Hidden Costs & Fees When Buying Real Estate in The Bahamas – What Foreign Buyers Must Know

Foreign buyers often focus on the purchase price when acquiring Bahamas real estate — but there are several additional costs that can impact your budget. Key items include:

• Stamp duty: rates vary depending on property value. For example, transfers over USD 250,000 may attract a 10 % duty
• Real property tax: annual tax based on assessed value. If you leave land undeveloped, higher rates may apply.
• Legal fees: for conveyancing, title searches, registration, local counsel.
• Land Registry / government registration fees.
• VAT and services: certain real estate services may attract Bahamas VAT.
• Structuring costs: if you purchase via a company, trust or foundation for asset protection or tax planning, there are additional legal/structuring fees.
• Maintenance and insurance: luxury/vacation properties in the Bahamas often carry high insurance (hurricane risk) and maintenance costs.

Our team will provide you with a detailed breakdown of all applicable upfront and ongoing costs – enabling you to plan accurately and avoid surprises.

Get our “Cost Checklist for Foreign Property Buyers in The Bahamas” to help with your decision.