Barbados property owners who don’t regularly inspect their holdings risk claims under adverse possession law. Learn about the risks of allowing squatters here.

In our last blog, we looked at what the current water zones are across the island, and the restrictions in development as outlined in the Barbados Physical Development Plan (Amended) 2003. The Draft 2017 Physical Development Plan, outlines an update to the Groundwater Protection Act to reflect a refined approach to defining Groundwater Protection Areas and the delineation of new zones of protection.

The Hotel School, Cornell SC Johnson College of Business held a webinar with US industry experts to discuss the current state of the hospitality industry and what the future might look like. While the North American and Caribbean Markets differ in their offerings and customer base, Lisanne our Leader of Advisory highlights 5 key takeaways which are also relevant to the Caribbean region.

The COVID 19 global pandemic has had a profound impact on the business environment giving rise to unprecedented consequences. The Prime Minister announced a phased reopening of certain businesses from May 4, but we cannot yet determine when our economy will fully emerge from this crisis, particularly as Barbados still has a few active COVID-19 cases. To successfully navigate the “new normal” will require business leaders to consider a number of things.

Water is vital to everyday living and we are constantly advised to do our best not to pollute our water sources, and ensure we drink as much as we can. But did you also know that water can significantly impact where you can build? Did you know that Barbados has been classified by the UN as the 15^th most water-scarce country in the World, or that the majority of water-scarce nations on the UN list are located in the Middle East and the Caribbean? 

It’s that time of year again, and I don’t mean Christmas! Land tax bills will soon be issued, and the 2020-2021 year is a revaluation year. What this means, is that the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA), will have completed their triennial revaluation process and while only the tax rates changed last year, the assessed site value (for vacant properties) or improved value (for built properties), may change on the land tax bills for this year resulting in an increase in tax due. 

You’ve found your dream property, or parcel of land with spectacular views and now have to source the funds to pay for it. Your Bank advised that you need to get a Market Valuation Report to support your lending application and after deep thought you’ve selected a Valuer from the approved list… so what’s next? After formally engaging the Valuer and arranging for them to get access to the property, providing the following information is very helpful and can reduce the time taken to complete the report and get you a step closer to moving in.

Property Transactions can be stressful and one of the biggest decisions of your life. If you are looking to buy, sell or lease - whether a residential house or apartment, commercial office, warehouse or retail store - we can help!

Our Leader of Advisory, Lisanne Graham weighs in on the heavily discussed topic, Land Tax. Read more to find out how these newly proposed implications may impact you.

The effect of the global recession on the local market has been significant, characterized by substantial reductions in transaction volume and demonstrably longer exposure periods across all property segments.

As a property owner in Barbados, it’s important that you’re aware of Barbados beachfront property and the high watermark. Click here to learn more.

So, you want to purchase a property and have been advised to request a Market Valuation report. Your report has arrived, but how was the Market Value derived? In this blog we will first define Market Value, and then walk you through the main methodologies/ approaches for valuing real estate, to give you some insight into the process.

Ownership of property, whether as an investment or for occupation, is nothing to take lightly. When making the step towards such a purchase, one of the first things typically done is to obtain a valuation of the property.  For peace of mind and protection, every buyer should ensure they select a qualified Valuer from a Firm “Regulated by the RICS”.