Antigua & Barbuda Real Estate: Guide to Investing in the Caribbean

Antigua forms part of the twin-island nation of Antigua & Barbuda and is well known for its 365 beaches, crystal blue water, and white sand. The country has a vibrant culture and a large sailing community. Antigua in recent years has become a standout luxury destination with a strong real estate market.

Vacationers and investors have been seeking out opportunities to capitalize on the tourism industry and favorable investment policies while at the same time having an appealing lifestyle. For those seeking to purchase property, Antigua offers a diverse range of options from condos to beachfront villas and investment properties. This article will provide more insights into different real estate opportunities, the advantages of investing in Antigua, and the process.

Why Invest in Antigua?

Antigua is a prime destination for foreign nationals seeking exceptional investment ventures. From luxurious real estate developments offering unparalleled views to a range of amenities, the island promises outstanding return on investment. Explore citizenship solutions and unlock a lifestyle of opportunity in this tropical paradise!

Tax Benefits and a Stable Economy

Antigua is one of the most tax-friendly environments in the world. The country has no capital gains tax, personal income tax, inheritance tax, gift tax or wealth tax, and their stamp duty is relatively low compared to other countries, making properties for sale even more attractive to prospective investors. For those looking to reside in a tax-friendly country, Antigua could be the answer. The Eastern Caribbean dollar is pegged to the US dollar and provides a stable currency. The country has stable economic policies and a government that fosters a supportive business environment.

High Demand for Vacation Rentals

Tourism is one of the main industries in Antigua, with visitors coming to the island for its natural beauty and top-notch resorts. I, myself, have visited numerous times and have lived on the island and never get bored of the private beach access offered by some of the most stunning vacation rentals I’ve ever stayed in. Many property owners can benefit from short-term rentals, especially during the peak tourist season, when your return on investment from rental income may be extremely lucrative.

Fantastic Lifestyle and Environment

The climate is warm-tropical year-round. Antigua offers a nice lifestyle for those seeking calm and relaxation. This amazing country has some of the nicest beaches in the world offering magnificent views, with historic sites and local gems that are charming.

Discover what Antigua has to offer

Citizenship by Investment: The Best Way to Invest

Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program has been operating since 2013 and has attracted a lot of international investors to the country with many choosing to purchase real estate. The minimum investment in government approved real estate starts at over US$300,000 with additional fees that can qualify a buyer for citizenship, gaining visa-free travel and visa free on arrival to over 140 countries.

Antigua and Barbuda offers an unparalleled opportunity for foreign buyers seeking Caribbean citizenship. With access to perfect property options and lucrative real estate investments, it’s the epitome of island living. As an investor, you’ll potentially enjoy incredible returns while securing a second citizenship in a paradise-like destination. This program combines the appeal of tropical luxury with a smart investment opportunity, making it the ultimate way to invest in your future.

What types of Real Estate are Available in Antigua?

There is a wide variety of real estate options and different types of property for sale in the country, catering to the buyer’s needs. Whether you’re looking for real estate projects on a large scale or simply want to invest in one of the many family homes for sale for personal use, you’ll find something suited to your investment preferences.

Beachfront Villas and Luxury Homes: Antigua’s beachfront properties are among some of the top in the world. The coast provides spectacular views with direct access to the beach. Oftentimes these properties have private pools and gardens.

Condos and Apartments: There are different condo and apartment options available. Many options are resort-style developments that come with amenities such as pools, gym, security. They can be available for short-term rental and cater to tourists that want to have more amenities.

Historic Estates and Plantations: Antigua has a rich colonial history and maritime history, for those looking for historical charm these properties may be an attractive option. Some of these properties have been restored with modern amenities.

Best Locations for Real Estate in Antigua

Antigua & Barbuda have some of my favorite uninterrupted views in the world. From private villas with panoramic ocean views to secluded guest cottages with direct beach access, you simply cannot beat the luxury real estate offered throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour: English Harbour is one of the most famous areas in the country. It offers marinas, restaurants, the historical Nelson’s Dockyard and so much more. There are many luxury properties in this area with gorgeous views. Every year there are yacht regattas that take place just off English Harbour.
Jolly Harbour: This is where I personally stay. Jolly Harbour is a growing area particularly popular among expats. There are condos and modern villas, a marina, restaurants, and a golf course. Some people will choose to do short-term rentals in this area.
Dickenson Bay: This area is in the Northern part of the island and there are white sandy beaches and a more vibrant nightlife. Some people are interested in the area.
Galley Bay: If you are looking for a more secluded option there are many properties including high-end resorts near here. For buyers looking for privacy and exclusivity, this is a picturesque location.
Willoughby Bay: If you’re looking for exclusive beachfront properties, Willoughby Bay is perfect for you, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The bay features calm waters, ideal for sailing, and is close to vibrant local amenities.
Nonsuch Bay: Nonsuch Bay offers dream properties with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and beautiful beaches just steps away. This serene haven combines luxury living with natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil island lifestyle.
Turtle Bay: Turtle Bay boasts exquisite property options, offering incredible views and unparalleled luxury beachfront living. This idyllic destination perfectly combines elegance, serenity, and natural beauty for the ultimate Caribbean retreat.

3 secret benefits of citizenship by investment in the Caribbean

What is the Process of Buying Real Estate in Antigua?

Understanding the process of buying real estate in Antigua is essential for smooth transactions. With diverse properties for sale, including residential developments and commercial properties, the real estate sector offers exciting opportunities. Whilst the process of exploring property ownership and navigating the purchasing process is relatively straightforward in Antigua, it is important to get legal advice and assistance to make real estate transactions as seamless as possible.

Alien Landholding License

Provided you are not a citizen, foreigners are required to obtain an Alien Landholding License which can take from 3 to 6 months to process. The license is 5% to 7% of the purchase price of the property.

Legal Assistance

It is recommended to hire a local attorney to handle the transaction from the diligence to the title transfer. Additionally, this will ensure compliance with local regulations. Legal fees range from 1% to 2% of the property price.

Financing Options and Property Taxes

While financing can potentially be available it is often difficult and expensive. Many people will outright buy a property. The property tax ranges from approximately 0.1—0.5% of the property assessed value.

Closing Costs

The closing costs in Antigua range from 7% to 8% of the property price; this often covers property price, taxes, registration fees, and other expenses. When deciding to invest in real estate in Antigua & Barbuda, taking into consideration closing costs is essential.

What to know before investing in the Caribbean real estate

Real Estate Trends in Antigua

The real estate market has seen steady growth, particularly in the last 5 years where it has become even more sought after. Real estate trends have been driven largely by tourism. There are many luxury property developments taking place on the island, as well as more private boutique hotels. More people are seeking out vacation rentals providing attractive returns for investors particularly during the peak high season. The general trend is that property prices are increasing yet still remain competitive compared to other Caribbean Islands. There remain options for different price points.

What are the Benefits of Antigua’s Citizenship by Investment Program for Real Estate Investors?

One of the major factors drawing attention to Antigua & Barbuda real estate is the CBI program. Some of the benefits of buying Caribbean Real Estate through the Citizenship by Investment Program include:

Visa-Free Travel: The Antigua & Barbuda passport has visa-free travel or visa on arrival to over 150 countries including the Schengen Zone, the UK, Hong Kong, and other countries.
Dual Citizenship: Dual citizenship is permitted enabling investors to maintain multiple citizenship.
Family Friendly Inclusivity: Investors can include family members which include; spouses, children, and parents, making it an attractive option for citizenship as well as relocation.
Real Estate Flexibility: After a fixed number of years the investor can choose to sell the real estate.

Investing in Antigua Real Estate: Final Thoughts

In my view, Antigua offers a unique combination of factors from its natural beauty, high-quality living, and investment potential, making it a top choice for real estate investors. I really enjoy spending time in the country. A typical weekend may involve hiking up to Shirley Heights for a gorgeous view, having drinks and lunch at Galleon Bay beach, going paddle boarding and snorkeling with turtles and so much more. When I am in Antigua, I live in Jolly Harbour. If you are someone like me that has a particular love for sailing, being in Antigua can be the ideal location.

Secure Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship with the Help of JH Marlin

At JH Marlin, we make your path to citizenship by investment seamless and stress-free. From identifying prime real estate opportunities to managing every detail with precision—including essential due diligence checks—we provide expert support at every step. Our team ensures you can confidently explore investment options, unlocking the full potential of this exclusive program to achieve your goals with ease.