Can foreigners own property in St. Maarten / St. Martin?

Yes—there are no restrictions against foreigners owning property in St. Maarten / St. Martin. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Is there real estate tax or capital gains tax on the Dutch side?

On the Dutch side of St. Maarten, there are no annual real estate taxes, and there is no capital gains tax when the property is sold. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

What types of real estate are available for long-term stays?

Options include long-term villa rentals, condos, and residences managed by local real estate and villa companies. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Who manages villa rentals on the island?

Jennifer’s Vacation Villas (Island Real Estate Team) manages luxurious villas and condos across St. Maarten / St. Martin for both vacation and long-term stays. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Is investing in St. Maarten real estate a viable option?

Yes. The real estate market has stabilized post-Hurricane Irma, luxury segments attract international buyers, and many owners generate income through vacation rentals. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Real Estate

Why Invest in Real Estate on St. Maarten (SXM)

Whether you’re considering an extended stay (“work-cation” or “stay-cation”), retiring, or relocating altogether, St. Maarten / St. Martin offers a compelling real estate market for long-term rentals and property ownership. The island’s market appeals to international buyers seeking second homes or lifestyle changes.

Unique Benefits for Buyers

Open to foreign ownership – There are no restrictions for non-residents buying property on either the Dutch side (St. Maarten) or the French side (St. Martin).
Strong accessibility – With direct links from major cities in the U.S., Canada and Europe, the island is easy to reach for both visits and investment.
Tax-friendly features (Dutch side) – On the Dutch side (St. Maarten) there is no annual property tax, and no personal capital gains tax when individuals sell their property.
Stable process & title deeds – The island uses civil law notaries to transfer ownership, which means a structured, safe process with clear title.

Buying Property in St. Maarten / St. Martin

Here’s a step-by-step overview to help you understand the process and make informed decisions.

1. Planning & Searching

Start by defining your purpose: Is this a holiday home, investment rental, or full-time residence? Research areas and property types (villa, apartment, land). The dual-jurisdiction island offers varied options.

2. Making the Offer

Once you find a property you like, you submit an offer. In many cases, a deposit (often ~10 %) is required.

3. Legal Structure & Title

On both sides of the island, you’ll usually work with a civil law notary – they handle title searches and registration. No separate attorney is strictly required, though you may choose one.

4. Closing Costs & Taxes

On the Dutch side (St. Maarten): transfer tax ~4 % of purchase price; closing costs (including notary) typically ~5-6 % of purchase price.
On the French side (St. Martin): closing/transfer costs are higher (sometimes ~10 % or more), and annual property tax and capital gains tax apply.

5. Post-Purchase Ownership & Use

Once purchased and registered, you are free to use the property as you wish — holiday home, rental, or long-term stay. If you rent it out, you will need to understand local tax rules on rental income.

Real Estate Agencies & Support Services in St. Maarten

When buying property in SXM, working with a trusted real estate agency is key. A good agency will:

Have a deep local market knowledge (areas, pricing, new developments)
Guide you through the purchasing process (offers, inspections, closing)
Offer access to ancillary services: property management, financing, construction, legal/tax advice
Provide clear guidance on buying with investment/rental goals

Tips for choosing the best real estate agency in St. Maarten:

Look for agencies with strong market reviews and long-standing presence on the island.
Confirm they are familiar with the side of the island you’re interested in (Dutch vs French).
Ask about after-sales support (property management, rental services) if you intend to rent out.
Ensure transparency about fees, closing costs, tax implications.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

Purpose & usage: Vacation home, full-time residence, rental income stream?
Location & accessibility: Proximity to airport, amenities, beach, infrastructure.
Legal title / long lease vs freehold: On some government-leased land on the Dutch side, long-lease terms apply.
Rental income & tax implications: Rental income is taxable; ensure you understand obligations.
Insurance & maintenance: Consider hurricane risk, insurance costs, maintenance of vacation property.
Exit strategy: Even if buying for pleasure, understand resale process and costs.
Currency / financing: US Dollar widely accepted on Dutch side; check financing options if needed.

If you’re considering buying property in St. Maarten / St. Martin, you’ll be rewarded with: a friendly ownership environment, strong infrastructure, tax-friendly conditions (especially on the Dutch side), and an island lifestyle that many seek. By partnering with the right real estate agency in St. Maarten, doing your due diligence, and clearly defining your goals, you can make a confident move into this Caribbean real estate market.