Buying a house in Curacao, everything you need to know

Do you dream of a tropical paradise where the sun shines almost every day? Imagine waking up to a soft sea breeze and having white sandy beaches and crystal clear water at your fingertips. It is possible in Curacao. But before you start the exciting adventure of buying a house in Curacao, there are a few aspects you should take into account.

From understanding local regulations to researching the best places to settle, this article will guide you through everything you need to know. Whether you’re looking for a cozy beach bungalow or a luxury villa in the middle of lush nature, start off well-informed. Will you join us?

Why buy a house in Curacao?

Curacao offers an irresistible combination of advantages for home buyers . With a rich culture, a sunny climate year-round and a relaxed lifestyle, the island is the ideal place for a second home or permanent residence. Foreigners also enjoy accessible property rules, making it easy and transparent to purchase real estate.

For investors and future retirees, there are attractive tax benefits that offer financial advantages when purchasing real estate. These economic advantages, combined with the accessibility for foreign buyers, make Curacao a desirable location for anyone looking for a sunny investment or a carefree lifestyle in the Caribbean.

Popular areas to live in Curacao

Pietermaai District

For lovers of vibrant city life with a historical touch, the Pietermaai District is an ideal choice. This district combines colorful colonial architecture with a lively atmosphere full of cafes, restaurants and cultural hotspots.

Jan Thiel

Jan Thiel is a favorite with families thanks to its luxurious amenities and direct access to beautiful beaches. Here you will find everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing living environment, with plenty of recreational opportunities within walking distance.

Blue Bay

Blue Bay offers a resort experience with an exclusive touch. This area has a private beach, golf courses and a range of facilities that provide a luxurious and relaxed lifestyle, perfect for those who love that holiday feeling, every day again.

East Point and West Point

For those seeking peace and nature lovers, Oostpunt and Westpunt are true paradises. These areas offer vast nature, tranquility and lots of privacy, ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and want to be closer to nature.

Location selection help

Our location selection tool provides insight into the different neighborhoods in Curacao, so you can easily find the best location that suits your lifestyle and budget.

The process of buying real estate in Curacao

1. Orientation and research

Start by exploring the real estate market through platforms like Funda and by contacting local real estate agents. This will help you view and compare different properties, giving you a good idea of the options and price ranges available.

2. Financial planning

Make sure you have a clear financial plan in which you investigate the different mortgage options and calculate the expected costs, such as notary fees and transfer tax. A thorough financial preparation helps you to make well-considered choices and avoid unpleasant surprises.

3. Sales agreement and property registration

When purchasing a home in Curacao, it is essential to draw up a sales agreement and register the ownership rights. This offers you as a buyer legal certainty about your new home.

4. Legal control

A notary plays an important role in the transfer of ownership and legal control of the property. Ensure a thorough due diligence process to identify possible legal obstacles and go through the purchase process without worries.

Financing options and mortgages

For foreign buyers, Curacao offers various mortgage options, with specific requirements such as a minimum equity and additional documentation. Banks set these conditions to provide certainty to buyers and investors. Alternatives such as using equity or personal loans are also possible and can be an attractive choice for those who want to keep monthly payments low and acquire property quickly.

The cost of a mortgage in Curacao varies in interest rates, terms and terms, depending on the bank and market conditions. By gaining a good understanding of these variables, you can make a financial choice that suits your situation and living plans on the island.

Legal matters and regulations for foreign buyers

In Curacao, there are different forms of ownership, including full ownership, leasehold and rental. Full ownership gives the buyer all rights over the land and the property, while leasehold grants the right to use the land but the government retains ownership of the land. Rental only provides the right to live in the property without ownership rights.

In addition, owners and landlords must take into account taxes such as real estate tax (OZB) and, in the case of rental, income tax on rental income. Foreigners who want to live or work in Curaçao must adhere to specific residence rules and requirements, depending on their duration and purpose of stay. A good understanding of this prevents tax surprises and ensures a carefree time on the island.

Cost overview and budget planning

Total costs for a home in Curacao

When buying a home in Curacao, there are various costs involved. In addition to the purchase price, there are notary costs, registration costs and possible costs for renovations. It is important to include these additional costs in your financial planning, so that you do not encounter any surprises.

Recurring annual costs

As a homeowner in Curacao, you pay property tax (OZB) annually and you have to take insurance and maintenance costs into account. It is wise to make an overview of these fixed costs and include them in your annual budget.

Steps for budgeting

Set a realistic budget that fits your financial situation and future plans. Have a valuation done to know the value and maintenance costs of the home. This way you can accurately estimate the costs and make a sustainable financial plan.

Investing in real estate as a holiday home

Vacation rentals in Curacao offer attractive income opportunities. With popular platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com, you can earn back your investment faster. However, it is important to check in advance which permits you need to be able to rent legally and comply with all local regulations.

For the management of your holiday home, you can choose to rent it out yourself or to hire a local management company that takes care of maintenance, cleaning and rental management. This ensures that your home is rented out optimally without you having to be involved yourself. Also pay attention to the tax rules for landlords: rental income is taxable, but there are also deductions available to optimize the net income.

Common mistakes when buying a house in Curacao

When buying a home in Curacao, it is important to avoid pitfalls by doing proper research. Local experts always recommend having a professional inspection and legal research done to prevent hidden defects or ownership issues. This will reduce the chance of unpleasant surprises after the purchase.

An organized approach helps the buying process go smoothly. Use a checklist that follows the steps from orientation to transfer of ownership, such as arranging financing, selecting a reliable real estate agent, and reviewing all legal documents. A well-prepared buyer can confidently enjoy a successful buying experience.

Please contact us

Are you ready to find your dream home in Curacao? Contact us today for personal advice and a smooth purchase process