Coldwell Banker® System Expands its Global Reach to Belize

AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE, February 19, 2007 - Coldwell Banker opened its first real estate office in Belize today with the launching of Coldwell Banker Belize Real Estate. The launch comes just as CNN highlighted Belize as “One of the 6 hottest foreign second home markets for 2007.” The timing is right for real estate investors attracted by the potential for capital appreciation in the "New Caribbean".

With a stable political democracy, consistent increases in tourist arrivals since 1998, a currency pegged to the US dollar, miles and miles of sandy beaches and the largest barrier reef in the Western hemisphere, Belize promises to be one of the strongest emerging markets in which to invest.

The Coldwell Banker office is in what was formerly known as the “Island Galleria”. The building has been significantly upgraded and re-branded “The Coldwell Banker Building”. It is located in the heart of San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye. The office opens with a “for sale” portfolio of the most exclusive projects available on Ambergris Caye today as well as a wide range of private islands.

"Franchise growth outside of North America remains one of our key initiatives,” said Jim Gillespie, president and chief executive officer of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. “Central America is fast emerging as a hot spot for property investment. We are proud to introduce our brand to this robust market, and wish our colleagues at Coldwell Banker Belize Real Estate great success in their operations.”

At the launch, General Manger Arne Rodhall said: “We are excited about bringing a real estate service to Belize anchored in the traditions of one of the world's premier real estate organizations.” Arne, originally an Engineer in Telecommunications from Norway and Sweden, ventured into real estate investment and development in Seattle, Washington after receiving a BA and MBA from EWU. Arne fell in love with Belize after his first visit in 1998 and moved to Ambergris Caye full time with his family. “Coldwell Banker Belize works with the finest developers and our goal is to seek out the best opportunities for profit in the country,” he continued.

Belize markets itself as being both in Central America and the Caribbean - and for good reason – it has the best of both. Not only is Belize the diving and snorkeling capital of the western hemisphere but it also boasts incredible old growth rain forests, rushing rivers, majestic mountains, intricate cave systems and ancient Mayan pyramids. To top it off it is the only English speaking democratic country in Central America, a legal system based on British law, and a benefit-laden retirement program as well as a broad array of tax incentives for property investors.

The team behind Coldwell Banker Belize has a combined real estate experience of over 50 years in both California and Nicaragua. This includes a designation as a “Chairman’s Circle” company - a standard reserved for the top 100 Coldwell Banker offices in the world. It is this experience and level of professionalism that the team brings to the real estate market in Belize. The group is also launching a Social Investment Fund to support community projects and asset building initiatives across Central America, beginning in Nicaragua.

Contact Coldwell Banker Belize to find out more about the latest deals and exclusive investment opportunities in Belize - available only at www.coldwellbankerbelize.com