Real Estate from Private Owners in Antigua and Barbuda

Why Explore Owner-Sold Properties in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda, an island nation in the Eastern Caribbean, is known for its pristine beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and investment-friendly policies. While developers and real estate agencies are active in the local market, a growing number of property seekers are turning to listings from private owners. These owner-sold properties offer direct negotiation, transparency, and the opportunity to avoid agency commissions — an appealing combination for buyers seeking both value and control.

Whether you're interested in a waterfront villa in Jolly Harbour, a hillside cottage overlooking English Harbour, or a land parcel in a developing residential zone, dealing directly with the owner can open up unique opportunities. Many of these listings are off-market or informally marketed, giving buyers access to properties that never appear on the radar of large agencies.

What Types of Owner-Sold Properties Are Available?

Real estate sold directly by owners in Antigua and Barbuda reflects the country’s varied terrain and architecture. These are the most common categories:

1. Beachfront and Coastal Villas

Antigua has 365 beaches — and some owners directly list their waterfront homes, villas, or bungalows. These are typically second homes, retirement properties, or investment assets that the owner is ready to divest. Locations like Dickenson Bay, Jolly Harbour, and Long Bay are hotspots for such properties.

2. Inland Family Homes

In areas such as St. John's, All Saints, and Liberta, private homeowners often list 2–4 bedroom homes on large plots. These may include additions like rental suites, gardens, or separate utility buildings. The majority are fully titled and come with full infrastructure access.

3. Condominiums and Apartments

Some of the newer developments offer resale units directly from initial buyers — often foreigners who acquired them for vacation purposes or citizenship-by-investment (CBI) requirements. These owner listings are common in the Hodges Bay, Paradise View, and Fitches Creek areas.

4. Land and Residential Plots

Vacant land is frequently sold by individual owners, especially in expanding residential areas or in Barbuda where undeveloped parcels near the coast remain in demand. Plots range from 0.25 acres to multi-acre estates, often at lower prices compared to brokered sales.

5. Income-Generating Properties

Some owners sell homes with attached rental units, guest cottages, or small apartment blocks. These listings are popular in towns like Bolans and Falmouth, where tourism and yachting drive seasonal demand. Direct transactions allow investors to assess existing tenants and income potential.

Why Buyers Choose Private Owner Listings

Purchasing directly from the owner offers a number of practical advantages, especially in smaller real estate markets like Antigua and Barbuda:

• Lower total cost: Without agent fees (commonly 3–6%), buyers may negotiate better prices or upgrades.
• Direct insight into property history: Owners often share maintenance records, title documents, and personal experiences with the property.
• Flexibility and transparency: Negotiation is faster and more informal, allowing both parties to agree on creative deal terms or timelines.
• Access to unlisted properties: Many owner listings are found via local platforms, personal referrals, or curated marketplaces like VelesClub Int.

That said, buyers must take responsibility for legal due diligence. Verifying the land title, checking for liens, and understanding zoning laws are essential before finalizing any transaction.

Popular Areas for Owner-Sold Real Estate in Antigua and Barbuda

Though the country is relatively small, its real estate market includes diverse zones — from bustling resort areas to tranquil countryside retreats. Owner listings are available in all of them, particularly in the following:

St. John's

The capital city and economic hub of Antigua. Owner-sold homes and rental buildings can be found in the suburbs, especially among retirees or locals relocating abroad. The proximity to services, schools, and the port adds to the appeal.

English Harbour and Falmouth

Known for its marina and colonial history, this region attracts yacht travelers and luxury investors. Some residents list restored cottages, hillside villas, or view-lots privately — often to other sailing enthusiasts or seasonal residents.

Jolly Harbour

This gated marina community has a mix of owner-occupied and investor-owned properties. Condos, villas with boat slips, and canal-front homes are occasionally sold directly by their foreign owners or expat retirees.

All Saints and Liberta

These inland residential areas are less touristy but provide great value. Private sellers often offer family homes, investment duplexes, and land at lower prices than coastal areas — especially for buyers seeking long-term residence.

Barbuda

More rustic and less developed, Barbuda offers beachfront land and small homes, often passed down through generations. Many sales are handled locally or within family networks — meaning direct contact is essential.

Legal Requirements for Buying Direct from Owners

Whether you buy through an agent or directly from an owner, the legal framework remains the same. Here’s what buyers need to know:

1. Non-Citizen Landholding License (NCLHL)

Foreigners must obtain this license before purchasing property. The process involves submitting personal documentation, police clearance, property details, and a signed sale agreement. The license fee is typically 5% of the property value and the process can take 3–6 months.

2. Title Verification

Ensure the seller is the legal owner of the property. Request a recent land registry extract and confirm there are no encumbrances, disputes, or outstanding taxes. Engage a local attorney to perform the search.

3. Sale Agreement and Deposit

Once terms are agreed, both parties sign a sale agreement and the buyer places a deposit (commonly 10%). This document should outline the timeline, inclusions, and conditions of sale.

4. Stamp Duties and Fees

The buyer typically pays 2.5% stamp duty, legal fees (1–2%), and registration costs. Sellers pay their own government transfer tax (5–7.5%). These should be clarified before payment.

5. Transfer and Registration

After final payment and license approval, the sale is registered at the Land Registry. The buyer then receives the Certificate of Title and full legal ownership.

Who Typically Sells Property Privately?

Owner listings in Antigua and Barbuda come from a variety of backgrounds. Understanding seller motivation helps with price negotiations and deal structuring. Typical seller profiles include:

• Expat retirees: Those returning to their home countries often sell directly to simplify the process.
• CBI investors: Buyers who obtained citizenship via real estate investment may resell their asset after the required holding period.
• Generational owners: Local families inheriting property may wish to liquidate or pass on unused land.
• Small-scale landlords: Owners of rental units may sell income-generating property directly, especially if managing from abroad.

How VelesClub Int. Helps You Buy Directly from Owners

VelesClub Int. makes it easier to find and evaluate real estate from private owners across Antigua and Barbuda. Our platform curates verified listings, provides local insights, and connects buyers with property holders offering direct transactions. We review ownership documents, screen property conditions, and offer access to legal professionals for independent validation.

For foreign buyers, we offer guidance on the Non-Citizen Landholding License process, transaction timelines, and regional tax requirements. Whether you’re seeking a primary residence, vacation home, or investment asset, our approach helps you transact securely — without unnecessary intermediaries.

Conclusion: Invest in Owner-Listed Real Estate with Confidence

Buying real estate directly from private owners in Antigua and Barbuda offers both financial and strategic advantages. You gain access to one-of-a-kind listings, avoid agent commissions, and enjoy greater flexibility in negotiation and closing.

Whether your goal is lifestyle relocation, long-term rental income, or asset diversification under the island’s CBI framework, owner-sold listings deserve your full attention. With VelesClub Int., you gain a trusted partner to help you navigate the process, verify legal conditions, and connect with motivated sellers — all while retaining full control of your investment journey.

Start exploring verified private property listings in Antigua and Barbuda today with VelesClub Int. — your expert platform for direct global real estate.