Over the last 20 years, we have seen a real shift in both the way developers build, and the way people live in the Caribbean. Through our work at One Caribbean Estates, we have facilitated approximately US $2 billion in gross sales. This experience has given us a front-row seat to some of the most significant developments in this market. The growing demand for faster delivery has resulted in construction timelines that are now significantly reduced to meet buyer expectations.
Today’s buyers also expect smart home integration as standard, and sustainability as no longer optional, but essential. The way clients use their properties has also evolved. It is no longer just about an exceptional beachfront location; now developers are integrating private gyms, home offices, Padel courts, spas, even pickleball courts, which are considered indispensable by many buyers.
Governments are also playing their part. The pandemic accelerated the introduction of residency- by-investment schemes and digital nomad visas, as with the Barbados’ Welcome Stamp initiative. These policies not only brought a new wave of long-stay visitors but also catalysed permanent relocation and investment from global markets including the USA, Canada, and the UK. However, the appeal goes beyond tax efficiency, what truly resonates with clients, is a lifestyle that balances financial advantages with safety, family values, and cultural richness, which is encapsulated in Barbados.
In practice, this means that when HNWIs consider relocating, they are looking at much more than just the financial figures. They also want connectivity, security, and a sense of community. Developers who integrate these qualities into their projects, alongside world-class design and services, are seeing the strongest demand.
As we look ahead, I believe this trend will only accelerate. The ultra-wealthy are younger, more mobile, and more discerning. They are no longer locking up their high-end homes when they leave, instead many are turning to short-term rentals to capitalise on their assets. Developers and governments who can align tax advantages with lifestyle, community, and sustainability will be best placed to attract this global audience.
About the Author
Chris Parra is President and CEO of One Caribbean Estates, a leading luxury real estate agency specialising in prime properties across the Caribbean. With 25 years of experience, he has advised global investors and UHNWIs on acquisitions and development opportunities in some of the world’s most desirable destinations.