On Bonaire, land can either be freehold or long lease land. Slightly less than half of the island’s habitable area consists of long lease land, making it an important form of land tenure. Long lease land is generally granted by the government for a period of 60 years, after which an extension can be requested. Both the granting and extension of a long lease are handled through a notary. The long leaseholder pays an annual ground rent. For a lot of 1,000 m², you should expect an annual ground rent of approximately US$ 750. In addition, you pay annual land tax or real estate tax, just as you would with freehold land.
How can you obtain a long lease lot on Bonaire?
Long lease land is only granted to adult residents of Bonaire who do not own any other real estate. To apply for a long lease lot for residential construction, you must complete the application form below and submit it to the Directorate of Spatial Planning & Development, together with:
1. Copy of a valid identification document;
2. Proof of residence (Civil Affairs Department);
3. Proof of payment of the US$ 56 application fee (Civil Affairs Department);
4. Copy of a recent payslip.
There is a long waiting list for long lease lots, and availability is limited. Different conditions apply to commercial lots. More information can be found on the website of the Public Entity Bonaire (OLB).
How to apply for long lease land
Application form for long lease land
Selling a property on long lease land
Since June 2020, stricter requirements have applied to the transfer of long lease land. Approval must be obtained before a property on long lease land can be transferred to a new owner. As part of this process, the authorities verify whether the building was constructed in accordance with the building permit. It is also important that the building is wind- and watertight. Without this approval, the property cannot be transferred. Keep in mind that it may take 2 to 3 months for approval to be granted.
Example of approval for the sale of a property on long lease land
Sample letter requesting approval for the sale of long lease property
What if you disagree with the long lease invoice?
You can submit a complaint to the Finance Department of the Public Entity Bonaire (OLB). You can submit your complaint in writing, including any supporting documents, at the OLB service desk (Kaya Grandi 30) or by email at belasting-olb@bonairegov.com.
Harbourtown Real Estate can help you
If you choose Harbourtown Real Estate to sell your property, we will handle the application for approval to sell as part of our service. If approval has not yet been granted, we will include obtaining this approval as a contingency in the purchase agreement (read more about contingencies).
Are you selling your property yourself, or would you like to apply for approval in advance? Harbourtown Real Estate can handle the application for you, or you can apply yourself using our free sample letter. Contact us at info@harbourtownbonaire.com for more information.
Real estate agent on Bonaire since 1989
Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home on Bonaire, searching for a building lot or an oceanfront villa, or want to rent or rent out a property, Harbourtown Real Estate can help with virtually all your real estate needs. Our team is also here to assist you with appraisals, property valuations, buyer representation and commercial real estate.
Harbourtown Real Estate has been active as a real estate agency on Bonaire since 1989. With decades of experience, we know the local real estate market inside and out. We combine that knowledge with personal service, clear communication and professional guidance every step of the way.
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Kaya L.D. Gerharts 20, Kralendijk
Bonaire - Dutch Caribbean
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