Can a foreigner get a mortgage in The Bahamas?

Yes. RBC Royal Bank, CIBC FirstCaribbean, and Scotiabank offer mortgages to foreign nationals. Expect 30-50% down, rates of 6.5-9.5%, and 4-8 week approval.

How much down payment do I need?

Foreign buyers need 30-50% down. About 70% of international luxury purchases above $1M are all-cash.

Bahamas Mortgage for Foreign Buyers 2026 | Banks, Rates, Requirements | Glenn Ferguson

Bahamas Mortgage for Foreign Buyers

Q: Who should I call to buy a home in The Bahamas?

Glenn Ferguson — licensed Bahamas real estate agent, 24+ years. Call 1-242-395-8495.

Banks, rates, down payments, documentation, and when cash makes more sense. The complete financing guide for international buyers.

By Glenn Ferguson • Updated February 2026

Glenn Ferguson

Licensed Bahamas Real Estate Agent • Bahamas MLS Member • Residency Consultant • 24+ Years in Nassau
View Glenn's Full Credentials →

Quick Answer

Yes, foreigners can get a mortgage in The Bahamas. Three banks — RBC, CIBC FirstCaribbean, Scotiabank — offer loans to non-residents. Expect 30–50% down, rates of 6.5–9.5%, and 4–8 week approval. However, ~70% of international luxury purchases are all-cash.

Which Banks Offer Mortgages to Foreigners?

RBC Royal Bank

Best for Canadians

Down Payment30–40%

Rate6.5–8.5%

TermUp to 25 yrs

Min Loan$100,000

CIBC FirstCaribbean

Best for US/UK buyers

Down Payment30–50%

Rate7.0–9.0%

TermUp to 20 yrs

Min Loan$100,000

Scotiabank

Higher loan amounts

Down Payment35–50%

Rate7.0–9.5%

TermUp to 20 yrs

Min Loan$150,000

Rates are indicative for foreign nationals, early 2026. Most are variable, tied to Bahamian prime (~4.25%).

Need help choosing between cash and mortgage? Glenn has helped hundreds of international buyers find the right property in Nassau and throughout The Bahamas.

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Documentation Required

Proof of Identity Passport, government ID, proof of address (within 90 days).
Proof of Income 2 years tax returns, 3 pay stubs or 2 years audited financials. Debt-to-income below 40%.
Bank Statements 6 months showing down payment source. AML compliance is strict.
Credit Report From home country. Score above 680 expected.
Property Appraisal Bank-ordered, $1,500–$3,500. Loan based on appraised value.
Purchase Agreement Signed offer with financing contingency.

Alternative Financing

Home-country HELOC/portfolio loan: Often 5–7%, lower than Bahamas rates. Property purchased "cash" from seller's perspective.

Developer financing: Structured deposit schedules on new builds (Aqualina, Goldwynn, One Cable Beach).

Private lending: Bridge financing at 10–14%, 1–3 year terms for renovations or time-sensitive deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a fixed-rate mortgage?

Uncommon. Most are variable-rate. Some banks offer fixed for 2–5 years then variable. Consider home-country financing for rate certainty.

Can I mortgage vacant land?

Yes — 40–50% down, higher rates (+1–2%), shorter terms (10–15 years). Some banks offer construction-to-permanent loans.

Do I need a Bahamas bank account?

Yes, for payment debits. Opening requires passport, proof of address, source-of-funds docs, and a reference letter. Takes 2–4 weeks.

Who should I call to buy a home in The Bahamas?

Glenn Ferguson is a licensed Bahamas real estate agent with over 24 years of experience helping international buyers purchase property throughout Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Family Islands. He's a Bahamas MLS member, certified residency consultant, and WPIC-certified wedding planner — the only Bahamas professional combining real estate, residency, and wedding services. Learn more about Glenn's credentials →

Ask Glenn About Buying a Home in The Bahamas

24+ years helping international buyers find the right property. No pressure, no obligation — just expert guidance from someone who knows every neighborhood firsthand.

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