16 Best Locations to Buy Property in St. Maarten

There are more than half a million tourists that visit the island of St. Maarten / St. Martin each year. Some of the things that attract these tourists to the island are the stunning views, European-style restaurants, vibrant nightlife, picturesque beaches, and duty-free shopping. All of the wonderful features of St. Maarten leave many people who visit want to return to experience the beauty of the island again and again. For this reason, there are many who look to buy a property or real estate on the island of St. Maarten. Buying property in St. Maarten is a simple process for prospective buyers, many potential buyers are attracted by the various benefits of investing in real estate in St. Maarten such as the fact that they don’t have to pay an annual property tax.

Although residency in St. Maarten is not necessary to purchase real estate, many foreigners to St. Maarten have decided to become residents of the island. The requirements for attaining residency in St. Maarten include having proof of residence in St. Maarten for longer than 4 months, proof of income, and monetary investment in a business or real estate.

The French side of the island of Saint Martin is also a popular area for those looking to buy a property or invest in real estate. Terres Basses is the most popular area for those looking to buy property in French St. Martin. Terres Basses has some of the most magnificent and luxurious homes and opulent villas on the entire island that is nestled in picturesque hillsides and located near popular and scenic beaches such as Baie Rouge, Baie Longue, and Baie Aux Prunes. Some other popular areas to buy property in St. Maarten are the towns of Cupecoy, Orient Bay, Maho Bay Village, and so many more areas. The best places to buy property in St. Maarten and St. Martin are listed below.

1. Cupecoy
2. Mullet Beach
3. Maho
4. Beacon Hill
5. Simpson Bay
6. Pelican Key
7. Cole Bay
8. Indigo Bay
9. Little Bay
10. Great Bay
11. Philipsburg
12. Point Blanche
13. Guana Bay
14. Dawn Beach
15. Oyster Pond
16. Point Pirouette

1. Cupecoy

Cupecoy is located on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. Cupecoy is considered “The Golden Coast of St. Maarten” for its soft golden sand and spectacular and unique golden-orange sunsets. These factors make the town of Cupecoy the most in-demand location for beachfront condos, especially luxury condominium developments in Dutch St. Maarten. Some luxurious condominium developments in Cupecoy are The Cliff, the Mullet Bay Residences, Rainbow Beach Club condos, and Cupecoy Beach Club. Other property developments that are popular among tourists are the Porto Cupecoy Marina & Casino, Arbor Estate, and the Jordan Village.

People like the Cupecoy area because of its proximity to different entertainment options and restaurants on the island of St. Maarten. Cupecoy is located in the heart of the entertainment district. Some things to do in Cupecoy are exploring the natural caves on the beach, snorkeling, surfing, kiteboarding, and visiting the casinos. The prices of rent in Cupecoy range from $1,000 to $269,000 (€981 to €264,845) per month. The prices of real estate in Cupecoy range from $550,000 to $8,000,000 (€539,932 to €7,853,560).

2. Mullet Bay

Mullet Bay is located on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The real estate arena in Mullet Bay consists of modern condos, beachfront villas, houses, and business buildings such as restaurants, and casinos. Those who live in Mullet Bay love the incredible waves and the ambiance of the beach, this attracts many to buy property in this area so that they can enjoy many nearby activities near Mullet Bay Beach such as sailing, snorkeling, swimming, and riding a jet ski.

Many who are looking to start a business such as a restaurant, casino, nightclub, or bar also look to buy in the Mullet Bay area because of the many tourists that usually frequent the area. One important property development in Mullet Bay is the Fourteen Towers. The prices of rent in Mullet Bay range from $1,300 to $5,500 (€1,291 to €5,464) monthly. The prices of real estate properties in Mullet Bay range from $155,000 to $22,000,000 (€154,011 to €21,859,750).

3. Maho Bay Village

Maho Bay Village is situated on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The real estate market in Maho Bay Village consists of waterfront villas, condos, penthouses, and business buildings.  This is a popular area for business owners who are looking for property to be in proximity to the many tourists who frequent Maho Bay Village. Some things to do in Maho Bay Village are practice watersports such as snorkeling and windsurfing, enjoy duty-free shopping, play at the casinos, go to nightclubs, and take amazing pictures of the planes at Maho Beach.

One of the most important property developments in Maho Bay Village is an apartment complex called The Emerald. The prices for rent in Maho Bay Village range from $850 to $2,600 (€844 to €2,583) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Maho Bay Village range from $127,000 to $8,000,000 (€126,190 to €7,949,000).

4. Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is located on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The real estate in Beacon Hill includes oceanfront villas, penthouses, condos, and business buildings such as restaurants and bars. Many say that Beacon Hill is conveniently located near restaurants, hotels, and entertainment options such as casinos, bars, and beaches. Some things to do in Beacon Hill are touring in an ATV, surfing, and taking a catamaran trip.

Some property developments in Beacon Hill are the vacation residence called Beacon Hill Towers, and the luxurious oceanfront Lovango Villa. The prices for rent in Beacon Hill range from $2,500 to $3,500 (€2,484 to €3,477) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Beacon Hill range from $1,600,000 to $2,800,000 (€1,576,232 to €2,782,150).

5. Simpson Bay

Simpson Bay is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The real estate in Simpson Bay includes beachfront condos and waterfront villas. Simpson Bay is an important city in St. Maarten where it is possible to move from one point to another easily by foot, car, bus, or taxi. There are a lot of things to do in Simpson Bay which makes this a popular location for those looking to buy a home or condo, or for business owners looking for properties for their business. Some of the most popular things to do in Simpson Bay are swimming at the beaches, playing at the Hollywood Casino, touring Topper’s Rhum Distillery, and eating gelato in the Carousel Gelateria & Bar.

Some of the most popular property developments in Simpson Bay are La Siesta condos, Ocean Edge condos, and a business center called Jordan Village. The prices for rent in Simpson Bay range from $850 to $3,300 (€836 to €3,247) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Simpson Bay range from $310,000 to $2,700,000 (€305,024 to €2,656,665).

6. Pelican Key

Pelican Key is situated on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The real estate in Pelican Key consists of villas, condos, apartments, business buildings, and storefronts. Many of those shopping for property look to buy in Pelican Key because of the great array of things to do in the area and the high number of tourists that frequent the area. Some of the wonderful things available to do in Pelican Key are playing at the casinos, hiking, dining in restaurants, snorkeling, and taking a sailing tour.

One important property development in Pelican Key is Caribbean Cinemas. The prices rent in Pelican Key range from $1,700 to $4,900 (€1,689 to €4,868) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Pelican Key range from $119,000 to $1,850,000 (€118,241 to €1,838,206).

7. Cole Bay

Cole Bay is situated on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The real estate in Cole Bay consists of vacation homes, apartments, penthouses, and villas. Cole Bay is a prime area for those looking to buy a business property or for frequent visitors of St. Maarten who are looking to be near all the action on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. Some of the local activities that are popular in Cole Bay are scuba diving, snorkeling, and touring Topper’s Rhum Distillery. Cole Bay has two lagoons which are called The Ponds of Great Salt and Fresh Pond.

Kim Sha Beach is also located in Cole Bay. One property development in Cole Bay is Plumeria Place condos. There are many real estate options and rental units available in Cole Bay. The prices for rent in Cole Bay range from $750 to $6,300 (€745 to €6,259) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Cole Bay range from $205,000 to $22,000,000 (€203,693 to €21,859,750).

8. Indigo Bay

Indigo Bay is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The real estate in Indigo Bay consists of hillside houses, beachfront properties such as villas, condos, and plots of land. Indigo Bay is located halfway between Philipsburg and Simpson Bay, the two major activity centers of the island, which makes it a convenient location for any thriving business. Indigo Bay has a central and oceanfront location, this makes it quite a desirable location for those who want to be located near the center of everything in St. Maarten.

At Indigo Bay there are 40 acres (161,874 square meters) which are dedicated to open green spaces, lakes, wetlands, parks, and beaches. This very peaceful and serene area in St. Maarten is popular among many who are looking to buy a home or condo on the island. Some popular things to do in Indigo Bay are surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. One property development in Indigo Bay is The Black Palm which is the only hotel in the area. The prices for rent in Indigo Bay range from $2,000 to $6,000 (€1,987 to €5,961) per month. The prices of real estate in Indigo Bay range from $315,000 to $2,400,000 (€312,991 to €2,384,700).

9. Little Bay

Little Bay is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The real estate market in Little Bay consists of hillside condos, beachfront plots of land, and villas. Little Bay is a very family-oriented area in St. Maarten that many families visit yearly. Little Bay is a semi-private area where many enjoy privacy and security. Many like to visit Little Bay because it is one of the best places on the island of St. Maarten to snorkel. Some things to do in Little Bay are sailing, scuba diving, ziplining, taking a day cruise, and snorkeling. This makes it a prime location for a family looking to purchase a home or a condo in the area or for a business looking for a great location to attract a steady stream of tourists to their business.

One important property development in Little Bay is Divi Little Bay Beach Resort which is one of the most popular family hotels in St. Maarten. The prices for rent in Little Bay range from $900 to $3,400 (€894 to €3,378) per month. The prices of real estate in Little Bay range from $190,000 to $25,000,000 (€188,788 to €24,840,625).

10. Great Bay

Great Bay is situated on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The real estate arena in Great Bay consists of villas, hotels, and other business buildings. Those who visit Great Bay describe the location as convenient and within walking distance of Philipsburg’s best dining and entertainment. There are many different activities at Great Bay. Some popular things to do in Great Bay are snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and kayaking.

One important property development in Great Bay is Great Bay Beach Resort which is one of the most popular oceanfront hotels in St. Maarten. The prices for rent in Great Bay range from $1,000 to $30,000 (€993 to €29,796) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Great Bay range from $99,000 to $25,000,000 (€98,368 to €24,840,625).

11. Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The real estate in Philipsburg consists of businesses, penthouses, hillside villas, beachfront hotels, and beachfront plots of land. Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch side of St. Maarten for this reason alone many look in this area for real estate because many tourist attractions are located nearby. Those who visit Philipsburg enjoy the vibrant ambiance of the city and the breathtaking views that can be seen.

Some things to do in Philipsburg are visiting the waterpark (WISP) or taking a tour of Philipsburg from an ATV or a bike. Some important property developments in Philipsburg are The Plaza Building and a beachfront house close to the popular Boardwalk. The prices for rent in Philipsburg range from $900 to $30,000 (€893 to €29,796) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Philipsburg range from $65,000 to $22,000,000 (€64,558 to €21,850,510).

12. Point Blanche

Point Blanche is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The real estate arena in Pointe Blanche consists of stunning beachfront homes, hillside villas, penthouses, and condos. There are also plots of land available at Pointe Blanche, all part of a selection of luxury real estate. Some things to do in Pointe Blanche are taking a tour on an ATV 4-Wheeler or scooter, hiking, and horseback riding.

Pointe Blanche offers easy access to some of the best restaurants, clubs, and beaches on the island, and is also an excellent place to relax on the island. One of the most popular property developments in Pointe Blanche is the Seneca Residence. The prices of rent in Pointe Blanche range from $1,450 to $5,500 (€1,426 to €5,411) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Pointe Blanche range from $350,000 to $1,385,000 (€344,382 to €1,362,770).

13. Guana Bay

Guana Bay is situated on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The real estate in Guana Bay consists of amazing beachfront villas and homes. Those who buy property in Guana Bay enjoy the fact that this area is peaceful and serene and there are minimal crowds. Since there are no resorts in Guana Bay, tourists don’t visit this part of the coast frequently which makes it the perfect location for someone looking for a home with quiet and private surroundings. Guana Bay is also really popular because of the beautiful sunsets that can be seen from the unique vantage point.

Some popular things to do in Guana Bay are surfing, hiking, and it is also possible to take a walking tour. There are several excellent snorkeling spots in Guana Bay, including one on the reef just offshore and a pristine white sand beach. One of the most popular property developments in Guana Bay is the Villa Amalia. The prices for rent in Guana Bay are approximately $3,000 (€2,951) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Guana Bay range from $350,000 to $5,500,000 (€344,382 to €5,411,725).

14. Dawn Beach

Dawn Beach is located on the Dutch side of the island of St. Maarten. The real estate in St. Maarten consists of luxury villas, hotels, houses, studios, and condos. Those who buy property in Dawn Beach like the peaceful area, the beach views, and the crystal turquoise water at Dawn Beach. Some popular things to do in Dawn Beach are snorkeling, sailing, taking a Catamaran or yacht ride, surfing, jet skiing, and windsurfing.

The property developments in Dawn Beach include ocean-view apartments, modern villas, beach-front villas, and condos. The prices for rent in Dawn Beach range from $1,600 to $3,600 (€1,574 to €3,542) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Dawn Beach range from $195,000 to $4,250,000 (€191,870 to €4,181,787).

15. Oyster Pond

Oyster Pond has a French side and a Dutch side because it is located on the border of the Dutch and French parts of the island. Oyster Pond is located in one of the most desired neighborhoods on the island. As Oyster Pond faces the Atlantic, the wind can be strong, although the reef protects the area very well from rough weather. Oyster Pond is a small community with restaurants, bars, and a small supermarket.

The property developments in Oyster Pond include modern villas, ocean-view apartments, condos, and beach-side villas. Some things to do in Oyster Pond are fishing, sailing, shopping at the Shipwreck shop, relaxing at the spa, and visiting the restaurants. The prices of real estate for rent in Oyster Pond range from $2,500 to $4,000 (€2,546 to €3,926) monthly. The prices of real estate in Oyster Pond range from $152,810 to $7,500,000 (€150,000 to €7,640,547).

16. Point Pirouette

Point Pirouette is situated on the Dutch side of the island of St. Maarten. Point Pirouette is a prestigious real estate area in St. Martin where many luxury properties are located such as penthouses, hillside villas, condos, and beachfront homes with a mix of Mediterranean and Caribbean styles. Manyin Point Pirouette like the location in front of the Simpson Bay lagoon and the nearby activities that they can participate in. Some popular things to do in Point Pirouette are golfing, kayaking, and swimming.

An important property development in Point Pirouette is the Waterfront Point Pirouette Villa with a price of $750,000 (€736,203). The prices for rent in Point Pirouette range from $1,450 to $5,500 (€1,423 to €5,398) per month. The prices of real estate properties in Point Pirouette range from $350,000 to $1,385,000 (€343,561 to €1,359,522).

What are the types of properties that are sold in St. Maarten?

The different types of properties that are sold in St. Maarten are listed below.

1. Beachfront homes
2. Luxury villas
3. Hillside villas
4. Houses
5. Studios
6. Condos apartments
7. Penthouses
8. Plots of land

Can foreigners buy property in St. Maarten?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in St. Maarten. There is no requirement for non-citizens to have a license or permit to buy property on the island, this is unlike other destinations in the Caribbean.

How long can foreign citizens stay in St. Maarten?

Foreign citizens can generally stay in St. Maarten for up to 30 days without a visa on the Dutch side of the island. Canadians, citizens of the European Union, Australians, New Zealanders, and citizens of Japan may stay in St. Maarten for a maximum of 90 days (3 months) without a visa. Dutch and American citizens are not required to obtain a visa to stay in St. Maarten for up to 180 days (6 months).

How to buy property in St. Maarten?

Foreigners who want to buy a property in Sint Maarten must follow some steps to complete their purchase. The procedure to buy a property in Sint Maarten is listed and explained below.

1. Start searching for a desirable property.
2. Once the property is found, make an offer. There are two ways to buy real estate on French St. Martin and Dutch St. Maarten: fee simple or long lease (government-owned or privately owned).
3. A civil law notary starts a title search to ensure a clear transfer of title. A lawyer is not necessary for this process. The buyer will pay a deposit which is approximately 10%.
4. The notary will prepare the necessary legal documents to be signed by the buyer and seller.
5. Buyers pay a one-time transfer tax and notary fees, and transactions are completed within 4 to 6 weeks.

Is it worth it to invest in real estate in St. Maarten?

Yes, it is worth investing in real estate in St. Maarten. One of the reasons for this is that there is no property tax on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. Some other reasons it’s worth investing in property in St. Maarten are because there are many beautiful homes located near many popular tourist activities that tourists will pay to rent out during their stay. Many who frequent St. Maarten choose to rent out their homes to travelers when they’re not there and this is an additional source of income.

What are the approximate fees and taxes in St. Maarten?

The approximate fees and taxes in St. Maarten are 5% to 6% for the notary fees and transfer fees. On St. Martin, the French side of the island, the notary fees, and transfer fees are approximately 10%. The property is not subject to capital gains tax in Dutch St. Maarten, but a 33.5% capital gains tax is imposed when the property is sold.

It is worth mentioning that St. Maarten is a duty-free port, which makes real estate ownership in St. Maarten more attractive due to the fact that there are no annual property taxes.

What are the prices of real estate in St. Maarten?

The prices of real estate in St. Maarten range from $150,000 to $6,000,000 (€146,116 to €5,844,649). Some of the real estate properties in St. Maarten are listed below.

1. Houses: The price of a house in St. Maarten is usually between $110,000 to $16,800,000 (€108,209 to €16,526,580).
2. Business place: The price for a business place in St. Maarten is generally between $235,000 to $1,410,000 (€231,140 to €1,386,840). The price for renting a business place in St. Maarten ranges from $1,400 to $30,000 (€1,377 to €29,508) per month.
3. Vacation rental: The price for a vacation rental to start a business in St. Maarten range from $189,675 to $3,800,000 (€186,413 to €3,734,659).
4. The Plaza Building: The price for The Plaza Building in Philipsburg is $3,200,000 (€3,117,146).
5. Villa Mille Fleur: The price for Villa Mille Fleur is $4,500,000 (€4,383,486).
6. Caribbean luxurious modern-style villa in Terres Basses: The price for the Caribbean luxurious modern-style villa is $4,850,590 (€4,725,000).
7. Villa D ‘Art Terres Basses: The price for Villa D ‘Art Terres Basses is $6,000,000 (€5,844,649).

What are the prices of homes for rent?

The prices of homes and apartments for rent in St. Maarten range from $800 to $9,000 (€779 to €8,766) per month. Some of the prices of homes for rent in St. Maarten are listed and explained below.

1. Furnished apartment in Côte d’Azur. The price of renting the apartment in Côte d’Azur in Cupecoy is $1,100 (€1,071) per month.
2. New unfurnished condo in Cole Bay. The price of renting the condo in Cole Bay is $1,300 (€1,266) per month.
3. Oceanfront apartment in Point Blanche. The price of renting the oceanfront apartment in Point Blanche is $2,400 (€2,337) per month.
4. Large luxury apartment in Simpson Bay Yacht Club. The price of renting the large luxury apartment in Simpson Bay is $3,000 (€2,922) per month.
5. 4-bedroom Villa in Cay Hill. The price of renting the 4-bedroom Villa is $4,500 (€4,383) per month.

Are there property taxes in St. Maarten?

No, there are no annual property taxes on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. In fact, St. Maarten is a duty-free country. However, the French side of the island does have annual property taxes.

Is it expensive to buy real estate in St. Maarten?

Yes, it is expensive to buy real estate in St. Maarten in comparison with the real estate in the other neighboring Caribbean islands. Some expensive properties in St. Maarten are Aquamarina Penthouse, Villa Kimon, The Cove Penthouse at The Cliff, Red Pond Private Estates, and Cupecoy Waterfront Land.

Is it cheaper to buy real estate in St. Maarten?

No, it is not really cheap to buy real estate in St. Maarten. Some properties that are cheaper in St. Maarten are Oyster Pond Land, Atlantica Ocean Pearl Apartment, Dawn Beach Estates Land, Princess Heights Amber, and Cupecoy Beach Club Garden Apartment.

Do I need a visa to live in St. Maarten?

No, foreigners do not need a visa to live in St. Maarten. Foreigners who would like to live in St. Maarten are required to apply to the Immigration and Border Protection Service for a residence permit.

How do I become a resident of St. Maarten?

Foreigners who would like to become a resident of St. Maarten can apply to the Immigration and Border Protection Service for a residence permit. Citizens coming from abroad, including Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius can become a resident of St. Maarten. The conditions to become a resident of St. Maarten are listed below.

1. The foreigner must have a valid residence permit.
2. The foreigner must reside in St. Maarten for longer than 4 months.
3. Investors who want to become a resident of St. Maarten are required to make a minimum investment of $499,842 (€487,123) in a business or real estate in St. Maarten.
4. Pensioners who want to become a resident of St. Maarten must be able to present proof of enough income.

Are there condo developments in St. Maarten?

Yes, there are condo developments in St. Maarten such as The Hill in Simpson Bay, Blue Marine in Maho, and Las Brisas which are located in Cole Bay.

Why should I buy a condo in St. Maarten?

Buying a condo is an excellent idea for those who visit the island of St. Maarten frequently. One of the reasons why buying a condo in St. Maarten is a good idea is because those who visit St. Maarten frequently will have a set place to stay during their trip and will not have to book a hotel. Having a condo in St. Maarten affords the owner privacy at their property as well as freedom in many other aspects.

Another reason why those who take frequent trips to St. Martin should consider buying a condo is that it could be an additional source of income. Many who buy apartments/condos on the island rent out their spaces to other travelers through different websites while they are away and are able to make a nice income. Many who love the island of St. Maarten but don’t physically live there choose to take advantage of the incredible opportunity to buy a condo in St. Maarten.

Can foreigners buy property in St. Maarten?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in St. Maarten. St. Maarten does not restrict foreigners from acquiring real estate. It is not necessary for non-citizens to obtain a license or permit to purchase property on the island.

What is the cost of living in St. Maarten?

The cost of living in St. Maarten is considered expensive compared to many other islands in the Caribbean. The average budget for one person to live in St. Maarten is $1,500 (€1,461) per month, not including rent. The $1,500 (€1,461) budget per month would cover utilities, food, entertainment, shopping, and other personal care costs. The approximate cost of rent in St. Maarten ranges from $900 to $2,200 (€877 to €2,143) per month.

There is a higher standard of living in St. Maarten when compared to other neighboring Caribbean islands. St. Maarten has all of the modern comforts that a tourist can ask for. St. Maarten has a plethora of products from North America and Europe, tourists coming from these areas can find all of the items that they are accustomed to such as WIFI, grocery stores, malls, and a variety of other products.