The Insider's Guide to Buying Property in Saba
Welcome to the 7th Heaven Properties guide to buying property in Saba, your essential companion for navigating the enchanting appeal of one of the Caribbean’s top “under the radar” destinations.
Famed for its laid back lifestyle, quiet charm and historic maritime tradition as a haven for the sea captains of old, Saba offers a truly unique property market beloved by those in the know.
Discover the charm of this tiny island, find out why property buyers are investing in real estate in Saba and delve into the real estate market with a showcase of property listings and blog posts highlighting the island’s unique attractions and advantages.
From the ins and outs of buying property in Saba to an essential overview of relevant taxes, this is your ultimate go-to resource.
Overview - The Saba Real Estate Market
Ever since a group of shipwrecked Englishmen landed on the shores of Saba, the tiny island, which was subsequently settled by the Dutch, has had an association with sailors. The red-roofed cottages with white gingerbread trim and green shutters that are traditional to Saba have been home to pirates and ship’s captains.
Today there are under 2,000 residents who enjoy a laid back, quiet lifestyle surrounded by the magical natural beauty of the “Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean.”
Traditional Saban cottages are built into the island’s hills, offering magnificent views of the 887m peak of Mount Scenery, as well as the island’s woodland, dramatic cliffs and the deep blue sea.
Owning a home on Saba offers the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of this tiny island and is also the ideal base for exploring the unique landscape and the reefs that lie off its coast. Home to about 150 species of fish, healthy coral, turtles and lobster, Saba is an exceptional diving destination.
Besides its fascinating history and colorful landscape, Saba offers much more to those considering investing in real estate. With a population of under 2,000, Saba is safe and friendly with no crime. The island benefits from the stabilty that comes with being a special municipality of the Netherlands. Like fellow Dutch Caribbean islands Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao and St Maarten, Dutch is the official language, but English is the main lingua franca. A bonus for North American buyers, the US Dollar is the official currency.
Property for sale in Saba ranges from parcels of hillside land with stunning sea views to charming cottages with private pools tucked away in areas such as Windwardside, Zion’s Hill and Hell’s Gate.
“Once a haven for sea captains, today the tiny island of Saba is one of the region’s top “under the radar” destinations offering a relaxing lifestyle and a unique property market”
Buying Process, Fees & Taxes
- Can foreigners buy property in Saba?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Saba and the island welcomes investment from overseas buyers. There are no restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Saba. Unlike in other destinations in the Caribbean, non-citizens purchasing real estate in Saba do not require a license or permit of any kind.
- Buying process
Buying property in Saba is a relatively simple process, which typically involves the following steps:
- Begin your property search.
- Find your perfect property and make an offer.
- A notary will oversee the legal transfer process from seller to buyer and ensures free and clear title. The closing process can take up to 8 weeks.
- Pay all required taxes and fees.
- Fees & taxes
Transfer Tax
Buyers are required to pay closing costs / Transfer Tax amounting to approximately 6%.
Property Tax
There is no annual property tax on Saba.
Latest Real Estate Listings in Saba
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Residency & Citizenship
- How long can a foreign citizen stay in Saba?
Citizens of the EU, EEA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and several other countries may stay in Saba for up to 3 months (90 days) without a visa. Dutch and American citizens may stay in Saba for up to 6 months (180 days) without a visa.
- How do you become a resident of Saba?
Residence Permits
Non-citizens wishing to live in Saba are required to apply for a Residence Permit.
Residence permits are issued for a period of 1 year and can be renewed thereafter.
Permanent Residence Permits
Individuals who have legally resided in Saba with a temporary residence permit for at least 5 years may apply for a permanent residence permit which is valid for an indefinite period.
- How do you become a citizen of Saba?
If you have lived continuously in Saba for 5 years with a valid residence permit and have a good understanding of Dutch you may apply for Dutch citizenship by naturalization.
Find out more: Immigration Department at the RCN (Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland)
Mortgages in Saba
Looking for financing to fund the purchase of property in the Caribbean?
Contrary to popular misconception, it is possible for foreign nationals looking to invest in Saba real estate to apply for a mortgage.
Our partner – a very well respected international financial organization – offers mortgages for qualifying non-residents buying, building or improving a second home in Saba.
For more information, see our page on: Caribbean mortgages.
How to Get There
Saba’s Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is reputed to be home to the shortest commercial runway in the world.
From Europe or North America, fly to St Maarten and then take a connecting flight with Winair on to beautiful Saba.
- St Maarten to Saba 12m
Local weather
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