Developers of a host of the high-end properties in Bahamas look to Higgs & Johnson for advice on drafting and coordinating documentation for land transformation and the completion of their projects. The firm's real estate department is well versed in negotiations with the Bahamian government and government ministries and authorities with regarding acquisitions, commercial activities, tax, licencing and all related regulatory matters. Heading the team are Stephen Melvin, who focuses on foreign direct investment and is counsel of choice to a number of numerous international and Bahamian property developers; and more junior partner Ja’Ann Major, who has a broad practice across the real estate space. Sterling Cooke is a transactional lawyer to note, with Lori Nelson and Sandra Lightbourn being additional key figures. Renai Martin stands out as one of the top young lawyers in the market.

Spanning a wide range of commercial and private property matters, including sale and purchase of cays and islands, hotels and resorts, private residences, vacation homes and investment properties, the real estate practice at McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes is a strong choice for transactional, development and regulatory issues. Kimberley Rolle co-chairs the group and acts on all aspects of the sale and acquisition of property. Alongside her leading the team are Alexander Christie, noted for planning asset protection structures and drafting commercial instruments; and Timothy Eneas KC, who focuses his practice on real estate development, title issues, and property rights. Gia Sands is another standout advisor in the team, receiving client praise for her 'expertise, engagement, humanity and commitment'.