Buy a House in the Bahamas: Island Homes From Nassau to Exuma

Foreign buyers can own freehold houses in the Bahamas and no general ban applies. You may need to register the investment with the Central Bank to protect your ability to repatriate funds, and the Bahamas Investment Authority may need to approve larger purchases. Stamp duty on conveyance is substantial and the split between buyer and seller is negotiated. A government residency scheme for owners of higher-value homes exists, but the thresholds and conditions can change, so verify before relying on it. Read the Bahamas buying guide.

• Hurricane resilience. Roof, shutters, generator and elevation.
• Insurance. Premiums can be high; get quotes before offering.
• Salt damage. Air conditioning, metal and electrics corrode faster by the sea.
• Utilities. Water supply (often cistern or reverse osmosis) and septic systems.
• Title and survey.
• Running costs. Electricity is expensive.

Offers are made through a licensed agent or directly, and a Bahamian attorney carries out the title search, drafts the conveyance and pays stamp duty. Expect a deposit on signing and completion within weeks if the title is clean. Out Island houses can take longer because surveys and title work require travel. Plan for your first hurricane season by arranging insurance, shutters and a caretaker before you leave the property unattended.