The Insider's Guide to Buying Property in Saba

Welcome to the 7th Heaven Properties guide to buying property in Saba, your essential companion for navigating the enchanting appeal of one of the Caribbean’s top “under the radar” destinations.

Famed for its laid back lifestyle, quiet charm and historic maritime tradition as a haven for the sea captains of old, Saba offers a truly unique property market beloved by those in the know.

Discover the charm of this tiny island, find out why property buyers are investing in real estate in Saba and delve into the real estate market with a showcase of property listings and blog posts highlighting the island’s unique attractions and advantages.

From the ins and outs of buying property in Saba to an essential overview of relevant taxes, this is your ultimate go-to resource.

Aerial view of Saba and its red-roofed cottages Traditional Saban style cottages

Overview - The Saba Real Estate Market

Ever since a group of shipwrecked Englishmen found themselves washed ashore on the extraordinary volcanic island of Saba, the island (subsequently settled by the Dutch) has had a history of association with sailors. The island’s iconic red-roofed cottages with white gingerbread trim and emerald shutters have served as homes to legendary pirates, distinguished sea captains, and generations of seafaring families.

Today, just over 2,150 residents call this five-square-mile paradise home, embracing a lifestyle that epitomizes Caribbean serenity. Known affectionately as the “Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean,” Saba offers an escape from the ordinary – a place where time moves to the rhythm of the ocean breeze and the pace of island life remains blissfully unhurried.

The island’s traditional cottages are nestled into verdant hillsides, each positioned to take advantage of breathtaking panoramas encompassing the majestic 870-meter summit of Mount Scenery – the highest peak in the entire Kingdom of the Netherlands. From such elevated positions, residents enjoy sweeping views across pristine tropical woodlands, dramatic volcanic cliffs, and the endless expanse of deep sapphire waters.

Beneath Saba’s crystal-clear waters lies one of the Caribbean’s most pristine marine ecosystems. The island is an exceptional diving destination, where over 150 species of tropical fish dart through through healthy coral gardens alongside graceful sea turtles and lobsters.

Besides its fascinating history and colorful landscape, Saba offers much more to those considering investing in real estate. With a population of under 2,000, Saba is safe and friendly with no crime. As a special municipality of the Netherlands, Saba benefits from political stability, providing investors with confidence in their long-term investment. While Dutch serves as the official language – connecting Saba to its fellow Dutch Caribbean territories of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, and St Maarten – English functions as the primary language of daily life. Adding to its appeal for North American investors, the US Dollar serves as the official currency, eliminating exchange rate considerations and simplifying the purchase process.

Despite its small scale, Saba’s real estate market offers remarkable diversity. Prospective buyers can choose from spectacular hillside parcels boasting unobstructed ocean vistas, perfect for creating a custom island retreat, or charming existing cottages complete with private pools and tropical gardens. The island’s most sought-after locations – including the picturesque village of Windwardside, the elevated enclave of Zion’s Hill, and the dramatically positioned community of Hell’s Gate – offer their own distinct character.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful sanctuary for retirement, a tranquil vacation home, or a unique investment opportunity, Saba’s real estate market offers a rare chance to own a piece of one of the Caribbean’s last unspoiled gems.

“Whether you are looking for a peaceful sanctuary for retirement, a tranquil vacation home, or a unique investment opportunity, Saba’s real estate market offers a rare chance to own a piece of one of the Caribbean’s last unspoiled gems”

Why Invest?

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Peaceful and quiet – the ideal location to completely relax and forget about all your worries.

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Safe and secure as a special municipality within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

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38 official dive sites which are home to about 150 species of fish, healthy coral, turtles and lobster and offer some of the best diving in the Caribbean.

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Saba benefits from the political and financial support of the EU.

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Almost no crime whatsoever.

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English (the main language) and Dutch (the official language) both widely spoken.

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The US Dollar is the official currency.

Buying Process, Fees & Taxes

Can foreigners buy property in Saba?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Saba and the island welcomes investment from overseas buyers. There are no restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Saba. Unlike in other destinations in the Caribbean, non-citizens purchasing real estate in Saba do not require a license or permit of any kind.

Buying process

Buying property in Saba is a relatively simple process, which typically involves the following steps:

  1. Begin your property search.
  2. Find your perfect property and make an offer.
  3. A notary will oversee the legal transfer process from seller to buyer and ensures free and clear title. The closing process can take up to 8 weeks.
  4. Pay all required taxes and fees.
Fees & taxes

Transfer Tax

Buyers are required to pay closing costs / Transfer Tax amounting to approximately 6%.

Property Tax

There is no annual property tax on Saba.

Best Places to Buy

Windwardside & Hell’s Gate

The quaint village of Windwardside (together with the suburb of Booby Hill) and Hell’s Gate are the most popular locations for investing in Saba real estate. There are a number of red-roofed cottages for sale built in a traditional Saban style from native volcanic rock. With a selection of restaurants, bars and shops real estate for sale in Windwardside and Hell’s Gate offers privacy and seclusion as well as access to conveniences when needed.

Residency & Citizenship

How long can a foreign citizen stay in Saba?

Citizens of the EU, EEA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and several other countries may stay in Saba for up to 3 months (90 days) without a visa. Dutch and American citizens may stay in Saba for up to 6 months (180 days) without a visa.

How do you become a resident of Saba?

Residence Permits

Non-citizens wishing to live in Saba are required to apply for a Residence Permit.

Residence permits are issued for a period of 1 year and can be renewed thereafter.

Permanent Residence Permits

Individuals who have legally resided in Saba with a temporary residence permit for at least 5 years may apply for a permanent residence permit which is valid for an indefinite period.

How do you become a citizen of Saba?

If you have lived continuously in Saba for 5 years with a valid residence permit and have a good understanding of Dutch you may apply for Dutch citizenship by naturalization.

Find out more: Immigration Department at the RCN (Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland)

Mortgages in Saba

Looking for financing to fund the purchase of property in the Caribbean?

Contrary to popular misconception, it is possible for foreign nationals looking to invest in Saba real estate to apply for a mortgage.

Our partner – a very well respected international financial organization – offers mortgages for qualifying non-residents buying, building or improving a second home in Saba.

For more information, see our page on: Caribbean mortgages.

How to get a mortgage in the Caribbean

How to Get There

Saba’s Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is reputed to be home to the shortest commercial runway in the world.

From Europe or North America, fly to St Maarten and then take a connecting flight with Winair on to beautiful Saba.

  • St Maarten to Saba 12m

Local weather

23° Precipitacion0.17%
Sat 22° | 24°
Sun 22° | 24°
Mon 23° | 24°
Tue 23° | 24°
Wed 23° | 24°
Thu 22° | 24°
Fri 22° | 24°

Local time

11:13PM Saturday 14th Jun 2025 (AST)
Sat 22° | 24°
Sun 22° | 24°
Mon 23° | 24°
Tue 23° | 24°
Wed 23° | 24°
Thu 22° | 24°
Fri 22° | 24°

Fast facts

  • Population 1933
  • Capital The Bottom
  • Language Dutch, English
  • Currency US Dollar
  • Time zone GMT-4 | ET