Buying Property
Discover How to Buy Property in St Lucia
Are you dreaming of owning a piece of paradise in the Caribbean? Look no further than St Lucia! Boasting breathtaking scenery including sandy beaches, lush jungles, majestic mountains, and stunning bays, St Lucia is a top destination for property buyers worldwide.
When it comes to purchasing property in St Lucia, it's important to take your time and make an informed decision. Whether you're a seasoned buyer or a first-timer, this is likely the biggest financial decision you'll ever make. That's why it's crucial to explore all of your options and consider enlisting the help of a professional broker.
Fortunately, Coral Reef Real Estate is here to guide you through the process. We can help you navigate the ins and outs of buying property in St Lucia, so you can find the home of your dreams. Whether you prefer to search online or tour properties in person, we're here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Ready to start your St Lucia property search? Contact Coral Reef today to get started!
UNDERSTANDING THE BUYING PROCESS:
We have put together a comprehensive guide on Buying Property in St Lucia which we hope can assist you in preparing for that move:
>> Requirements for Non-Nationals:
Are you a non-Citizen or non-CARICOM national interested in purchasing real estate in Saint Lucia?
Here are an overview of the steps you'll need to take:
To get started, you'll need to apply to the Citizenship by Investment Board for a Certificate of Eligibility. This certificate is valid for one or ten years, during which time you can purchase multiple properties using the same certificate. However, you'll need a separate Alien Holding License for each purchase.
Once you have the Alien Landholding License, it's permanent and doesn't require renewal. Keep in mind that it's granted for a specific property and isn't transferable once you've entered into an "Agreement for sale."
It's important to note that obtaining the Alien Landholding License also qualifies you for a permit for indefinite stay in Saint Lucia, for as long as you own the property.
Application costs are as follows:
Certificate of Eligibility - USD 3,000 **
Alien Landholding License - USD 2,500 **
** Does not include attorney fees for processing
The Alien License fee of USD 2,500 applies to property where the land size is less than or equal to an acre. Where the property is:
Greater than 1 acre and up to 5 acres the Government fee is USD 5,000
Greater than 5 acres and up to 10 acres the Government fee is USD 10,500
Greater than 10 acres the Government fee is USD 10,500
Let us help you navigate the process and make your dream of owning property in Saint Lucia a reality. Contact us today to learn more.
>> Shortlisting your Property Options:
Using our intuitive search options you are able to filter your options for available properties. If you have already spoken to one of our agents you will have shared your requirements and we would be in a position to make recommendations based on your specific needs.
You can also allow us to manage options which are of interest outside of what is currently displayed on our website. Many websites do not always show updated property information. We update our website daily and strive to ensure that you have access to the widest selection of available property options. That being said we encourage you to share with your agent any properties which catch your interest outside of our website so that we can provide insight into and if available include in your shortlist of homes for touring. This avoids the hassle of dealing with multiple agents and duplicating your efforts.
Allow us to keep it simple for you.
>> Obtaining Financing:
Are you ready to make your dream of owning property in St Lucia a reality? The first step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage by your bank or credit union.
Our team of agents can help you find the best mortgage lenders in Saint Lucia, with low interest rates and the option of no deposit. Plus, some lenders offer up to 35 years to repay your mortgage, up to retirement age. By knowing your loan amount, you'll be able to determine your budget and which communities to consider.
Let us help you navigate the mortgage process and find the perfect property for you.
>> Choosing a Home that fits your Budget:
Congratulations on finding the perfect property that fits your budget in St Lucia! Now, our agents will provide you with important information you should be aware of before buying a property.
Property Valuation Report
A property valuation report is a necessary requirement by all mortgage lenders in St Lucia. Our team can provide you with a list of approved valuators recognized by every bank and credit union in St Lucia. The report is an expert opinion on the market value of the property, based on the home's plumbing, electrical systems, foundation, roof, and overall condition. Note that the valuator does not provide cost estimates for any necessary repairs, which the buyer is responsible for after closing.
Title of Property and Using the Services of an Attorney
Once you receive your valuation report, it will be attached to a land register that shows the title and any liens that may prevent a smooth conveyance. However, the land register will not show High Court liens on the property, which is why it is essential to hire an attorney to perform the necessary searches. Our agents can help you find the right attorney for your transaction.
Homeowners Association (HOA) Dues
Condominiums and gated communities may have HOA fees that developers will disclose when you express interest in purchasing. Always ensure that you are comfortable with the disclosures before considering making an offer.
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the buying process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
>> Making an Offer:
Our agent will draft an offer letter on your behalf which will be presented to the vendor. Upon acceptance by the vendor, an Agreement for Sale would be prepared and executed. This would require you to be in a position to put down a deposit of 10% to secure the property removing it from the market. This is handled by your attorney of choice.
>> Closing the Deal:
On closing day, the vendor and buyers attend via the conveying attorney to sign the Deed of Sale. The vendor is paid the net of the total agreed price less Vendors tax, real estate agents commission and any other encumbrance that may or may not be on the property. The Deed is then sent for registration by the attorney which takes about two weeks.