ARTICLES AND RESOURCES

Read expert articles by Dan Merriam sharing his insights on entrepreneurship, real estate investing, investment migration, and living and investing internationally.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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Canada Tax Planning Strategies for Investors

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.

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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.

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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.

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Top Countries for Wealthy Expats to Live and Invest

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.

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Why I Liquidated My Real Estate Portfolio in Downtown Hamilton

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.

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Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship: Why I Donated Over US $140,000

Exploring the tropical paradise of Antigua and Barbuda is a dream for many. But what if I told you that dream could extend beyond a holiday? In this article, I will share why, in 2020, I decided to move to the Caribbean to take advantage of the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program. I’ll share the challenges I faced, the lessons I learned, and why as a savvy real estate investor, I still donated US $140,000+ to the Antigua and Barbuda government vs. the real estate investment route.

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Nevis Real Estate: Taking Advantage of an Undervalued 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.

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Caribbean Real Estate Investing: What My First Transaction Taught Me

This article takes you through my journey – from the initial decision to invest in the Caribbean, influenced by the potential for high returns and the lure of a lifestyle in a tropical paradise, to the intricate process of selecting the right country, understanding local laws, and mastering the art of patience in a market that moves at its own pace. Each step in this venture brought new insights, from the importance of building a strong local network to the nuances of navigating inefficient markets.

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Top Hotels in Antigua: A Local Experts Perspective

When choosing hotels in Antigua, I've always looked for spots that offer the best value and actually enhance my island experience. Each stay has given me insights into what to expect, whether I'm travelling solo or with family. Over the years, I've discovered that the best hotels in Antigua aren't just about luxury; they're about capturing the island's spirit and experiencing everything Antigua has to offer, including beaches, water views, tropical nature, boating, and more.

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Understanding Non-Resident Speculation Tax in Ontario

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.

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Montserrat Real Estate in 2024: Comprehensive Investment Guide

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.

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