COMPANY PROFILE For those desiring to call The Bahamas home, the real estate broker of choice is HG Christie Ltd., the oldest and largest real estate firm in this island nation. Established by Sir Harold George Christie in 1922, HG Christie Ltd. represents the most extensive and best real estate offerings in The Bahamas with incomparable insight and passion.
HG Christie is also the Exclusive Bahamas Affiliate for the renowned and distinguished Christie’s International Real Estate company, the real estate division of the legendary Christie’s Auction House. With over 92 years of experience, HG Christie offers incomparable insights into Bahamas Real Estate. Celebrities, high net worth individuals and discerning clients return to HG Christie as a result of the genuine care and expertise they experience. Not one to rest on laurels, HG Christie is innovative! As the first local firm on the world-wide-web, HG Christie won accolades and awards and continues to remain on the cutting-edge of Real Estate innovation. Riding astride notable achievements and well-established practices, HG Christie adeptly holds the reigns of progress, offering clients incomparable representation. Keen analysis and visionary passion define the leadership and philosophy of this leading brokerage, making for outstanding experiences and results. HG Christie has 7 full service offices across The Bahamas, including a second location in the rapidly developing western area of New Providence at Old Fort Bay Town Centre and representation in several other islands. Entrenched in local knowledge and possessing an honest love of The Bahamas and the people it serves, HG Christie is…“The Trusted Authority in Bahamas Real Estate.”
HGChristie.com
HGChristie.com
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in this issue 6-7
A Message from John Christie, CEO
8-9
Globel Luxury Real Estate Report
10-14
Private Islands
19-20
Kishan Munroe
24-30
Exumas
31
Investment Guidelines
32
Appraisal Services
34
HG Christie Sweeps Int’l Property Awards
HGChristie offices across
BAHAMAS
The Bahamas is truly an investor’s paradise for many reasons including a skilled professional workforce, stable government and economy, sound legal framework, modern infrastructure, proximity to key markets and investment incentive policies.
A Message From John Christie CEO, HG CHRISTIE LTD.
O
ur reputation for being the ‘Trusted Authority in Bahamas Real Estate’ has been earned. It is the direct byproduct of almost a century’s worth of earnest interactions steeped in ethics and excellence. When HG Christie opened its doors over 92 years ago in 1922, real estate in The Bahamas was forever changed and established as a legitimate business. Methods of business where sales contracts were written on cocktail napkins and then sealed with a handshake were now held to higher accountability. Sir Harold’s determined vision led to building an office, guiding regulated licensed Bahamas real estate transactions and the maturation of a company propelled by progressive ideas and innovative concepts. It is safe to say that technology will continue to change our world; not only in business and the real estate industry, but our lives on the whole - in new and exciting ways. Yet, at a time when there were no websites, apps, or even yard signs, a client relied almost entirely on their agent for all needed information, Sir Harold George Christie’s renown for trusted relationships drove his success. With a steadfast focus beyond providing the ‘latest and greatest’, he developed and cared for the relationships he built not just for a transaction, but for a lifetime.
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“HG Christie... delivering service, excellence and developing trusted relationships.”
Today, HG Christie Ltd. has 7 offices across The Bahamas providing cutting-edge technology and world-class results; we remain nimble and responsive to innovation. However, while we love what technology has done for real estate, for our skilled team of licensed professionals and associates ‘delivering service excellence and developing trusted relationships’ remains our core concern. We look forward to providing all of YOUR Bahamas Real Estate needs with distinction,
[on buying a private island]
“Money doesn’t buy you happiness, but it buys you a big enough yacht to sail right up to it.” - Johnny Depp
private islands
private islands
WALKER’S CAY ABACO CAYS
“Your private island specialist with over 20 years experience.”
JOHN CHRISTIE 242 322 1041 . 242 357 7572 John@HGChristie.com
Known by fishermen worldwide as the premier deep-sea fishing and diving destination this 58-acre private island at the northern tip of the Abaco Cays is the ultimate resort escape. Walker’s Cay features a 2,800 ft. airstrip, state-of-the-art electric generating facility, marina, sandy beaches, and a close proximity to the Matanilla Shoal which make its fishing unmatched. Approvals are also in place for a second marina, new hotel and retail space, over 100 residential units, and beach and yacht clubs. OFFERED AT $18,000,000 ON THE WEB AS12368
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private islands BIRD CAY BERRY ISLAnDS
Just 30 minutes by air from nassau and in the center of the South Berry Islands national Marine Reserve is this 250-acre island with nearly 5 miles of water frontage. Chub Cay with marina and airstrip lies to the west, while Whale Cay to the east has a 4,000-foot runway and harbour. This island paradise is tailormade for a business retreat, family compound or eco-resort. OFFERED AT $11,900,000 ON THE WEB BS10593
BIG GRAND CAY ABACO CAYS
An 8 island chain encompassing over 200-acres includes Seahorse Cay, Mermaid Cay, Sponger’s Cay, Felix Cay, plus Big Grand Cay and its 4 bedroom hilltop residence with 360-degree views. Two guest houses, utility and storage buildings, and a caretaker’s quarters are other key improvements. Enjoy privacy, tranquility and everything needed for modern island living. OFFERED AT $11,500,000 ON THE WEB AS11949
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private islands
POWELL CAY ABACO CAYS
Beauty and tranquility abound at this island paradise filled with development potential and ideally located just three miles from Abaco’s mainland, and close to Spanish Cay with its 81slip marina and 5,000 ft. airstrip. The island comprises 292acres with a portion being held for a nature reserve, making it perfect for a luxury resort or private recreational use. OFFERED AT $9,400,000 ON THE WEB AS12305
CAVE CAY ABACO CAYS
Well suited for development as an eco-resort, boutique hotel, or private estate, this distinctively shaped cay of approximately 220-acres boasts rolling hills, sandy beaches, lagoons and protected harbours. Crystal clear waters surround this unspoiled paradise which enjoys tropical breezes all year round, plus a convenient location just 20 minutes from Little Abaco. OFFERED AT $5,995,000 ON THE WEB AS12183
JOHNNY’S CAY ABACO CAYS
This desirable and fully functional, turn-key private island is the perfect investment - ideally located between Elbow Cay and Man-O-War Cay, plus boasts utilities directly from the mainland. Totaling nearly 4.5-acres, Johnny’s Cay features a 2 bedroom main residence, a separate guest house, two amazing beaches, a man-made marina and offshore reefs. OFFERED AT $5,995,000 ON THE WEB AS12325
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private islands
JOE’S CAY ABACO CAYS
This 35-acre private island crowns a supreme location just south of Stranger’s Cay and near the airstrips at Walker’s Cay and Spanish Cay. This sunny isle has elevations to 15 ft., moderate anchorage, two beaches, and the possibility to construct a mini-marina. A veritable paradise for boating, fishing, and diving. Ideally suited for a family retreat or vacation getaway. OFFERED AT $2,225,000 ON THE WEB AS10800
FINLEY CAY ELEUTHERA
Finley Cay is only an hour by boat from nassau and easily accessed from the Exuma Cays and north Eleuthera. This 13acre island offers numerous alternatives for the distinguished vacationer, nature lover, or sports enthusiast. Promising as a secluded retreat, this hideaway enjoys sandy beaches, spectacular views and an abundance of bird and sea life. OFFERED AT $1,695,000 ON THE WEB ES11352
BONEFISH CAY AnDROS
This rare, 6-acre gem in the middle Bight of Andros provides excellent bone fishing, complete privacy, and the opportunity to create a luxury lifestyle. The island was developed with a cottage, meandering pathways, and a concrete pad perfect for the construction of a getaway home. Features include 10 ft. elevations, three beaches, and the remnants of a stone dock. OFFERED AT $599,000 ON THE WEB DS10628
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EXPLORE OUR LISTInGS ONLINE!
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Customize your search: Property Type Location Price Bed/Baths Keyword/Listing #
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when it comes to
BAHAMAS REAL ESTATE...
Our team speaks nearly half a dozen languages, including French, Portugese, Greek, Swiss German and Spanish. This ensures our clients comfort and ease throughout their en tire real estate process.
Whether you are buying or selling BAHAMAS REAL ESTATE, we speak your language. 242.322.1041 242.362.4076 Sales@HGChristie.com www.HGChristie.com
we speak your language.
french
NEIL ABERLE
ELBERT THOMPSON
E: Neil@HGChristie.com C: 242.577.0277 Contactez-moi, Je parle Francais
E: Elbert@HGChristie.com C: 242.427.5743 Contactez-moi, Je parle Francais
Estate Agent
portuguese & french
Broker/Appraiser
greek
CARA CHRISTIE
JOHN CONSTANTAKIS
E: Cara@HGChristie.com C: 242.457.3562
E: JConstantakis@HGChristie.com C: 242.424.8669 Ε ικοινωνἠστε µαζἰ µου, Μιλὠ Ελληνικἀ
Estate Agent/Rental Manager
Entre em contato comigo, Eu falo Purtugues & Je parle Francais
spanish
Estate Agent
german
RYAN KNOWLES
IOLA KNOWLES
E: Ryan@HGChristie.com C: 242.376.7731 Contáctame, Yo hablo Espańol
E: Iola@HGChristie.com C: 242.376.7600
Estate Agent
Estate Agent/Appaiser Assoc.
Bitte kontaktieren Sie mich, Ich spreche Schweizerdeutsch
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THE ART OF LIVInG : ILLUMInATInG ISLAnD LIFE
I
n order for people to understand my direction, they would need to take a look at my early history. In 2008, I set out on the first phase of a project entitled The Universal Human Experience, and the goal was to travel around the world documenting conflicts and resolutions. For two years I travelled mainly around the Caribbean and the Americas. I would make it a subject. During my research, I came across the Flamingo incident and realised how much information hadn ’t b e e n p u t o u t t h e r e , h o w m u c h r e c o g n i t i o n i t wasn’t getting. It was basically lost in our
archives or the information was misrepresented. nobody paid attention to it even though every year they have a ceremony. It had just become a r i t u a l b e c a u s e p e o p l e d i d n ’t r e a l l y k n o w t h e g r a v ity of the story.
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“The Bahamas Real Estate Review”
2013 Issue
ltd.
•in-house real estate guide; •over 40,000 copies published annually; •distributed free throughout The Bahamas and around the globe.
•e-publication to thousands of readers; •showcasing listings and updates from the local Bahamian market; •productive click throughs and leads.
Exclusive Exposure
EXCLUSIVE MARKETING
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Professionally Designed Ads
•in-house design services and marketing support; •electronic and print publications locally and around the globe showcasing properties from across the Bahamas.
Maximum Listing Exposure
Oceanfron nfrontt Luxu
ry Emerald Bay, Bay, Exuma The Bahamas Experience vacation style living at V urious Grand illa 1113 within Isle Resort & Spa Villa the luxluxcommunity. views of the ocean nity. Breathta Breathtakking and Emerald Bay’s ing course can be Bay’s awar award-w d-winni inning seen from ng golf fr om nearly cal sanctuary every room room of this tropioutfitted with tropiexotic furnishi kitchen, and private furnishings ngs,, a gourme balconies. Resort t to lounge by the amenities invite beach or infinityyou host of activitie s including world-c edge pool, indulge in a the SeaStar Spa, lass snorkeling, and workout relax at in a state-of-the-artrelax center center.. Savvy investors also fitness benefit on generate income fr from om this ideal holiday the opportunity to rrental ental destinat ion.
CONDOMINIUM Building Size: 2,200 sq. ft. Year Y ear Built: 2007 Assoc. Fees: f fÈ]ÎnäÉ È]Înäɵ µÕ>ÀÌiÀ Õ>ÀÌiÀ
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nett Ref. XS1129 Information deemed 3 rreliable eliable but not guaranteed.
SCAN M ME
E for mor moree details
Janet W Watts atts . C: 242 357 0960 E: Janet@HGChristie .com George Town Town Exuma, The Bahamas www.HG www.HGChris Christie.c tie.com om
T: T: 242 336 2274
•full colour brochures for our exclusive listings; •distributed to local and global markets.
to buyers and sellers BESPOKE MARKETING Christie’s International Real Estate
Extraordinary estates require a specialized approach. The bespoke services offered by Christie’s International Real Estate elevate property marketing to new levels through superb execution, comprehensive implementation, personalized attention, and flexible opportunities.
•Private Placement •Christie’s International Real Estate Magazine a quarterly publication with direct mailing to over 280,000 readers.
Persuasive marketing strategies may include: •Far-reaching Web Impact •Artfully designed brochures •Expert Public Relations •Podcasts, Microsites, and DVD Promotion •Direct Mail Campaigns •High-visibility Print Advertisements •Christie’s Events •International Auction Exposure •Video Presentations •Portable Promotion Banners
Contact HG Christie Ltd., your Exclusive Christie’s International Real Estate Affiliate in the Bahamas, to find out how your property can benefit from this effective, comprehensive Bespoke Marketing Program.
THE EXUMAS T
he Exumas are an archipelago of 365 cays and islands, beginning just 35 miles southeast of Nassau – one for every day of the year! Rich in history, The Exumas were settled by British Loyalists with their slaves following the American Revolution. Today, the Exumas are divided into three major areas—Great Exuma, Little Exuma and The Exuma Cays - offering something for everyone! Cays that are mere dots on a map are a privacy seeker’s paradise, while the various colourful settlements offer rich cultural and historic flavor. While options and diversity abounds one thing is consistent: dazzling white sand, stunningly clear water and a breath taking ‘shades of blue’ palette that extends to the horizon. If you are looking for unadulterated Bahamas, then look no further than this sailing mecca of The Bahamas! Here you will find a natural paradise offering private island ownership, exotic displays of flora and fauna, indigenous iguanas, endearing swimming pigs and some of the best diving and snorkeling that be found anywhere on the globe are within The Exumas’ Land and Sea Park. The stunningly beautiful Exuma Cays are a playground for the rich and famous, boasting numerous private islands, homes, luxury resorts and beachside condos – something for everyone!
About Exuma
• 365-Island Archipelago • Yachting & Sailing Capital of The Bahamas • Easy Accessible with Direct Flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, & Toronto • Home to the National Family Island
Investment Updates
• Grand Isles Resort Transformed • Coconut Cove Hotel Renovated
exuma
exuma
RESORT LIVING FEBRuARY PoINT
“Attentive friendly service to make your Exuma dreams a reality.�
JANET WATTS 242 336 2274 . 242 357 0960 Janet@HGChristie.com
Masterfully designed to capture ocean panoramas from the moment you open the front door, this luxury 4 bedroom, 4 bath villa with fine details throughout lends itself to a tropical island lifestyle. The spacious open plan living features high ceilings, large windows and glass sliding doors, and the most spectacular views over Elizabeth Harbour, Stocking Island, Elizabeth Island and Crab Cay. Its location within the sought-after, gated February Point community provides privacy and an unmatched selection of amenities. OFFERED AT $3,295,000 ON THE WEB XS11198
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exuma VIEWS OF THE SEA oCEANIA HEIGHTS
ocean vistas from all three levels await at this stately 6 bedroom home outfitted with a billiards room, library, covered and open verandahs, as well as an extensive artwork collection. The walk-out lower level makes a perfect space for caretakers or guests. A swimming pool is currently being installed and once finished, will be a fun and refreshing addition. OFFERED AT $1,200,000 ON THE WEB XS11189
DREAM CATCHER oCEAN ADDITIoN EAST
Crafted in traditional Bahamian-style and materials, this 2 bedroom home on nearly an acre is a place to live simply, in the moment, and in harmony with nature. Enjoy sweeping ocean views, soaring cathedral ceilings, quiet places to unwind including a sun room, and a setting close to a fresh water pond filled with an abundance of birdlife. OFFERED AT $270,000 ON THE WEB XS11232
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exuma
ON THE BEACH ISLAND HARBouR BEACH
Stunning island getaway home sits on a 30,000 sq. ft. lot providing picturesque views of the ocean and the 4-mile long Tropic of Cancer Beach. Two tropical villas offer 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a cozy fireplace, plus a garage/workshop space. Restaurants, shopping and the airport are all nearby, as well as golfing at Sandals Resort. OFFERED AT $749,000 ON THE WEB XS11206
PEACE & QUIET BAHAMA ISLAND BEACH
Well elevated lot spans 21,500 sq. ft. with 100 ft. of sugarsand beach and all utilities in place. The property boasts a tranquil location in an area of just a few homes and close proximity to all amenities at George Town. Wake up to complete silence in nature, the sound of waves lapping the shore, clear blue skies, and panoramic views across the sea. OFFERED AT $289,000 ON THE WEB XS11262
LIVE THE LIFE FEBRuARY PoINT
Experience all the benefits of luxury home ownership…at only a fraction of the cost. This 4 bedroom villa overlooks Elizabeth Harbour and ensures four weeks of resort-style living every year with no hassle or maintenance, plus the opportunity to generate rental return. For added convenience, a boat, SuV and golf cart transportation are included. OFFERED AT $250,000 ON THE WEB XS11249 HGChristie.com
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exuma
CHARACTER FILLED BAHAMA SouND
Private and tranquil, this 3 bedroom turn-key cottage is infused with a tropical palette. Its open layout boasts island dĂŠcor and wood ceilings. A screened porch extends the entire length of the residence and is perfect for outdoor entertaining or simply relaxing. The property is just a short drive to George Town with everything needed for comfortable island living. OFFERED AT $189,900 ON THE WEB XS11178
ISLAND CHARM BAHAMA SouND
Quaint and cozy, 2 bedroom cottage perched on two elevated lots provides quiet and privacy, cool tradewinds all year round, plus a convenient location to town. Cathedral ceilings, light filled windows and wood paneling add comfort and island charm to the interior, while a spacious and screened-in sunroom enjoys a casual sitting area overlooking native landscape. OFFERED AT $164,000 ON THE WEB XS11231
A TASTE OF THE ISLANDS BAHAMA SouND
Sturdily crafted, 2 bedroom, 1 bath home perched on stilts illustrates simple island living. Its practical design allows for parking right underneath and the elegant interior is filled with cool breezes. Sliding doors in the master suite open to the wrap-around deck and provide dramatic views over the island. An additional lot tops off this affordable investment getaway. OFFERED AT $157,000 ON THE WEB XS11171
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exuma
investment
T 242 336-2274 F 242 336-2272 E rentals@hgchristie.com W HGChristieRentals.com
LEGAL FEES
• Both the buyer and the seller are responsible for 2.5% legal fees on the sale of property.
REAL ESTATE COMMISSION • Developed property, residential/commercial
6%
• Undeveloped property
10%
guidelines PROPERTY TAX RATES • Owner-occupied property (residential and licensed rental homes) - The first $250,000 of market value - Between $250,000.01 and $500,000 - Between $500,000.01 and $5 million - Over $5 million
Exempt .75% 1% 25%
- Owners/operators of owner-occupied rental homes pay a hotel guest tax of 10% of the total room rate collected from renters additional to the rental rate. • Vacant land owned by non-Bahamians - The first $7,000 of market value - Portion over $7,000
$100 1.5%
• All other properties/commercial - The first $500,000 of market value - Portion over $500,000
1% 2%
GOVERNMENT STAMP TAX Value Added Tax • As of January 1, 2015, VAT charges of 7.5% will be levied on commissions, legal fees, and appraisals, as well as commercial property transactions including the sales price, rentals and Common Area Maintenance (CAM). 110
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• Up to and including $20,000 • From $20,000.01 to $50,000 • From $50,000.01 to $100,000 • $100,000.01 to $250,000 • Over $250,000
4% 6% 8% 10% 12%
The buyer and seller each pay half of the stamp tax unless otherwise agreed upon. Stamp tax on mortgages is payable at 1% on the amount borrowed.
appraisal
APPRAISAL TYPES • Residential • Commercial • Estate Probate • Private Islands • Developed or Vacant Land
services
REGISTERED BANKS/ MORTGAGE COMPANIES H.G. Christie Ltd., 'The Trusted Authority in Bahamas Real Estate for • British American Bank • Commonwealth Bank • Bank of The Bahamas Ltd. • Ansbacher (Bahamas) Ltd. • Scotiabank (Bahamas) Ltd. • Finance Corporation of the Bahamas (FInCO) • CIBC First Caribbean International (Bahamas) Ltd. • Family Guardian Insurance Co. • The Bahamas Mortgage Corp. • EFG Bank & Trust (Bahamas) Ltd. • Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) Ltd. • Butterfield Bank (Bahamas) Ltd. • Teachers & Salaried Workers Cooperative Credit Union
ELBERT THOMPSON BROKER/ APPRAISER nASSAU T: 242.322.1041 C: 242.427.5743 130
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IOLA KNOWLES ESTATE AGEnT/ APPRAISER nASSAU T: 242.322.1041 C: 242.376.7600
over 90 Years', proudly offers valued clientele timely, trusted and stateof-the-art appraisal services across The Bahamas. Licensed by the Bahamas Real Estate Association and recommended by leading financial and legal institutions, HG Christie's courteous and professional appraisal team maintains a cutting-edge in their field through relevant training, trends and technology. HG Christie Appraisal Services and quotes may be requested online at HGChristie.com with a 24 Hour Guaranteed Response. WWW.HGCHRISTIE.COM APPRAISALS@HGCHRISTIE.COM
RYAN KNOWLES ESTATE AGEnT/ APPRAISAL ASSOC. nASSAU T: 242.351.8501 C: 242.376.7731
CHIARA PETRUCCI ESTATE AGEnT/ APPRAISER GRAnD BAHAMA T: 242.351.8501 C: 242.727.2030
DWAYNE WALLAS ESTATE AGEnT/ APPRAISER ABACO T: 242.367.5454 C: 242.359.6046
JANET WATTS BROKER/ APPRAISER EXUMA T: 242.336.2274 C: 242.357.0960
THE CLIFFS CABLE BEACH
£ ¡ ¡ ¤ ¡ ¡ ¤ “A
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collection of 11 gorgeous
ªª ¤ ¡Š ¤ £ ¤ ¡Š ¤ £ perched on a cliff in Nassau’s Nassau’s most desirable address.”
Cara Christie 242 322 1041 Ryan Knowles 242 376 7731 242 322 1041 - www. www.HGChristie.com HGChristie.com
DISCOVER THE ISLAND LIFESTYLE AND TIMELESS HERITAGE OF DEEP WATER CAY.
%FFQ 8BUFS $BZ IBT CFFO LOPXO TJODF BT UIF #BIBNBT QSFNJFS mTI ing destination. Today it is becoming known as an ultra private island retreat with an unpretentious and low-key lifestyle. Boaters and their guests enjoy a wide variety of on-island amenities, a 4,000 ft private SVOXBZ mOF EJOJOH BOE mUOFTT NBTTBHF TFSWJDFT " MJNJUFE OVNCFS PG home ownership opportunities are available, all of them oceanfront.
HGChristie.com - 242.322.1041 - Bahamas