Buying property in Barbados as a foreigner is straightforward. There are no foreign ownership restrictions. You agree a price, sign an agreement for sale and pay a 10% deposit. Your attorney checks the title and registers your foreign funds with the Central Bank of Barbados, and you complete, usually a few months later. Using a buyer’s agent costs you nothing, because the seller pays the agent’s commission.
The process, step by step
- Brief. Agree your budget, preferred areas, must-haves and timing with your buyer’s agent.
- Search. Your agent searches listed and off-market homes and sends you a shortlist.
- View. Your agent views homes in person or on video. You visit for the final shortlist.
- Offer and negotiate. Your agent negotiates the price and terms on your behalf.
- Agreement for sale. The seller’s attorney drafts it and your attorney reviews it. You pay a deposit, usually 10%.
- Approvals and funds. As a non-resident, your foreign funds are registered with the Central Bank of Barbados, which verifies the purchase.
- Title and completion. Your attorney completes the title searches. You pay the balance and the conveyance is recorded.
Can foreigners buy property in Barbados?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of property, and foreign and local owners pay the same property taxes. Registering your funds with the Central Bank on the way in is what lets you repatriate the proceeds when you sell.
What does it cost?
Buyers mainly pay their own attorney, commonly 1% to 2.5% plus 17.5% VAT. On a standard sale the seller pays property transfer tax and stamp duty. Land tax is charged every year on the improved value. See the worked cost example.
Where do luxury buyers look?
Most buyers at US$1 million and above focus on the West Coast in St James and St Peter: Sandy Lane Estate, Royal Westmoreland, Apes Hill, Sugar Hill, Port St Charles, the Pendry development at Port Ferdinand, and St Peter’s Bay. Compare them in our West Coast community guide, or browse every parish in our area guides.
Why use a buyer’s agent?
A listing agent works for the seller. A buyer’s agent works only for you. We search the whole market rather than one agency’s stock, give you an honest view of each home, and negotiate on your side. In Barbados the seller pays the agent’s commission, so our service costs you nothing.
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Read next
- The best areas in Barbados for luxury buyers
- Do I need a buyer’s agent in Barbados?
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Mike has lived in Barbados for 10 years and spent more than 25 years in international sales, including as Head of Sales at The Crane Resort and Royal Westmoreland. He acts only for buyers, and you pay no fee because the seller pays the agent’s commission.
Last reviewed November 2026
WhatsApp MikeThis is general information, not legal or tax advice. Confirm the details with your Barbados attorney and your tax adviser at home.