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Real Estate in Saint Lucia | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Saint Lucia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 04, 2023

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Saint Lucia should begin by researching the local real estate market. They should look for listings on websites such as Point2Homes, Realtor.com, and Zillow. Additionally, they should consider contacting a local real estate agent who can provide more detailed information about the local market. Homes in Saint Lucia typically include amenities such as air conditioning, private pools, and outdoor living spaces. Many homes also feature stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Saint Lucia, however, they must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs. Additionally, foreigners are not allowed to purchase land in certain areas, such as the beachfront.

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How do I find a place to live in Saint Lucia?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Saint Lucia is to search online for rental listings. There are a variety of websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and villas in Saint Lucia. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the area to help you find a suitable place to live. You can also look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in the area. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in Saint Lucia for recommendations," said one expat who made the move to Saint Lucia.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Saint Lucia?

"It depends on the area and the owner. Some may not have AC or city water or mosquito screens. Some unfurnished. Locals prefer to rent unfurnished to keep prices down. There are several renters in my neighborhood - there are Americans that rent apartments and some that are locals that rent. Prices all all over the place from in the thousands USD for luxury apartments in an expensive area to the low hundreds in USD in lower income areas. I rented my 1 BR apartment that had AC and was newly fully furnished and that only fetched $400 USD a month (city water; no other utilities) because it was not in the "heart of town"," explained one expat living in Saint Lucia.

"Expat homes and apartments in Saint Lucia typically feature modern amenities and luxurious furnishings. Many expat homes and apartments have stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, as well as access to private beaches and pools. Expat homes and apartments often come with air conditioning, high-speed internet, and modern appliances. Expats can also find homes and apartments with private gardens, balconies, and terraces," said one person in Saint Lucia.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is the average cost of housing in Saint Lucia?

If you are thinking about moving to Saint Lucia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Saint Lucia varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can range from around $500 to $1,000 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a more rural area can cost around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Prices for buying property in Saint Lucia can range from around $100,000 to over $1 million, depending on the size and location of the property," said one expat in Saint Lucia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Saint Lucia?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Saint Lucia, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Saint Lucia can be a great investment, as the country is known for its beautiful scenery and vibrant culture. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Saint Lucia before making a decision. Renting a home in Saint Lucia can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Saint Lucia should be based on individual needs and preferences," explained one person living in Saint Lucia.

What do I need to know when buying property in Saint Lucia?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Saint Lucia, they said:

"When buying property in Saint Lucia, it is important to understand the local laws and regulations regarding real estate. It is also important to research the area and the property itself to ensure that it meets your needs and expectations. It is also important to understand the tax implications of owning property in Saint Lucia, as well as any restrictions on foreign ownership. Additionally, it is important to work with a reputable real estate agent or lawyer to ensure that all paperwork is in order and that the transaction is legally binding. Finally, it is important to be aware of any potential risks associated with buying property in Saint Lucia, such as natural disasters or political instability," explained one person living in Saint Lucia.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Saint Lucia?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Saint Lucia, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Saint Lucia. The government of Saint Lucia has implemented a number of measures to make it easier for foreigners to purchase property in the country. The government has established a number of incentives, such as tax exemptions and reduced stamp duty, to encourage foreign investment in the country. Additionally, the government has also implemented a number of measures to ensure that foreign investors are protected and that their investments are secure," explained one foreigner living in Saint Lucia.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Saint Lucia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Saint Lucia typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Depending on the property, other appliances such as a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioning may also be included," said one in Saint Lucia.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Saint Lucia:

We asked foreigners in Saint Lucia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Saint Lucia by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and searching for rental properties on websites such as Airbnb. Additionally, expats can look for housing options in local newspapers and magazines, or ask friends and family who may have connections in the area," said one foreigner living in Saint Lucia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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