Founded in 2013 by former Charleston firefighter David Kafka, RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize has grown into one of the most active and recognizable names in the country’s real estate sector. Operating from Placencia Village, the company has steadily expanded its reach and reputation, guiding buyers through Belize’s complex and often informal property landscape with clarity, experience, and genuine local involvement.

From Firefighting to Foundations: The Story Behind the Brokerage

David Kafka’s transition from public service in the U.S. to real estate in Belize is more than a career pivot; it’s a story rooted in connection and purpose. Awarded by the 2025 Luxury Lifestyle Awards for  Best Luxury Real Estate Investment Consultancy in Belize, Kafka founded RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize after moving to the country in search of a new way of life. What began as a solo endeavor has since evolved into a national operation backed by the RE/MAX global brand. His leadership has helped shape the agency into a top-performing team, now handling a portfolio split between vacation homes (50%), land and lots (30%), and commercial properties such as hotels and resorts (20%).

Tailored Sales That Go Beyond Square Footage

The company’s strength lies not only in the range of properties it lists, but also in how it supports buyers throughout the process. From first-time expats to seasoned investors, clients benefit from a customized experience that includes unique property websites, virtual tours, and detailed promotional materials. Every listing is presented with the same level of care, whether it’s a modest lot or a multimillion-dollar estate.

Kafka himself recalls one of his earliest major sales: a 15-acre waterfront property sold for $2.9 million. Though the buyer initially had a much smaller budget, the property proved to be a match. When issues surfaced regarding mangrove rights, Kafka paused the transaction until legal ownership was clarified, even though it meant delaying his commission. The deal eventually closed six months later, and the client got peace of mind instead of pressure.

Giving Back Where It Counts

RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize isn’t just active in real estate; it also contributes to the communities it serves. Over the years, the company has donated two fire trucks from the U.S., motorcycles, and communication tools for the police, and various equipment to support local investigations and safety programs. The team also advocates for responsible land use and encourages sustainable agriculture as part of their commitment to long-term regional health.

These efforts aren’t marketing tactics; they reflect Kafka’s values and the company’s approach to doing business. The idea is simple: you can’t sell in a place unless you invest in its future.

Powered by RE/MAX, Built on Belizean Insight

While RE/MAX provides the global structure, the team in Belize brings local fluency. With agents ranked among the top 100 across the Caribbean and Central America, RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize has achieved scale without sacrificing authenticity. The office in Placencia anchors a network of agents throughout the country, each equipped to handle the legal, financial, and logistical hurdles that often arise in international property transactions.

The company focuses primarily on sales, with about 90% of its business coming from buyers and investors. The remaining 10% covers property management, offering select clients continued support long after the keys are handed over.

Looking Ahead: A Market on the Rise

Belize continues to gain attention as a real estate destination, especially for those seeking lifestyle shifts, long-term investments, or second homes near the sea. RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize is positioned to guide that demand, offering access, transparency, and informed decision-making in a market that can otherwise be difficult to navigate.

For buyers seeking more than just property listings, the firm offers consistency, local experience, and a track record of doing things the right way—even when it’s not the easy way.

To learn more or explore current listings, visit: https://1stchoicebelize.com.