Bahamas – Buying Property

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in the Bahamas?

Under the International Persons Landholding Act (IPLA), foreign nationals are permitted to acquire property in the Bahamas without needing government approval for personal-use purchases under two acres. This openness sets the Bahamas apart from many other Caribbean and Latin American nations, where foreign ownership is frequently subject to strict quotas, exclusion zones, or compulsory arrangements with local partners.

Non-Bahamian buyers enjoy property rights broadly comparable to those of Bahamian citizens. Government approval becomes necessary only in specific situations — namely for properties exceeding two acres, those intended for rental income, or projects involving commercial development. For standard residential transactions, a registration process applies rather than a full permit application.

Depending on the nature of the transaction, regulatory filings for non-Bahamian purchasers may be made either before or after the purchase is completed. The Bahamas Investment Authority, which sits within the Ministry of Finance, is responsible for monitoring all non-Bahamian real estate investment in the country. Details about the Bahamas Investment Authority can be found on the official Government of the Bahamas website.

Buyers in the Bahamas may hold property either as outright freehold owners or on a long-term leasehold basis, which typically runs to 99 years or beyond. The overwhelming majority of residential transactions involving foreign nationals are completed on a freehold basis.

Bahamian property law operates within a common law framework derived from British legal tradition, meaning buyers from countries with similar legal systems will find the general principles familiar — though engaging local legal counsel remains essential for every transaction regardless of background.

Foreign nationals who invest a minimum of $1,000,000 in Bahamian real estate become eligible to apply for Economic Permanent Residency (EPR). This status is generally granted on the understanding that the holder will not be entitled to work in the Bahamas, but it represents a meaningful additional benefit for those investing at that level.

What are average property prices in the Bahamas, and how do they vary by region?

Mid-2025 figures for Nassau show a median home price of roughly $495,000 and an average sale price of approximately $590,000, with available stock running nearly 20% below early-2025 levels. Prices differ dramatically across the archipelago, and buyers should always consult current listings on trusted platforms such as the Bahamas MLS, Bahamas Realty, or ERA Dupuch to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date figures.

Looking at the broader Bahamian market, 2024 saw steady and resilient performance, with median sales prices climbing from $400,000 in 2023 to $432,000 in 2024, reflecting sustained confidence in the market. These numbers reflect the general market; premium and luxury property segments sit at considerably higher price points.

The luxury end of the market has strengthened notably, with prime properties over $3 million roughly doubling to around $6 million between 2020 and 2023, though sellers pushing asking prices toward $8 million tend to encounter resistance and extended listing periods. On Paradise Island, two-bedroom condominiums typically start between $700,000 and $800,000, with larger units commonly exceeding $1–2 million.

Downtown Nassau offers some of the more accessible entry points in the archipelago, with condos beginning at around $180,000. Waterfront or resort-adjacent properties, however, command substantially higher prices across every island group.

The Bahamian housing market is distinctly two-tiered, with a high-end luxury segment driven predominantly by foreign demand and a separate more affordable market oriented towards local residents. The luxury segment is concentrated in Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Exumas, where sustained international investment continues to fuel price growth.

Published averages should always be treated as a starting reference point. Confirming current values directly with licensed agents and reviewing recent sales data is essential, as conditions across the 700-plus islands can shift considerably within a matter of months.

Where are the most popular locations to buy property in the Bahamas?

Nassau and Paradise Island consistently rank among the most sought-after locations. As the bustling national capital, Nassau is suited to both residential and commercial real estate, offering easy access to luxury waterfront homes, resort developments, and condominiums — and is also home to Lynden Pindling International Airport, giving it unmatched connectivity throughout the archipelago.

Paradise Island occupies the premium end of the market, with properties ranging from $800,000 to $15 million and above. Its position as home to the Ocean Club Four Seasons and Atlantis Resort makes it highly appealing for luxury vacation rentals, and demand from high-net-worth international buyers remains consistently strong.

Grand Bahama serves as a hub for both business and tourism, offering a varied real estate landscape that includes beachfront properties, residential homes, and commercial opportunities. Its pricing tends to be more moderate than Nassau, drawing buyers who want an urban lifestyle without the premium price tag.

The Exumas — a chain of more than 365 cays stretching southward from Nassau — appeal to buyers seeking seclusion, extraordinary water clarity, and upscale resort living. Private island parcels and secluded high-end villas in this area are considered ultimate status properties, with some trophy holdings commanding tens of millions of dollars, and continued interest from ultra-high-net-worth buyers seeking private, secure retreats.

Eleuthera and Harbour Island attract buyers drawn to pink-sand beaches and a relaxed pace of life. Across Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Exumas, the well-established tourism industry creates strong opportunities for profitable short-term rental income and long-term capital appreciation.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering?

A clear pattern emerging in recent years is growing buyer interest in the Family Islands — the less populated islands beyond New Providence. As Nassau and Paradise Island become increasingly expensive and built-up, both individual buyers and developers are turning their attention to islands such as Exuma, Eleuthera, Abaco, Andros, and Long Island, which typically offer lower entry prices and more unspoiled natural environments.

Exuma and Eleuthera are already experiencing strong demand in 2025, with competition pushing prices upward. Buyers seeking relative value in these markets would be wise to act sooner rather than later as mainstream recognition continues to grow.

Abaco presents a unique market story, having suffered devastating damage from Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which severely impacted areas including Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay. Reconstruction has progressed steadily in the years since, and by 2024–2025 the island is experiencing a genuine resurgence of buyer interest and investment activity. The current Abaco market is characterised by rising demand and increasing prices, as both returning residents and opportunistic investors have been acquiring properties — some of which were available at significant discounts in the immediate post-Dorian period.

Data from the Ministry of Tourism shows Abaco recorded an 11.9% increase in air arrivals in 2024 — the strongest growth of any major island — signalling a solid return to pre-Dorian activity levels. Improved air connectivity is typically a reliable early indicator of strengthening property interest in island markets.

Andros, the largest island in the Bahamas, remains among the least developed and most affordable destinations in the archipelago. It draws eco-conscious buyers and those seeking an authentic off-the-beaten-track lifestyle, with long-term appreciation potential as infrastructure gradually improves. Long Island similarly attracts buyers seeking a genuine Bahamian experience at price points well below the Nassau premium.

What are the current trends in the property market in the Bahamas?

Annual price growth in the Bahamian prime residential sector moderated to 5.1% in 2024, easing from the post-pandemic peak of roughly 15%, yet this rate still exceeded the Knight Frank global average of 3.6% and the 3.7% recorded across comparable sun-destination markets. This suggests a market that is finding a sustainable pace rather than stalling.

Heading into 2025, the market appears well-balanced — foreign buyer demand remains robust, price growth has stabilised, and new development is adding supply. Buyers therefore find themselves in a considerably more measured environment than during the height of the post-pandemic frenzy.

The Bahamas welcomed 11.22 million international visitors in 2024, a 16.2% increase from 2023 and the highest volume on record. GDP reached $14.83 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $17.62 billion by 2029. These strong tourism fundamentals continue to support short-term rental demand and underpin property values across the islands.

The short-term rental (STR) segment has expanded rapidly in recent years. Between 2018 and 2024, the total number of properties listed for short-term rental across the Bahamas grew from approximately 4,000 to more than 7,000, with the strongest growth concentrated in apartments, condos, and lofts — mirroring global trends seen in other popular holiday destinations.

According to the Knight Frank 2025 Wealth Report, American buyers dominated the foreign property market throughout 2024, followed by investors from Canada and the European Union. Approximately half of wealthy expatriates in the Bahamas now hold permanent residency, up from around 20% before the pandemic — a shift that has deepened the long-term ownership base and reduced seasonal market volatility.

Sustainability and environmentally conscious design are increasingly important to buyers, particularly in the Family Islands. Developers are responding with solar-powered residences, rainwater harvesting systems, and low-impact construction methods to cater to environmentally minded international buyers. For the most current market data, consult the Morley Realty quarterly market reports and the Global Property Guide Bahamas pages.

Is buying property in the Bahamas a good investment?

Bahamian real estate offers considerable investment potential, underpinned by a stable political and economic environment, a strategic location close to the United States, and a thriving tourism sector. These structural advantages set the Bahamas apart from certain other Caribbean markets where political or economic volatility poses greater risks.

Gross rental yields averaged 6.52% as of June 2025, only marginally below the 6.63% reported in October 2024. For comparison, prime property in major European cities typically yields between 2% and 4%, making the Bahamas relatively attractive for income-focused buyers — though actual yields depend heavily on property type, location, and the quality of management.

The Bahamas vacation rental market continues to perform well in 2025, with average occupancy rates of 70–85% for well-maintained properties in prime locations and nightly rates ranging from $300 to $5,000 or more depending on size and position. Properties close to Nassau, Paradise Island, and major resort hubs tend to generate the strongest short-term rental returns.

The Bahamas’ proximity to the US, combined with its favourable tax framework — which excludes capital gains, income, and inheritance taxes — makes it particularly attractive for foreign investors seeking to manage their overall tax burden. Buyers should nonetheless always verify their obligations in their home jurisdiction; US citizens, for example, remain liable to report and potentially pay US tax on worldwide income regardless of where they reside.

Effective January 2025, the minimum qualifying investment for Economic Permanent Residency was raised from BSD 750,000 to BSD 1 million, with assets required to be held for a minimum of ten years. This residency pathway adds a meaningful non-financial benefit to larger investments that has no direct equivalent in many competing markets.

As with any real estate market, risks warrant careful consideration. Hurricane exposure is a genuine concern across all islands, and adequate property insurance is both essential and potentially costly. Market liquidity is lower than in larger real estate markets, meaning a quick sale at the desired price cannot be guaranteed. Currency risk is limited for USD holders given the Bahamian dollar’s parity peg to the US dollar, though buyers in other currencies must account for exchange rate fluctuations. Independent financial advice from a professional with knowledge of both the Bahamas and your home jurisdiction is strongly recommended before committing to any purchase.

What types of property are commonly available to buy in the Bahamas?

The Bahamian real estate market encompasses a broad spectrum of options — from grand beachfront villas to charming island cottages — accommodating a wide range of tastes and budgets. The market divides quite sharply between an international luxury segment and more modest local residential stock.

• Condominiums and apartments: Waterfront condos with views across turquoise waters are abundant along the coastlines, while urban centres offer a variety of apartment and condominium buildings. Condos represent the most common entry point for foreign buyers, particularly in Nassau, Cable Beach, and Paradise Island.
• Detached homes and villas: Single-family homes span the range from modest Bahamian-style residences in suburban neighbourhoods to sprawling oceanfront estates within gated communities such as Lyford Cay and Old Fort Bay.
• Luxury estates: The threshold for luxury property in the Bahamas typically begins at around $3 million and rises substantially from there. These properties commonly include private docks, swimming pools, staff quarters, and advanced smart-home technology.
• Land plots: Vacant lots for sale can be found within most luxury gated communities and are well-suited to buyers who wish to design and build a bespoke home. Undeveloped coastal land on the Family Islands can offer compelling value relative to finished properties.
• Private islands: The Bahamas is one of very few places in the world where acquiring an entire small island is a realistic proposition, though prices typically run into the tens of millions of dollars.
• Off-plan and new-build developments: Branded residences tied to major hotel operators are common, particularly on Nassau, Paradise Island, and Exuma. Buyers should carry out thorough due diligence on the developer’s track record before committing any deposit funds.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property in the Bahamas?

Every real estate purchase or sale in the Bahamas requires the involvement of a local attorney. Transactions generally take three to six months to complete, though the timeline can be shorter depending on the circumstances. Unlike property purchases in countries such as Australia or the US, where licensed conveyancers may handle routine transfers, in the Bahamas a qualified attorney is effectively indispensable for every transaction.

1. Engage a licensed agent and attorney: Before submitting any offer, appoint a BREA-licensed real estate agent and a qualified Bahamian attorney. Both professionals safeguard your interests from the outset and are necessary for a legally compliant transaction.
2. Make an offer and sign the Agreement for Sale: Once both parties agree on terms, the purchaser signs the Agreement for Sale and pays the deposit to the vendor’s attorney. The deposit is typically 10% of the purchase price and is held in escrow pending completion.
3. Conduct a title search: A title search examines the legal title to the property to confirm it is good and marketable. In the Bahamas, searches frequently extend back 30 years or more through records held at the Bahamas Registry of Records, reflecting the complexity of some historic land transfers — particularly on the Family Islands.
4. Complete due diligence: A comprehensive investigation of the property is carried out to ensure it is free of encumbrances, unresolved disputes, or competing claims. This includes verifying the seller’s legal authority to sell, confirming there are no zoning restrictions or environmental issues that could affect value or permitted use, and commissioning a structural survey — especially important for older buildings or those in areas previously affected by hurricanes.
5. Regulatory applications for foreign buyers: The Bahamas Real Estate Association and Central Bank both impose specific requirements on international buyers, including Central Bank approval, which typically takes 30–45 days to process. Where a property exceeds certain thresholds or is intended for rental or commercial use, an Investment Board certificate from the Bahamas Investment Authority is also required.
6. Obtain a VAT invoice from the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR): Buyers, sellers, and their attorneys are now required to obtain a VAT invoice from the DIR before executing the conveyance or any related instrument — such as a mortgage deed or lease agreement. This procedural requirement was introduced in 2025.
7. Exchange and completion: The local law firm manages the preparation of all legal documents, the title search, and the final conveyance. The remaining balance of the purchase price is paid at this stage and legal ownership transfers to the buyer.
8. Pay VAT and have the conveyance stamped: Foreign (non-Bahamian) buyers are liable for a flat 10% VAT on the purchase price. The conveyance must be submitted to the DIR for stamping before it can be registered. Outstanding real property taxes — which constitute a statutory first charge on the property — must be confirmed as cleared before the instrument will be stamped.
9. Register the property: The stamped conveyance is lodged at the Bahamas Registry of Records to complete the formal transfer of legal title. The foreign buyer must also submit an application to the Secretary of the Investments Board, providing the property details, buyer information, and intended use. Upon approval, a Certificate of Registration is issued, formally authorising the buyer’s ownership.

Legal fees for real estate transactions are typically calculated as a percentage of the property value. The Bahamas Bar Association suggested scale fee for representing one party in a transaction is 2.5% plus VAT. Real estate agent commissions are typically 6% of the sale price for developed property and 10% for vacant land, both plus VAT. Always confirm current fee scales with your attorney and agent, as these figures are subject to revision.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in the Bahamas, and how do I find a reputable one?

Engaging a local attorney for any real estate purchase or sale in the Bahamas is not merely advisable — it is a practical necessity given the legal and regulatory requirements that apply to all buyers, both foreign and domestic. Unlike the US model, where title companies or escrow agents carry much of the process, in the Bahamas your attorney drives the entire transaction from the initial title search through to final registration.

A local attorney acting for the buyer does more than prepare documentation — they also deliver a formal Opinion on Title for the property. This opinion is regarded as the functional equivalent of title insurance, since the lawyer bears personal liability should a title defect later emerge. The opinion of title is covered under the law firm’s professional indemnity insurance.

The Bahamas Bar Association suggested scale fee for acting for one party in a transaction is 2.5% plus VAT, and the percentage may be negotiated downward for higher-value properties. Always confirm fees in writing before engagement, and note that these are suggested scales only — individual firms may charge differently. As of 2025, VAT on services is levied at 10%, so this should be factored into your cost estimates alongside the base fee.

To identify a reputable property lawyer, ask your BREA-licensed real estate agent for referrals, or consult the directory maintained by the Bahamas Bar Association. The regulatory body for real estate agents — not lawyers — is the Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA):

• Website: www.breabahamas.com
• Address: 205 Marina Lane, P.O. Box N-8860, Sandyport, Nassau, The Bahamas
• Phone: +1 (242) 356-4578 or +1 (242) 325-4942
• Email: [email protected]

BREA is the regulatory and licensing body for real estate agents and brokers in the Bahamas. Agents and sales advisors must pass a written examination to obtain their licence. BREA holds international membership with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and many BREA members hold international NAR accreditations including GRI, CRS, CRB, CIPS, and CCIM. Always verify that any agent you intend to work with holds a current BREA licence before proceeding.

What are the most common pitfalls and problems expats encounter when buying property in the Bahamas?

• Title defects on Family Islands: Unclear or disputed land ownership is a well-documented risk on the Family Islands, where generational land has sometimes passed through multiple generations without formal documentation, resulting in unregistered transfers, multiple potential heirs, or incomplete chains of title. Always commission a thorough title search covering at least 30 years of records and insist on a formal Opinion on Title from your attorney.
• Unlicensed or unregistered agents: The public is strongly encouraged to engage only BREA-licensed agents. Working with an unlicensed agent leaves you with no regulatory recourse if the transaction goes wrong. Confirm BREA membership before signing any document or paying any fee.
• Unpaid property taxes as a charge on the property: In the Bahamas, outstanding real property taxes constitute a statutory first charge on the land. A buyer who completes without verifying that all taxes have been settled could find themselves inheriting the previous owner’s tax debt. Your attorney must obtain written tax clearance confirmation before completion.
• VAT assessment disputes: The Department of Inland Revenue has, on occasion, challenged the sale prices declared on conveyances and sought VAT payments based on higher assessed values rather than the agreed purchase price, causing uncertainty and delays at closing. Your attorney should be aware of this risk and be prepared to contest any disputed assessment promptly and effectively.
• Off-plan purchase risks: Committing to a property before construction is complete exposes buyers to developer insolvency, construction delays, and the possibility that the finished product differs from the marketed specification. Always investigate the developer’s track record thoroughly, scrutinise the deposit protection provisions in the contract, and seek independent legal review of any off-plan agreement.
• Currency transfer complications: Foreign buyers must channel funds through properly approved channels. Exchange control registration with the Central Bank of the Bahamas is required for foreign real estate investment. Failure to comply with exchange control rules can create serious complications when you later wish to repatriate sale proceeds. Use a regulated international money transfer provider and ensure all remittances are fully documented.
• Hurricane risk and insurance costs: Every property in the Bahamas carries some level of hurricane exposure. Insurance is both essential and potentially expensive, and some older or more remotely situated properties may prove difficult to insure at reasonable rates. Include insurance costs in your annual ownership budget before committing to a purchase.
• Mortgage financing challenges: Most Bahamian banks require foreign buyers to provide a 30–40% deposit, with interest rates typically running 2–4% above comparable US rates. Many buyers instead use equity from existing property in their home country or explore developer financing as an alternative. Planning your financing structure well in advance is strongly advised.

Can I buy property in the Bahamas through a company, and is it worth doing?

Foreign investors may find that corporate or trust structures offer advantages in areas such as asset protection, estate planning, and wealth preservation. Purchasing through an International Business Company (IBC) incorporated in the Bahamas is a common approach among foreign investors, particularly those acquiring higher-value properties.

The potential advantages of a corporate purchase structure include: simplified ownership transfers (selling shares in the holding company rather than the underlying property itself, which may reduce transfer costs), more straightforward inheritance planning (shares can be transferred or gifted without a separate real estate conveyance), potential privacy benefits, and cleaner arrangements for multi-party ownership between family members or investment partners.

However, corporate structures carry their own costs and obligations. The company must be incorporated and maintained with annual fees payable to a registered agent. Foreign buyers pay 10% VAT on the purchase price regardless of structure — local companies and non-local companies are equally subject to the 10% VAT on all transactions. The tax treatment of corporate ownership in both the Bahamas and your home jurisdiction requires careful analysis before you proceed.

It is important to note that holding property through a company does not eliminate any of the regulatory requirements that apply to foreign buyers under the International Persons Landholding Act. A Bahamian-incorporated company in which any shares or capital are legally or beneficially owned by a non-Bahamian — or which is otherwise controlled by a non-Bahamian — is treated as a foreign person for the purposes of Bahamian property law.

Seek independent legal advice from a qualified Bahamian attorney and, critically, specialist tax advice in your home jurisdiction before structuring a purchase through a company or trust. The implications vary significantly depending on your country of residence and personal tax status.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for when owning property in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas is widely recognised as a tax-efficient jurisdiction because it levies no income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. This makes it highly appealing to investors, expatriates, and retirees who wish to retain more of their income and accumulated assets — a tangible advantage over the majority of other property markets globally.

The standard practice in the Bahamas is for VAT and transfer tax to be shared equally between buyer and seller unless an alternative arrangement is expressly agreed. In practice the split is negotiable and should be clearly specified in the Agreement for Sale.

Always verify current real property tax rates and applicable bands directly with the Department of Inland Revenue, as rates and exemptions are subject to legislative change. Certain permanent residents may qualify for discounts, such as a 10% reduction on property taxes paid in full by 31 March, and some seniors aged 65 and over may be eligible for a 50% reduction on the remaining balance.

What are the official sources I should consult when buying property in the Bahamas?

Before making any decisions, always verify information with official sources. The following are the key bodies and resources relevant to purchasing property in the Bahamas:

• Government of the Bahamas (official portal): www.bahamas.gov.bs — the primary gateway for government departments, legislation, and investment information.
• Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA): Part of the Ministry of Finance; responsible for overseeing all foreign real estate investment in the Bahamas and issuing required certificates. Accessible through the Ministry of Finance via www.bahamas.gov.bs.
• Department of Inland Revenue (DIR): inlandrevenue.finance.gov.bs — for current VAT rates, real property tax rates, and the VAT invoice procedures required for conveyances.
• Central Bank of the Bahamas: www.centralbankbahamas.com — for exchange control requirements governing the transfer of foreign buyers’ funds.
• Bahamas Registry of Records: The official land registry where all conveyances are formally recorded. Located in Nassau; contact details are available via the Attorney General’s Office on the main government portal.
• Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA): www.breabahamas.com — the licensing and regulatory body for all real estate agents in the Bahamas. Use this resource to confirm that any agent you engage holds a current licence.
• Bahamas Bar Association: For referrals to qualified Bahamian attorneys specialising in property law. Contact via the Attorney General’s Office listed on the government portal.
• Global Property Guide — Bahamas: www.globalpropertyguide.com/caribbean/bahamas — for independently compiled market data, price history, and rental yield analysis.

Frequently asked questions about buying property in the Bahamas

Can I own property in the Bahamas outright as a foreign national?

Yes, foreign nationals can hold real estate with freehold title in the Bahamas, though acquisitions exceeding two acres require government approval through the Foreign Investment Board. The vast majority of residential properties carry no such ownership restrictions, placing the Bahamas among the most accessible property markets in the Caribbean for international buyers.

Do I need to be a resident of the Bahamas to buy property there?

No. Residency is not a prerequisite for purchasing property in the Bahamas. However, an Economic Permanent Residency (EPR) permit grants foreign nationals the right to live permanently in the country, and those who purchase real estate with a minimum value of $1,000,000 are eligible to apply for EPR. Property ownership below that threshold entitles buyers to an annual Home Owners Resident Card, which facilitates visa-free stays in the Bahamas.

How long does the buying process take in the Bahamas?

Real estate transactions in the Bahamas require the involvement of a local attorney and typically take three to six months to complete, though some cases conclude more quickly. Central Bank approval for foreign buyers generally adds around 30–45 days to the overall timeline. Having all required documentation prepared in advance is the most effective way to avoid unnecessary delays.

Can I get a mortgage in the Bahamas as a foreign buyer?

Foreign nationals can obtain mortgage financing in the Bahamas, though the terms differ from those available to local residents. A number of banks and financial institutions offer loans to non-resident buyers, but these typically come with stricter conditions, including higher down payment requirements and shorter repayment terms. Alternative financing strategies include developer financing arrangements, international banking solutions, or equity release from existing property in your home country.

Are there any taxes on property income in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas does not levy income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. Rental income derived from Bahamian property is therefore not subject to Bahamian income tax. However, buyers should always confirm their tax obligations in their home jurisdiction, as many countries — including the United States — require residents or citizens to declare and pay tax on worldwide income regardless of where it originates.

What is the VAT rate on property purchases in the Bahamas?

Non-Bahamian buyers pay a flat rate of 10% VAT on the purchase price, applied uniformly regardless of the amount paid. This applies to the conveyance of residential property. VAT at the same rate is also charged on legal fees, agent commissions, appraisals, and other professional services associated with the transaction. A VAT invoice from the Department of Inland Revenue must be obtained before the conveyance can be executed.

What should I check before buying property on a Family Island?

Family Island purchases demand particular care over title history. Unclear ownership resulting from undocumented generational transfers is a well-recognised risk in these communities. It is essential to commission a comprehensive title search covering at least 30 years of records, confirm that no unregistered heirs hold any claims over the land, verify that all real property taxes have been settled, and consider obtaining title insurance for an additional layer of protection. Working with attorneys who have specific experience in both international transactions and local land law is critical.

Is title insurance available in the Bahamas?

Yes, there are companies operating in the Bahamas that represent major international title insurance providers. While many buyers rely on their attorney’s Opinion on Title — which is backed by professional indemnity insurance — title insurance offers a further layer of security, particularly for Family Island properties with intricate ownership histories or older urban properties where the chain of title may be less straightforward. Your attorney is best placed to advise on the appropriate level of protection for the specific property you are considering.