ARTICLES AND RESOURCES
Read expert articles by Dan Merriam sharing his insights on entrepreneurship, real estate investing, investment migration, and living and investing internationally.
Citizenship by Real Estate Investment is BOOMING — Is It Right for You?
In today’s interconnected world, the value of holding dual citizenship has never been greater. With recent changes in 2024 to Caribbean citizenship programs, including increased donation minimums, citizenship by real estate investment is now more appealing than ever. This path allows you to secure a second passport by purchasing property, offering not just a place to call home but also access to financial, lifestyle, and mobility benefits.
After going through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program a few years ago, I’m proud to call myself a dual citizen of Canada and Antigua and Barbuda. Having experienced the process firsthand, I know how life-changing it can be. The CARICOM passport, similar to the European Union passport, grants the right to live and work across most Caribbean islands, which is a game-changer for anyone seeking flexibility and new opportunities. Beyond residency, the Caribbean offers compelling economic and tax advantages, making it an ideal option for those looking to optimize their global lifestyle.
The Future of Working Remotely in the Caribbean: Airbnb Hotels and Coliving Spaces
Remote work has transformed the way that people live and work—and I’ve been embracing this lifestyle since 2017, traveling continuously across 50+ countries and staying in nearly 100 different Airbnb hotels, coliving spaces, hostels, and serviced apartments. From bustling urban hubs to quiet seaside escapes, I’ve experienced it all. But over the years, one thing has become crystal clear: the Caribbean is missing out on this opportunity.
Despite its world-class beauty and vibrant culture, the Caribbean lacks the infrastructure for professionals and families working remotely—spaces like Airbnb hotels, flexible coliving setups, and long-stay accommodations.
How Nikki Beach Antigua Will Transform Jolly Beach
Over the past few years living in the Caribbean, I've seen a lot of development projects start with big promises, only to fizzle out due to a mix of financing issues, legal disputes, natural disasters, and economic crises. Whether it was real estate developers unable to secure funding, or setbacks from hurricanes, it's been tough to watch many of these projects fail to take off. For those of us invested in the Antigua real estate market, it’s felt like we've been waiting for the right moment—a tipping point that could spark lasting change. But I believe the Nikki Beach Antigua Resort and Branded Residences is different
Why I Joined Sotheby’s International Realty in the Caribbean
When I first relocated to the Caribbean, I seriously considered starting my own independent real estate brand or purchasing a franchise. After evaluating my options, it became obvious that Sotheby’s International Realty was the strongest player in the Caribbean. In some markets, their lead over competitors was significant. From my conversations, it was clear that Sotheby’s Caribbean real estate agents had unmatched local knowledge and professionalism.
Caribbean Islands for Sale: Invest in Your Private Paradise
Over the years, I’ve found myself captivated by owning a private island—this is a big life goal I have as a real estate investor. I envision a place in the British Virgin Islands or the Bahamas that could become a personal retreat with family and friends. The dream of having a private island isn’t just a fantasy reserved for the ultra-wealthy; it’s becoming more attainable, and the possibilities are as vast as the ocean. While freehold Caribbean islands for sale are relatively rare outside the Bahamas and a few other jurisdictions in the Caribbean, there are various private options for those seeking their own private escape.
Building My First Startup: Excitement, Pain, and Failing Foward
Building my first startup, ICAREUM, was one of the most ambitious projects I had ever undertaken. As a PropTech startup, it was designed to revolutionize the real estate industry by offering a cloud-based 3D sales enablement platform for commercial leasing and pre-construction developments. After 18 months, over US$500,000 invested, and countless challenges, ICAREUM became one of the worst startup failures in my career. However, as with all failures, the experience provided invaluable lessons that have shaped me into a better entrepreneur and investor.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Thailand?
When I first visited Thailand in 2017 on a 5 month working trip through Southeast Asia, I was captivated by its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and the undeniable charm of its people. Like many others, I seriously considered relocating to this tax-friendly paradise. The allure of Thailand’s beautiful beaches, its reputation for safety, and the potential to invest in an emerging real estate market were all appealing. But I kept researching the question, “Can foreigners buy property in Thailand”?
The Biggest Ponzi Schemes in the Caribbean
In my years of living and investing in the Caribbean, I've encountered stories of fraud and deception that are almost too wild to believe. Coming from a country like Canada, where these situations are rare, and the real estate and financial services sectors are tightly regulated, it’s taken time to understand why these schemes have been successful. We all appreciate that the allure of high returns can often cloud our judgment. This often leads individuals and investor groups to make bad decisions and take uncalculated risks. In this article, I explore the biggest Ponzi schemes in the Caribbean and the impact that they have had on the reputation and economic success of the region.
A Decade of Real Estate Investing in Canada: Lessons Learned
My journey started with my first real estate investment in Canada, a property in Downtown Hamilton, in 2011. At the time, Hamilton was considered the armpit of Ontario, the ugly cousin to Toronto. Despite skepticism from others around me, I saw the citi’s potential due to its unique blend of urban density and heritage charm. With the little bit of capital I had saved up over the years and a basement apartment available for free, I left my career in 2014 and moved to Hamilton. This was my big contrarian bet, and I was all in.
Jolly Harbour Real Estate: Ultimate Buyers Guide
When I first started researching countries to move to the Caribbean back in 2018, one of the tools I used was Google Maps. This is actually how I discovered the Jolly Habour real estate market. When I first started looking at this community, it was a run-down old Marina, but since, it has become one of the most attractive investment options for Brits, Canadians, and Americans seeking a slice of Caribbean paradise. Located on the south-west coast of Antigua, the Jolly Harbour community has breathtaking beaches and rapidly improving amenities and is starting to appear on more people's radar.
Barbados Real Estate Market: Comprehensive Guide
Owning property in the Caribbean has been a dream for many, including me. With its perfect beaches, tropical landscapes, and luxury lifestyle, it's no wonder people from all over the globe are drawn to this region. I first discovered the Barbados real estate in 2018 while obsessively researching Caribbean real estate, but it wasn’t until 2021 when I first stepped foot on the island. Since then, we have made this emerging market in the Caribbean our primary focus, along with Antigua and Barbuda, where I’m currently based.
Cheap Caribbean Real Estate: Risks & Investment Opportunities
Since seriously considering purchasing a second home in the Caribbean in 2018, I have been obsessed with finding that dream beachfront villa—my “Personal Belize.” I’m not sure if it was all the Bond 007 movies I watched or the dream of escaping the Canadian winters, but spending time in the Caribbean has long been on my mind. This region is becoming more attractive for real estate investors and vacation home seekers, and believe it or not, there is still cheap Caribbean real estate to be had.
Canada Capital Gains Tax Increase in 2024: Impact on Investors and Business Owners
With the Canada capital gains tax increase in 2024, a significant shift is happening that's poised to reshape how capital gains are taxed, especially for wealthy Canadian families, investors, and business owners. With the federal government's latest move, I'm diving deep into the implications of the capital gains tax increase, a topic that's not only timely but crucial for understanding the broader economic shifts in Canada. This change, set to take effect on June 30th, 2024, targets capital gains exceeding $250,000, marking a pivotal moment in Canadian tax policy to foster a more equitable tax system.
My Takeaways from Nomad Capitalist Live in Mexico City
Join me as I share what made Nomad Capitalist Live a fantastic experience for me and a must-attend event for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of the offshore world. Whether you're a seasoned nomad or just starting, there's something here for everyone eager to secure their financial future and global mobility.
Best Neighbourhoods in Hamilton to Invest in Real Estate
Hamilton, one of Ontario's fastest-growing cities, attracts home buyers and has become a hotspot for travellers worldwide. This surge in popularity makes it an ideal time to explore which neighbourhoods stand out for their hospitality potential and livability. Let's discover the best neighbourhoods in Hamilton that promise a blend of comfort for residents and appeal for visitors, ensuring you make an informed decision that feels right.
Bimini Real Estate: A Stone's Throw from Miami Beach
When I explore the Bimini real estate market in The Bahamas, I'm immediately struck by its unparalleled location. Bimini is astonishingly close, just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, making it the nearest Bahamian island to the United States. This proximity provides a unique advantage for Americans seeking a tropical escape without the extensive travel times often associated with island destinations. North and South Bimini, along with several smaller cays, compose this picturesque
How Andrew Henderson Inspired My Move To The Caribbean
When I came across Andrew Henderson's story, it opened my eyes to a new perspective on life and personal freedom. He'd done what many only dream of: living by the five magic words, "Go where you're treated best." His personal journey was a bit more intense then mine, cutting ties with the United States and renouncing his citizenship. He created a life across various global destinations before anybody else, and that resonated deeply with me.
The Future of New Luxury Caribbean Real Estate
The Caribbean is one of the most undervalued regions in the world. But that is about to change and change quickly. My name is Dan Merriam, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my extensive journey through real estate, it’s that the right timing and insight can make or break investment careers. I want to share with you why I firmly believe that the market for luxury Caribbean real estate market is on the brink of a major transformation.