The island of Antigua and its sister island, Barbuda, are located in the Leeward Islands, and are home to just under 100,000 people. Residential demand and transactions in Antigua were rising pre-pandemic and activity has remained buoyant since. Antigua and Barbuda are particularly European in their buyer profile, with 60% of buyers being British and another 25% made up of other European buyers. Agents are reporting that interest is increasing among Americans.

Antigua is only 108 square miles in size. New residential product is in short supply as a consequence of these land constraints, driving price growth. There are, however, several developments planned or under construction; the redevelopment of Jolly Harbour, Barbuda Ocean Club, high-end luxury holiday homes by Discovery land, is underway, and the infrastructure has been put in place and construction is underway at Pearns Point. 

Though there has been price growth in recent years, Antigua remains a competitively priced market compared to some neighbouring islands with an average price per square foot for prime properties of $660 and $1,250 for apartments and villas, respectively. Though the return of international travel and the increased attractiveness to Americans means that there is ample opportunity for growth.

A beach for everyday of the year and extensive tourist infrastructure it is no surprise that tourism accounts for upwards of 60% of Antigua’s national income. There are 20 independent hotels operating on the island, seven luxury properties and 13 upper upscale properties, with the Rosewood Half Moon Bay in the pipeline. Rosewood Half Moon Bay is the newest prime residential development on Antigua, and this branded scheme commands premium prices at an average of $2,000 per square foot. It offers 8,000 feet of private oceanfront and sits south of 27 acre Nelson’s Dockyard national park.

Host to the annual Antigua Charter Yacht show, Antigua and Barbuda are popular yachting and sailing destinations. Attracting keen sailors and superyacht owners to both the marinas and prime residential market. To add to its international appeal, the country also offers a Citizenship by Investment programme. The Antiguan passport is the 23rd most powerful passport in the world, offering free movement to Hong Kong, Russia, Singapore, the UK and Europe’s Schengen Area, among other locations. Well connected, there are flights to 18 countries from V.C. Bird International Airport. There have also been additional flights added in recent years, which is helping to increase the appeal of the island.