Bahamas Real Estate Buyer’s Guide
Buying in The Bahamas
The Bahamas truly offers a wide variety of options for the discerning buyer!
The proximity of The Bahamas to the United States, and the privacy and anonymity which persons are able to enjoy in The Bahamas, have enabled our islands to become an oasis to persons desiring to have a second home, a home away from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives.
The country’s 700 islands, 29 of which are inhabited, offer a variety of options to the consumer, including luxurious condominiums, estate homes or one’s very own private island. Moreover, there is ease of access through the network of domestic and international airlines which travel to the islands, providing direct flights from all major international cities.
Selling Bahamas knows The Bahamas
Selling Bahamas knows our Islands
We’ve been helping people near and far buy and sell real estate throughout The Bahamas. We know the market and know how to make your home buying seamless. With over 36 yrs of combined experience, we are one of the largest and most successful locally owned real estate firms in The Bahamas, consistently leading in property sales.
Success is Built on Relationships
We pride ourselves on treating our clients like family and have an excellent referral rating. Our top tier customer service and our continued commitment to exceptional results have made us a local leader. Coupled with luxury affiliations and access to the global market, we are second to none when it comes to delivering your new home or selling your current property. We’ve got relationships with developers, business and community leaders. Those relationships give our clients access to custom home builders for new construction and the inside track to properties that sell-out in the pre-construction phase.
We are Local
We know what is on the market and what is coming to the market. We know the real estate trends and business development plans that will affect home buying and selling right now and in the future. Market knowledge and exceptional client service make us the best in The Bahamas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Fees and Costs of Purchasing Property in The Bahamas?
- Purchase Price of the Property.
- Legal Fees — 2.5% of the gross purchase price (negotiable).
- Government VAT Stamp Duty — 2.5% of the value of when less than $100,000.00 and 10% of the value when over $100,000.
The stamp (duty) tax is shared equally between buyer and seller unless otherwise agreed upon.
Exemption for First Time Home Owners
The exemption from stamp duty for first time home owners has now been extended to 30th June 2023. However, all applications for the exemption must be made within twelve months of the date of the conveyance to the applicant. The Affidavit sworn by the applicant which accompanies the application must now state that there is not and never has been any other dwelling house held by the applicant or on his behalf situated in or outside of The Bahamas.
Applications for first time home owner stamp duty exemption on conveyances executed on or after 1st January 2003, must be submitted on or before 31st December 2018.
Value Added Tax
The Value Added Tax Act has been amended to make all transfers of real property exempt from value added tax, with the exception of commercial leases which remain subject to value added tax.
A 12% Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged on real estate services, including appraisals, legal work, commissions and insurance.
Laws and policies are subject to change.
What is the Annual Property Tax in The Bahamas?
REAL PROPERTY TAX
The Bahamas Government has developed a modern and equitable system of property taxation:
Owner-Occupied Property
As of 1st January 2019, an owner that resides in their property for less than six months in any given year will be required to pay real property taxes annually at the rate of 0.75% on that part of the market value which does not exceed $500,000.00 and 2% on that part of the market value which exceeds $500,000.00.
This applies to Bahamian citizens, permanent residents and second home owners who do not reside in their property for a minimum of 6 months. Accordingly, the statutory maximum annual tax of $60,000.00 which applies to owner-occupied property, will not apply in such instances.
Increased rate of Real Property Tax for Vacant land owned by Non-Bahamians
The annual real property tax payable in respect of unimproved land owned by non-Bahamians on that part of the market value which exceeds $7,000.00 has been increased from 1.5% to 2%.
Transfer of property to the Treasurer to satisfy outstanding real property taxes and surcharges
A new section has been inserted into the Real Property Tax Act that will allow persons who have outstanding real property taxes and surcharges to make application to transfer their real property to the Treasurer to satisfy unpaid sums. The application must state: (i) the applicant’s inability to pay the unpaid sums; (ii) any reasonable steps taken by the applicant to satisfy the unpaid sums; (iii) the name of all legal and equitable owners of the property; and (iv) whether there are any liens or other charges on the property.
Who Buys in The Bahamas?
The islands of The Bahamas have a unique and wonderful history behind them!
Currently, people from all over the world call Bahamas their home. Locals are very proud of their island heritage and celebrities and sports stars have purchased beach bungalows, private islands and investment opportunities and more! There is something for everyone!
Majority of international buyers are from the U.S. but there is a good mix of Canadian, European, Russian, Chinese and South American buyers.
