Buying a Vacation Home in The Bahamas

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Ready to Make the Move to Paradise?

Buying a vacation home in The Bahamas changed my clients' lives, and it could change yours, too. I'm Glenn Ferguson. I've been selling real estate here for over 20 years, and I've seen it all. From the Wall Street guys who come down looking for a tax break to the families who just want a place where winter doesn't exist. I know this market inside and out because I live and breathe it every day.

When you buy here, you're not just getting a property. You're buying into a lifestyle. Crystal waters. Powder sand. Sunsets that make you forget what day it is. Pick up the phone. Call me at (242)-395-8495 or click ASK Glenn. Let's talk about what you're looking for.



Why The Bahamas Is Your Ideal Vacation Home Destination

Why pick the Bahamas? Simple:

  • No taxes, period: You won't find this anywhere else. No income tax, no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax. I have clients who saved enough on taxes in a year to pay for their entire property.
  • You can be here in no time: From Miami, you're looking at 35 minutes. My New York clients can leave after breakfast and have lunch on their deck in Nassau.
  • We've got law and order: The British left us their legal system. Your property rights are rock solid. No funny business like you might find elsewhere.
  • Your place can pay for itself: Most of my clients rent their properties when they're not using them. In high season, a nice beachfront place can pull in $10-20K a week.
  • It's properly civilized: Want a great meal? We've got restaurants that would hold their own in New York or London. Need to shop? We've got the luxury brands. Golf? Some of the best courses in this part of the world.
  • Property values keep climbing: I've been watching the market for years, and prime spots just keep appreciating. Waterfront property is finite, and more people want it every year.

I've personally witnessed the transformation of many clients' lives after acquiring their Bahamas vacation home. From creating multi-generational family gathering places to securing significant rental income streams, the benefits extend far beyond simply having a beautiful place to stay.

Ready to explore? I've got properties to show you this week. Call me directly at (242)-395-8495. I pick up my own phone.

The Insider's Guide to Bahamas Vacation Home Buying

Step 1: Understand Location Options

Where Should You Buy? Let Me Break It Down

We have sold properties on pretty much every inhabitable island in the Bahamas. Here's my honest take on each:

  • Nassau/New Providence: This is where most of the action is. You can find everything from million-dollar condos to $15 million estates. If you want amenities, restaurants, shopping, and easy access, this is your spot. My clients who buy in communities like Albany and Lyford Cay tend to see their property values climb steadily year after year.
  • Paradise Island: Connected to Nassau by a bridge, this is where you'll find Atlantis Resort and some seriously impressive oceanfront estates. It's exclusive, it's beautiful, and it's convenient. Rental potential is excellent if that matters to you.
  • Harbour Island/Eleuthera: If you're after pink sand beaches and a quieter vibe, look here. There's old money on Harbour Island, with gorgeous pre-Civil War colonial architecture. It's less developed, which is exactly what some of my clients are looking for.
  • Exumas: This is a chain of 365 small islands and cays with the clearest water you'll ever see. Some pretty famous people have bought here - I could drop names but I won't. If you're after privacy and jaw-dropping natural beauty, we should talk about Exuma.
  • Abaco Islands: Great for boaters. These islands were hit hard by Hurricane Dorian, but they've rebuilt impressively. You'll find some gorgeous historic settlements like Hope Town with its candy-striped lighthouse. The property values haven't quite caught up to the other islands yet, which means opportunity.

After working with clients from around the world, I've developed a customized approach to matching your lifestyle preferences with the perfect location. Whether you seek vibrant nightlife or secluded beaches, I can guide you to communities that align with your vision.

Not sure which island fits? I've got a map with notes on my iPad. Stop by my office for a coffee, and I'll walk you through it. Bring your spouse.

Step 2: Understand the Legal Process

As a foreigner buying property in The Bahamas, you'll need to navigate several important legal considerations:

  1. International Persons Landholding Act: For properties over 2 acres, you'll need government approval (which I'll handle for you)
  2. Legal fees: Typically 2.5% of the purchase price
  3. Government stamp duty: Ranges from 4% to 10% based on property value
  4. Real estate commission: Usually 6%, typically paid by the seller
  5. Annual property tax: From 0.75% to 1% of the property value

I know every shortcut through this paperwork maze. My team works hand-in-hand with the best Bahamian lawyers in the business, handling those tedious government forms while you're at the beach sipping something cold.

Concerned about the legal process? Book a consultation with me and my recommended attorney to answer all your questions - ASK Glenn.

Paying For Your Bahamas Home

Most of my clients just pay cash for their properties. But if you're looking at financing, here are your options:

Local Banks
Banks like RBC and Scotiabank will lend to non-residents. You'll need to put down about 30-40%, and interest rates run a bit higher than you might be used to, usually around 7%.

Your Home Bank
Some of my clients arrange financing through their banks back home. I can provide all the documentation they need about the property.

Developer Financing
A few of the new developments, especially in Nassau, offer their own financing options. The terms vary, but they can be attractive.

When we're looking at properties, I always make sure to give you the full financial picture - not just the purchase price, but what it'll cost to actually own the place. Power bills in the Bahamas aren't cheap. You'll need hurricane insurance. Then there's pool service, landscaping, maybe a caretaker or property manager. Better to know all this upfront than be surprised later.

Want real numbers, not vague promises? Text me about a property you're eyeing. I'll send you a proper breakdown by tomorrow.

Making Your Property Work For You

If you're not going to be living in your Bahamas home year-round, you should consider renting it out when you're not there. The income can be substantial:

During high season (December through April), waterfront properties in Nassau can rent for anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 a week, sometimes even more for truly exceptional places. Even in the off-season, you can do pretty well.

Most owners work with a property management company. I have three that I recommend to my clients, depending on their specific needs. These companies typically take about 20% of the rental income, but they handle everything - marketing the property, screening guests, arranging cleaners, dealing with any issues that come up.

If rental income is important to you, location matters a lot. Properties in Nassau and Paradise Island tend to rent more consistently throughout the year than those on the outer islands. That said, a special property in Exuma or Harbour Island can command premium rates during high season.

Many homes I've sold are booked solid over 60% of the year from day one. My rolodex of luxury travel agents and marketing wizards fills your calendar with guests while the checks roll in, often covering most of your ownership costs.

Want to understand your property's rental potential? Schedule a rental income consultation to receive a customized analysis.

Nassau's Top Communities: My Inside Take

I've sold properties in every luxury community in Nassau. Here's what you should know about each:

Albany
This is the newest and arguably the most impressive development. Tiger Woods and Justin Timberlake are among the investors. It's got a gorgeous marina that can handle really big yachts, a beautiful golf course, and an amazing array of restaurants and amenities. Properties here start around $3 million and go way up from there. It attracts a lot of celebrities and high-profile folks who appreciate the security and privacy.

Lyford Cay
This is old-school Bahamas luxury. The club dates back to the 1950s, with a lovely pink colonial clubhouse. It's exclusive - you need two existing members to sponsor you. The crowd here tends to be old money, multi-generational families who've been coming to the Bahamas for decades. Prices typically start around $2.5 million.

Old Fort Bay
This is a favorite for families. It's built around a historic fort and has a beautiful beach club. Everyone seems to have a boat here, and there's a real community feel. More relaxed than Lyford or Albany. Properties typically range from $2 million to $15 million.

Ocean Club Estates
This is adjacent to the Four Seasons (formerly the One & Only). Residents get access to the resort amenities. It's got a great golf course with some spectacular ocean views. They filmed scenes from the James Bond movie "Casino Royale" here. Prices usually start around $3 million.

Each of these communities offers a distinct lifestyle and investment profile. Having sold properties in all four, I can guide you to the one that best matches your priorities.

Looking for exclusive access to off-market properties in these communities? Contact me directly for a confidential discussion.

Beachfront Opportunities

Nothing captures the Bahamas dream like stepping from your vacation home directly onto powder-soft sand. I specialize in finding the perfect beachfront property, whether you desire:

  • Direct oceanfront condominiums: Lower maintenance with stunning views
  • Beachfront villas: Privacy and direct beach access
  • Development opportunities: Create your custom dream home on virgin beachfront land

I've walked nearly every inch of Nassau's beaches and island coastlines. One call to me saves you weeks of wasted viewings – I already know which spots will make you say "this is it."

Ready to find your perfect beachfront home? Schedule a personalized property tour during your next visit to The Bahamas.

Investment Outlook for Bahamas Vacation Homes

The Bahamas real estate market continues to show strong performance, particularly in the luxury segment:

  • Limited supply: Strict development regulations preserve exclusivity and natural beauty
  • Growing demand: Increasing interest from international buyers, particularly from North America, Europe, and Asia
  • Infrastructure improvements: Ongoing development of marinas, airports, and luxury amenities
  • Economic stability: Continued government focus on attracting foreign investment

The numbers don't lie – prime spots here have jumped 5-7% yearly over the last ten years. Beachfront and waterfront gems? They've done even better. Just ask the folks who bought with me in 2015 what their places are worth now.

Considering the investment potential? Let me provide you with my quarterly Bahamas Market Report with the latest trends and opportunities.

Residency Benefits Through Property Ownership

One significant advantage of owning Bahamas property is the pathway to residency:

  • Annual residence permit: Available to all property owners
  • Permanent residency: Available with a minimum investment of $750,000 in real estate
  • Accelerated consideration: Investments over $1.5 million may receive expedited processing

As both a real estate agent and residency consultant, I provide comprehensive guidance through the residency application process, coordinating with immigration attorneys to ensure a smooth experience.

Interested in Bahamas residency? Book my Residency Planning Session to develop your personalized path to paradise.

Begin Your Bahamas Vacation Home Journey Today

After helping hundreds of clients find their perfect Bahamas property, I've developed a systematic approach to make your journey smooth and enjoyable:

  1. Discovery consultation: Understanding your goals, preferences, and requirements
  2. Property shortlisting: Carefully selecting properties that match your criteria
  3. Virtual or in-person tours: Experiencing properties to find your perfect match
  4. Offer and negotiation: Securing the best possible terms
  5. Due diligence coordination: Managing inspections and legal review
  6. Closing support: Ensuring a smooth transaction completion
  7. After-purchase services: From property management to rental marketing

We don't just shake hands and part ways when you get your keys. My clients become my neighbors, drinking buddies, and dinner guests. Need a boat mechanic at midnight three years from now? I'm still your guy. That's how we do things here.

Ready to take the first step? Call me directly at (242)-395-8495 or click ASK Glenn to schedule your private consultation.


A Little About Me

I've been selling luxury real estate in the Bahamas for over 20 years now. Before that, I was in banking and insurance, which gives me a good perspective on the financial and investment aspects of buying property here.

Over the years, I've worked with clients from all walks of life - investment bankers from New York, tech entrepreneurs from California, doctors from Chicago, retirees from Toronto, and European families looking for winter homes.

What sets me apart from other agents is that I don't just sell you a property and disappear. I become your go-to person in the Bahamas. My clients call me years after their purchase to ask about everything from restaurant recommendations to hurricane preparations to finding a reliable boat mechanic.

I live here, I work here, and I love it here. And I want my clients to love it, too.

What you get with me:

  • The hidden gems: Secret listings you won't find online and first dibs on pre-construction deals
  • Street smarts: I know which streets flood, which HOAs are nightmares, and where the next hot spot will be
  • Worldly wisdom: I've worked with people from Beijing to Berlin and know what matters to you
  • My black book: Need the only plumber who shows up on Sundays? The banker who can rush your wire? I've got people
  • Lifelong concierge: Call me five years from now when your AC dies during your rental guest's stay

Ready to Explore Your Options?

I'd love to talk with you about what you're looking for in a Bahamas vacation home. Every client is different, and I pride myself on finding the perfect match for each person's needs and wishes.

Give me a call at (242)-395-8495 or click ASK Glenn. Let's have a real conversation about buying a vacation home in The Bahamas.

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When you reach out, I'll send you my latest Bahamas Market Report and some current listings that might interest you.

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