What Is Bahamas Real Estate Like in 2025? Zero Taxes, Endless Sunshine, Crystal-Clear Waters
Imagine starting each day with ocean views from your private terrace in Nassau or Paradise Island, knowing you'll never pay income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax again. This isn't a vacation fantasy—it's the reality for smart international property investors choosing Bahamas real estate in 2025.
Key Benefits of Bahamas Property Investment:
- Zero income tax for residents
- No capital gains tax on property sales
- USD-pegged currency (no forex risk)
- 300+ days of sunshine annually
- English-speaking Caribbean nation
- 1-hour flight from Miami
Why Is Bahamas Real Estate Booming in 2025? Market Analysis & Investment Trends
The Bahamas property market is experiencing unprecedented growth, and here's what the data shows:
Current Bahamas Real Estate Market Trends (2025)
| Location | 2024 Growth | Avg. Price/Sq Ft | Investment Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Island | 8.5% | $650-$1,200 | Luxury condos, waterfront villas |
| Nassau (Cable Beach) | 7.2% | $400-$800 | Family homes, rental properties |
| Eleuthera | 12.1% | $300-$600 | Boutique estates, eco-developments |
| Exuma Cays | 15.3% | $500-$900 | Vacation rentals, private islands |
| Harbour Island | 9.8% | $700-$1,100 | Historic homes, beachfront properties |
What's Driving Bahamas Real Estate Demand:
Limited Supply
Archipelago geography creates natural scarcity
Remote Work
Increased adoption post-2024 driving relocations
Tax Incentives
Caribbean real estate tax advantages
Infrastructure
New airports, marinas, and developments
What Types of Property Can You Buy in the Bahamas? Complete Investment Options Guide
Oceanfront Real Estate & Waterfront Properties
Paradise Island Luxury Condos
- Ocean views from every room
- Resort-style amenities (pools, spas, concierge)
- Rental income potential: $150-$400/night
- HOA fees: $800-$2,000/month
Who Can Buy Property in the Bahamas? Foreign Ownership Laws & Residency Guide
Can Americans Buy Property in the Bahamas?
Yes - Foreign Ownership Rules:
- No restrictions on property ownership for non-residents
- Government approval required for purchases over 5 acres
- All nationalities welcome (US, Canadian, European, etc.)
- Property ownership doesn't automatically grant residency
How to Get Bahamas Residency Through Real Estate Investment
Economic Permanent Residency (EPR) Requirements:
- Minimum investment: $1,000,000 in real estate (increased from $750,000 effective January 1, 2025)
- Maintains investment for 10+ years
- Clean criminal background
- Health certificate required
- Processing time: 6-18 months
Frequently Asked Questions About Bahamas Real Estate (2025)
A: No minimum requirement for property ownership. However, $1,000,000+ qualifies for Economic Permanent Residency (increased from $750,000 in January 2025). Entry-level condos start around $250,000.
A: Typical timeline is 8-12 weeks from offer to closing. Cash purchases can close in 4-6 weeks. Government approval adds 2-4 weeks for large properties.
A: Property tax of 1% annually on assessed value. No income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Stamp duty of 2-10% on purchase (one-time fee).
A: Depends on location and property type. Nassau/Paradise Island: $150-$400/night. Out islands: $200-$600/night. Annual yields typically 6-12% gross.
Meet Your Bahamas Real Estate Expert: Glenn Ferguson
Hi, I'm Glenn Ferguson, your licensed Bahamas real estate agent and complete island lifestyle consultant. With 24+ years of experience as a WPIC-certified wedding planner, Marriage Officer, licensed real estate agent, and Residency Consultant, I offer something unique in the Bahamas market: comprehensive expertise in property investment, residency solutions, and destination experiences.
Local Market Knowledge
2+ decades of Bahamas real estate trends
Full-Service Approach
From property search to wedding planning
Residency Expertise
Guide you through EPR application process
Rental Income Optimization
Launch and manage your vacation rental
Ready to Secure Your Bahamas Real Estate Investment?
After helping hundreds of international clients successfully purchase Bahamas properties over 24+ years, I understand that buying Caribbean real estate represents more than a financial investment—it's about securing a lifestyle, creating family memories, and building long-term wealth in one of the world's most desirable locations.
Glenn Ferguson
Licensed Bahamas Real Estate Agent | WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner | Residency Consultant
Nassau, Paradise Island & Out Islands Specialist
From finding your perfect oceanfront villa to planning your destination wedding to securing Bahamian residency - I handle every detail of your Bahamas lifestyle transition.
What Are the Costs of Buying Property in the Bahamas? Complete Fee Breakdown
Bahamas Property Purchase Costs (2025)
| Cost Type | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp Duty | 2-10% | Sliding scale based on price |
| Legal Fees | 2.5-3% | Of purchase price |
| Property Tax (Owner-Occupied) | 0.75-1% annually | First $250K exempt, then 0.75% up to $500K, 1% above |
| Property Tax (Non-Resident) | 1-2% annually | 1% up to $500K, 2% above |
| Property Survey | $2,000-$5,000 | One-time cost |
| Insurance | $2,000-$8,000/year | Varies by property value |
Where Are the Best Places to Buy Property in the Bahamas? Location Investment Guide
Nassau & Paradise Island Real Estate
Why Choose Nassau for Property Investment:
- Capital city with best infrastructure
- International airport hub
- Major cruise ship port (4+ million visitors)
- Banking and financial center
- Best healthcare facilities
Cable Beach
Resort area, family-friendly atmosphere
Lyford Cay
Ultra-luxury gated community
Old Fort Bay
Upscale residential, marina access
Love Beach
Quieter, still close to amenities
How Does Bahamas Real Estate Compare to Other Caribbean Markets?
| Country | Income Tax | Property Tax | Residency Investment | Ease of Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bahamas | 0% | 1% | $750K | Excellent |
| Cayman Islands | 0% | 1-1.5% | $1.2M | Good |
| Barbados | 0-28% | 0.1-0.75% | $400K | Moderate |
| Turks & Caicos | 0% | $100 flat | $500K | Good |
Why Are International Buyers Choosing Bahamas Real Estate Now? Key Advantages
Lifestyle Benefits of Living in the Bahamas
Perfect Climate
75-85°F year-round, 300+ days of sunshine
English Speaking
No language barriers for business or daily life
US Time Zone
Perfect for remote work and business
Close to Miami
1-hour flight for business or shopping
Step-by-Step: How to Buy Property in the Bahamas (Complete Process Guide)
Phase 1: Property Search & Selection (2-4 weeks)
Step 1: Define Your Investment Goals
- Primary residence vs. vacation home vs. rental property
- Budget including all costs (property + fees)
- Preferred location and property type
- Timeline for purchase and occupancy
Step 2: Property Viewing & Market Research
- Schedule viewing trips (I arrange accommodation)
- Compare properties and neighborhoods
- Analyze rental potential and appreciation prospects
- Review HOA fees and community restrictions
Phase 2: Due Diligence & Legal Process (4-6 weeks)
Step 3: Make an Offer & Negotiate Terms
- Submit written offer with 10% deposit
- Negotiate price, closing date, and conditions
- Include inspection and financing contingencies
- Secure purchase agreement
Step 4: Complete Due Diligence
- Professional property inspection
- Title search and legal review
- Survey confirmation of boundaries
- Verify all permits and zoning compliance
Market Outlook: Why 2025 Is the Optimal Time for Bahamas Real Estate Investment
Limited Supply Meeting Growing Demand
Geographic Constraints Creating Scarcity:
- Only 700 islands, 30 inhabited
- Beachfront property physically limited
- Government protecting 50% of land as national parks
- Prime locations increasingly scarce
Why Act in 2025:
- Interest rates stabilizing after 2023-2024 volatility
- Currency strength (USD peg) vs. other Caribbean nations
- Pre-development prices in emerging areas
- Residency program requirements stable
