Why Half of Bahamas Luxury Homes Are Being Sold Off-Market (And How to Get In)
Albany Bahamas Luxury Real Estate - Off-Market Properties

Why Half of Bahamas Luxury Homes Are Being Sold Off-Market (And How to Get In)

Some of the best properties in the Bahamas aren't listed online. You won't find them on the MLS, Zillow, or your favorite real estate site.

Up to 50% of high-end homes in communities like Ocean Club Estates, Albany, and Lyford Cay are being sold off-market—quietly, privately, and behind the scenes.

If you're serious about buying or selling in the Bahamas, this is something you need to know.

What Does "Off-Market" Mean?

Off-market means a property is for sale—but not advertised to the general public. No online listing. No open house. No MLS. Just direct conversations between trusted agents and qualified buyers.

I help buyers and sellers in this space all the time. These deals happen quietly, but they happen fast—and they're often among the most desirable homes on the island.

Why Sellers Choose to Stay Off the Radar

Sellers of multimillion-dollar homes often have personal reasons for wanting privacy. Some are going through divorce. Others are relocating. Many simply don't want their name or address in the spotlight.

Here's what selling off-market gives them:

Privacy

No public photos or price tags.

Control

We hand-pick which buyers get access.

Peace of Mind

Fewer showings, no tire-kickers.

Why Buyers Are Missing Out

If you're only browsing listings online, you're seeing half the market—at best.

The other half is locked behind private networks, broker relationships, and discreet referrals. That's where I come in. I work directly with sellers and brokers who prefer quiet deals, and I have exclusive access to properties that never hit the public market.

If you're not connected to the right person, you won't even know these homes are for sale. Want in? I can open that door.

Is This Legal? Absolutely.

Off-market doesn't mean under the table. Every transaction still follows full legal procedure:

VAT and stamp duty are paid
Everything is registered with the Bahamas Registry of Records
Licensed attorneys handle conveyancing

The 2025–2026 budget even tightened enforcement, so nothing escapes the government's radar. Just because it's quiet doesn't mean it's not above board.

Should You List Your Home Off-Market?

It depends on your goal:

Your Goal Best Fit
Privacy, control, selectivity Off-market
Speed, bidding competition Public MLS
Flexible timeline Hybrid strategy

If you want privacy, let's talk off-market. If you're chasing the highest price, we go wide. Either way, I'll guide the decision based on your real needs—not trends.

What I Do Differently

Here's what you get when you work with me:

Private access. I can show you homes not listed anywhere.
Discreet selling. I promote off-market listings to qualified buyers only.
Deal support. I handle everything from buyer vetting to paperwork.
Straight answers. No fluff, just clear steps and honest guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are off-market properties more expensive?

Not necessarily. While you're trading convenience for access, I ensure all off-market properties are competitively priced using recent comparable sales data. Many sellers choose off-market for privacy—not to inflate prices. I provide full market analysis for every property so you know exactly where you stand.

Can foreigners buy off-market properties in the Bahamas?

Absolutely. The Bahamas has no residency restrictions for property ownership. Off-market transactions follow the same legal process as public listings—VAT payments, Registry of Records registration, and licensed attorney handling. Your nationality doesn't matter.

How do I know the seller is legitimate?

Every transaction requires full legal verification. I work only with verified property owners and licensed attorneys who conduct title searches and provide title opinions. The Bahamas operates under British Commonwealth law with established procedures for evidencing clear title.

What financing options exist for off-market deals?

Most Bahamas banks will finance off-market properties once proper documentation is provided. I connect you with financing consultants who specialize in luxury Bahamas real estate. Many international buyers opt for cash purchases to speed the process, but financing is available.

How quickly can off-market deals close?

Typically 30-45 days once terms are agreed. Since there's no listing competition or multiple offer situations, negotiations move faster. The main timeline factors are financing approval (if needed) and attorney due diligence—both of which I help expedite.

Glenn Ferguson - Bahamas Real Estate Advisor

Ready to Get Started?

Off-market sales are no longer rare. They're now how the top tier buys and sells in the Bahamas.

If you want in, or if you're thinking of selling but don't want to go public—talk to me first. I've been doing this for over 20 years, and I know how to navigate both worlds.

Contact Me

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Let's find (or quietly sell) your piece of paradise.

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