Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Guatemala Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Antigua's property market is included in our pack
Where are the best places to invest in Antigua right now? Is St. John's still the top pick, or are areas like English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, and Dickenson Bay gaining ground? What makes these locations attractive to both local and foreign investors?
We’re often asked these questions because we work directly with notaries, real estate agents, and clients who invest across the island. Our firsthand experience in these markets gives us unique insights into where the real opportunities lie. To save everyone from asking privately, we’ve written this article to share our knowledge broadly.
Our goal is to highlight the hottest markets in Antigua and explain why they’re worth your attention in 2025.
If you have suggestions or want us to dive deeper into a specific area, let us know. You shoot an email, we answer within 24 hours.
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1) Half Moon Bay is gaining interest for its pristine beaches and potential for luxury residential projects
Half Moon Bay is drawing in buyers with its pristine beaches and potential for high-end residential projects.
The real estate market here is on the rise, with the median home price hitting $1,710,000 in October 2024, a notable 7.1% jump from last year. This increase shows a strong demand and a promising investment opportunity for those eyeing the area.
Luxury developments like the Rosewood Half Moon Bay are popping up, offering oceanfront villas and cottages that redefine upscale living. These projects not only beautify the area but also attract wealthy buyers seeking exclusive properties.
Half Moon Bay's beaches are getting rave reviews and high rankings in travel publications, making it even more appealing to luxury buyers. This media spotlight positions Half Moon Bay as a top destination for premium real estate, catching the eye of both local and international markets.
With its stunning coastline and upscale developments, Half Moon Bay is becoming a hotspot for those looking to invest in luxury living. The area's charm and potential for high-end projects are undeniable, drawing in buyers who value exclusivity and natural beauty.
Sources: Savills, Rocket Homes, Architect Magazine
2) Falmouth Harbour is attracting investors with its development potential and closeness to major marinas
Falmouth Harbour is catching the eye of investors thanks to its promising development potential and prime location near major marinas.
Recently, the area has seen a significant boost with a $7 million upgrade to the Falmouth Harbour Marina. This upgrade includes a new berth for mega-yachts and advanced fuel-pumping equipment, making it more appealing to yacht owners and related businesses. These improvements enhance the marina's capabilities, drawing more attention from the yachting community.
Falmouth Harbour's proximity to other major marinas, like the Antigua Yacht Club and Jolly Harbour Marina, adds to its allure. This strategic location is a magnet for yacht owners and businesses catering to the yachting scene. As a result, investors are increasingly interested in tapping into the growing demand for luxury destinations in the area.
The real estate market in Antigua, including Falmouth Harbour, is on the rise. Property prices are expected to increase by 3% to 7% in 2025, driven by high demand and limited supply. This trend highlights the strong interest in the region, with Falmouth Harbour standing out due to its luxury appeal and proximity to major marinas.
For those considering a property investment, Falmouth Harbour offers a unique opportunity. The area's development potential and strategic location make it a compelling choice for those looking to capitalize on the yachting boom. Investors are drawn to the area's potential for growth and its appeal as a luxury destination.
With its recent marina upgrades and strategic location, Falmouth Harbour is poised to become a hotspot for investors. The combination of development potential and proximity to major marinas makes it an attractive option for those looking to invest in the region's future.
Source: The Rio Times
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Guatemala versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
3) St. John's City Center is a hotspot for commercial real estate with rising demand for retail and office spaces
St. John's City Center is buzzing with commercial real estate activity.
In 2023, the area saw a remarkable 20% jump in commercial real estate transactions, with the dollar volume skyrocketing to $18.8 million from $6.4 million in 2022. This momentum carried into 2024, with transactions rising by 14% in just the first four months, showing a clear uptick in interest.
Rental prices for retail and office spaces are climbing, a testament to the high demand. Lease rates range from $21 per square foot in the waterfront district to over $30 in bustling shopping centers, underscoring the area's appeal to businesses.
Local businesses are eager to set up shop in St. John's City Center. The Bank of Montreal, for instance, has opened its corporate offices in a new Class A commercial space, which also features retail space for their branch, highlighting the area's draw for major corporations.
The population of St. John's is on a steady rise, fueled by strong economic growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. This growth is boosting foot traffic and demand for office space, as seen in the improving vacancy rates in the city's core.
With more people moving in and businesses flocking to the area, St. John's City Center is becoming a hot spot for commercial real estate, with increasing demand for retail and office spaces.
Sources: RE/MAX Blog, RE/MAX Blog
4) English Harbour is booming with rapid property appreciation, attracting yachting enthusiasts and luxury travelers
English Harbour is booming with property appreciation, attracting yachting enthusiasts and luxury travelers.
In recent years, high-end villas have hit the market with price tags in the millions, showing a strong demand for luxury real estate. This trend is expected to continue, as the area offers a unique blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities that wealthy buyers find irresistible.
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is fueling this growth by investing $40 million to expand the yachting sector in English Harbour. This move is making the area even more appealing to luxury buyers, pushing property values higher. The expansion of Falmouth Harbour's marina facilities to accommodate larger yachts is also a game-changer, attracting more affluent visitors.
Tourism in Antigua is bouncing back, with English Harbour emerging as a top luxury destination. This resurgence is boosting the short-term rental market, as more travelers seek out high-end accommodations. The area's charm is further amplified by significant media coverage and endorsements from travel influencers, drawing in more tourists and potential property buyers.
English Harbour's allure is not just about its stunning views and vibrant culture; it's also about the lifestyle it offers. The combination of exclusive events, world-class dining, and a thriving yachting scene makes it a magnet for those seeking a luxurious escape. As a result, property values are climbing steadily, making it a prime spot for investment.
For those considering a property purchase, English Harbour presents a unique opportunity. With its growing reputation and limited supply, the potential for property appreciation is significant. The area's transformation into a luxury hotspot is well underway, promising exciting prospects for investors.
Sources: Rightmove, WIC News, Le Figaro Properties, Superyacht News
5) Jolly Harbour is thriving with high rental yields from vacation properties, attracting tourists and investors
Jolly Harbour is a prime spot for real estate investment thanks to its impressive rental yields from vacation properties.
With more tourists flocking to Antigua, Jolly Harbour has become a favorite for those seeking a memorable stay. In 2024, the island saw a 15% increase in overnight visitors, and many chose Jolly Harbour, boosting the demand for vacation rentals.
Local real estate agencies note that rental yields here range from 4% to 8%, especially for tourist-friendly properties. This makes it a lucrative option for investors eyeing rental income. The area's luxury appeal is underscored by rising property prices, expected to climb further in 2025.
Investors rave about the returns from vacation properties in Jolly Harbour. The area's ongoing development and enhanced amenities are pushing property values up, making it a smart investment. Property management firms report a strong demand for short-term rentals, driven by the area's popularity.
Successful vacation rentals in Jolly Harbour showcase the potential for high returns. Take a two-bedroom waterfront property in the gated community, for example; it can generate substantial rental income. Local government and tourism board data back this up, highlighting Jolly Harbour as a top tourist destination.
Sources: Dan Merriam, Absolute Properties Antigua, Arton Capital
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6) Runaway Bay is attracting investors with its affordable beachfront properties and promising rental income
Runaway Bay is a hotspot for investors eyeing affordable beachfront properties with great rental potential.
Properties here start at $254,779 USD, a steal compared to other Caribbean destinations like Antigua and Barbuda. This makes Runaway Bay an attractive option for those looking to invest without breaking the bank.
Investors are also drawn by the promising rental income. While Antigua and Barbuda see rental yields between 2% and 5%, with average daily rents of $460, Runaway Bay offers similar opportunities, making it a lucrative choice for rental properties.
The region's tourism boom further boosts rental prospects. Antigua and Barbuda saw a record number of visitors in April 2023, hinting at a strong demand for vacation rentals in nearby areas like Runaway Bay.
With tourism on the rise, Runaway Bay is poised to benefit from this influx, offering investors a chance to tap into a growing market for vacationers seeking beachfront stays.
For those considering a property investment, Runaway Bay combines affordability with the potential for steady rental income, making it a compelling choice.
Sources: Real Estate, IMIN Caribbean, Travel Market Report
7) Dickenson Bay is thriving with its beachfront properties in high demand for short-term rentals, driving up prices
Dickenson Bay is a prime spot for beachfront properties, attracting those interested in short-term rentals.
With its stunning beaches and luxury vibe, Dickenson Bay is a magnet for tourists seeking unforgettable vacations. This constant influx of visitors has created a booming short-term rental market, with many properties listed on popular platforms like Airbnb.
In 2023 and 2024, Antigua's tourism sector has experienced a surge, thanks to its status as a top English-speaking Caribbean destination. This has drawn international tourists who favor beachfront stays, leading to a noticeable increase in vacation rental listings in Dickenson Bay.
Real estate agents and property owners are well aware of the profit potential of beachfront properties in this area. These properties not only provide direct beach access but also offer high rental returns, often earning up to twice as much as inland properties.
Investors, both local and international, find these properties particularly appealing due to their high rental income potential. The combination of location and profitability makes Dickenson Bay a compelling choice for real estate investment.
As the demand for beachfront accommodations continues to rise, property prices in Dickenson Bay are being driven up, reflecting the area's popularity and investment appeal.
Source: Next Generation Equity
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility.