International Investing Watchdog Gives Master-Planned Development in Belize its Coveted Seal of Approval

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., May 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- As the US real estate market continues to struggle, American investors are increasingly turning their sights toward investing outside of US borders. For many, however, buying real estate abroad can be unfamiliar and intimidating: fears of being tricked out of investing capital run strong in many investors' minds.

In order to mitigate these risks and encourage the healthy growth of international markets, the Association of International Property Professionals (AIPP) has been acting as an independent watchdog for the last decade. The AIPP does not sell property: it exists solely to improve standards and accountability in the international property market. In fact, an independent survey by A Place in the Sun, a television program specializing in buying properties abroad, stated that 85% of buyers feel more reassured if a company is an AIPP member.

One of the AIPP's newest members, Eco-Futures Development, based in Newport Beach, California, recounts its journey toward receiving AIPP approval of its flagship development Sanctuary Belize. "The approval process was very detailed," recounts Luke Chadwick, a principal of the development who boasts over a decade of experience in international real estate, "The AIPP went quite deep with their due diligence seeking professional references who those who could attest to their experience working with us in the Belize real estate development arena."

Additionally, Chadwick and his partners in the development were required to commit to the integrity and professionalism outlined in the AIPP's code of conduct. "People want to buy overseas, they just want to know they are working with someone they can trust," Chadwick states, "There's no doubt the AIPP has made a tremendous impact in helping investors determine who that is."

"Achieving AIPP membership was certainly challenging, but we can only benefit from this process," explains Chadwick, "Our buyers will be able to see our name on the AIPP roster and rest assured that whatever due diligence they are doing, the AIPP did the same tenfold."

Investors interested in learning more about Sanctuary Belize, the AIPP's latest addition, can visit www.sanctuarybelize.com or email [email protected] for more information.

SOURCE Sanctuary Belize