Financial Preparation

• Determine your total investment budget (property + licensing fee + transaction costs + reserves)
• Establish a currency exchange strategy (TTD is relatively stable but plan for fluctuations)
• Research historical USD/TTD or CAD/TTD exchange rates to identify favorable timing
• Set up international wire transfer capabilities with your home bank
• Consider opening a local bank account (requires in-person visit and reference letters)
• Evaluate tax implications in both Trinidad and Tobago and your home country
• Budget for the Foreign Investment License fee (approximately 10% of property value)

Market Research

• Identify target regions based on investment goals (Trinidad for business, Tobago for tourism)
• Research neighborhood-specific price trends and rental yields
• Join online forums for Caribbean property investors
• Subscribe to local property listings (Trinidad and Tobago MLS, property portals)
• Analyze infrastructure projects and development zones
• Research tenant demographics in target areas (expatriate community, local professionals)
• Plan a preliminary market visit to evaluate areas firsthand

Professional Network Development

• Connect with attorneys specializing in foreign investment property transactions
• Identify real estate agents with experience in international client transactions
• Research property management companies in your target market
• Establish contact with currency exchange specialists for TTD conversion
• Find a tax accountant familiar with Trinidad and Tobago investment concerns
• Connect with licensed surveyors for property inspections
• Network with local business organizations (Chamber of Commerce, American Chamber)

Expert Tip: Trinidad and Tobago’s property market is significantly influenced by the annual Carnival season (February/March). Property viewings can be difficult to arrange during this period, and many businesses operate on reduced schedules. However, the weeks following Carnival often see increased market activity. Plan your property viewing trips for April-June or September-November for optimal market engagement and to avoid both the Carnival season and the hurricane season (June-November).

Recent Regulatory Update: As of January 2024, the Trinidad and Tobago government has begun modernizing the Foreign Investment License application process, with plans to create a more streamlined digital application system. While this should eventually reduce processing times, the transition has created some temporary delays. Currently, applications initiated through attorneys with established relationships with the Ministry of Finance tend to move more quickly through the system than those submitted directly by foreign individuals.

Banking Setup

• Local Bank Account Options:
  • Major local banks: Republic Bank, First Citizens Bank, Scotiabank Trinidad
  • International banks with local presence: Citibank (primarily commercial)
  • Account types: TTD accounts required for property transactions, USD accounts available
• Account Opening Requirements:
  • Passport and secondary identification
  • Proof of address (from home country)
  • Bank reference letters
  • Source of funds documentation
  • Local reference (sometimes required)
  • In-person visit typically required
  • Initial deposit (varies by bank, typically TTD 5,000-10,000)
• Banking Considerations:
  • Account opening process can take 2-4 weeks
  • Online banking available but may have limited international functionality
  • International wire transfers subject to exchange control regulations
  • TTD is not widely traded internationally, currency conversion might require planning

Financing Options

Most foreign investors use cash purchases, as local financing options are limited:

1. Local Mortgages for Foreign Buyers:
   • Availability: Very limited, primarily through Republic Bank and Scotiabank
   • Deposit Requirements: 50-60% for foreign buyers
   • Interest Rates: 7-9%, significantly higher than North American rates
   • Term: Typically limited to 15 years maximum
   • Requirements: Foreign Investment License must be approved first
   • Documentation: Extensive income verification, credit history, and asset documentation
2. Developer Financing:
   • Some developers offer payment plans for new construction
   • Typically require 30-50% down payment
   • Higher interest rates than bank financing
   • Usually shorter terms (5-10 years)
   • May be more accessible to foreign buyers
3. Home Country Financing:
   • Refinancing existing properties in North America
   • Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs)
   • International investor mortgages from specialized lenders
   • Portfolio loans against investment accounts
   • Generally more cost-effective than local financing

Currency Management

The Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD) has been relatively stable against the USD but requires management:

• Exchange Rate Considerations:
  • TTD is pegged to the USD at approximately 6.8 TTD to 1 USD with minor fluctuations
  • Exchange controls limit large currency movements without documentation
  • Major banks and authorized forex dealers offer the best rates
• Currency Services:
  • Local banks provide currency exchange at regulated rates
  • International services like Wise have limited functionality with TTD
  • Documentation required for large currency exchanges (source of funds)
• Income Repatriation:
  • Rental income can be converted to foreign currency through banks
  • Documentation of tax compliance required
  • Repatriation of capital from property sales requires Central Bank approval
  • Foreign Investment License facilitates legal repatriation of funds

Most transactions in Trinidad and Tobago’s real estate market occur in TTD. While the currency has been stable, foreign exchange availability can fluctuate based on the country’s economic conditions and energy sector performance. Maintaining accounts in both TTD and your home currency provides the most flexibility.

Property Search Resources

• Online Property Portals:
  • Trinidad Real Estate – Comprehensive listings
  • PropSearch – Portal with Trinidad and Tobago properties
  • Terra Caribbean – Regional agency with local listings
  • Century 21 Trinidad – International agency with local presence
• Real Estate Agents:
  • Local independent agencies (extensive market knowledge)
  • International agencies with local offices (Century 21, RE/MAX)
  • Specialized agencies focusing on expatriate and foreign buyers
  • Note: Agent licensing is not strictly regulated; referrals are important
• Local Media:
  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday real estate section
  • Trinidad Guardian property listings
  • Express classifieds
  • Local radio programs (occasionally feature property listings)
• Direct Research:
  • Development site hoardings in target areas
  • Local community bulletin boards
  • Chamber of Commerce and business networks
  • Expatriate community groups and forums

Property Viewing Trip Planning

Given the distance and license requirements, efficient property viewing trips are essential:

1. Pre-Trip Research:
   • Identify 8-12 potential properties before arrival
   • Schedule viewings 2-3 weeks in advance
   • Research neighborhoods thoroughly online
   • Arrange meetings with attorneys, agents, and bankers
   • Schedule initial Foreign Investment License consultation
2. Trip Logistics:
   • Plan for at least 7-10 days on the ground
   • Consider splitting time between Trinidad and Tobago if investing in both islands
   • Rent a car or arrange a driver (driving is on the left side)
   • Schedule viewings by neighborhood to maximize efficiency
   • Allow travel time between locations (traffic in Trinidad can be significant)
3. During Viewings:
   • Take detailed photos and videos
   • Document aspects requiring renovation or improvement
   • Inquire about boundary markers and survey certificates
   • Check mobile reception and internet connectivity
   • Note proximity to essential services and security features
   • Visit at different times of day if possible (security assessment)
4. Meet with professionals:
   • Schedule consultations with attorneys regarding the Foreign Investment License
   • Visit banks to understand account opening procedures
   • Meet potential property managers
   • Connect with construction professionals for renovation estimates if needed

Property Evaluation Criteria

Assess potential investments using these key criteria:

• Location Factors:
  • Proximity to business districts (for Trinidad properties)
  • Proximity to beaches and tourist areas (for Tobago properties)
  • Access to major roads and transportation
  • Neighborhood security considerations
  • Proximity to international schools (for expatriate rentals)
  • Infrastructure stability (water supply, electricity reliability)
• Building Quality:
  • Hurricane and earthquake resilience
  • Age and condition of the property
  • Construction quality and materials
  • Roofing condition (especially important in tropical climate)
  • Water management systems and drainage
  • Signs of termite damage (common in the Caribbean)
  • Security features (gates, fencing, alarm systems)
  • Air conditioning systems and energy efficiency
• Rental Potential:
  • Rental yield compared to area average
  • Target tenant market (expatriates, professionals, tourists)
  • Seasonal demand fluctuations (especially for Tobago properties)
  • Potential for value-add improvements
  • Competition in the immediate vicinity
  • Furnished vs. unfurnished rental potential
• Financial Considerations:
  • Price per square foot compared to area average
  • Property tax implications (currently under reform)
  • Insurance costs (hurricane, liability, theft)
  • Potential capital appreciation based on local development
  • Utility costs and reliability
  • Maintenance expenses in tropical climate

Expert Tip: In Trinidad and Tobago, property boundaries are sometimes informally defined or disputed, particularly in older neighborhoods and rural areas. When evaluating properties, request a copy of the cadastral survey plan and boundary markers identification. Consider commissioning a new survey if the existing one is more than 10 years old. This extra step, while adding initial cost, can prevent significant boundary disputes in the future. Additionally, verify access rights to the property, as some properties may have shared driveways or access roads that aren’t clearly documented in listing information.

Legal Due Diligence

• ✓
  Title Search: Verify ownership through Registrar General’s Department (30+ years of history)
• ✓
  Deed Review: Analyze property deed for restrictions, easements, and covenants
• ✓
  Survey Verification: Confirm boundaries with cadastral plans and physical markers
• ✓
  Planning Permission Verification: Check compliance with Town and Country Planning Division
• ✓
  Tax Clearance Certificate: Verify all property taxes are paid to date
• ✓
  Utility Bill Verification: Confirm all utility accounts are in good standing
• ✓
  Corporation Verification: Check for any municipal claims or notices
• ✓
  Environmental Assessment: Verify no environmental violations or hazards

Physical Due Diligence

• ✓
  Full Property Inspection: Commission detailed inspection by qualified local engineer
• ✓
  Structural Assessment: Evaluate foundation, load-bearing walls, and roof structure
• ✓
  Water Management Systems: Inspect drainage, gutters, and flood risk
• ✓
  Pest Inspection: Check for termites and other tropical pests
• ✓
  Electrical Systems: Verify wiring, panel, and capacity
• ✓
  Plumbing Verification: Test water pressure, check for leaks, inspect water tanks
• ✓
  HVAC Assessment: Evaluate air conditioning systems and ventilation
• ✓
  Hurricane Resilience: Assess storm shutters, roof anchoring, and structural reinforcement

Financial Due Diligence

• ✓
  Comparative Market Analysis: Verify price against comparable recent sales
• ✓
  Professional Valuation: Commission formal appraisal from local registered valuer
• ✓
  Rental Market Analysis: Research realistic rental expectations with property managers
• ✓
  Foreign Investment License Assessment: Evaluate likely approval odds and timeline
• ✓
  Insurance Cost Analysis: Obtain quotes for hurricane, liability, and property insurance
• ✓
  Tax Calculation: Determine Stamp Duty, license fees, and potential property tax
• ✓
  Running Cost Assessment: Calculate all ownership expenses (utilities, maintenance, security)
• ✓
  ROI Calculation: Develop detailed cash flow projections and return analysis

Expert Tip: Trinidad and Tobago’s property market often involves informal arrangements not documented in official records. When conducting due diligence, supplement official searches with local inquiries about the property’s history. Speak with neighbors about boundary agreements, shared access ways, flooding history, and security concerns. In rural areas especially, customary usage rights might exist that aren’t formally recorded. Additionally, given the country’s climate, pay special attention to water damage, mold, and termite evidence during property inspections – these are common issues that can significantly impact property value and maintenance costs.

Offer and Negotiation

1. Make an Offer: Typically done in writing through the real estate agent
2. Negotiation: Back-and-forth on price and terms, often with significant flexibility
3. Agreement in Principle: Verbal or email confirmation of agreed terms
4. Deposit: Initial good faith deposit (typically 10%) to secure the property

Unlike North America, offers in Trinidad and Tobago often involve more informal negotiation, with significant price flexibility expected. The initial deposit is typically held by the real estate agent or in an escrow account pending the Foreign Investment License approval, with provisions for refund if the license is denied.

Legal Process

1. Appoint Attorney: Engage a local attorney specializing in foreign real estate transactions
2. Foreign Investment License Application:
   • Submit application to Ministry of Finance
   • Pay application fee (approximately TTD 1,000)
   • Provide required documentation (property details, personal information, source of funds)
   • Include investment statement and purpose
   • Processing time: 3-6 months
3. Agreement for Sale:
   • Formal contract drafted by attorney
   • Includes condition for Foreign Investment License approval
   • Specifies deposit amount and completion timeline
   • Signed by both parties
4. Title Search and Due Diligence:
   • Comprehensive title search at Registrar General’s Department
   • Verification of planning permissions
   • Confirmation of tax compliance
   • Property survey verification
5. License Approval:
   • Notification from Ministry of Finance
   • Payment of license fee (approximately 10% of property value)
   • License issued and registered
6. Completion:
   • Final balance payment transferred
   • Stamp duty paid (typically 5-7% of purchase price)
   • Deed of Conveyance prepared and executed
   • Keys released to buyer
7. Registration:
   • Deed registered with Registrar General’s Department
   • Property tax registration completed
   • Utilities transferred to new owner

The timeframe from offer acceptance to completion typically ranges from 6-9 months for foreign buyers, primarily due to the Foreign Investment License processing time. Local purchases without this requirement can complete in 2-3 months.

Transaction Costs

Budget for these typical transaction expenses:

• Foreign Investment License Fee:
  • Approximately 10% of property purchase price
  • Non-negotiable government fee
  • Payable upon approval before completion
• Stamp Duty:
  • 5-7% based on property value
  • Typically paid by the buyer
  • Due at completion
• Legal Fees:
  • 1.5-3% of purchase price for attorney services
  • Higher for foreign buyers due to license application
• Registration Fees:
  • Approximately TTD 2,000-5,000
  • Varies based on property value
• Real Estate Agent Commission:
  • 3-5% of purchase price
  • Typically paid by seller but can be negotiated
• Property Valuation:
  • TTD 5,000-12,000 for professional appraisal
  • Required for Foreign Investment License
• Property Inspection:
  • TTD 3,000-8,000 for comprehensive inspection
  • Varies by property size and complexity
• Title Search Fees:
  • TTD 1,500-3,000
  • May be included in legal fees

Total transaction costs for foreign investors typically range from 20-25% of the purchase price, significantly higher than domestic buyers due to the Foreign Investment License fee. These costs should be factored into your overall investment calculations.

Expert Tip: When structuring your purchase agreement in Trinidad and Tobago, ensure it contains a clearly defined “subject to Foreign Investment License approval” clause with specific timelines and refund provisions. Include language that automatically extends the completion date if the license approval takes longer than anticipated (common occurrence). Consider negotiating a slightly lower initial deposit (5% instead of the standard 10%) until license approval is confirmed, with the balance of the deposit payable upon approval. This approach provides better protection against lengthy processing delays or unexpected license denials.

Administrative Tasks

• ✓
  Deed Registration: Ensure deed is properly registered with Registrar General’s Department
• ✓
  Property Tax Registration: Register with Valuation Division of Ministry of Finance
• ✓
  Utility Transfers: Establish accounts with T&TEC (electricity), WASA (water), and telecommunications providers
• ✓
  Local Corporation Registration: Register with relevant municipal corporation
• ✓
  Insurance Procurement: Secure property, hurricane, and liability insurance
• ✓
  Banking Arrangements: Set up automatic payments for utilities and property tax
• ✓
  Foreign Investment License Record: Maintain copy of license and any conditions

Property Maintenance Considerations

Trinidad and Tobago’s tropical climate creates unique maintenance requirements:

• Climate Adaptation:
  • Regular roof inspections (twice yearly, before and after rainy season)
  • Gutter and drainage system cleaning (quarterly)
  • Hurricane shutter maintenance
  • Air conditioning system servicing (quarterly)
  • Dehumidification management to prevent mold
• Pest Control:
  • Termite inspection and prevention (quarterly treatments)
  • Mosquito control measures
  • Garden and vegetation management to deter pests
• Security Considerations:
  • Alarm system monitoring and maintenance
  • Security lighting checks and upgrades
  • Perimeter inspection and fence maintenance
  • Security guard services (for higher-value properties)
• Utilities Management:
  • Water tank cleaning (twice yearly)
  • Generator maintenance if installed
  • Power surge protection systems
  • Internet and communication systems reliability

For foreign owners managing properties remotely, establishing comprehensive maintenance contracts with local service providers is essential to protect the property’s condition and value.

Record Keeping

Maintain comprehensive records for tax and legal purposes:

• Property Documents:
  • Deed of Conveyance and title documents
  • Foreign Investment License and conditions
  • Property survey and plans
  • Planning permissions and building approvals
  • Insurance policies and claims history
• Financial Records:
  • All property-related expenses with receipts
  • Property tax payments and assessments
  • Utility payments and history
  • Maintenance and renovation expenses
  • Rental income and tenant deposits
  • Currency exchange transactions
• Tax Documentation:
  • Annual property tax returns
  • Rental income tax declarations
  • Capital improvements documentation
  • Tax clearance certificates
• Tenant Information (if applicable):
  • Lease agreements and amendments
  • Tenant identification and references
  • Property condition reports
  • Maintenance requests and resolutions
  • Security deposit records

Trinidad and Tobago authorities may request documentation during property tax reassessments or Foreign Investment License reviews. Maintaining organized records, both digitally and in hard copy, is essential for compliance and smooth property management.

Expert Tip: Trinidad and Tobago has an inconsistent postal delivery system, making it challenging to receive important property-related communications from government departments. Consider appointing a local document service or your attorney as a registered agent for official correspondence. Alternatively, establish a digital mail scanning service with a reliable local address. Some property management companies offer mail handling as part of their services. This ensures you don’t miss critical notices regarding property tax assessments, utility issues, or regulatory changes that might affect your property rights or obligations.

Trinidad and Tobago Tax Obligations

• Stamp Duty:
  • 5-7% of property purchase price
  • Payable at time of purchase
  • Collected by the Board of Inland Revenue
  • Typically paid by the buyer unless negotiated otherwise
• Property Tax:
  • Currently under reform with new rates being implemented
  • Based on Annual Rental Value (ARV)
  • Residential rates: 3% of ARV
  • Commercial rates: 5% of ARV
  • Annual filing required
• Rental Income Tax:
  • Standard income tax rates apply (25-30% depending on amount)
  • Annual tax return filing required
  • Allowable deductions include property management fees, maintenance, insurance
  • Non-resident withholding tax of 15% may apply
• Capital Gains Tax:
  • Currently no capital gains tax in Trinidad and Tobago
  • Profits from property sales are not taxed
  • However, property dealing businesses may be taxed on profits as income
• Value Added Tax (VAT):
  • 12.5% VAT applies to commercial property rentals above threshold
  • Residential rentals are generally VAT exempt
  • Registration required if commercial rental income exceeds TTD 500,000 annually
• Business Levy:
  • 0.6% of gross sales/receipts for property held in company structure
  • Applies if rental business gross exceeds TTD 360,000 annually
  • Quarterly filing and payment

Home Country Tax Obligations

Trinidad and Tobago has tax treaties with both the United States and Canada, which help prevent double taxation. However, the interaction between tax systems is complex and requires professional guidance from tax advisors familiar with both jurisdictions.

Tax Planning Strategies

• Entity Structure: Evaluate whether personal ownership, local company, or other structures optimize tax position
• Expense Documentation: Maintain meticulous records of all allowable expenses to maximize deductions
• Property Improvements: Document all capital expenditures which reduce taxable rental income
• Tax Treaty Benefits: Utilize provisions in tax treaties to avoid double taxation
• Timing of Income Recognition: Consider timing of rental payments and expense recognition
• VAT Registration: Evaluate benefits of voluntary VAT registration for commercial properties
• Local Tax Representation: Engage qualified local tax professionals for compliance
• Exchange Rate Planning: Consider tax implications of currency fluctuations

Tax rules in Trinidad and Tobago are subject to change, with ongoing property tax reform being a significant factor. Regular consultations with tax professionals in both Trinidad and your home country are essential to ensure continued compliance and optimal structuring.

Expert Tip: Trinidad and Tobago’s Property Tax system has been undergoing significant reform over the past few years, with a move toward market-value based assessments. This transition has created some uncertainty around property tax obligations. Ensure you register your property with the Valuation Division promptly after purchase and maintain communication with them regarding assessment notices. Consider setting aside a reserve fund equivalent to 1-2% of your property’s value annually to account for potential property tax increases as the new system is fully implemented. This precautionary approach will help avoid cash flow challenges if assessments come in higher than historical rates.

Selecting a Property Manager

Evaluate potential property managers using these criteria:

• Experience with Foreign Investors:
  • Track record managing properties for overseas owners
  • Experience with international banking and transfers
  • Digital reporting and communication systems
• Professional Qualifications:
  • Membership in Trinidad and Tobago Association of Real Estate Agents
  • Professional indemnity insurance
  • Business licenses and credentials
• Local Knowledge:
  • Established presence in your property’s neighborhood
  • Understanding of local rental market conditions
  • Relationships with reliable maintenance providers
• Communication Systems:
  • Regular reporting protocols
  • Online portal for document access
  • Responsiveness to international time zones
  • Emergency notification procedures
• Services Offered:
  • Comprehensive range of services needed by foreign owners
  • Mail and package handling
  • Government notice monitoring
  • Utility management and bill payment
• References and Track Record:
  • Testimonials from other foreign owners
  • Years in business
  • Size of portfolio under management
  • Staff qualifications and turnover

Management Agreement Essentials

Ensure your property management contract includes these key elements:

• Scope of Services: Detailed description of all included services and exclusions
• Fee Structure: Clear explanation of all management fees, commissions, and additional charges
• Contract Term: Duration of agreement and notice periods for termination
• Reporting Schedule: Frequency and format of financial and property condition reports
• Maintenance Authority: Spending limits for repairs without prior approval
• Tenant Selection Criteria: Standards for approving potential tenants
• Rent Collection Procedures: Methods, timing, and handling of arrears
• Security Deposits: Management and accounting of tenant deposits
• Insurance Requirements: Coverage expectations and liability boundaries
• Emergency Protocols: Procedures for handling various emergency situations
• Dispute Resolution: Process for resolving disagreements between owner and manager
• Property Access: Conditions under which the owner can access the property

The property management sector in Trinidad and Tobago is not heavily regulated, making thorough contract review and due diligence essential. Consider having your attorney review the management agreement before signing.

Expert Tip: Property management in Trinidad and Tobago often involves informal practices not common in North America. When interviewing potential property managers, specifically ask about their protocols for utility outages (common during the rainy season), how they handle security concerns, and their process for screening domestic staff if applicable. For higher-value properties, consider managers who offer “concierge” services that can maintain the property during vacant periods and prepare it for your arrival. Also inquire about their relationships with local tradespeople, as quality contractors can be difficult to find and reliable managers typically maintain a network of vetted service providers.

Exit Options

Sale Process

When selling your Trinidad and Tobago property:

1. Pre-Sale Preparation:
   • Property repairs and cosmetic improvements
   • Professional photography and marketing materials
   • Title verification and document preparation
   • Tax compliance confirmation
   • Foreign Investment License review for any conditions
2. Agent Selection:
   • Experience with properties in your price range
   • Marketing strategy for local and international buyers
   • Commission structure (typically 3-5%)
   • Track record of successful sales
3. Pricing Strategy:
   • Current comparative market analysis
   • Professional valuation
   • Consider price points to attract different buyer pools
   • Factor in Trinidad and Tobago currency conversion
4. Marketing Period:
   • Local newspaper and property website listings
   • International exposure for higher-value properties
   • Open houses and private showings
   • Expatriate and corporate network marketing
5. Negotiation and Sale Agreement:
   • Offer negotiation
   • Deposit collection (typically 10%)
   • Sale agreement preparation
   • Conditions regarding Foreign Investment License (for foreign buyers)
6. Completion Process:
   • Buyer due diligence period
   • Foreign Investment License application (if applicable)
   • Deed preparation
   • Final payment
   • Property transfer
7. Fund Repatriation:
   • Central Bank notification
   • Currency conversion
   • International wire transfer
   • Tax clearance certificates

The selling process typically takes 3-9 months, with foreign buyers requiring additional time for their Foreign Investment License approval. Market conditions can significantly impact this timeline, particularly for higher-value properties.

Market Exit Timing Considerations

Several factors should influence your exit timing decision:

• Energy Sector Performance: Trinidad and Tobago’s property market closely correlates with energy sector performance, with rising oil and gas prices often preceding property value increases
• Economic Diversification Progress: Government initiatives to reduce energy dependence can create new growth areas and investment opportunities
• Infrastructure Developments: Major infrastructure projects can significantly impact property values in specific regions
• Political Cycle: Elections and changes in government policy can influence market sentiment and foreign investment regulations
• Currency Exchange Rates: TTD/USD or TTD/CAD fluctuations affect repatriated returns
• Seasonal Factors: January-April typically sees higher buying activity from international investors
• Tax Considerations: Changes in property tax regimes or income tax treatments
• Foreign Investment Policy: Potential regulatory changes affecting non-resident owners

Trinidad and Tobago’s property market has historically moved more slowly than those in North America, with longer holding periods typically providing better returns. The most successful investors establish clear performance benchmarks and regularly evaluate their Trinidad and Tobago property investments against both local and global alternatives.

Expert Tip: When planning your exit strategy in Trinidad and Tobago, consider the potential buyer pool carefully. Properties under TTD 3 million ($450,000 USD) typically attract a larger local buyer market, while higher-value properties often require international or expatriate buyers. This distinction significantly impacts liquidity and selling timelines. For properties likely to attract foreign buyers, factor in their need to obtain a Foreign Investment License (3-6 months) when estimating your selling timeline. Consider timing your sale during Trinidad’s peak foreign visitor season (January-March) to maximize exposure to potential international buyers who may be visiting the country.