Financial Preparation

• Determine your total investment budget (property + transaction costs + reserves)
• Understand that financing options are limited in SVG (primarily cash purchases)
• Set up international wire transfer capabilities with your home bank
• Research USD to XCD exchange methods (most transactions occur in USD)
• Consider opening an account with a Caribbean bank (CIBC FirstCaribbean, Bank of SVG)
• Establish tax reporting mechanisms for foreign property ownership
• Create a budget for ongoing expenses (maintenance, management, utilities)
• Allocate 10-15% of purchase price for furnishings/setup if purchasing a vacation rental

Market Research

• Research each island’s unique characteristics and investment potential
• Review tourism statistics and visitor demographic trends from SVG Tourism Authority
• Understand seasonal patterns and rental demand fluctuations
• Join online forums for Caribbean property investors (Escapeartist, Expat Forum)
• Connect with existing North American owners in SVG
• Research development plans and infrastructure improvements
• Analyze CBI program approved projects if considering that route
• Plan a preliminary visit to evaluate islands and properties firsthand

Professional Network Development

• Identify reputable local attorneys with experience in foreign transactions
• Research property agents specializing in the island(s) of interest
• Connect with property management companies for rental properties
• Find a reliable local architect/contractor if planning construction
• Identify local accountants familiar with non-resident tax implications
• Connect with fellow foreign investors in SVG
• Research shipping and logistics providers if furnishing/renovating
• Establish relationships with caretaker/maintenance services

Expert Tip: SVG experiences a clear high and low season for tourism. High season runs from December through April, coinciding with the dry season and North American winter. Low season (May-November) brings warmer temperatures, occasional rain, and hurricane risk, but also reduced visitor numbers. For investment research, visiting during shoulder seasons (May/November) allows you to see properties while still experiencing decent weather, and real estate professionals have more time to spend with potential buyers compared to peak season.

Important Note: US citizens and residents should be particularly cautious with offshore structures due to extensive reporting requirements including FBAR, Form 8938, Form 5471, and potential Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC) issues. The tax compliance costs may outweigh the benefits for properties valued under $1 million USD. Canadian investors face similar but somewhat less onerous reporting requirements with T1135 foreign property reporting forms.

Banking Setup

• Local Banking Options:
  • Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Main local bank with branches on primary islands
  • CIBC FirstCaribbean: Regional bank with international connections
  • Republic Bank: Regional bank with branches in SVG
  • Bank of Nova Scotia (Scotiabank): Canadian bank with Caribbean operations
• Account Opening Requirements:
  • Valid passport and secondary ID
  • Proof of address in home country
  • Bank references from home country banks
  • Source of funds documentation
  • Property purchase documents (for property accounts)
  • In-person meeting at the bank branch
• Banking Considerations:
  • Most real estate transactions conducted in USD rather than XCD
  • Account opening process can take 2-4 weeks
  • Online banking typically available but less sophisticated than US/Canadian systems
  • Wire transfer fees for international transactions are substantial ($50-75 USD typical)
  • Credit cards not widely accepted on smaller islands
  • Limited ATM availability outside main centers

Many foreign investors maintain both a local SVG account for property-related expenses and their existing North American accounts for primary financial management. Some choose to operate without a local bank account by using property management companies as intermediaries for local expenses.

Financing Options

Unlike North America, financing options are limited in SVG:

1. Cash Purchase:
   • Most common approach for foreign buyers
   • Simplifies transaction process
   • Typically results in better negotiating position
   • No mortgage registration fees or financing delays
2. Local Bank Financing:
   • Availability: Limited and difficult for non-residents
   • Loan-to-Value: Maximum 50-60% for foreign buyers
   • Interest Rates: 7-10% (significantly higher than North American rates)
   • Terms: Typically 5-15 years maximum
   • Requirements: Substantial income documentation, local bank relationship, larger down payments
3. Seller Financing:
   • Occasionally available from motivated sellers
   • Terms vary widely and are individually negotiated
   • Typically requires 30-50% down payment
   • Legal documentation through local attorney essential
4. Developer Financing:
   • Available for some new resort or development projects
   • Typically structured as payment plans rather than true mortgages
   • Often includes premium pricing to offset financing costs
   • Usually limited to 3-5 year terms
5. Home Country Financing:
   • Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) from US/Canadian properties
   • Cash-out refinancing of existing properties
   • Securities-based lending using investment portfolios
   • Personal loans from home country banks

Given the limited and costly nature of local financing options, most North American investors utilize existing assets or cash for SVG property purchases. When financing is essential, home country sources typically offer better terms than local options.

Currency Management

SVG uses the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but most real estate transactions occur in USD:

• Transaction Currency:
  • Property prices typically quoted and transacted in USD
  • Legal and government fees usually payable in XCD
  • Property management and maintenance typically billed in USD
  • Utility bills and local services typically in XCD
• Currency Services:
  • Specialized services like Wise, OFX, or XE typically offer better rates than banks
  • Currency brokers can lock in exchange rates for large transactions
  • USD widely accepted throughout SVG but often at unfavorable exchange rates
• Currency Considerations:
  • XCD is pegged to the USD at a fixed rate of 2.7 XCD = 1 USD (stable exchange)
  • USD/CAD fluctuations can impact effective property costs for Canadian buyers
  • Cash (USD) useful for small transactions but limit amounts carried
  • Budget for 1-2% in currency conversion costs when moving funds internationally

The fixed peg between XCD and USD eliminates currency risk for US dollar-based investors, which is a significant advantage compared to other international property markets with floating exchange rates. Canadian investors still face CAD/USD exchange considerations but benefit from the USD/XCD stability once funds are converted to USD.

Property Search Resources

• Online Property Listings:
  • 7th Heaven Properties – Caribbean specialist with SVG listings
  • SVG Realty – Local agency for St. Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Coldwell Banker Grenada & Grenadines – Covers southern Grenadines
  • Sotheby’s International Realty – Luxury properties in the Grenadines
  • CEBSS Ltd. – Bequia specialist real estate
• Local Real Estate Agents:
  • Grenadines Homes – Specialized in Bequia and smaller islands
  • Millennium Properties – St. Vincent focused
  • SVG Property Sales – Operates throughout the island chain
  • Island Real Estate – Bequia specialist
  • Note: Real estate is less regulated than in North America; no MLS system exists
• Developer Direct:
  • CBI program approved projects (usually resort developments)
  • Newer condominium and villa projects on various islands
  • Resort-affiliated residential properties
• Personal Networks:
  • Existing property owners (many properties sell via word-of-mouth)
  • Local businesses and restaurants (often aware of unlisted properties)
  • Yacht charter companies and crews (good sources for waterfront options)
  • Expat communities on each island

Unlike North America’s organized MLS systems, SVG’s property market is more fragmented and relationship-based. Many desirable properties never appear on public listings, making local connections invaluable. Exclusive agency agreements are uncommon, so properties may be listed with multiple agents at different prices.

Property Viewing Trip Planning

For overseas investors, an efficient property viewing trip is essential:

1. Pre-Trip Research:
   • Research islands that match your investment goals
   • Contact agents/developers in advance (2-3 weeks minimum)
   • Share investment criteria and budget with agents
   • Schedule meetings with attorneys/professionals during visit
   • Book accommodations in the areas you’re investigating
2. Trip Logistics:
   • Plan for 7-10 days minimum (inter-island travel takes time)
   • Arrange inter-island transportation in advance (ferries, water taxis, small aircraft)
   • Rent a vehicle or hire a driver on larger islands
   • Schedule 2-3 property viewings daily maximum
   • Allow buffer days for weather-related travel disruptions
3. During Viewings:
   • Document properties with photos/videos (especially views, potential issues)
   • Verify roads and access, especially during rainy season
   • Check water supply systems (municipal, cistern, well)
   • Assess internet connectivity and cell service onsite
   • Speak with neighbors about the area when possible
   • Verify electrical service type and reliability
   • Note proximity to amenities and services
4. Additional Considerations:
   • Verify property boundaries with reference to survey documents
   • Assess hurricane/weather vulnerability of specific locations
   • Check for seasonal issues (e.g., mosquitoes, seasonal flooding)
   • Evaluate rental potential if investment property
   • Research local community and development plans

Many SVG properties have limited online documentation, making in-person evaluation particularly important. Property viewings in SVG typically take longer than in North America due to infrastructure and transportation considerations, especially when exploring multiple islands.

Property Evaluation Criteria

Assess potential investments using these key criteria:

• Location Factors:
  • Access to transportation (airport, ferry, roads)
  • Proximity to beaches, marinas, or natural attractions
  • Walking distance to restaurants, shops, medical facilities
  • Views (ocean views command significant premiums)
  • Topography and accessibility (many properties have steep access)
  • Security considerations and neighborhood stability
• Infrastructure & Utilities:
  • Water source and reliability (municipal, cistern, well)
  • Electricity connection and backup systems
  • Internet and cell service quality
  • Road access condition (paved vs. unpaved)
  • Drainage systems for tropical rainfall
  • Sewage system (municipal or septic)
• Building Quality & Resilience:
  • Hurricane-resistant construction methods
  • Building materials appropriate for marine environment
  • Roof condition and construction
  • Foundation type and integrity
  • Termite prevention/treatment history
  • Overall maintenance condition
• Investment Considerations:
  • Rental history and income potential
  • Seasonal demand patterns
  • Comparable sales and price trends
  • Potential for value-adding improvements
  • Proximity to tourist attractions and amenities
  • Planned developments or infrastructure improvements nearby
  • Carrying costs relative to potential income

Expert Tip: Water access is a critical consideration in SVG property evaluation. Unlike North America, many properties rely on rainwater collection and cistern storage rather than municipal water. When evaluating properties, verify both the water source and storage capacity. A good rule of thumb is a minimum of 10,000 gallons of cistern capacity for a residence, with 15,000-20,000 gallons ideal for rental properties. Also examine water catchment surfaces (usually roofs) and guttering systems, as these are essential components of water self-sufficiency during dry periods.

Legal Due Diligence

• ✓
  Title Verification: Conduct search at Land Registry Office (through attorney)
• ✓
  Ownership History: Verify all transfers over past 20 years minimum
• ✓
  Boundary Verification: Compare registered survey with physical boundaries
• ✓
  Encumbrances Check: Identify any liens, mortgages, or claims against property
• ✓
  Planning Permissions: Verify all structures have appropriate approvals
• ✓
  Easements & Rights of Way: Identify any registered or informal access rights
• ✓
  Tax Status: Verify property tax payment history and any arrears
• ✓
  Family Claims: Research potential unregistered family claims to land

Physical Due Diligence

• ✓
  Property Inspection: Commission professional building inspection (limited availability)
• ✓
  Structural Assessment: Evaluate foundations, walls, and roof (hurricane resistance)
• ✓
  Water Systems: Inspect cisterns, pumps, filtration systems, and catchment areas
• ✓
  Electrical Systems: Verify safety, capacity, and condition of electrical installations
• ✓
  Sewage/Septic: Inspect septic systems, leach fields, and tank condition
• ✓
  Land Stability: Assess erosion risk, especially on hillside or waterfront properties
• ✓
  Access Road Conditions: Evaluate accessibility in all weather conditions
• ✓
  Corrosion Assessment: Check for salt air damage to fixtures, railings, and hardware

Financial Due Diligence

• ✓
  Market Value Verification: Research comparable sales and current listings
• ✓
  Utility Costs: Obtain historical utility costs (electricity, water delivery if needed)
• ✓
  Maintenance Expenses: Estimate ongoing maintenance needs in marine environment
• ✓
  Property Tax Verification: Confirm current and expected property tax assessments
• ✓
  Rental Income Potential: Verify rental history or estimate potential if new to market
• ✓
  Insurance Costs: Obtain quotes for property and hurricane insurance
• ✓
  Property Management Costs: Research management fees if planning rental operation

Expert Tip: SVG has a significant amount of “family land” – property that has been passed down through generations without formal subdivision or clear title documentation. While these issues are less common with properties marketed to foreign buyers, it’s essential to verify that there are no competing family claims to the property. Your attorney should conduct interviews with neighboring property owners and check for any informal rights that may exist. Even when a seller appears to have clear title, undocumented historical claims can emerge after purchase if thorough due diligence isn’t conducted.

Offer and Negotiation

1. Initial Offer: Typically presented verbally through agent or written by attorney
2. Negotiation: Price, terms, and included items/furnishings
3. Deposit Agreement: Small good-faith deposit (1-5%) with terms
4. Attorney Engagement: Retain local attorney to represent your interests

Negotiation in SVG often involves more flexibility than in North American markets. Price negotiation margins of 10-15% are not uncommon, especially for properties that have been on the market for extended periods. The inclusion of furnishings, appliances, and even vehicles is often negotiable and should be explicitly documented.

Alien Landholding License Process

1. Application Preparation: Attorney prepares application with required documentation
2. Submission: Application filed with Ministry of Housing
3. Government Review: Background checks and application review
4. Cabinet Approval: Formal approval by government cabinet
5. License Fee Payment: Approximately 7% of purchase price
6. License Issuance: Document provided for land registry recording

The Alien Landholding License process typically takes 4-8 weeks but can take longer during government holidays or election periods. This timeframe should be factored into the overall transaction timeline. The purchase agreement should include a contingency for license approval, with deposit refundable if the license is denied (extremely rare for legitimate buyers).

Closing Process

1. Purchase Agreement: Formal contract prepared by attorney
2. Due Diligence Period: Typically 30-60 days for inspections and title research
3. Alien License Approval: Required before completing transaction
4. Funds Transfer: Balance of purchase price to attorney’s escrow account
5. Deed Preparation: Attorney prepares transfer documents
6. Signing: Buyer and seller sign transfer documents (power of attorney often used for foreign buyers)
7. Payment of Taxes and Fees: Stamp duty and registration fees
8. Registration: Documents recorded at Land Registry Office
9. Utilities Transfer: Accounts transferred to new owner

Unlike North America, real estate closings in SVG are not typically conducted with all parties present at a single meeting. Documents are often circulated for signature, with the buyer’s attorney coordinating the process. Foreign buyers frequently use a power of attorney to authorize their local attorney to sign closing documents, eliminating the need to return to SVG for closing.

Transaction Costs

Budget for these typical transaction expenses:

• Alien Landholding License Fee: 7% of purchase price
• Stamp Duty: 5% of purchase price (split between buyer and seller, negotiable)
• Legal Fees: 1-2% of purchase price
• Registration Fees: 1% of purchase price
• Real Estate Agent Commission: 5-7% (typically paid by seller)
• Property Survey: $800-1,500 USD if required
• Property Inspection: $500-1,200 USD if available
• Bank Wire Fees: $50-100 USD per transfer

Total transaction costs for foreign buyers typically range from 10-15% of the purchase price, with the Alien Landholding License fee representing the largest component. These costs should be factored into your investment calculations, as they significantly impact the overall return potential, especially for shorter-term investments.

Expert Tip: Consider establishing a power of attorney for your local attorney or representative before leaving SVG after your property viewing trip. This will allow closing to proceed in your absence, which is particularly valuable given the uncertain timing of the Alien Landholding License approval. The power of attorney should be specifically limited to the property transaction and can include authorization to establish utility accounts, hire property management, and handle other post-closing matters. This document should be properly notarized and authenticated for use in SVG.

Administrative Tasks

• ✓
  Property Tax Registration: Ensure property is registered in your name with Inland Revenue Department
• ✓
  Utility Accounts: Establish electricity, water (if applicable), and telecommunications accounts
• ✓
  Property Insurance: Secure appropriate coverage including hurricane protection
• ✓
  Banking Arrangements: Set up local account or payment methods for ongoing expenses
• ✓
  Property Management: Establish relationship with property manager if not resident
• ✓
  Security Arrangements: Install security systems or hire caretaker for vacant periods
• ✓
  Property Maintenance Schedule: Establish regular maintenance program for tropical climate

Regulatory Compliance

Rental properties in SVG must comply with several regulations:

• Hotel License:
  • Required for short-term vacation rentals
  • Application through Ministry of Tourism
  • Annual renewal with inspection
  • Fee based on number of rooms
• Tourism Tax Collection:
  • 10% Value Added Tax (VAT) on accommodations
  • Registration with Inland Revenue Department
  • Quarterly filing and remittance
  • Guest records must be maintained
• Health and Safety Standards:
  • Annual health department inspection
  • Fire safety compliance
  • Water quality testing for private systems
  • Vector control (mosquito prevention)
• Employment Regulations:
  • Work permits for non-citizen employees
  • National Insurance Scheme contributions
  • Local labor law compliance
  • Proper employment contracts

While enforcement of these regulations varies, compliance is important, particularly for higher-end rental properties that are marketed internationally. Professional property management companies typically handle these regulatory requirements as part of their services.

Property Maintenance in Tropical Environment

SVG’s tropical climate and marine environment require specific maintenance approaches:

• Quarterly Maintenance:
  • Inspection of roof and gutters (critical for water collection)
  • Exterior painting touch-ups (salt air damage)
  • Vegetation management (rapid growth in tropical climate)
  • Air conditioning service and cleaning
  • Water system maintenance (filters, pumps, UV treatment)
• Annual Maintenance:
  • Pre-hurricane season structural inspection
  • Termite treatment and inspection
  • Cistern cleaning and disinfection
  • Deep cleaning of all surfaces for mold/mildew
  • Appliance and systems servicing
• Biennial Maintenance:
  • External repaint/reseal (especially near ocean)
  • Roof treatment and maintenance
  • Plumbing system inspection and repair
  • Electrical system safety check
  • Septic system pump-out and service

Budgeting for maintenance is particularly important in the Caribbean environment. As a rule of thumb, allocate 2-3% of property value annually for routine maintenance, with additional reserves for major items like roof replacement (needed every 10-15 years in tropical climate). Proactive maintenance is essential in SVG due to limited availability of emergency repair services, particularly on smaller islands.

Expert Tip: Hurricane preparedness is essential for SVG property owners. While the country lies at the southern edge of the hurricane belt and experiences fewer direct hits than northern Caribbean islands, preparation is still critical. Develop a written hurricane plan including: 1) Pre-season preparation (trim trees, inspect shutters/protections), 2) Property closure procedure (if evacuating), 3) Caretaker responsibilities during storms, and 4) Post-storm inspection protocol. For rental properties, ensure management contracts clearly specify hurricane preparation responsibilities and costs. Consider keeping a dedicated hurricane preparation fund of at least $2,000-3,000 USD for emergency measures and immediate post-storm repairs.

SVG Tax Obligations

• Property Tax:
  • Annual tax based on assessed property value
  • Rates vary from 1-5% of assessed value
  • Payable to the Inland Revenue Department
  • Due annually (can be paid in installments)
  • Penalties for late payment (5% plus interest)
• Rental Income Tax:
  • Income derived from SVG property is taxable in SVG
  • Tax rates range from 10-30% based on income level
  • Filing required by March 31 each year
  • Deductions allowed for expenses, mortgage interest, repairs
  • Property management companies often handle withholding and filing
• Value Added Tax (VAT):
  • 16% VAT applicable to short-term rentals (under 45 days)
  • Registration required if rental income exceeds threshold
  • Quarterly filing and payment
  • Detailed guest records must be maintained
• Capital Gains:
  • No capital gains tax in SVG
  • Profit from property sale not taxed locally
  • Vendors tax may apply (usually paid by seller)
• Inheritance/Estate Tax:
  • No inheritance or estate tax in SVG
  • No gift tax for property transfers
  • Standard registration fees apply for property transfers

Home Country Tax Obligations

SVG has no tax treaties with the United States or Canada, which can complicate tax planning. However, foreign tax credits generally prevent double taxation on rental income. Consultation with tax professionals experienced in offshore property ownership is strongly recommended to ensure compliance and optimize tax positions.

Tax Planning Strategies

• Expense Documentation: Maintain thorough records of all property-related expenses
• Property Management Structure: Consider using property management to handle local tax compliance
• Ownership Vehicle: Evaluate personal vs. corporate ownership based on tax implications
• Rental Duration Strategy: Long-term rentals may have different VAT implications than short-term
• Property Usage Allocation: Track personal use vs. rental use for tax deduction purposes
• Foreign Tax Credit Planning: Timing of income and expense recognition to maximize credits
• Property Improvement Tracking: Document all capital improvements for basis adjustment
• SVG Business Structure: Consider local company for commercial properties or multiple units

When SVG properties generate significant rental income, establishing a more formal business structure with professional accounting support becomes important. For properties generating over $50,000 USD in annual rental income, the tax compliance requirements become more complex and professional guidance is essential.

Expert Tip: For U.S. taxpayers, SVG properties can potentially qualify for the valuable Section 121 exclusion of capital gains ($250,000 for individuals, $500,000 for married couples) if the property serves as your primary residence for at least 2 of the 5 years preceding the sale. This strategy works well for pre-retirement investors who can relocate temporarily to SVG, qualify the property as a primary residence, then sell with potentially tax-free gains. However, complex rules apply to properties with mixed personal/rental use. Consult with a U.S. tax professional with international experience before implementing this strategy.

Selecting a Property Manager

Evaluate potential property managers using these criteria:

• Island-Specific Experience:
  • Established presence on your specific island
  • Understanding of local market dynamics
  • Relationships with local service providers
  • Knowledge of island-specific regulations
• Service Capabilities:
  • 24/7 emergency response capabilities
  • Staff size and training level
  • Technology systems for bookings and reporting
  • Marketing reach and distribution channels
  • In-house maintenance capabilities
• Foreign Owner Experience:
  • Track record with overseas clients
  • Financial reporting suitable for foreign tax requirements
  • Communication protocols for different time zones
  • Understanding of foreign owners’ unique concerns
• References and Reputation:
  • Current client references (especially foreign owners)
  • Online reviews and testimonials
  • Professional affiliations and certifications
  • Length of time in business

Management Agreement Essentials

Ensure your property management contract includes these key elements:

• Defined Services and Exclusions: Detailed description of exactly what is included and excluded
• Fee Structure: Clear explanation of management fees, commission rates, and additional charges
• Service Level Agreements: Response time commitments for inquiries and issues
• Financial Procedures: How funds are handled, distributed, and reported
• Reporting Schedule: Frequency and format of financial and property condition reports
• Maintenance Authority: Spending limits for repairs without prior approval
• Emergency Protocols: Procedures for various emergency scenarios including hurricanes
• Insurance Requirements: Manager’s insurance coverage and liability boundaries
• Termination Provisions: Notice periods and transition responsibilities
• Property Availability: Owner usage periods and booking protocols
• Tax Compliance: Responsibility for various tax filings and payments

Management contracts in SVG should be reviewed by your attorney, as standard terms may differ from North American practices. Pay particular attention to liability provisions, hurricane preparation responsibilities, and financial controls for remote management.

Expert Tip: For properties on smaller islands like Bequia, Mustique, or Canouan, ensure your property manager has actual staff based on that specific island, not just on the main island of St. Vincent. Inter-island transportation can be unreliable due to weather and ferry schedules, creating significant delays in service response if managers must travel from other islands. Even a few hours’ delay can result in significant guest dissatisfaction or property damage. The premium for island-specific management is well worth the cost for responsive service.

Exit Options

Sale Process

When selling your SVG property:

1. Pre-Sale Preparation:
   • Refresh property appearance and correct deficiencies
   • Gather all property documentation
   • Professional photography emphasizing views and features
   • Verify clear title and resolve any outstanding issues
   • Consider property staging if vacant
2. Agent Selection:
   • Evaluate track record with similar properties
   • Verify international marketing capabilities
   • Review commission structure (typically 5-7%)
   • Consider multiple listing agreements for wider exposure
3. Pricing Strategy:
   • Review recent comparable sales
   • Consider including furnishings in price (standard practice)
   • Factor in currency exchange trends for foreign buyers
   • Build in negotiation margin (10-15% typical)
4. Marketing Period:
   • Expect 6-18 months for average properties
   • Longer periods for higher-priced luxury properties
   • Consider timing with high tourist seasons
   • Maintain property condition throughout marketing period
5. Contract & Closing:
   • Attorney drafts purchase agreement
   • Facilitate buyer’s Alien Landholding License application
   • Allow for extended closing timeline (2-3 months typical)
   • Prepare for tax clearance requirements
   • Plan for proceeds repatriation

The SVG property sale process typically takes longer than in North American markets, with marketing periods of 6-18 months common. High-end luxury properties, particularly on exclusive islands like Mustique, may take 12-24 months to find qualified buyers. Patience and ongoing property maintenance are essential during the marketing period.

Market Exit Timing Considerations

Several factors should influence your exit timing decision:

• Tourism Development Cycles: Property values typically follow tourism infrastructure development and direct flight additions
• Currency Exchange Rates: USD/CAD strength against other currencies affects buying power of Europeans and other nationalities
• Regional Competition: Development in neighboring islands can impact demand for SVG properties
• Infrastructure Improvements: Major projects like airport upgrades, marina developments, or resort openings can create value jumps
• Sustainability Trends: Properties with green features (solar, water efficiency) increasingly command premiums
• Seasonal Timing: December-April typically sees highest property interest due to tourist visits
• Global Economic Factors: Luxury real estate follows wealth creation patterns in source markets
• Citizenship Program Changes: Modifications to the CBI program can significantly impact certain property segments

SVG’s relatively young real estate investment market means timing strategies are still evolving. The market doesn’t follow the clear cyclical patterns seen in more mature markets. However, infrastructure developments and tourism growth tend to be leading indicators of property value increases, making them useful timing signals for investors.

Expert Tip: Consider a hybrid exit strategy for SVG properties by first converting vacation rentals to long-term rentals as you approach your intended exit timeline. This reduces the carrying costs and management intensity while you market the property for sale, which can take an extended period. Long-term rentals typically require less maintenance, have lower management fees, and provide more stable (if lower) income during the marketing period. This approach is particularly effective if selling during a slower market period, allowing you to wait for the right buyer without the pressure of high vacancy costs.