Antigua Nice

Antigua

About This Property

Investing in property in Antigua and Barbuda involves several financial and legal considerations that differ from many other markets, particularly for non-citizens. Understanding the full cost picture — from government transfer fees to withholding taxes — is essential before committing to a purchase or sale.

Property types and areas served

The island offers a wide variety of property types to suit different purposes and budgets:

Residential properties — the main expatriate communities are concentrated in the South East around English Harbour and Falmouth, the South West around Jolly Harbour, the East at Half Moon Bay and Browns Bay, and the North in Galley Bay, Hodges Bay and Cedar Valley. Choice in price, style and proximity to services is excellent across all these areas.
Rental properties — available island-wide, from studio apartments to five-bedroom executive villas with wonderful ocean views. Budget is the primary consideration, and there is generally a suitable option at every price point.
Commercial properties — retail and business opportunities exist throughout the island, with the majority of commercial outlets centred in the capital, St. John's, and further development around Jolly Harbour and English Harbour.

Costs of purchasing property in Antigua

The key purchase costs for buyers are as follows:

Non-citizens licence — 5% of the purchase price (applicable to non-Antiguans; reduced to 3% at Jolly Harbour and certain other developments for first-time buyers)
Government transfer fees — 2.5% of the property value
Legal costs — 1% or 2% depending on the property value

Costs of selling property in Antigua

Sellers should factor in the following general costs when planning an exit from a property:

Stamp duty and government transfer fees — 7.5% of the sale price
Real estate agent fees — typically 5–7% of the sale price

As an illustration, for a property valued at US$300,000, the total cost of selling in Antigua would fall between approximately US$40,500 and US$46,500.

Rental income and withholding tax

Owners who place their property on the rental market should be aware that rental commissions are payable to real estate agents to cover marketing costs — whether through online listings, overseas newspaper advertising or other channels, depending on the agency's approach. In addition, a withholding tax of 25% of net rental value is applicable to all non-resident property owners, payable to the Antiguan Inland Revenue. Net revenue is calculated after all allowable deductions.

Property management

Property management services are available for owners who are not resident on the island. Services typically include preparing the property for arriving tenants, handling maintenance issues during lettings, and liaising with local authorities on day-to-day matters such as utility payments and grounds maintenance.