An island of stability in a volatile world, Barbados is becoming a sought-after destination for international real estate investors who want to combine an unbeatable lifestyle with secure returns on investment. 

Increasing numbers of investors are coming from the U.S. The safe and stable country’s appeal to American buyers has grown since the relaxation of foreign exchange controls in 2019. Add a local currency that is tied to the dollar, competitive interest rates, and an absence of capital gains and wealth taxes, and it is easy to understand why demand from international buyers is growing. That interest is contributing to strong price increases for premium properties. According to realtor Savills, prices per square foot for ultra-prime new-build villas rose by 24% from 2019 to 2024, and new high-end developments are selling rapidly. 

Still, ask any realtor on the island why investors are choosing Barbados, and the financial benefits will be just one of many reasons. Community, culture, and security are just as important, if not more. “Anywhere in the world can have sun, sea, and sand, but we provide people with a sense of friendliness and warmth, and we make them feel at home,” says Simon Parravicino, Managing Director of Realtors Limited. “We want international investors to be part of the community instead of just a foreigner who owns a house in Barbados.” 
 

“Buying in Barbados is not just a financial investment,” adds Sunil Chatrani, Executive Chairman of the thriving Apes Hill golf resort and community. “It is an investment in your lifestyle. Barbados is the culinary capital of the Caribbean and it is packed with activities. I have lived here most of my life and still have not seen everything. Many of our homeowners visit Barbados much more than planned, not just because of Apes Hill but because of everything else the island has to offer.” 

The pandemic was an enduring catalyst for businesses and employees to relocate to Barbados, helped by the island’s regular flights to developed countries. In 2020, the Barbadian government introduced a hugely popular Welcome Stamp visa for remote workers, exempting successful applicants from income tax. “A lot of those people started buying, investing, and living in Barbados,” says Chris Parra, CEO and Founder of boutique high-end brokerage One Caribbean Estates. “They can enjoy an excellent quality of life all year round, and on the island, there is always a lot going on.”

In response to the needs of buyers and renters from the U.S. and beyond, developers are launching sophisticated high-end projects across the island. With a focus on sustainability, contemporary design, and modern amenities such as wellness areas, these developments are opening new possibilities for investment in a real estate market where confidence is reaching record highs.

Realtors limited

Founded in 1952, Realtors Limited blends heritage with modernity to serve high-net-worth clients in Barbados. “We provide services beyond sales to ensure clients feel that they are part of the Realtors Limited family,” says Managing Director Simon Parravicino. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded its luxury offerings—including its latest developments, Wild Tamarind and Solaire—tailored to American preferences. 

Barbados’ welcoming investment climate, political stability, and tax incentives make it uniquely attractive. “A competitive tax structure helps boost investment,” Parravicino says. 

With a legacy of trust and a full-service model spanning legal, tax, and property management, Realtors Limited is not just about property but also community. “We want clients to be comfortable integrating in Barbados,” Parravicino adds. 

Apes Hill barbados

Apes Hill Barbados is redefining golf living through luxury, sustainability, and a one-of-a-kind vision. Executive Chairman Sunil Chatrani shares how the company is raising the bar for lifestyle communities in the Caribbean. 
 

Q: What is your vision for Apes Hill? 

When I first joined as Chairman, our goal was to create more than just a golf course. We aimed to build a destination focused on luxury, wellness, and sustainability—something truly special for Barbados. That vision has since evolved into a broader ambition: to create an authentic, purpose-driven community with style and substance. We ensure every step we take reflects this commitment. 

Q: What key decisions have defined your tenure? 

Sustainability has been a priority from the start. The key is not just believing in sustainability but living and executing it. 

One of our defining decisions was to completely rethink the golf course. Golf courses are typically not environmentally friendly, but we chose grass that requires less water and implemented systems to capture rainwater in a reservoir, avoiding reliance on the municipal supply.  

Q: What advantages do you offer for investors interested in golf-focused properties? 

Many people here are golfers, but the lifestyle offered goes well beyond golf. Unlike most clubs with multiple membership tiers, we offer a single membership for like-minded individuals who value both golf and lifestyle.  

From a financial perspective, there are no capital gains taxes in Barbados. The homes here have appreciated significantly, with early buyers seeing up to 200% growth in the last three years. The long-term value remains strong.  

Barbados is a small island with limited land, and few developments offer what we do. We are creating a comprehensive lifestyle community, unlike anything else on the island. 

Q: What makes Barbados an attractive destination for American tourists and investors? 

Barbados has traditionally been linked to the U.K., but recently, there has been a shift. American visitors now expect higher quality, value, and service. Apes Hill has responded by elevating our offering, and interest from the U.S. market continues to grow. With new investments, that trend is set to accelerate. 

Q: How does location shape perceptions of Apes Hill? 

I have always said Barbados is the key, which is why we promote Apes Hill as Apes Hill Barbados. We lead with the destination because Barbados is truly special. Apes Hill could not exist just anywhere; its success is tied to this unique place. 

We want Barbados to be recognized as a premier golfing destination. Apes Hill is setting the standard in lifestyle and helping raise the entire market. Americans, in particular, with their expectations for quality and experience, will find it here.

One Caribbean Estates

In a fast-moving real estate market that is enjoying exponential growth, how can brokerages build long-lasting relationships with clients? For Chris Parra, CEO and Founder of luxury boutique firm One Caribbean Estates, heritage and independence are key. “We are an authentic Caribbean brand, not an affiliate of an international group,” Parra explains. “We do not just sell a house and then walk away—we hope to be friends for a long time.” 

Unprecedented numbers of high-end buyers are targeting Barbados in search of security, accessibility by air, and an unbeatable Caribbean lifestyle. One Caribbean Estates exists to meet their needs for anything property-related, whether buying a property, designing a new project, or raising financing. “My vision is to provide long-term value for our clients, the island, and the future generations to come,” says Parra.