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.

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”?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Navigating Canada's tax system and staying on top of things as a business owner or investor can be difficult, and there are a lot of complexities. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or new to the game, understanding the basics of tax law and planning is crucial to success. In this article, I'll share the essentials of effective tax planning, from reducing taxable income to maximizing deductions and tax credits.

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 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.

My decision to leave Canada in 2020 and move to Antigua and Barbuda was the culmination of a life spent exploring and doing business across the globe. My travels took me to over 50 countries, including extended stays in the US, Asia, Europe and various Caribbean islands. This global journey wasn't just about exploring new places but about discovering and capitalizing on unique investment opportunities, shaping my skills and perspective as a Wealthy Expat.

I’m excited to take you through my personal journey in the real estate world, starting from my early days of inventing in Downtown Hamilton. It's a story of taking risks, learning from the ground up, and ultimately finding success in a market and career while many people initially doubted me. I'll share the challenges I faced, the strategies that worked, and why, in 2020, I decided to prepare my $15M portfolio for liquidation. I will also share why I decided to leave Canada and move to the Caribbean real estate market.

After exploring the beauty of Nevis, it's easy to see why it's quickly becoming a hotspot for real estate investment and a haven for wealthy families and HNWI. The island offers diverse advantages with increasing flight access from Canada and the US, more luxury developments online, and Citizenship by Investment. From opulent beachfront villas to historic estates to stunning land parcels, a slice of paradise awaits every investor. The attraction to Nevis real estate isn't just in its stunning properties. It's also in the exceptional value and the attractive tax incentives.

The appeal of Caribbean real estate investment, with its tropical weather, perfect sandy beaches and vibrant culture, is undeniable. Drawing from my experiences in Canada, where I honed my skills in real estate asset management and investment, I embarked on a new journey in this tropical paradise. This article, "Caribbean Real Estate Investment: What My First Transaction Taught Me," is a deep dive into the lessons, challenges, and triumphs of my initial foray into this unique market.

Navigating the complexities of the Non-Resident Speculation Tax in Ontario (NRST) also referred to as the Foreign Buyers Tax can seem daunting, especially if you're not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident eyeing a slice of the property market. Since April 21, 2017, the NRST has been a key player in Ontario's real estate landscape, with a hefty 25% tax on residential property purchases by non-residents. This had an immediate impact on the market.

Buying property on Montserrat is relatively strait-forward, but like other Caribbean islands takes patience and a long-term investing mindset. But, thanks to a welcoming government that values expat investment, it’s one of the safest places in the world to hold investment property or own a second home. Transactions are straightforward, conducted in US dollars, and you'll secure a Freehold Land Certificate upon closing. Plus, most homes come fully furnished, so you can move in and start enjoying island life almost immediately.

At the time, Branson's Necker Island acquisition seemed completely insane, but now the British Virgin Islands is one of the most sought-after jurisdictions in the world for wealth preservation and luxury real estate investment. Yet most of the Caribbean's real estate market remains a massive world of untapped potential. As Branson was captivated by the promise of a Caribbean retreat, I feel that the whole region still possesses the opportunity to uncover its own "Necker Island" deals within this captivating region.

The Caribbean real estate market offers a unique proposition that differentiates it from its developed counterparts. With its lack of correlation to global real estate trends, low-leverage investments, a long-term investing mindset, and the allure of tropical luxury, the Caribbean real estate market presents an enticing opportunity for those seeking stability, diversification, and a touch of paradise.