The Cost Of Paradise: Buying A Mennonite Home In Belize

The cost of a Mennonite house in Belize varies depending on the location, size, and level of finish. Basic shells can range from $5,000 to $12,000 BZD, while finished houses can cost between $17,000 and $40,000 BZD. The price also depends on the materials used, such as tropical hardwoods or galvalume roofing. Some companies offer free consultations and customisation options to meet specific requirements, including oceanfront properties and riverside residences. Building your own home in Belize is generally cheaper than buying, and you can often get more for your money, but it can be a challenging process.

Mennonite house prices in Belize

Mennonite houses in Belize are constructed from tropical hardwoods, often within Mennonite communities such as Spanish Lookout, Shipyard and Little Belize. These homes are then transported to the homeowner's location of choice, even to islands such as San Pedro and Ambergris Caye.

Mennonite homes are a popular option for expats in Belize, as they are usually cheaper than buying an already constructed home. They are also easily customisable, with options for electrical wiring, plumbing, and roofing materials.

The cost of a Mennonite house in Belize varies depending on the size, location, and level of finish. A basic shell or unfinished house can range from $5,000 to $40,000, while a more finished home can cost between $17,000 and $40,000. The price also depends on the size of the house, with houses up to 20' by 40' being delivered in one section, and smaller houses being joined together to create larger homes.

For example, a 20' by 30' Mennonite home in Spanish Lookout, including 9 ft posts and stairs, sells for about $22,000. This home features a cathedral ceiling with rafters, a sliding glass door, French-style sliding glass windows, and hardwood flooring.

In Consejo Shores, a new, move-in-ready Mennonite home on a double lot of almost 20,000 sq ft is listed for $105,000. This price includes a septic system, a well, and an electrical panel, with the property in the process of being connected to the electric grid.

It is important to note that construction costs in Belize tend to be higher in the south and on the coast or cayes due to the need for hurricane-resistant construction and the additional cost of transporting materials.

When considering purchasing a Mennonite house in Belize, it is recommended to do thorough research and consult with locals and expats who have experience in the area.

Financing a Mennonite house in Belize

Mennonite houses in Belize are constructed of tropical hardwood in communities such as Spanish Lookout, Shipyard, and Little Belize, where labour and materials are economical. The houses are then transported to the homeowner's location and elevated on columns if desired. Mennonite houses are also available in galvalume, a combination of zinc, aluminium, and silicon, which is a popular and budget-friendly roofing option in North America.

Costs

Mennonite homes are an inexpensive option, ranging from $15,000 to $40,000, with the added benefit of being movable. The cost of a Mennonite house in Belize ranges from $5,000 to $12,000 for a shell and $17,000 to $40,000 for a finished house. Construction costs in Belize range from around $30 to $150 per square foot, not including the cost of land. At the lower end, this would be for a simple concrete block bungalow or frame construction, while at the higher end, it would be for high-quality concrete construction with many custom details. Most commonly, you can expect to pay around $50 to $90 per square foot.

Financing Options

Building Considerations

When building a Mennonite house in Belize, it is important to consider the following:

• Obtaining permits: For houses larger than 1,000 square feet, a permit from the Belize Central Building Authority (CBA) is required. The permit costs $100 BZD per application and $0.15 BZD per square foot.
• Construction costs: Costs vary depending on factors such as the transportation of materials, terrain, and quality of work. Costs are generally higher on the coast and cayes due to the need for hurricane-resistant construction.
• Labour: Labour costs in Belize are lower than in the US, with carpenters and masons earning around $25 to $40 per day. However, it is important to note that construction jobs may take longer due to a lack of knowledge about American or European styles.
• Timing: Building a house in Belize can take eight to twelve months or longer, so it is important to plan accordingly.
• Underground costs: In rural areas or on the coast, a significant portion of the cost of building goes underground, including foundations, pilings, cisterns, and septic tanks.
• Building codes: Belize has developed a national building code with nation-wide standards of construction. By law, only registered architects and engineers in Belize can submit plans to the CBA for approval.

Mennonite house construction in Belize

Mennonite houses in Belize are constructed of tropical hardwood in communities such as Spanish Lookout, Shipyard, and Little Belize, where labour and materials are economical. The houses are then transported by truck or barge to the homeowner's location and elevated on hardwood or concrete columns.

Mennonite houses are typically constructed using locally sourced hardwoods and feature mahogany or glass louvered windows. They are available in two options: unfinished shells or fully equipped with electrical wiring, ceiling fans, and plumbing. Additionally, there is a choice of roofing materials, including galvalume, zinc, or asphalt shingles. The cabins are elevated on 6x6 posts, spaced 8 feet apart, and positioned approximately 3 feet above the ground.

The cost of a Mennonite house in Belize varies depending on the size, features, and location. A 20x30 ft. Mennonite home in Spanish Lookout, for example, sells for about US$22,000, including posts for a 9 ft. floor height and stairs. This model includes a cathedral ceiling with rafters, a sliding glass door, French-style sliding glass windows, and hardwood flooring sanded and varnished.

For those seeking a more affordable option, Mennonite homes can also be purchased as "shells", with prices ranging from BZ$5,000 to BZ$12,000. Finished houses range from BZ$17,000 to BZ$40,000. These homes are typically very basic in construction, featuring wood panelling on the walls and simple cabinetry in the kitchen.

When considering the construction of a Mennonite house in Belize, it is important to obtain a permit from the Belize Central Building Authority (CBA) for houses larger than 1000 sq. ft. The permit costs BZ$100 per application and BZ$0.15 per sq. ft. It is recommended to work with a local architect and contractor who are familiar with the building processes and procedures in Belize to ensure a smooth and timely approval process.

Overall, building a Mennonite house in Belize can be a cost-effective option, with construction costs ranging from US$30 to US$150 per square foot, depending on the location and level of finish. However, it is important to note that construction jobs in Belize may take longer than expected, and it is crucial to be on-site to manage and oversee the construction process.

Mennonite house builders in Belize

Mennonite houses in Belize are usually constructed out of tropical hardwood in communities such as Spanish Lookout, Shipyard, and Little Belize, where labour and materials are economical. The houses are then transported by truck or barge to the homeowner's location and elevated on concrete columns or hardwood columns if desired.

Mennonite houses are also available in galvalume, a combination of zinc, aluminium, and silicon that performs better than galvanised sheets. Galvalume is also known as industrial roofing in North America and is a budget-friendly and efficient solution for roofing.

Mennonite House Builders

Plett's Home Builders

Plett's Home Builders is the largest home-building company in Belize and is located in the middle of the Mennonite colony in Spanish Lookout. They build houses to suit your needs, ranging from oceanfront properties to village lots. Plett's offers a free consultation and delivers houses up to 20' by 40' in one section. Houses can be delivered anywhere within Belize, including the islands of San Pedro and Ambergris Caye.

Premier Homes Construction Limited

Premier Homes Construction Limited is another Mennonite house builder in Belize, located in Spanish Lookout, Cayo. They can be contacted via email or phone, with a US number provided on their website.

Linda Vista

Linda Vista is a popular Mennonite house builder in Belize, with several mentions in forums. They offer shells starting at BZ $5k - $12k and finished houses ranging from BZ $17k-40k. Linda Vista takes half of the payment when ordered and the remainder before erection on the site. They do not construct homes off the mainland.

R.G. Home Builders

R.G. Home Builders construct "shell" wooden houses that include glass louvered windows, mahogany outer doors, and posts for 3 ft high off the ground. A 50% down payment is required when placing an order, with the remaining balance to be paid before the house leaves their yard. Transportation costs are determined by the size and location and are not included in the price.

Other Options

There are other Mennonite house builders in Belize, as well as local builders who can construct similar houses. When choosing a builder, it is recommended to take your time and research different contractors by word of mouth and talking to locals and expats. Building your own home in Belize is generally cheaper than buying, but it comes with more headaches and construction hassles.

Mennonite house pros and cons

Mennonite houses are an increasingly popular option for expats moving to Belize. They are well-constructed, low-cost, and quick to install. However, there are some potential drawbacks, such as longer manufacturing times and the use of wood that may not be properly dried, which can lead to warping and bowing. Here is a detailed look at the pros and cons of Mennonite houses in Belize:

Pros:

• Affordability: Mennonite houses are a cost-effective option for those looking to build or buy a home in Belize. The prices range from $5,000 to $40,000, depending on the level of finish, with shells starting at $5,000 and finished houses going up to $40,000.
• Customizability: Mennonite builders are willing to work with buyers to create a home that fits their specific needs and preferences. Buyers can choose the size, color, and layout of their home, and even join together multiple sections to create a larger house.
• Ease of Construction: Mennonite houses are typically built off-site and then transported to the desired location, making the process quicker and more convenient than traditional construction methods.
• Durability: Mennonite houses are built with locally harvested hardwoods, making them sturdy and capable of withstanding hurricanes and other natural disasters.
• Flexibility: Mennonite houses can be placed on various types of foundations, including concrete slabs, posts, or blocks, depending on the buyer's preference and budget.
• Community: The Mennonite community in Belize is known for its strong values and sense of outreach. They are Christians who believe in the importance of accepting Jesus and spending their lives serving Him.

Cons:

• Waiting Period: Due to high demand, Mennonite builders may have long wait times, sometimes up to a year or more, before they can start construction on a new home.
• Transportation Challenges: Transporting the completed houses over rough roads can compromise fasteners and cause slight damage to the structure.
• Quality Concerns: Some people have expressed concerns about the quality of Mennonite houses, particularly the drying time of the wood used, which can lead to warping and bowing over time.
• Limited Features: Mennonite houses may not include certain desired features, such as cabinets or finished walls. Buyers may need to source these elements separately or opt for a more expensive package.
• Cultural Barriers: The Mennonite community has its own unique culture and set of rules, which can make it challenging for non-Mennonites to understand and integrate into their community. This can hinder outreach and create a sense of exclusion.
• Maintenance: Wooden structures require regular maintenance to prevent insect damage and rot, particularly in the tropics.

Overall, Mennonite houses in Belize offer a cost-effective and customizable option for those looking to build or buy a home. However, buyers should be aware of potential delays, quality concerns, and the unique cultural aspects of the Mennonite community before making a decision.

Frequently asked questions