If you want to own a luxury piece of real estate in The Bahamas, you have to look into the many options. This archipelago of hundreds of islands offers stunning scenery, a tax regime that is investor-friendly, world-class shopping and spas, and some of the most spectacular real estate in the Caribbean. Here, you can find luxury homes and other residential properties for sale and rent. In addition to this, you can also purchase or rent private islands and waterfront properties.
Foreign nationals can invest in Bahamas bahamas real estate real estate, as the country is welcoming to non-nationals. To help ease the process of purchasing Bahamian property, the Bahamas government has implemented a number of policies. The International Land Holdings Act 1993 is one such document. It requires foreign nationals to register with the Investments Board and Central Bank, and the cost of registration varies from $25 to $100. A permit is required for non-Bahamian investors who want to purchase undeveloped land greater than five acres.
For non-Bahamians, purchasing residential property of less than five acres does not require prior government approval. For purchases larger than five acres, however, a permit is required. Once granted, the permit is based on the investor’s assurances that the property will be developed. Those interested in buying a commercial property must apply to the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA), which will require a project proposal, financial projections, and employment needs.
While the government has recently raised the threshold for permanent residency to US$750,000 to attract ultra-high-net-worth individuals, residential sales have decreased considerably. In March 2020, the Bahamas government temporarily closed its international borders to foreign tourists to prevent the spread of the disease. Tourist arrivals in Q1 2020 decreased 14.7% y-o-y, while air travel dropped by 28% and 10.5%. This situation is expected to worsen in Q2 2020.
Whether you are looking for a vacation home or a luxurious oceanfront condo, Bahamas real estate can provide a wonderful lifestyle. This tropical island is accessible from New York in less than 2.5 hours and is home to many celebrities including Nicolas Cage, Maria Carey, Sean Connery, Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and Sean Connery. With all of these advantages, buying or selling real estate in The Bahamas is easy and convenient. Aside from enjoying the scenery, the Bahamas has an economic stability that many people have come to appreciate.
As a buyer or seller, you should check the public records of the property. This will help you determine who owns the property, whether it was last assessed for taxes, and what the last tax payment was. This is the best way to avoid scams that cost U.S. citizens their entire life savings. Whether you want to own property in The Bahamas or simply vacation with your family, the government is sure to be helpful. If you are looking for a luxury vacation home in the Bahamas, you can do so with the help of a reputable real estate agent.
Investments in the Bahamas are made possible with incentives and tax laws. Bahamian companies are commonly formed to lease or acquire land. They must meet certain requirements to obtain financing. There are also investment incentives to encourage property sales, second homes, and hotel resort development. The Bahamas’ government encourages tourism and development, and the Bahamas Hotels Encouragement Act provides incentives to investors for new, expanded, and remodelled hotels. The country’s liberal tax system also means that foreign investors are welcome to operate a hotel in The Bahamas.