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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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…

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.