How to Buy Land in Haiti
Land is a finite resource. There’s only so much of it, and no way to create more. Owning land is a powerful asset anywhere in the world, but it holds special meaning for Haitians across the diaspora. Owning land in Haiti is not just about building generational wealth; it’s about continuing heritage and preserving legacy.
After over three years of living and working in Haiti, and owning land myself, I’m often asked how to buy land here. It’s a simple process, but one that can feel surprisingly complex if you’re unfamiliar with how things work on the ground. That’s why I wrote this blog.
In this post, you’ll learn how to buy land in Haiti.
The Real Estate Process in Haiti
It’s important to know that real estate is not sold in Haiti the same way it is in the United States through a real estate agent.
In the U.S., it’s common to reach out to a real estate agent who walks you through the buying process, from searching for land or property, negotiating the price, handling paperwork, and more. In Haiti, however, the process is less centralized.
While the registration of land purchases is regulated (handled by a notaire to make the sale official and issue a land title), there’s no formal system for listing or reporting land for sale, and no requirement to work through an agent. That means buying and selling land often happens through direct connections, local professionals, and word of mouth. It can be as simple as a legal landowner—who holds all the official documents—choosing to sell to a buyer who is legally eligible to purchase land.
This sale and negotiation can happen directly between the two parties and will include the help of an arpenteur (land surveyor) and a notaire, who is responsible for registering the sale.
Every other professional involved—such as a lawyer, a courtier (a local land broker or property finder), or a real estate company—is optional. Sellers may use them to help market the land, and buyers might seek their help in finding land, but these professionals don’t have special access or a national database. They simply work within their networks and regions.
Because of that, it’s crucial that you know what you’re looking for. Without a centralized listing system, it’s hard for someone to help you find land if you can’t give them clear direction.
Typically, courtiers, real estate professionals, and lawyers operate within specific areas. If you’re not sure what you want, they’ll offer you what they have access to. That’s perfectly fine if you’re open, but if you want something specific, you’ll need to come prepared with some key details.
How to Buy Land
Buying land is simple, so let’s go through how to do that.
1. Visit Haiti and Explore the Country
The first thing to do when wanting to buy land in Haiti is to visit Haiti. During your visit, get to know the country and the different areas. Each area is distinct with its own characteristics.
As you explore different areas and communities, ask yourself:
Is this land I want for the short term or long term?
Will I use this land for commercial or residential use?
Do I want to experience a lively city, or do I want a more country, rural lifestyle?
Do I want to be near the water, or does that not matter?
Do I want to enjoy nature through walking or hiking?
Or do I need access to roads because I prefer to drive?
So many questions, but they’re all important for helping you select what you really need. Remember, you’re buying land in the Caribbean, so you might as well get what you dream of.
2. Let People Know You’re Looking
Once you’ve narrowed down what you’re interested in, start letting people know.
Consult with locals and professionals such as friends, family, real estate professionals, and more.
Let them know that you’re interested in buying land in this area.
3. Visit the Land
As you start getting offers to look at land, go visit them.
Don’t go alone, but instead with trusted locals.
Observe the area, ask questions, and get a feel for the land.
4. Select a Notaire and Arpenteur
Once you’ve narrowed some options down:
Select your own Notaire (notary) and Arpenteur (land surveyor).
Do not use the seller’s notaire or arpenteur.
Share the details of the land you’re interested in and ask them to start researching to confirm the legal owner is the one selling it to you.
5. Work With a Lawyer (Optional but Smart)
For extra care, consider working with a lawyer.
They can be another pair of eyes to help ensure everything is being done legally and correctly.
6. Make an Offer and Start the Legal Process
Once you’ve made an offer on a piece of land:
Have your arpenteur survey the land in front of both you and the seller so there’s no confusion.
Then, handle the details of the sale with your notaire.
7. Never Pay Directly
Do not give the seller, or anyone representing them, any money directly.
All payments must go through the Notaire, and you should receive an official receipt for every payment.
8. Wait for Research and Land History to Be Completed
Once the land research is complete and your notaire has received the land survey and started working on the paperwork, you’re on the right track and soon to be a landowner.
Who Is Eligible to Buy Land
A Haitian citizen is eligible to buy land in Haiti.
You are considered a Haitian citizen if:
You were born in Haiti to Haitian parents, or
You were born abroad to Haitian parents (citizenship by blood)
Before you buy land, you’ll want to get all of your Haitian documents in order to prove your Haitian citizenship. This can be done either in Haiti or abroad, but there are specific documents you will need, such as the birth certificate of your Haitian parent.
Final Thoughts
I know this process may seem like a lot, but with intention, caution, and the right support, buying land in Haiti is completely possible. Whether you’re just getting started or already have land in mind, the key is moving forward with clarity and professionalism.
If you’re serious about owning land in Haiti and want personalized guidance, I’d love to help you.
Book a one-on-one consulting call so we can talk through your goals, answer your questions, and map out your next steps together.
Also sign up for my email list to get updates on future blog posts like this, tips on land ownership, and helpful insights for building your dream in Haiti.
Let’s make it happen with wisdom and intention.
