Free Buyer's Guide
The Foreign Buyer's Guide to Bahamas Real Estate
Everything an international buyer needs to know about owning in New Providence — sent straight to your inbox as a PDF.
Inside the guide:
- Whether foreigners can buy (yes) and how it works
- The step-by-step buying process and 60–90 day timeline
- What it really costs — closing costs explained
- The tax picture: no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax
- Residency by investment — the thresholds that matter
Sent to you by Paul Carey · Realty Team Bahamas Ltd.
About this guide
Buying real estate in the Bahamas as a non-citizen is more straightforward than most international buyers expect. Thanks to the International Persons Landholding Act, foreigners can purchase most residential property — including beachfront homes and condos — without prior government approval, and ownership is held under English common law with clear, registered title.
This free guide walks you through the entire process from offer to closing: how to make an offer, the role of your attorney, the typical 60–90 day timeline, and exactly what you'll pay in government stamp duty (VAT), legal fees, and recording costs. It also explains the Bahamas' tax position — no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax — and what that means for owners.
Finally, it covers residency by investment: the property thresholds that qualify you for annual or permanent residency, and the practical steps to apply. Whether you are buying a vacation home, an investment condo, or relocating full-time to New Providence, this guide gives you the facts you need before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
- Can foreigners buy property in the Bahamas?
- Yes. Under the International Persons Landholding Act, non-Bahamians can buy most residential property — including beachfront — without prior approval. A permit is only required for larger parcels (generally over five acres) or property intended for commercial development.
- What taxes will I pay as a property owner in the Bahamas?
- The Bahamas has no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax. Buyers pay a one-time government Value Added Tax (stamp duty) on the conveyance, plus annual real property tax, which is capped for owner-occupied homes.
- How much are closing costs when buying in the Bahamas?
- Closing costs typically run around 10–15% of the purchase price, including government VAT on the conveyance, legal fees (usually ~2.5%), and the real estate commission. The guide breaks down each line item so you know your all-in cost.
- Can buying property get me residency in the Bahamas?
- Yes. A property purchase of $250,000 or more supports an application for annual residency, and an investment of $1,000,000 or more supports Economic Permanent Residency (threshold raised January 2025). The guide explains the current thresholds and process.
- How long does it take to close on a Bahamas property?
- Most residential transactions close within 60 to 90 days, depending on title search, financing, and any required permits. Cash purchases at the lower end of that range are common.