Title Search

Belize Title Search and Judgment Search

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We cannot help to stress the importance of a title search in Belize before purchasing any property. The freehold or good root of title has to be ascertained by a vigorous title search which provides the attorney and purchaser with complete knowledge of all information regarding the title to the property including but not limited to the transfers, inheritance issues, restrictive covenants, easements, surveys, subdivisions and surveys.

One must not only carry out a title search but must also verify with the Courts of Belize that there are not claims being brought against the title to the property or the owner. Despite the fact that no liens, charges or encumbrances may be apparent on title, equitable interests may still exist by virtue of Court action against the property itself or the owner. We are also able to provide you with proper legal advice as to the most appropriate structure for the transaction (purchase) in consideration of your needs and with regards to saving on taxes.

When acting on behalf of our purchasers we provide the following services:  

1. Drafting and/or reviewing sale (purchase) agreements;
2. Ensuring property execution of the sale agreement and attestation thereto;
3. Conducting title investigations;
4. Conducting Company Searches (if necessary);
5. Judgment Search against the Vendor’s name;
6. Making requisitions as to title (if necessary);
7. Ascertaining if there are any liens, encumbrances, charges, mortgages over the property;
8. Receiving the purchase funds and/or deposit in our escrow account (Escrow Services)
9. Assisting with the discharge or cancellation of any mortgages registered against the title;
10. Verifying that all property taxes have been paid;
11. Advising on the by-laws and restrictive covenants (if any);
12. Procuring the services of land surveyors and/or valuators if necessary;
13. Preparation and registering a caution or lien (if necessary);
14. Registering of Sale Agreement (if necessary);
15. Drafting Conveyances / Transfer Documents in respect of the property;
16. Overseeing the entire transaction until the title documents are issued in the name of the Purchaser;
17. Attending to the payment of all government fees on behalf of the client including property taxes (if requested), stamp duty and recording and registration fees;
18. Ensuring that all matters are in order.

Our fee for assisting with the purchase of a property is calculated at the rate of 1.5 % of the purchase price or BZE $800.00 BZE Dollars whichever is greater.

Fee: 1.5% of Consideration You will also be required to pay the following disbursements:

1. Stamp Duty which is payable to the Government of Belize on all property purchases at the rate of 5% of the purchase price in excess of BZE $20,000.00 (USD$10,000.00).
2. Miscellaneous Disbursements of about $400.00 BZE Dollars.

There will be no hidden professional or governmental fees. We protect our clients at all stages of the transaction and remain guardians of the escrow at all times. Should the seller default or if the property cannot be transferred for any reason we will return the escrow deposit in full to our clients.