Bahamas Real Estate

Welcome to the complete guide to Bahamas real estate. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or shopping for a second home in the islands, this page covers what matters — the best places to buy, the costs and rules, residency, and how the process works — and points you to a deeper guide on each. I'm Glenn Ferguson, a luxury Bahamas real estate advisor and residency consultant with more than two decades in this market.

The Bahamas is a rare combination: a tax-neutral jurisdiction under an hour from Florida, with English Common Law, a stable market, and one of the world's most beautiful archipelagos. With more than 11 million visitors in 2024, demand for well-located property — especially beachfront and branded residences — remains strong.

Why Invest in Bahamas Real Estate?

The Bahamas pairs lifestyle with hard financial advantages. For individuals there is no income, capital gains, inheritance, or wealth tax; the islands sit roughly 50 miles off Florida; and an English Common Law system gives international buyers familiar protections. Property in established communities tends to hold value and generate rental income, and a well-chosen purchase can also open a residency pathway. For the bigger-picture case, read why global investors are choosing The Bahamas in 2026.

Where Is the Best Place to Buy Real Estate in The Bahamas?

The best area depends on what you want — amenities, privacy, or seclusion. Nassau and Paradise Island offer the deepest market and the most convenience; western New Providence offers gated privacy; and the Out Islands offer quiet and character.

Nassau & Paradise Island — the heart of the condo and branded-residence market: Cable Beach (Baha Mar Residences, Bayroc, ONE Cable Beach, Goldwynn, Aqualina) and Paradise Island (Ocean Club Residences, One Ocean, The Reef). Lyford Cay & Old Fort Bay — gated estates for buyers who prize privacy and security. The Out Islands — Harbour Island's pink sand, tranquil Eleuthera, the secluded Exumas, and value-focused Grand Bahama. Start with beachfront property or browse condos across the islands.

How Much Does Bahamas Real Estate Cost?

Pricing spans the full market — from entry-level condos in the mid six figures to gated-community estates well into eight figures — so the honest answer depends on island, community, and property type. Whatever the price, foreign buyers add a flat 10% VAT on conveyance (the levy that replaced the old "stamp duty"), roughly 2.5% (plus VAT) in legal fees, and an annual real property tax once they own.

Transaction-tax guidance per the Bahamas Real Estate Association; residency figures per the Bahamas Department of Immigration. See the full Bahamas property taxes & closing costs guide.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in The Bahamas?

Yes — non-Bahamians enjoy full ownership rights, and buying is refreshingly simple. The International Persons Landholding Act lets foreign nationals purchase freely; a government permit is only triggered when a property is undeveloped or larger than five acres. For an ordinary home or condo, your Bahamian attorney handles title and conveyancing, and the deal is registered with the Investments Board after closing.

Can You Get Residency by Buying Property?

Yes — and it's one of the main reasons buyers choose the islands. Since January 1, 2025, a qualifying residential purchase at or above the $1 million mark can underpin an Economic Permanent Residence application, with faster processing once you pass $1.5 million; the asset is held for ten years. (Ignore the outdated $750,000 figure still floating around online.) The full mechanics live in the dedicated Bahamas residency-by-investment guide.

How Do You Buy Property in The Bahamas?

Most transactions complete within roughly two to three months of an accepted offer. The path is: engage a licensed agent, identify and view properties, make an offer, sign the agreement for sale (with a deposit), complete due diligence and the title search through a Bahamian attorney, then close and register the conveyance. Working with one professional who coordinates the purchase and any residency application keeps the timeline tight and the paperwork aligned.

Explore Bahamas Real Estate by Topic

Go deeper on any part of the journey:

Why Work With Glenn Ferguson?

Buying well in The Bahamas comes down to local knowledge and clean execution.

• Market knowledge: more than two decades across all the islands — the right property at the right price, and a frank view on which to skip.
• One coordinated process: purchase and residency application managed together, so documents and timing line up.
• End-to-end support: from first viewing to registration, including attorney coordination.
• No cost to you: in Bahamian transactions the seller covers the commission — your representation and residency guidance come at no charge.

Frequently Asked Questions