Top Local Real Estate Agencies in Vanuatu

Published on October 1, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Vanuatu, a paradise archipelago in the South Pacific, is attracting an increasing number of international real estate investors. With its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic living environment, this country offers excellent opportunities to purchase property or invest in real estate. However, navigating the local real estate market can be complex for foreigners. That’s why it’s crucial to rely on the expertise of reliable local real estate agencies. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the best agencies in Vanuatu, their strengths and weaknesses, along with advice for choosing the right partner for your real estate project.

Key Players in the Vanuatu Real Estate Market

The real estate sector in Vanuatu is dominated by a few well-established agencies, offering a range of services from sales to rentals, including property management. Here’s an overview of the main agencies operating in the country:

1. First National Real Estate Vanuatu

First National is one of the most reputable agencies in Vanuatu, with a strong presence on the main island of Efate and the capital Port Vila.

• Extensive property portfolio, from studios to luxury estates
• Multilingual team (English, French, Bislama)
• Expertise in rental investment and property management
• International network through the First National franchise

• Commission fees among the highest in the market (approximately 5-7%)
• Less presence on secondary islands

2. Vanuatu Real Estate

An independent local agency, Vanuatu Real Estate has built a solid reputation among expatriates and foreign investors.

• Excellent knowledge of the local market and administrative procedures
• Specialization in high-end properties and buildable land
• Personalized service and end-to-end transaction follow-up

• More limited property catalog than major brands
• Sometimes longer response times

3. Pacific Property

This agency stands out for its specialization in luxury real estate and development projects.

• Exclusive portfolio of luxury villas and residences
• Expertise in real estate project development and investments
• Network of experts (lawyers, architects, etc.) for comprehensive support

• Limited offerings for mid-range budgets
• High service fees

4. Island Property

A family-owned agency established in Vanuatu for over 20 years, Island Property stands out for its deep knowledge of the local market.

• Excellent coverage of secondary islands (Espiritu Santo, Tanna)
• Competitive rates and possible negotiation on commissions
• Responsive and personalized customer service

• Fewer choices for high-end properties
• Less developed website and digital tools compared to competitors

How to Find the Perfect Match: Choosing the Ideal Real Estate Agency in Vanuatu

Choosing the right real estate agency is crucial for successfully completing your project in Vanuatu. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

1. Clearly Define Your Needs and Objectives

Before contacting agencies, take time to think about your expectations. Are you looking for a vacation home, a rental investment, or land for a development project? Your budget and desired location are also important criteria to define upfront.

2. Conduct Online Research and Check Reviews

Start by exploring the websites of the agencies mentioned above. Evaluate the quality of their property portfolio, the clarity of information provided, and their presence on social media. Don’t hesitate to check customer reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Expatistan to get an idea of the agency’s reputation.

3. Verify Accreditations and Affiliations

In Vanuatu, there is no official regulatory body for real estate agents yet. However, some agencies are members of international professional associations like FIABCI (International Real Estate Federation) or NAR (National Association of Realtors). These affiliations are a guarantee of professionalism and ethics.

4. Test Responsiveness and Professionalism

Send inquiries to several agencies and evaluate their response time, the quality of information provided, and their ability to understand your needs. A good real estate agent should be attentive, responsive, and able to provide personalized advice.

5. Meet Agents in Person If Possible

If you’re already in Vanuatu, don’t hesitate to schedule appointments with several agencies. This will allow you to gauge their professionalism, their knowledge of the local market, and their ability to communicate effectively in your language.

6. Compare Services and Fees

Request detailed quotes from each agency, clearly specifying all included services (property search, negotiation, legal assistance, etc.). Compare not only commissions but also the value added by each agency.

Understanding Agency Fees: What You Need to Know About Real Estate Management in Vanuatu

Understanding the structure of agency fees is essential for properly budgeting your real estate project in Vanuatu. Here’s an overview of the main fees to consider:

Sales Commission Fees

In Vanuatu, real estate agency commissions for property sales typically range between 3% and 7% of the sale price. This rate can vary depending on several factors:

• Property value (high-end properties often have lower commission rates)
• Transaction complexity (sale to a foreigner, condominium property, etc.)
• Services included (marketing, negotiation, legal assistance)

It’s important to note that these fees are generally the seller’s responsibility but can sometimes be negotiated between buyer and seller.

Rental Management Fees

For investors looking to rent out their property, agencies offer rental management services. The associated fees are typically broken down as follows:

• Leasing commission: between 50% and 100% of one month’s rent
• Monthly management fees: 8% to 15% of collected rent
• Additional fees for specific services (property inspections, maintenance management, etc.)

Property Finder Fees

Some agencies offer “property finder” services for buyers, with fees ranging from 1% to 3% of the purchase price. These fees can sometimes be deducted from the sales commission if you purchase through them.

Legal and Administrative Fees

Although not directly related to agencies, it’s important to budget for the following fees:

• Notary fees: approximately 1% to 2% of purchase price
• Registration fees: 5% of property value for foreigners
• Company formation fees (if purchasing through a local structure): approximately $2,000 USD

Fee Negotiation

In Vanuatu, it’s common to negotiate agency fees, especially for significant transactions. Don’t hesitate to ask for commission reductions or the inclusion of additional services, particularly if you’re considering a long-term relationship with the agency (multiple purchases, rental management, etc.).

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Real Estate Project in Vanuatu

Investing in real estate in Vanuatu can be a rewarding experience, both financially and personally. However, navigating this exotic market requires the expertise of a reliable and competent real estate agency. By taking the time to compare different options, evaluate the services offered, and negotiate fees, you’ll maximize your chances of success.

Remember that choosing your real estate agency in Vanuatu goes beyond simple financial considerations. The quality of the relationship, deep knowledge of the local market, and ability to guide you through administrative and legal complexities are invaluable assets. A good agency will be your partner throughout your real estate adventure in this Pacific paradise.

Finally, keep in mind that the Vanuatu real estate market, while promising, has its own challenges and particularities. Thorough due diligence, combined with the expert advice of an experienced agency, will allow you to realize your project under the best conditions.