauer will broadcast from the Blue Hole, where he will also scuba dive along its reef and swim with some of the world's largest midnight parrot fish as well as stingrays, angelfish and barracudas. He will also broadcast from the Half Moon Caye, a crescent shaped island off Belize's coast, which is home to the endangered red-footed booby birds and 97 additional species of birds. The iguana, the Wish Willy, and the lizard are also permanent residents on the magnificent island. 5

When buying real estate in Belize, there is a particular selling practice which could put a new property owner in an upside down financial position. In a real estate transaction, you might think an agent represents you when in fact, he or she does not. A practice that is common here is for agents to “mark up” properties for sale.

They have a signed listing agreement with a seller and the listing price is $100,000. There is a clause that says “anything above listing price goes to the agent."  This is called a Net Listing.  It means if the lot sells for $179,000, the seller nets the $100,000 and the agent (and his or her agency) take the $79,000 as a commission.

I have dealt with many people who came here, got swept away with the sheer beauty of the country and on pure impulse bought property without using the same thorough  process they would use back home.  It's extremely important to have someone “in the know” look out for your best interests.  That's where the newly accredited Belize National Association of Realtors comes in to play.  Any agent in Belize that proudly displays the name "Realtor®", has taken a pledge and practices real estate by the Realtor® Code of Ethics like many other Realtors® around the world.  

They also have the advantage of access to a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)where other member firms list their properties for sale.  Through the MLS, buyers and sellers working with Realtors® know what the price is, the listing Realtor® is held to a higher standard regarding the details about the property and a buyer will understand who is representing whom.

Remember to look for the Realtor   It stands for great representation!

"All I can strive to be is the absolute best possible version of myself."

Greetings from Belize!      

Know Who You are Working With                                                                         

I am Rev. Macarena Rose, born and raised in Washington D.C., lived in St. Petersburg, Florida for 20 years. I moved to Belize with my 16 year old Daughter, Chiara about 2 years ago. It has been such a wonderful experience for all of my family and friends, as now they can come to paradise and stay for free! So, my word of advice to you is -DO the background work on anyone you choose to work with, it is the same for anywhere in the World..not just Belize !

I came here as the Director of my Church,, so,, how did I get into Real Estate ? Well.. After looking at many of the same properties with many different realtors, I found a huge discrepency in pricing on the same parcels. So, I did research and found, you do not need a license here to sell Real Estate. Well, I am one for not having many licenses, however, the Rules of Engagement are very important to me. Basically, I believe you do all things for others as you would wish to have done to you. We all know Karma comes back, and I choose only GOOD Karma!

For example, Better Business Bureau does the work for you in the US. Before they approved me for my USA company, www.propuppillow.com, I was required to prove myself as an honorable and reputable business owner. Here in Belize, you must do the research yourself.

I offer my services as a Relocation Specialist (having actually done it myself, with 10 animals in tow!), as a go between for the Qualified Retired Persons Plan Application and also as a Buyers Agent. This is my way of helping you find your piece of paradise here as I have !! Since moving here, Life has been such an adventure. No monotony for sure! I have been blessed to have had dinner with the Prime Minister, along with the Minister of Energy and Communications who is my dear friend, and go boating with the Past Minister of Transportaion, who is pictured above with me! So, if you are READY to live your life as an adventure,, and stop the hum drum… e-mail me today!

There are aspects of real estate sales that seem pretty simple. There are many elements of a smooth transaction, however, that are complicated and daunting.

I can help you with every aspect of buying or selling your home because I’m experienced, because I’m professional . . .and because I care.