For those looking to move abroad for retirement, to get away from harsh winters or simply for a change of pace, the Honduran island of Roatan has become a popular option. The 31 mile-long island off the north coast of the Honduras mainland in Central America is divided into East and West communities. The Western side is a popular tourist destination for travellers from all over the world. The well-established tourist infrastructure makes it a prominent stop for cruise ship day-trippers and longer-term holidayers alike. The East End, on the other hand, features a much slower-paced lifestyle. It also offers the crystal clear ocean water and white sand beaches that have made the West End and West Bay areas so popular. But what it lacks is the infrastructure to support an overwhelming number of tourists. So, why buy property on the East End of Roatan? In this article, we’ll spell it out.
A Laid Back Tropical Lifestyle
When you envision life on a tropical island, you’re definitely imagining warm, sunny weather, blue waters and powdered sand beaches. But you’re probably also thinking of a peaceful and relaxing lifestyle. As the less developed side of Roatan, the East End gives you just that. Although it’s becoming more popular, the crowds and commotion associated with West End and West Bay’s all-inclusive resorts, nightclubs and cruise ship excursions have yet to befall this side of the island. What you’ll find are traditional fishing villages, quiet expat communities, small boutique lodges and miles of white sand beaches without any people on them and a laid back pace of life. This is what attracts many of those looking to buy property on the East End of Roatan.
Low Cost Of Ownership
One of the main reasons why Roatan has become so popular with expats looking to buy property is the low cost of ownership. And the East End of Roatan is even more affordable than the busy Western side. Compared with other Caribbean islands, Roatan prices are some of the lowest in the region. This can result in larger homes with better locations for much less money. This is a big part of the reason that Roatan has been named as one of the best places in the world to retire.
Ease Of Ownership
Honduras and Roatan actively encourage foreign ownership. Property taxes are incredibly low by North American standards and there’s no tax on foreign income. Foreigners are allowed to buy 0.75 acres of land without the need for a local sponsor. Setting up a Honduran corporation, which is a process that’s been simplified for foreigners, allows the purchase of an unlimited amount of land. Visas to allow for residencies in several different formats can be obtained with some paperwork and administrative fees. And while the mainland did experience several years of civil strife, the island of Roatan has been isolated from all that and spared virtually any kind of political conflict. What you’ll find instead are friendly locals from a diverse range of backgrounds with many of them able to speak English.
A Friendly Expat Community
Honduras also has an established expat community in the East End. Keen to live on the quieter side of the island, but still up for socializing with like-minded people, there are several weekly meetups based on food, activities and shared hobbies. For those who need some insight and support when it comes to living in a foreign country, the expat community can act as a great support system.
Interested in finding some amazing property deals on the Eastern side of Roatan? Get in touch!
