Closing costs are the fees on top of the purchase price that make a sale legal and final. On the Dutch side of Sint Maarten they are refreshingly predictable. Here is the complete breakdown so there are no surprises at the notary’s office.
Quick answer: Budget about 6-7% of the purchase price for closing costs on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten: roughly 4% transfer tax, 1-2% notary fees, and about 1% more for a mortgage deed if you finance. The seller pays the agent commission, so buyers add nothing for representation.
The line-by-line breakdown
| Item | Typical cost | Paid by |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer tax | ~4% of price | Buyer |
| Notary fees | ~1-2% of price | Buyer |
| Mortgage deed (if financing) | ~1% of loan | Buyer |
| Agent commission | by agreement | Seller |
| Total (cash purchase) | ~6-7% of price | Buyer |
What the notary does for those fees
On the Dutch side a civil-law notary handles the transaction, filling the role a closing attorney does in the United States. The notary holds funds in escrow, verifies clean title, confirms there are no liens, prepares and registers the new deed, and disburses funds to the seller. Learn more in our closing-process guide.
How Sint Maarten compares
At 6-7%, Dutch-side closing costs are among the most efficient in the Caribbean. The French side runs 10-19%, and markets like Barbados or the Bahamas can be higher once stamp duties are added. Combined with no annual property tax and no capital gains tax on the Dutch side, total holding costs stay low.
Frequently asked questions
What are closing costs in Sint Maarten?
On the Dutch side, roughly 6-7% of the purchase price: about 4% transfer tax, 1-2% notary fees, and about 1% for a mortgage deed if you finance.
Do buyers pay agent commission in Sint Maarten?
No. The seller customarily pays the agent commission, so buyers pay nothing to be represented by an agent.
Can I close remotely if I am not on the island?
Yes. The notary can arrange a power of attorney so you can complete the purchase without being physically present.
Want a closing-cost estimate for a specific home? Browse properties for sale, weigh cash versus financing, or contact Island Dream Realty.
