The Bahamas is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful arts, music, and festivals. Many luxury buyers enjoy not just the property but the lifestyle that comes with it, including rich cultural traditions. The relaxed pace of life, beautiful surroundings, and upscale amenities make the Bahamas a desirable destination for a vacation home or a permanent retirement residence.
The International appeal on The Bahamas is undoubted, and if you're looking to diversify your real estate portfolio with international properties, a luxury home in the Bahamas can be an appealing option due to its location and appeal to other global buyers.
Buying property in Eleuthera from a private seller (FSBO) involves a series of steps to ensure a smooth transaction.
Eleuthera is a popular destination for both vacation homes and retirement properties, investment properties, land and luxury property listings. Property prices can vary greatly depending on location (e.g., near the beach or inland), so it's essential to research the market and get an idea of what you're looking for.
When buying property from a private seller make sure you understand Bahamian property ownership rules. Foreigners can generally buy property in the Bahamas, but there are certain conditions and regulations to keep in mind, such as needing to apply for a permit if the property exceeds a certain value.
Some real estate agents in Eleuthera may have listings for properties being sold by their owners or may help facilitate a deal.
When a property has been found, reach out to the seller directly and ask for more information about the property such as, price, title deed and proof of ownership, property taxes and maintenance costs, any liens or encumbrances on the property, and why the property is being sold
Also when buying property from a private seller and before making an offer, it's crucial to perform due diligence which includes a land survey, where potential buyers should hire a local surveyor to confirm the boundaries and ensure there are no issues with the land.
Engage a lawyer or a title company to perform a title search. This ensures that the seller actually owns the property and that there are no outstanding claims, liens, or disputes.
Ensure the property is zoned for the intended use (e.g., residential, commercial, etc.). If there are buildings on the property, have a professional inspector check for structural issues or any needed repairs.
In the Bahamas, it's highly recommended (and often required) to have a local attorney represent you during the closing process.
If you're buying the property with cash, the process is simpler, but you'll still need a lawyer to finalize the paperwork. If you're financing the property, research mortgage options in the Bahamas. Some local banks may offer mortgages to foreign buyers, but the interest rates and down payment requirements can vary.
While foreigners can buy property, the purchase of larger properties (more than 5 acres) may require approval from the government. Be aware of the Stamp Duty tax (which is 4% of the sale price) and annual property taxes. The process can be complex, so it's highly advised to work with local professionals like lawyers, surveyors, and real estate agents who are familiar with the Bahamian legal system and property market.
Many luxury properties in the Bahamas come with world-class amenities like private pools, golf courses, marinas, and even private beaches. The Bahamas has a reputation for catering to a high-net-worth clientele, and there are plenty of exclusive events, private clubs, fine dining, and cultural experiences for those living in luxury.
While the healthcare system may not be as advanced as in some countries, the Bahamas has high-standard medical facilities, and there are also private international schools for expatriates.
The Bahamas is just a short flight (around 1 hour) from Florida, making it an easy weekend getaway or second home for many American buyers.
Access to International Markets with the location makes it a gateway to both North and South American markets, as well as Caribbean. Given the popularity of the Bahamas as a luxury destination, there's potential for lucrative returns if you decide to rent your property out, especially during the peak tourist season (winter months).
