Buying a home in Curaçao is more straightforward than many people expect. The process is clearly regulated, every transfer runs through an independent civil-law notary, and most of it can be completed from wherever you are. Here is how it works, step by step.
Five steps from first viewing to the keys
- Find the right homeBrowse the listings, watch the video tours and tell us what matters to you. We arrange in-person or video viewings and share everything we know about the property and the neighbourhood.
- Make an offerWhen you've found the one, we help you set a realistic offer and negotiate on your behalf until the price and conditions are agreed.
- Sign the purchase agreementThe agreement sets out the price, any conditions such as financing, and the transfer date. A deposit, usually around 10%, is paid into the notary's escrow account.
- The notary does the checksThe civil-law notary verifies ownership, mortgages and any restrictions in the public land registry, and prepares the transfer deed.
- Transfer and keysOn the transfer date you sign the deed, in person or by power of attorney. The notary pays the seller and registers you as the new owner. The keys are yours.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property in Curaçao?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership, so you can buy a house, villa, apartment or land in Curaçao in your own name, wherever you live. Some investors choose to buy through a company; we can connect you with a local tax adviser to compare the options.
What are the buying costs in Curaçao?
The buyer pays a 4% transfer tax on the purchase price, plus civil-law notary fees (generally 1–2% of the price, plus sales tax on the fee) and land registry costs. As a rule of thumb, budget about 6–7% on top of the purchase price. The notary collects the transfer tax and pays it to the tax office for you.
What is the difference between freehold (eigendom) and leasehold (erfpacht)?
With freehold (eigendom) you own both the house and the land. With leasehold (erfpacht) you own the house, while the land is leased from the government for a long, fixed term in exchange for a yearly ground rent. Both are common in Curaçao, and leasehold property is often priced lower. We always tell you which applies and what the yearly costs are.
Can I buy property in Curaçao without being on the island?
Yes, many of our international clients do. We share professional video tours and detailed information, you make your offer in writing, and the deposit (usually around 10%) is held in the notary's escrow account. At closing you can sign the deed in person or through a power of attorney.
Can I rent out my property and earn rental income?
Yes. You can rent long term or as a vacation rental, depending on the property and location. Rental income is taxed in Curaçao, so we recommend speaking to a local tax adviser. Our property management service takes care of guests or tenants, maintenance and monthly reporting, so you don't need to be on the island.
Which currency is used for property in Curaçao?
Curaçao's currency is the Caribbean guilder (XCG), which is pegged to the US dollar at 1.79 XCG per USD. Many properties are also quoted in US dollars or euros, which keeps budgeting simple.
Do I need a residence permit to buy a house in Curaçao?
No. Owning property does not require residency. Living in Curaçao is arranged separately and the rules depend on your nationality; Curaçao also has an investor permit programme for qualifying investments. We can point you to the right specialist.
Still deciding where to buy? Read our story about Curaçao's most popular neighbourhoods.