Buying an Island in The Caribbean – The Ultimate Guide
We put together this guide for investors considering buying an island in The Caribbean.
Whether you are thinking of investing in an island to enjoy unrestricted freedom in your personal private paradise or as a commercial investment to create a business such as a private island resort, a wellness retreat or a diving or fishing destination, this guide is designed to assist you to find islands for sale in The Caribbean and discover the details of the purchasing process.
Discover everything you need to know about buying an island in the Caribbean in our guide
Contents
Is Buying an Island in the Caribbean a Good Investment?
How Much is a Private Island in the Caribbean?
Can Foreigners Own an Island in the Caribbean?
Where are the Best Places to Buy an Island in the Caribbean?
How Do you Buy an Island in the Caribbean?
Investment Opportunities – Explore Islands for Sale in the Caribbean
Is Buying an Island in the Caribbean a Good Investment?
Purchasing an island in the Caribbean offers the opportunity to enjoy unrivaled privacy and freedom surrounded by breathtaking views.
For those considering investing in an island for personal use, the Caribbean is undoubtedly one of the world’s best locations. Few other destinations can rival its outstanding natural beauty. The Caribbean region is blessed with beaches of all hues from pink coral to black volcanic sand beaches, set against a backdrop of either the crystal clear turquoise Caribbean Sea waters or the deep blue Atlantic Ocean. The landscape is complimented by a fantastic climate, making the region a world-class destination for fishing, diving, sailing and watersports. All this, within easy reach of the USA, Canada, Europe and Central America. Furthermore, the Caribbean is a politically and economically-stable, investor-friendly region, with, in many cases, a very attractive tax environment and welcoming policies providing a path to permanent residency for qualifying investors.
For buyer looking to acquire an island in the Caribbean in order to run it as a private island hotel or resort, the region is also a great choice. With a very strong track record in luxury tourism, several well-established and successful businesses have already raised the profile of the region and established a reputation in this niche, proving the potential for private island resorts in this beautiful part of the world.
How Much is a Private Island in the Caribbean?
The cost of islands in the Caribbean varies considerably from destination to destination according to various factors such as location, size and whether the island offers such things as deep water access for yachts or boats, elevation for panoramic views, sufficient space for a private air strip and beautiful natural features such as sandy beaches and safe swimming waters.
The Caribbean coast of Belize is one of the more affordable places to find islands for sale in the region, with smaller islands starting from approximately US $350,000 to $750,000.
In The Bahamas, another popular location for buying an island in the Caribbean, prices typically start at US $1,000,000, rising to $10,000,000 to $75,000,000 for larger islands in the most sought after locations with high quality buildings and infrastructure already in place.
Browse: Private Islands for Sale in The Bahamas
Browse: Private Islands for Sale in Belize
Can Foreigners Own an Island in the Caribbean?
Yes, in most parts of the Caribbean, foreign nationals can own an island in the Caribbean and the governments welcome foreign investment.
In both The Bahamas and Belize, there are no restrictions on foreign buyers purchasing islands and foreign buyers enjoy the same rights as citizens.
Unlike in many some countries, the purchase process is relatively straight forward and buyers receive full fee simple title and enjoy outright ownership.
Where are the Best Places to Buy an Island in the Caribbean?
Renowned for its magnificent beaches, proximity to the USA, and investor-friendly environment, Bahamas is one of the most popular places to buy an island in the Caribbean. Popular locations include the Exumas, the Abaco Islands and the Berry Islands.
Belize is another popular choice for buying an island in the Caribbean. Hundreds of idyllic islands lie off its eastern coast, several of which are available to purchase. The islands make the perfect base from which to explore the Belize Barrier Reef. Islands easily accessible from Ambergris Caye and the Placencia Peninsula are particularly popular.
How Do you Buy an Island in the Caribbean?
Buying property in the Caribbean as a non-resident is a relatively straight-forward process.
It is important that buyers seek the advice of a reputable local lawyer who can advise on the purchase process.
In The Bahamas, foreign buyers must register a private island purchase with the Foreign Investments Board. Permits will be required if the island is over 5 acres in size and/or if the buyer intends to use it for rental or commercial purposes. We would also advise non-resident buyers to ensure their attorney registers the purchase with the Central Bank of the Caribbean for exchange control purposes to allow the repatriation of the proceeds of any future sale in the original currency of the transaction.
Find out more: Buying an Island in The Bahamas
Find out more: Buying an Island in Belize
Investment Opportunities – Explore Islands for Sale in the Caribbean
Ready to begin your search for private islands for sale in the Caribbean?
To browse islands and cays from across this stunning region, explore islands for sale in the Caribbean on our website.
Please note that our website only showcases a sample of the private islands available.
Contact 7th Heaven Properties, the Luxury Caribbean Property Specialist, to explore the full range of investment opportunities in the Caribbean.