100% Foreign Ownership
Foreign property ownership is completely permitted with full ownership rights and protections under Bahamian law.
In 2025, more investors, retirees, and mobile entrepreneurs are seeking countries where their money works harder—and their lifestyle doesn't compromise. The Bahamas offers all the right fundamentals: no income or capital gains tax, secure property ownership, strong asset protection laws, and a direct path to permanent residency through real estate investment.
Whether you're searching for a second home, planning to retire, or looking to expand your portfolio offshore, buying property in The Bahamas is a decision built on freedom, return, and long-term value.
Experience The Bahamas Lifestyle
Discover the unparalleled beauty and luxury that awaits property owners in The Bahamas
Explore the pristine waters, luxury amenities, and exclusive lifestyle that comes with Bahamas property ownership
Why The Bahamas Is a Strategic Real Estate Investment
Forget the cliché of a tropical escape—The Bahamas is a tax-neutral jurisdiction with a mature real estate market and a legal system based on British common law. That makes it ideal for high-net-worth individuals focused on diversification and lifestyle continuity.
Zero Tax Benefits
No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax on your real estate investments.
Strong Legal Protection
Robust land title protections based on the established British common law system.
Residency Pathway
Permanent residency options available for qualifying foreign property investors.
High Rental Yields
Excellent returns in vacation rental markets with strong year-round tourism demand.
Direct Access
Easy travel access from the U.S., Canada, and Europe with established infrastructure.
Real Client Success Story
One client recently purchased a $1.5M condominium in Ocean Club Estates. It now produces six figures annually through vacation rentals while meeting the threshold for fast-track permanent residency.
Can Foreigners Buy Real Estate in The Bahamas?
YES - Complete Foreign Ownership Rights
Foreign buyers can legally purchase, own, and sell real estate in The Bahamas with the same rights as Bahamian citizens. International investors enjoy full property ownership with very few restrictions.
Government Permit Requirements
You'll only need a government permit from the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA) if your purchase involves:
- Land parcels over 2 acres in size
- Properties designated for commercial use or rental purposes
- Developments that include marina or resort components
Important: A licensed Bahamian attorney will handle all permit applications on your behalf.
Quick Answer: "Can Americans buy property in the Bahamas?"
Yes. U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals can purchase and own real estate in The Bahamas, including luxury condominiums, homes, and land with full ownership rights.
Where to Buy: Best Areas for Value, Lifestyle & Investment Income
Nassau & New Providence Island
The capital and commercial center of the Bahamas. Strong resale value, year-round demand, and comprehensive amenities.
Best for: Families, long-term expats, working professionals
Prime neighborhoods: Old Fort Bay, The Grove, Sandyport, Palm Cay
Paradise Island
Exclusive, secure, and walkable luxury enclave. Near world-class resorts, championship golf, marina facilities, and casino entertainment.
Best for: High-end condominiums, luxury investment rentals
Top developments: Ocean Club Estates, The Reef Residences at Atlantis, Marina Village
Investment insight: Luxury condominiums at The Reef generate $6,000–$10,000 per month during peak tourism season.
Exuma Cays
Secluded luxury destination with pristine turquoise waters and growing demand for boutique villas and eco-luxury resorts.
Best for: Private estates, beachfront villas, passive rental income
Hot zones: Great Exuma, Little Exuma, February Point Resort
Usage trends: High-net-worth buyers utilize these luxury villas for destination weddings, corporate retreats, and wellness tourism.
Step-by-Step: How to Buy a Home in The Bahamas
The property acquisition process is efficient and straightforward with proper professional support. Here's your complete roadmap:
Hire a Licensed Bahamas Real Estate Agent
Work exclusively with a certified member of the Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA) who understands foreign buyer requirements and local market conditions.
Find the Right Property Match
Based on your specific goals—permanent residency qualification, rental yield optimization, personal use, or legacy wealth building.
Submit Offer & Sign Sales Agreement
Your real estate agent and attorney coordinate this legally binding step, ensuring all terms protect your interests as a foreign buyer.
Retain a Licensed Bahamian Attorney
They conduct comprehensive title searches, draft conveyance documents, and manage the entire closing process on your behalf.
Apply for Government Permit (if applicable)
Required only in special circumstances—your legal team handles all applications with the Bahamas Investment Authority.
Complete the Sale & Closing
Pay the required stamp duty, complete final documentation, and receive your official title documents with full ownership rights.
Permanent Residency Through Real Estate Investment
Foreign nationals who purchase residential property in The Bahamas valued at $750,000 or more are eligible to apply for Permanent Residency status.
Fast-Track Processing
Property investments of $1.5 million or above qualify for expedited application processing and priority consideration.
Family Inclusion
Spouse and dependent children may be included in your permanent residency application at no additional investment requirement.
No Minimum Stay Requirement
No annual minimum physical presence requirement to maintain your permanent residency status.
Offshore Wealth Planning
Long-term residency status supports sophisticated offshore wealth planning and tax optimization strategies.
Direct Answer: "Do you get residency with real estate in the Bahamas?"
Yes. Foreign nationals who invest at least $750,000 in Bahamas residential property can apply for permanent residency. Fast-track applications are available for investments of $1.5 million or above.
Complete Tax Guide: Fees, Costs & Annual Obligations
Bahamas real estate investment is highly tax-efficient with transparent, predictable costs and no hidden fees.
Purchase Costs (One-Time)
- Stamp Duty: 10% of purchase price (typically split between buyer and seller)
- Legal Fees: 1–2.5% of purchase price for attorney services
- VAT on Services: 10–12% applied to legal and real estate agency fees
Annual Tax Benefits
- No Personal Income Tax
- No Capital Gains Tax
- No Inheritance Tax
- Low Property Tax Rates
Annual Property Tax Rates Schedule
| Property Value Bracket | Annual Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to $250,000 (owner-occupied primary residence) | Completely Exempt |
| $250,001 – $500,000 | 0.625% of assessed value |
| $500,001 – $5,000,000 | 1.0% of assessed value |
| Over $5,000,000 | 0.25% flat rate (reduced for high-value properties) |
