Understanding Land Titles in the Bahamas

Land title in the Bahamas operates under a different system than most people expect. ROOT OF TITLE Bahamian property law requires a clear root of title going back at least 30 years. This means you need a chain of conveyances, wills, probate records, or other legal instruments showing continuous ownership for three decades. QUIET TITLE Many properties — especially in the Family Islands — have clouded or undocumented title. In these cases, a Quiet Title Action must be filed in the Supreme Court to establish legal ownership. This process typically takes 12-24 months and requires a Bahamian attorney. TITLE SEARCH Before purchasing any property, conduct a thorough title search at the Registrar General's Department in Nassau. The search should cover all interests, encumbrances, mortgages, and restrictions registered against the property. STAMP DUTY Property transactions attract stamp duty: 2.5% by the buyer and 2.5% by the seller on transactions above $100,000. This is in addition to attorney's fees. FOREIGN BUYERS Non-Bahamians purchasing property above certain thresholds may require Investment Board Authority (IBA) approval. Consult a Bahamian attorney before any purchase. ALWAYS consult a licensed Bahamian attorney and a registered surveyor before completing any property transaction.