Buying a home in Curaçao is a big step, whether you want a place to live, a second home or property as an investment. So where do you start, and what should you keep in mind? From setting your wishes and budget to viewings, negotiations and the transfer at the notary, good preparation helps you make the right choices.
Decide what the purchase is for
Before you start looking at houses or apartments in Curaçao, decide how you plan to use the property.
Do you want to live in Curaçao permanently? Are you after a second home where you will stay regularly yourself? Or are you looking at property as an investment, for example for long-term rental or vacation rental?
The purpose of the purchase affects the type of property, the facilities you need, the location and your budget.
Map out your wishes and budget
Once the purpose is clear, you can make your wishes more specific. Think about the type of home, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, outdoor space, a private or shared pool, and whether you want it furnished or unfurnished.
Set your budget in advance as well. When buying property in Curaçao, look beyond the purchase price and also account for the extra costs of the purchase itself and of owning the home afterwards.
With clear wishes and a realistic budget, the available listings can be narrowed down much more precisely.
Choose a location that fits your plans
Location plays a big part in your search for a home in Curaçao. Each part of the island has its own character, with its own mix of facilities and homes.
Do you want to live centrally with shops and services nearby, or do you prefer peace and space? Would you like to be close to the sea, or is easy access more important to you?
The purpose of the purchase matters here too. A home you will live in full time can have different requirements from a second home or a property you plan to rent out.
Local market knowledge helps you compare different locations and properties properly.
What to look for during a viewing
During a viewing, look further than the interior and your first impression.
Pay attention to the general state of maintenance, the grounds, the outdoor areas and the technical installations. For apartments and homes within a resort, the shared facilities, the owners' association (VvE), periodic contributions and house rules can also be important.
If you plan to rent the property out, check in advance which rental options and conditions apply.
Making an offer and negotiating
Once you have found a home that suits you, you can make an offer.
Besides the price, other terms can be part of the negotiations, such as the preferred transfer date, any furniture or inventory included, and conditions that matter to you for the purchase.
When buyer and seller reach an agreement, the terms are set out in a purchase agreement.
The transfer at the notary
In Curaçao, the legal transfer of property goes through a notary. The notary handles the legal transfer and checks the documents required for it.
The financial settlement is prepared beforehand. Once the deed of transfer has been signed and the financial settlement is complete, the property officially passes to the new owner.
Buying a home in Curaçao as an investment
Besides using it yourself, a home in Curaçao can also work well as a second residence or an investment.
Depending on the property and the conditions that apply, you can choose long-term rental or vacation rental. If renting is part of your plans, take it into account while you are still searching.
The type of property, its location, layout and facilities can all affect the rental options.
Buying a home in Curaçao with Proverties
Buying a home in Curaçao starts with finding a property that fits your wishes, budget and plans.
With local market knowledge and experience in Curaçao real estate, Proverties guides clients through finding and buying homes to live in, to use as a second home or to hold as an investment.
After the purchase, we can also help with long-term rental, vacation rental and property management. That way you keep one point of contact for your property in Curaçao.
Looking for a house, villa or apartment for sale in Curaçao? Browse our current homes for sale or contact Proverties for more information.