ARTICLES AND RESOURCES
Read expert articles by Dan Merriam sharing his insights on entrepreneurship, real estate investing, investment migration, and living and investing internationally.
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.
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.
Goldeneye Jamaica and the History of Ian Fleming’s Creative Sanctuary
Tucked away in the lush landscapes of Oracabessa, Jamaica, lies Goldeneye Estate, the birthplace of the iconic James Bond character and the place that Ian Fleming, the mastermind behind this enthralling world, called home. For decades, the Caribbean has been a backdrop for the thrilling scenes of 007, embodying the essence of adventure that defines the Bond universe. This enchantment with the Caribbean isn't just confined to the silver screen or the pages of novels; it's a sentiment shared by many, including myself. Goldeneye isn't just a location; it's a piece of history, a retreat that's as exclusive as it is steeped in storytelling.
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.
What You Can Learn From Traveling to 50+ Countries
Travel has taught me more than I could've ever learned from books or classrooms. From the humbling lessons that only come from stepping out of your comfort zone to the unexpected teachings from the world's most beautiful cities, travel has reshaped my perspective on life. So, what can you learn from travelling to over 50 countries around the world?
Top Barbados Golf Courses: 2024 Comprehensive Guide
Barbados golf courses boast a rich heritage that reflects the evolution of the sport on the island. The Barbados Golf Club, for example, standing proudly as one of the most seasoned courses, was established in 1994 by Commander John Harris and Ron Kirby. This duo carved out an 18-hole masterpiece from the island's tropical terrain that has since been praised for its playability across all skill levels. From speaking with people in Barbados and spending time on the islands, I’ve learned that Barbados is passionate about golf and there is a rich history.
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.
Caribbean Real Estate Investment: What My First Transaction Taught Me
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.
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.
Caribbean Condos for Sale: Comprehensive Guide
Since moving to the Caribbean in 2021, I’ve been exploring and have seen hundreds of Caribbean condos for sale, and I've discovered that this market is as diverse and exciting as the islands themselves. Drawing from my decade-long experience in Toronto's booming pre-construction condo market, I've gained unique insights into what makes a Caribbean condo a worthwhile investment.
Citizenship By Investment: Caribbean Overview, 2024 Guide
Citizenship by Investment is becoming increasingly attractive for high-net-worth-individuals and wealthy families worldwide. This article will discuss the Caribbean citizenship by investment programs and their benefits…
Unlocking the Caribbean Real Estate Market: The Power of Fractional Ownership
Fractional ownership in the Caribbean is a transformative new concept that reduces complexities in the transaction and ownership process, eventually offering a more straightforward path to Caribbean property ownership. It accomplishes this by breaking down properties into manageable shares, effectively lowering the barrier of entry and encouraging more retail and institutional investors to participate. However, this isn't the only…
Necker Island: How Richard Branson Negotiated the Deal of a Lifetime
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.
Why I Left Canada to Live and Invest in the Caribbean
In 2011, I started investing in real estate in downtown Hamilton, an up-and-coming city near Toronto, Canada. When I first started, I knew nothing about construction, property management, or investing, but I quickly learned. Once my portfolio required me to be less hands-on, I started working remotely and travelling the world and focusing on growing my real estate portfolio internationally. I quickly realized that I wanted to live a life of global freedom. After exploring over 50+ countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, in 2020, I saw a big opportunity in the Caribbean region.
How to Get Rich With a Normal Job by 30: Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a millionaire at 30 is not just reserved for the privileged few. Anyone can reach millionaire status. The reality is that learning how to get rich with a normal job just requires hard work and smart planning. This is a guide on how to get rich with a normal job while you are still young enough to enjoy it…