With the current global pandemic, you may be considering purchasing a home in Roatan sight unseen. If so, there are several common mistakes that you could make. However, once you know what to look out for, you’re more likely to avoid them. When buying a home sight unseen, it is essential to hire an experienced, local real estate agent with a rock-solid reputation. With a good Roatan real estate agent, you’ll be able to avoid these mistakes.

 

#1 Skipping the Virtual Tour

Even if you have seen photos and videos, do not skip out on taking a virtual tour of the home. Virtual tours provide an opportunity to see the home if you cannot be there in person.

 

If there’s a 3D walkthrough available, make sure you take the time to take the tour and spend a good amount of time reviewing all the details. Go through and look at all the nooks and crannies before buying the home.

 

#2 Not Asking Important Questions

When you physically view a home, all of your senses are engaged. You can smell the home, listen to the neighborhood, and look at the surrounding landscaping. While this experience will not be possible buying a home in Roatan sight unseen, you can be sure to ask the right questions to learn about how the home smells, what the neighborhood noise level is and what the surrounding neighborhood looks like.

 

#3 Skipping Research

When unable to see a home in person, it is important to do your research. Find out as much as you can about the surrounding area, the neighborhood, upcoming development plans, nearby amenities, and road conditions.

 

#4 Waiving Contingencies

Often, when someone purchases a home sight unseen, they are typically on a timeline and want the sale to go through as soon as possible. If this is your situation, be sure to not let your emotions get in the way and rush you into making a decision. You want to be sure that you do not waive important contingencies and that you have a detailed conversation with your real estate agent about any contingencies in the offer.

 

If travel restrictions are preventing you from visiting Roatan in-person to purchase real estate, buying a home sight unseen may be the best option to take advantage of some of the enticing price reductions we have recently seen on the market. You can be confident in trusting the agents at Roatan Executive Realty in helping you make the right decisions for your real estate transactions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you spent most of your life residing outside a coastal hurricane area, you may not have heard about hurricane straps before. But on our little Caribbean island, these simple connectors are very important to make sure your contractor includes when building your home. While we are quite blessed with being below the hurricane belt and receiving very few severe storms, high winds and bad weather are always a possibility.  Ensuring that the walls, roof systems, and foundation of your home are properly tied together is just common sense, especially after you have spent the time to find your perfect slice of Roatan island real estate for your homesite.

So, what are hurricane straps and what exactly do they do? We’ll explain below.

What are Hurricane Straps?

Hurricane straps – also known as tie-downs or hold downs are actually one of the least expensive pieces of hardware that you’ll need to buy to build your home on Roatan. They are also quite easy to install and quite frankly, if you have found a good contractor to work with, they should insist on using them. The term hurricane clips are used to refer to any connector that ties intersections of a home’s frame.

How Do Hurricane Clips Work?

In normal weather conditions, gravity helps hold walls and roofs together. But when winds get strong enough, they can pry roofs upwards, causing serious damage. We’ve all seen major storm coverage where roofs have been entirely ripped off homes, leaving them exposed like dollhouses. The objective of hurricane straps isn’t so much as to keep a roof intact but instead keeping the roof locked to the foundation and walls of your home and no matter where you live on the island – from Port Royal to West Bay, these are needed.

What Do Hurricane Clips Look Like?

The types of clips and connectors available can vary, but typically it will look like a small twisted metal strap that has nail holes drilled into it. The strap face is connected to the roof support and the other part to the top plate of the wall. The clips are attached to wherever the rafters meet the walls in your home.

What If You Bought an Existing Home on Roatan?

If you bought an older home on Roatan and have found out that tie-down hardware was not used in the construction, you do have options. While it is a large undertaking as you need to get beneath the wall and ceiling coverings, you can install hurricane clips and tie-down hardware after a home has been built. But this is a major renovation to your home. It is best to use an opportunity like if you are doing an addition or a major remodel to install the clips at the same time. If you have an opportunity to reinforce your home and protect your investment, it is time and money well spent.

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If you’ve always dreamed about owning a tropical island home, you’re unsure of how to make this a reality or where to even begin. If you’ve vacationed in the Caribbean and been drawn to the idyllic, lush scenery and gazed longingly at Real Estate listings posted around your resort, the allure of having your own personal tropical hideaway will likely not go away anytime soon! If you’d like to move past the dreaming stage of owning a home in the Caribbean and learn how what you need to know about buying a home in the Caribbean, keep reading below!

 

Choosing Your Location

The idea of laid back lifestyle in the tropics, spending time on white-sand beaches, and exploring the vibrant jungle scenery is on the top of the list for most people wanting to purchase a second home in the Caribbean. The first step needs to be determining your location. There are plenty of idyllic tropical locations but they might not all be right for you. The cost of living, language, culture, lifestyle, access to healthcare, and a number of other factors can heavily influence which location you choose.

For example, two decades ago Costa Rica was the hot spot for reasonably priced land, foreigner-friendly real estate laws, and plenty of opportunity for development. Fast forward to today and the cost of living and real estate has skyrocketed, making a move to Costa Rica prohibitive for most, especially retirees on a fixed budget. The relentless increase in the cost of living and rampant inflation has caused a number of expats to return home or move to a new location in Latin America.

Many expats and people longing for a warm, new change of scenery have been searching for the ‘next Costa Rica’ where they can take advantage of reliable infrastructure, low real estate prices and relatively easy moving requirements, such as being allowed to bring pets along with them.

The best probable candidate that meets these requirements and is surrounded by amazing beaches, world-class dive sites and a low cost of living is Roatan, Honduras which is part of the Bay Islands in the Caribbean Sea.

Researching Caribbean Second Home Destinations

Thanks to the internet and major advancements in technology, it is simple to begin searching for your little slice of tropical paradise from the comfort of your own home. Listings with detailed floor plans, photos, and even 3D virtual tours are being the norm for many real estate agencies to market their properties. You can easily browse listings in the Caribbean and contact the local agent with any questions about a listing that piques your interest.

Before getting too attached to a destination, it is important to research the foreign real estate laws. For example, in Mexico, foreigners are not allowed to purchase coastline property and instead would have to do a long-term leasehold instead. One of the reasons Roatan is considered the ‘new’ Costa Rica is the ease in which foreigners can purchase land. An individual can buy up to .74 of an acre of land and more if a proper corporation is formed.

Once you have a destination in mind and have explored listings and options online, the best course of action is to book a trip to explore the location in person. If possible, it can be helpful to rent for several months before buying so that you can get a true feel for what the local lifestyle is like and have time to discover different communities and neighborhoods to find which will suit you best. If you have been corresponding with a real estate agency online, once you arrive you can meet your realtor in person and learn more about the location as you view properties.

Understanding the Process

A sign of a good realtor in a foreign country is one that takes the time to explain exactly what you should expect from the buying process. A few other things to consider is that mortgages are typically not available for most Caribbean real estate although financing may sometimes be a possibility.

Be sure to get references for the realtors you are planning on working with as well as lawyers involved in the purchase process. Be sure to only work with licensed professionals to avoid potential scams or title issues. Also, inspection contingencies are typically not a common part of negotiations.

If you’re ready to start exploring real estate in Roatan, get in contact with our team. We’ll be happy to review what your tropical dream home is and get to work on helping you make owning a home in the Caribbean a reality.

 

At some point in our lives, almost everyone has had the dream of living on a tropical island – especially those of us who have to put up with bone chilling winters.  While annual island vacations can help recharge the batteries and refresh the mind, they don’t quite hold the same cachet as owning a property on the beach and swimming in the ocean every day before breakfast.  Roatan has fast become more popular among tourists and aspiring expats alike.  If you’re wondering about the benefits of buying beachfront property in Roatan, we’ve compiled a list for you here.

 

Easy Access To The Second Largest Reef System In The World

If Roatan is known for one thing, it’s its proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, second in size only to the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia.  This proximity has garnered Roatan worldwide acclaim for its scuba diving and snorkeling sites.  If the thought of stepping outside your home and being among some of the most lush coral reefs in the world within a few short minutes appeals to you, you might want to look more closely into buying beachfront property in Roatan.  If you’re a passionate scuba diver, snorkeler and ocean lover, this little island might be just the right fit for you.

 

Affordability

Roatan isn’t quite as developed as many of the other Caribbean islands, but that’s quickly changing.  More and more people are becoming familiar with this little gem off the north coast of Honduras and it’s subsequently enjoyed considerable growth over the past few decades.  If you’re looking for affordable property that has growing potential, Roatan can offer much better value than many of its more popular Caribbean neighbors.  The cost of living is also very likely much lower than you’re used to back home.  If you’re looking to stretch out your bank account with oceanfront property, the day to day expenses in Roatan can make that dream a reality, especially in up-and-coming East end neighborhoods like Camp Bay and Port Royal. 

 

Are Foreigners  Allowed To Buy Property in Roatan?

When it comes to buying Caribbean real estate, many countries do not allow foreigners to buy property directly which can create a quasi-legal market with middlemen and shell companies that increase the potential for fraud.  However, in Honduras, foreigners have been legally allowed to own property outright since 1991.  For residential addresses the limit on land size is less than three quarters of an acre.  Buying bigger properties is definitely also possible but more paperwork will be required.

 

Easy Access 

Getting to Roatan and back home is easy.   And it’s becoming easier with every passing year.  The island’s airport, Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport, currently has direct flights to five countries including the US and Canada.  You can be in either Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas or Toronto on a non-stop flight in less than five hours.  Flights and ferries to the Honduran mainland are also fast and frequent.  Even though you’re on a tropical island, the rest of the world is at your fingertips.

 

A Well Developed Expat Community

There’s a well developed and active expat community in Roatan that can be a very welcoming presence for newcomers.   It’s always reassuring to know there are people who have already  been through what might seem like an intimidating process.  Becoming involved with the expat community can give you access to advice and peace of mind when it comes to making the transition from being a tourist to a local property owner.  

 

Rental Potential

Maybe you’ve got the money for a beachfront plot, but you’re not ready to make the full transition of living in Roatan.  Beachfront properties are highly sought after by tourists and could be the answer to a secondary income.  If you’re not willing to put in the effort that comes with high turnover tourist rentals, because of the prime location you’ll still have no problem securing long term rentals from those already living on the island.  Renting your property can establish a toehold in the property market without having to make immediate life changes.

Whether you are a seasoned visitor to the island or living in the Caribbean has always been a dream, if you are considering moving to Roatan, you should rent before you buy. 

While it may seem a little odd that a real estate company here on Roatan would not try to immediately convince you to buy a property, we know that island life isn’t for everyone. And we want our clients going into a purchase with the knowledge they need to make the right decision for their family and lifestyle. 

Why should you first be searching for homes to rent in Roatan, Honduras before selling off all your belongings and making a permanent move? Well, for one living here is quite different than a 1-2 week vacation here. This is pretty much true about anywhere in the world – when you are on vacation, you are typically surrounded by comfort and convenience and not partaking in everyday life activities like banking, grocery shopping or paying taxes. 

While our infrastructure has made great strides in recent years, it is very different from the United States or other first-world countries. Our legal system also has many differences and things tend to not happen nearly as quickly here as many foreigners are accustomed to. Many people have made the mistake of purchasing land and assuming that they can build their dream home overnight without any hassle provided they have the budget. That just isn’t the case here. Being on an island can make it difficult or more expensive to acquire certain materials, most laborers operate on the infamous ‘island time’, and there can be delays with permits and papers…just as a start. 

So we do highly recommend that you make a ‘soft’ move here first. Look at Roatan homes for rent and choose a long-term rental for at least 6 months in a neighborhood that you are considering buying in. If you have a couple of areas of the island in mind, rent a home for several months in each community. Also, make sure that your trial period includes at least a part of the rainy season here. Roads can quickly deteriorate and boredom can rise throughout these months, so it important to experience it before relocating here full-time.

There are many fantastic homes for rent in Roatan, Honduras and these are typically offered at a much more affordable rate when rented long-term versus a week or two. Whether you’re looking for a full house, cabin on the beach, or to invest in a vacation home or resort – there are plenty of options. Below are some tips for finding a rental here.

Finding Homes for Rent in Roatan 

Instead of booking something for six months that you have not seen in person, book a short term vacation rental and then scout out your options once you arrive. This allows you to get familiar with the island, meet your potential landlords personally, see the surrounding area and confirm what amenities are nearby. 

Often, when looking at a map of Roatan – two locations can seem close distance-wise. If you’re planning in working in one area and living in another, don’t commit to a rental until you have experienced life ‘commuting’ on our island! Once you are here, you’ll quickly realize that ‘just 25km’ can mean a long, windy, dusty, one-lane road filled with crazy drivers, resulting in a nerve-racking chunk of your day. 

Searching Online Roatan Rentals

While it can be exciting to browse rentals online, again, don’t book one long term until you arrive. While the house may look perfect, you may not know that taxis do not frequent that area, or that there are no streetlights or there is a disco-bar next door that will keep you awake until 4 am. 

Homes for Rent in Roatan, Honduras

The majority of long term rentals here are furnished so you won’t need to worry about bringing small appliances, dishes or even wall decor. While typically short, power outages are common (especially in rainy season) so if your livelihood depends on an online connection, you may want to ensure that your rental home as a backup generator. Speaking of power outages, another question to ask before renting a home here is if the water runs on an electric pump. Many here do but keep in mind that when the power does go out, you won’t have running water. 

Ask Our Real Estate Agents

As real estate agents on Roatan, we are familiar with many local rental companies and would be happy to help you get in contact with some great property managers. Feel free to contact us and let us know what your checklist is for homes to rent in Roatan and we’ll be in touch! 

Once you have truly lived like a local on Roatan for a while, you’ll know if our island is the right choice and exactly what your ‘must-have’ features will be for your dream home. As with many things here, going slowly can pay off in the long run!

Have you always dreamed of owning a home on a gorgeous tropical island? You’re not alone. Many people dream away but only a small percent actually end up owning property in the Caribbean. Buying a home in the Caribbean can be quite different than what you are used to in the States, Canada or Europe.

There are a number of common mistakes that are made when buying Caribbean Real Estate. Here is what you need to know so that your real estate journey here on Roatan is headache and hassle free.

First Mistake: Trusting any ‘Agent’

Like many other tropical islands, Roatan has attracted a number of fortune seekers from abroad. Because entering the real estate market here is fairly simple unfortunately, this means that pretty much anyone can call themselves a real estate agent. Many inexperienced agents fail quite quickly but often not before they have convinced several buyers to make an ill-informed or bad decision. Therefore, it is essential that you look for an agent that is a high-standing member of recognized accredited organizations like the RRA (Roatan Realtors Association) and follow the NAR (National Association of Realtors) code of ethics. Choosing a reputable agent that belongs to these organizations will also help give you peace of mind that they are up to date with all new laws and industry changes.

Be sure to do a background check on an agent you are considering working with, even if they are part of a franchise firm. Ask around and get advice from other people that have bought homes on Roatan and what their experience was dealing with their agent. A bit of upfront effort into choosing the right real estate agent can save a ton of hassle or even avoid disaster down the road.

Second Mistake: Believing Photos

Looking online only, it may appear that you have found your dream home. But that gorgeous, sprawling ocean villa with a rock bottom sale price may just be too good to be true. The beach in the photo may actually be a ten-minute walk down the road. Or, there may not even be a road or amenities at all. Desperate agents and sellers can make something look like something it is not when they are anxious to sell.

Never just buy a property without seeing it in person. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Find out why it is being listed so low or why it hasn’t already sold.

Third Mistake: Assuming all Caribbean Islands are the Same

Sandy beaches and being surrounded by turquoise water is about all that most Caribbean islands have in common. If you’ve spent a lot of time in Cayman but are attracted to Roatan real estate because of the prices, don’t assume that the lifestyle is the same. Before buying any Caribbean real estate, you should spend a certain period of time where you are considering buying. Rent a short-term home for a few months and get familiar with the healthcare access, internet stability, shopping options and what daily life is like.

Also, on an island like Roatan, different areas of the island offer very different lifestyles. It helps to explore different communities and find which one suits you best.

Fourth Mistake: Forgetting About the Weather

Roatan in March is sunny and beautiful – the perfect escape for many snowbirds seeking warmth. But the summers can be scorching hot and the fall becomes rainy season. When looking at a home, make sure it has a cooling breeze. Having a pool may be what helps you keep your cool in July and a screened patio can make a rainy stretch of days more enjoyable to be outdoors.

Also be aware that living in close proximity to the ocean can have an impact on your home. The excess salt in the air can cause rust and damage so it’s important to ensure that your house is constructed with durable and appropriate materials for this region. The weather can also cause lengthy power disruptions, you may want to make it a must-have feature for your Caribbean home to have a backup generator.

Fifth Mistake: Assuming Building is Cheaper

If you do not live on Roatan and know much about building processes here, building a home can be a long and frustrating process. Many people assume that it can always be done cheaper but that’s not always the case. It pretty much always takes more time and money than you expected and if you are not living on the island it becomes incredibly difficult to control the process.

Materials often have to be imported, which can be expensive and subject to delays. Rain delays can increase construction costs and good project managers are not always easy to find. There is a lot available on the current Roatan real estate market, chances are there is a home that is pretty much exactly what you’ve been dreaming of.

If you just can’t stop dreaming about finally buying Caribbean real estate, start by connecting with a trusted real estate firm. At Roatan Executive Realty, we have a mix of knowledgeable islanders and expats on our team that can help you make informed, smart real estate decisions. After all, real estate is our passion and we want you to be passionate about your new home and have a great experience in the process!