how to?? sailboat for Mexico, Belize?

[scottsvr]

I've been spending my winters on the Yucatan, Mexico and the Cayes off Belize for the last few years. Have sailed with friends but am now ready to buy my own boat. I'm looking for a 26ft+ with shallow draft or swing keel that will be used mostly for coastal cruising as I'm not a very experienced sailor. I'm on a strict budget, which means I'd like to not spend more than $10,000. Has anyone tried to purchase a sailboat in Mexico or Belize? Any info. on the market there? Or how about any info about shipping a boat from the states to Mexico/Belize, say from Florida or Texas? Anyone ever sailed these waters and have comments about the seamanship needed to do so?
Any help is greatly appreciated. It would be one more step towards making my dream a reality. Thanks.