TL;DR Choosing the right architect is the single most important decision in building a custom home on Sint Maarten. Expect architectural fees of roughly 8 to 15 percent of construction cost, a design process of three to nine months, and a clear emphasis on hurricane-resilient, climate-smart design. Prioritize licensed professionals with a strong local portfolio,...
Category: Moving to the Caribbean
Sint Maarten Pension and Social Security Considerations
TL;DR US citizens can generally receive Social Security overseas while living in Sint Maarten, with payments deposited to a US or local bank, and Canadians can usually collect CPP and OAS abroad too. Sint Maarten does not tax foreign-source pension income for most residents, though your home country may still tax it, so coordination matters....
Retiring in Sint Maarten: A Realistic Financial Plan
TL;DR To retire to Sint Maarten comfortably, most North American couples should plan for a monthly budget of roughly $3,500 to $6,000, depending on lifestyle and whether you own or rent. Buying a modest condo runs from about $250,000, while quality two-bedroom homes start near $400,000. Factor in private healthcare (often $200 to $500 per...
What Language do they speak on St. Maarten / St. Martin?
Many ask this question, so here is the answer! We are an incredibly diverse and multi-cultural island; the best way to be! Information from Wikipedia/Jan/2020 Explore more st maarten real estate opportunities across the island with Island Dreams Realty.
Top 10 Mistakes when Buying a Home in the Caribbean
Here is a great article about cautions and advice when buying in the Caribbean. Is it your dream to own a piece of paradise? A lot of people do, and only a small percentage of people actually end up in their dream home. Buying a home in the Caribbean differs from what you might be...
St. Maarten Pricing Chart by Community
Looking for your next home or investment? Browse the latest sint maarten real estate listings on Island Dreams Realty.
Reasons for buying Beach front Real estate in the Caribbean
Sint Maarten / Saint Martin is not just an amazing tourist destination… it is the perfect place to retire or spend the cold months of the year, or even a few extra months after the snow is gone. This is why beach front real estate Caribbean is so special. You can spend as little as...
10 Tips for Buying Property in the Caribbean
Many people dream of owning a slice of paradise and buying property in the Caribbean. Whether it is for retirement living, vacation destination or an income earner, here are ten tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable experience of buying in the Caribbean…. and we are speaking from first hand experience – so...
Sint Maarten Information Package from your “Island Dreams” team
Buyer Loyalty We take the responsibility of finding you the right home very Seriously. In response to our commitment of time, effort and loyalty to you, we ask your commitment of loyalty to us. This includes viewing all homes exclusively with us, and allowing us the opportunity to make the “first contact” with owners of...

