Buying Property in the Cayman Islands

For buyers, there is much to be excited about when it comes to the Island’s property market, from sleek new builds continuously popping up along the increasingly affluent area of Seven Mile Beach, to boutique residences in the lovely and family-friendly South Sound area, which boast various luxury lifestyle amenities. Read on for an overview of the Island’s Real Estate climate, as well as tips and important things to remember when taking the property plunge.

1. No restrictions on foreign ownership
2. No property, income or capital gains taxes
3. High standard of living
4. Stable economy
5. Low crime rate
6. Top dive sites and beaches
7. Located a one hour flight from the United States

Its never not a good time to invest in the Cayman property market! Particularly for cash buyers who can avoid the currently high rate of interest on borrowing.

Here's an update on the latest market reports covering 2025 into 2026.

In 2025, the Cayman Islands property market recorded 852 completed transactions, a 2.74% decline compared to 2024. Despite this modest slowdown in activity, total sales value rose to US$1.074 billion, marking a 1.91% year-on-year increase. The average sale price also climbed to US$1.261 million, up 4.8% from US$1.203 million the previous year, pointing to continued strength at the higher end of the market.

A similar pattern was observed in new listings. While the number of properties listed fell by 2.8% to 1,387, their combined value increased to US$2.439 billion, up 4.2%. The average listing price rose to US$1.759 million, a 7.2% increase from US$1.641 million, suggesting a greater concentration of higher-value properties entering the market.

Inventory levels also tightened over the year. Average monthly listings dropped to 1,403, the lowest since 2021, representing a 21.2% decline from 1,782 in 2024.

As of January 2026, there were 1,692 active listings across the islands, with a total value of US$3.543 billion. Of these, 283 properties (16.7%) were pending, 222 (13.1%) were pending or conditional, and 1,187 (70.2%) remained available. Overall, the data points to a tightening supply environment alongside sustained buyer demand.

Cayman attracts a lot of interest from people overseas who review real estate websites, blogs and podcasts, demonstrating the allure of Cayman and properties that often sell without people even being here. Particularly on Seven Mile Beach, which is effectively a Cayman property market within the Cayman property market. The apartments, condominiums and limited amount of free standing homes on this luxury strip seldom, if at all, see a reduction in price.

The majority of purchases are from new individuals moving to Cayman and also from local investors. They are primarily moving here to work in family offices, banks and in legal services, but many are also coming to work in construction – there are two hotels currently being built, plus everywhere you look, new apartments and houses are going up. There are also the traditional vacation home buyers who, having visited as tourists, fall in love with Cayman and buy property.

There is a level playing field for prospective homeowners and investors. Banks welcome overseas clients and many offer great mortgage packages. Interest rates are quoted based on the CI and US dollar prime rates published in Cayman’s retail banks. Banks require a life insurance policy for mortgages. Your loan officer will advise you of the requirements. Standard mortgage terms are usually between 10 to 15 years and can be taken out in either CI or US dollars.

A one-off 7.5% stamp duty is payable on all real estate, land purchases and transfers, unless the property is valued at $2 million dollars or over and then the rate is 10%. This duty is paid by the buyer of the property on the purchase price or market value – whichever one is higher. If you’re building a house, provided that stamp duty is paid before construction begins, duty is payable only on the land value and not on the building. There are other charges, such as the one-off 1% duty on mortgages of CI$300,000 or less and 1.5% on mortgages of more than CI$300,000.

There are many real estate companies based in the Cayman Islands and an ample roster of professionals on hand to assist you with your search. As a visitor to the Islands, we strongly recommend that you select an experienced real estate professional to guide you.

Crighton Properties has served the Cayman Islands with real estate expertise since the early 1970s. They know the local market and can assist you with the sale or purchase of a property in the islands – whether it’s a home or condo, canal or beachfront property, or investment opportunity. Their professional and experienced sales team strive to provide clients with the highest standards of customer service, and are dedicated to serving clients needs with commitment and integrity.

When it comes to Cayman Islands real estate, they’re with you every step of the way!

Kass has accumulated three decades of outstanding performance in Cayman Islands real estate. Renowned as a seasoned "Lifestyle Specialist," she skillfully navigates clients through seamless property transactions. Kass has received prestigious awards such as the Circle of Legends and RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Engel & Volkers Cayman Islands understands that every property transaction tells a unique story, especially yours. With an extensive range of properties, whether you seek a beach cottage, a spacious waterfront estate, or a conveniently located condominium, their team of highly qualified CIREBA agents is dedicated to finding the perfect match for you.

Sloane Rhulen brings a unique and forward-thinking perspective to Grand Cayman's property market and she maximizes opportunities for outstanding investments. Boasting over 25 years of experience, Sloane has an exceptional track record in commercial sales and leasing, complemented by a profound understanding of the ever-evolving residential landscape of the Island.