Buy Property in the Bahamas: Islands, Prices and Foreign-Buyer Rules

Land accounts for 1,537 of 4,663 listings, mostly residential lots and larger parcels. Buy only after checking title, setbacks, access, utilities and whether a lot sits in a flood or storm-surge zone. Houses (806) and apartments (802) are the main built options, and commercial property accounts for 348 listings.

In hurricane-prone areas, construction quality, roof design and insurance availability matter as much as the view.

Foreign buyers can purchase property in the Bahamas, but there are registration and permission steps. Larger parcels and certain purchases may require approval, and buyers who want to repatriate funds should register their investment with the Central Bank. Always rely on a Bahamian attorney.

1. Choose an island and property.
2. Hire a Bahamian attorney, who will run a title search and confirm that the seller can convey.
3. Sign the sale agreement and pay a deposit, commonly 10%.
4. Apply for any permits and register foreign investment.
5. Close and pay stamp duty, then record the conveyance.
6. Arrange insurance and utilities.

Our Bahamas buying guide provides more detail.

The Bahamas has no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax, but transaction costs are high.

Local banks lend to non-residents on a limited basis, typically with a significant deposit and local documentation. Many buyers use cash or international financing arranged elsewhere. Rates and loan-to-value ratios vary. See our Bahamas financing guide and model payments with the mortgage calculator.

The Bahamas offers permanent-residency and homeowner programmes for buyers of qualifying property, with minimum values and fees that change. A residence permit is not automatic with purchase, so ask your attorney about current thresholds and application timing.

Pros

• No income, capital gains or inheritance tax
• Close to the US with strong tourism demand
• Wide choice of islands, from urban to remote
• Stable currency pegged to the US dollar

Cons

• High stamp duty and insurance costs
• Hurricane exposure
• Limited services on Out Islands
• Foreign investment registration and permits

Hurricane exposure shapes every Bahamian purchase. Choose homes built to modern code with impact windows, elevated floor levels and generator capacity, and get insurance quotes before you make an offer, because premiums and deductibles can be high. Flood and storm-surge zones are shown on survey maps; ask your attorney and surveyor to check the specific lot.

Logistics matter on the Out Islands. Building materials, power and water supply and medical services may be limited, so renovation takes longer and costs more than on New Providence. Check ferry or flight schedules, local property managers and the reliability of the contractor before committing to a project.

Read the wider market analysis hub, find cheap properties in the Bahamas, or contact us for guidance.