Land for

SALE

TRUSTED
DUTCH CARIBBEAN

LAND SERVICES

Design Build Caribbean B.V. provides the most trusted property development in the Dutch Caribbean. Our team have acquired land and built numerous villas on Bonaire, throughout the ABC and Windward Islands, for both international and local clients.

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LAND FOR SALE

IN THE DUTCH CARIBBEAN

Purchasing land in the Dutch Caribbean is a great investment. Tourism continues to increase annually, with most tourists opting to stay in private villas rather than hotels.

LAND FOR LEASE

IN THE DUTCH CARIBBEAN

Leasing land in the Dutch Caribbean is a common and cost-effective way to secure property rights on the islands. With long-term lease agreements granted by the government, it offers an accessible alternative to full ownership and can be a feasible route for both residents and international buyers looking to build or invest.

 
 

LAND

ACQUISITION

Our in-house land acquisition team works with both land owners and land agents throughout the Dutch Caribbean to provide a market leading range of properties available for sale and lease.

DUTCH CARIBBEAN LAND & PROPERTY

PROFESSIONALS

There are several important rules and regulations to follow when purchasing or leasing land in the Dutch Caribbean. Our property experts guide you through every step, helping you find and secure the perfect plot while ensuring full legal and regulatory compliance.

Find The Best Caribbean Land

For Sale

Let our team assist you in finding the perfect plot of land for your new villa, resort, or commercial development in the Dutch Caribbean. Simply share your requirements, and Design Build Caribbean B.V. will find your ideal property.

LAND IN THE DUTCH CARIBBEAN

FAQS

What is the difference between freehold and leasehold land in the Dutch Caribbean?

The two main options for securing land on the Dutch Caribbean islands for residential or development purposes are freehold and long-lease (erfpacht).

Freehold means you own the land indefinitely. This type of ownership is available but is less common, as much of the land is government-owned and issued through long-lease agreements.

Long-lease (erfpacht) offers similar rights to freehold in terms of usage, but you hold the land for a fixed period under a government-issued lease. Importantly, both residents and international buyers can legally obtain long-lease rights and have their name registered on the lease and with the land registry.

Leasing land on the Dutch Caribbean islands is significantly more affordable than purchasing freehold property and is one of the most attractive and accessible options for those looking to build, invest, or develop on the islands.

The terms of leasing land on the Dutch Caribbean islands are established by the Public Entities as the landowner and the individual or party receiving the long-lease right. A standard long-lease term on the islands typically lasts up to 60 years, though the exact duration is specified in the official lease decree.

Long-lease contracts generally allow the leaseholder to apply for renewal once the term approaches its end. Any extension is evaluated by the government, and the annual ground rent (canon) will be recalculated according to the current market conditions and regulations at the time of renewal. This renewal option is especially important for properties where new construction or significant improvements have been made.

As long as extensions continue to be granted by the government, the land can effectively remain in long-lease use for multiple generations.

Foreigners can buy property and obtain long-lease rights on the Dutch Caribbean islands, as there are no restrictions that prevent non-residents from acquiring real estate. While some freehold land exists, much of the islands’ land is government-owned and issued through long-lease (erfpacht), which is available to both residents and international buyers.

There are specific rules and procedures to follow, particularly when using the property as a holiday rental on platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com. Appropriate permits may be required depending on zoning, and standard taxes or fees can apply to any rental income generated on the island.

The Dutch Caribbean islands’ natural beauty and stable Dutch legal framework make it an appealing destination for international investors seeking land or development opportunities. If you need guidance on the most up-to-date rules for purchasing or investing in property on islands, we can connect you with local notaries or real estate professionals who specialize in these transactions.

Across the Dutch Caribbeanwhich includes Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Sabaseveral locations offer strong potential for property development, tourism accommodation, and long-term real estate investment.

Some of the most promising areas include:

Bonaire

  • Kralendijk (Town & Waterfront)

  • Hato & Belnem

  • Sabadeco

  • Punt Vierkant

  • Nikiboko

  • Lagoen Hill

  • Bara di Karta (eco-living and nature-focused developments)

Sint Eustatius

  • Oranjestad (historic harbor town with tourism potential)

  • Areas surrounding Quill National Park (eco-tourism and boutique lodging)

Saba

  • Windwardside (tourism hub near hiking trails and services)

  • The Bottom

  • Hell’s Gate (scenic residential and boutique hospitality opportunities)

Across the BES islands, neighborhoods located near beaches, dive sites, hiking trails, restaurants, and waterfront amenities tend to attract the highest number of visitors. These areas are particularly well suited for boutique hotels, eco-lodges, vacation villas, and short-term rental properties, while also offering strong long-term appreciation potential.

For tailored advice on where to buy land or develop property within the Dutch Caribbean, feel free to get in touch. We would be happy to help identify the best opportunities across Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.

RULES &

REGULATIONS

There are local rules and regulations that must be observed to ensure full legal compliance. Our team can manage all required legal obligations for your new villa in the Dutch Caribbean.

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