When it comes to buying property, the Bahamas has a lot to offer. The archipelago of hundreds of islands boasts an investor-friendly tax system and world-class golf, shopping, and spas. Its luxury homes are also regarded as some of the finest in the Caribbean. But, what makes this place a great place for property investment?
Real estate in the Bahamas is a highly competitive industry. You’ll want to be well-versed in the market. A comprehensive real estate database can help you find the perfect property for you. The Bahamas Multiple Listing Service is a good place to start your search. It provides information on every property listed by participating brokers. The website will also allow you to search through a variety of listings, including waterfront and luxury properties.
If you own property in The Bahamas, you should know the rules for paying property taxes. These taxes are 2% of the property’s market value, which means the value of the property in the open market. Failure to file your return and remit your property taxes on time can land you in trouble. You could also face a fine or even jail time if you don’t pay the taxes on time.
Real estate prices in the Bahamas have gone through a downturn, with prices plummeting up to 40% in some centres. However, prices have now rebounded as tourism numbers have soared. As a result, property prices in The Bahamas are once again attractive for foreign investors. Moreover, there are a variety of development projects, financing options, and ownership options to choose from.
Purchasing property in The Bahamas can be complicated and expensive. Realtors’ fees and lawyer fees are high. But the process is much easier than it used to be. The International Persons Landholding Act, which replaced the Immovable Property Act of 1981, has made it possible for foreign nationals to purchase property here. The new law requires only that the property in question is larger than 5 acres and undeveloped. The property must also be registered with the Investment Board and the Central Bank after the transaction.
Foreign investors should take note of the legal requirements in The Bahamas. The country’s legal system is based on British Common Law, which makes its laws fair and transparent. Furthermore, the government has taken many steps to relax residency requirements, allowing for the fast-track processing of residency applications on properties over $1.5 million. ocean club estates These measures make the process easy and seamless.
Non-Bahamians can purchase property in The Bahamas, but they need to apply for a permit. If the property is larger than two acres, they must get a permit from the Government to develop it for commercial purposes. If they intend to rent it out, they also need to register the property with the Foreign Investment Board.