Roatán, in the Bay Islands, is the main destination for international buyers in Honduras. Because it is an island, the whole island lies within the Article 107 zone of the Constitution.
How a foreigner buys in Roatán
- As an individual, one home (house, apartment or condo unit) in a declared urban or tourism zone, of up to 3,000 m² (Decree 90-90, article 5).
- If you buy a lot to build, you have 36 months to finish the home; otherwise a 20% annual surtax on the appraised value applies.
- For developments or multiple units, the project must be approved by the Tourism Secretariat. See the guide for foreign buyers.
Island-specific checks
- Title: on the islands, registered titles coexist with possessory rights and old documents. Insist on a registry certificate from the Instituto de la Propiedad and on the seller being the registered owner.
- Zoning: confirm the property lies in a declared urban or tourism zone.
- Water, power and access: wells, cisterns, desalination, power connection, access road and easements.
- Coast and environment: beach setbacks, mangroves and environmental permits can limit what may be built.
- Condominiums: rules, fees, reserve fund and vacation-rental rules.
Vacation rentals
Many buyers rent seasonally. Check the condominium rules, the applicable municipal and tourism permits and the tax burden before projecting income.
How CARACOL helps
We publish reviewed listings in Roatán with a protected approximate location, arrange in-person or video viewings and support you up to signing before your notary. This guide is general information, not legal advice.