Property in Guernsey

The Island of Guernsey lies some 25 miles to the west of France's Normandy coast and is the second largest of the Channel Island archipelago. Its appeal to tourists is testament to its charm and natural beauty, with its rolling pasture land, sandy bays and cragged cliffs. The centre of the Island's commerce is the capital town of St Peter Port which dates back to Roman times and boasts a wealth of delightful architectural styles which symbolises its rich and colourful history.

Guernsey offers the ideal compromise between tax seclusion and accessibility, with direct air and sea routes to many of Europe's principal cities. Its geographical position and constitutional stance of independence - with allegiance to the British Crown - has resulted in a culture and lifestyle all of its own that blends the best features of the UK and the continent.

A stable and well structured offshore haven with all the necessary financial infrastructure and expertise, the taxation advantages include the absence of death duties, inheritance tax and capital gains tax - with a flat rate of income tax at 20% and no VAT.

Guernsey places few restrictions on those seeking to buy "Open Market" houses and entry to the Island is a relatively simple matter for those wishing to make it their place of residence.With its low crime rate and friendly people this is indeed a wonderful Island to live and to "work" in.

Guernsey, the second largest of the Channel Islands, is renowned for its unspoilt beauty and the peace and tranquillity it offers. It is situated off the coast of North West France.

The Island is divided into 10 parishes which elect their representatives,known as deputies, every three years. Guernsey's parliament, called the States, makes its own laws and raises its own taxes. Although the Island is independantly run and maintained it still bears allegiance to the Crown.

Buying a house is a stressful experience,but being aware of the legal process involved in purchasing a property in Guernsey can help to avoid unnecessary problems with the transaction. Guernsey law is very different to English law so it is necessary to be aware of the legalities involved. Consulting an advocaat on the Island in the early stages is advisable.

There are no restrictions on British citizens or persons who otherwise have the right of abode in the UK and Islands under the provisions of the Immigration Act 1971, taking up residence or conducting business on the Island.

But strict controls on who can own property do exist because of the size of the Island and the density of the population.

Housing is divided into:   Local Market

                                  Open Market

                                  States Houses

Local Market

Property under this category can only be occupied by local qualified residents or those granted a housing Licence by the Housing Authority. Licences are most often granted in the cases of persons whose employment on the Island is defined as essential to the well being of the Community. Conditions are often attached to a licence so it is necessary to seek appropriate professional advice when making the relevant application.

Open Market

Open Market properties are not subject to such restrictions and are freely available for purchase or occupation. Generally they are larger sized properties attracting higher prices than those on the Local Market. Advice needs to be obtained before carrying out alterations to such properties.

States Housing

Equivalent to council houses these are only available to local qualified residents.