Cancon08 - As someone that has been going down to Belize for the last decade, at least once, and sometimes several times a year, you sound a lot like me. I looked on the mainland, AC, CC and Placencia extensively. I finally purchased on AC in the Tres Cocos area which is about 1 mile (give or take a bit) north of the bridge. I have gone literally all the way to both ends of the island, and there are lots of great areas, all depending on what you're looking for. As a typical gringo, I wanted ocean front, not only for the view, but mainly for the tradewinds. After MUCH searching, I decided on the TC area for several reasons. It's both close enough and far away enough from town for me. Even more important, the golf cart ride much further is brutal, extremely bumpy in dry season and swimming with your cart in rainy season. You can easily overcome that obstacle with a boat. The further north you get, the more isolation and better wildlife you'll get. I like the neighborhood feel and security of TC, where you have your own space, neighbors are not nosy and are extremely helpful if and/or when you need it. Turned out to be the best of everything I was looking for. Some seclusion, wildlife, outstanding views of the water, excellent neighbors, close enough for shopping and nightlife when I want it, etc. I looked long and hard at the south end of town as well, and there are some great areas there as well, but again, for me I love the north end for lots more reasons than the south end. And for a real estate agent, my highest recommendations go to Sunrise Realty, Amanda or Chris. Best of wishes in your search. I think you'll love it as much as the rest of us do. :-)
Feel free to PM me if you'd like to chat in more specific detail.