Barbados Beckons

A favourite holiday bolthole of British sun seekers, Barbados is also proving an attractive proposition for luxury property investors. By Eboni Phillips

Twenty-one miles long and a smile wide. That is the size of the bijou Caribbean island of Barbados – playground of royalty, celebrities, professional athletes and now, luxury property investors. Much like its friendly citizens, Barbados is extremely welcoming to non-nationals seeking to purchase sun-washed property, either as a primary residence or for investment purposes. Its Government imposes no restrictions on property purchases for non-nationals and also recently introduced a Special Entry and Reside Permit (SERP) for High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) seeking to obtain residency in the island.

With its outstanding health care and world-class telecommunications and utilities, the island checks all the boxes for solid infrastructure. But, it is the destination’s unique charm that continues to lure property investors. A rich culture, storied history, weather that never dips below 21°; and of course –  endless beaches, collectively promise a well-endowed quality of life.

The lifestyle offering has undoubtedly bolstered the island’s recent record-breaking visitor arrivals. To support the growing demand, Barbados’ roster of non-stop direct international flights continues to expand, with recent additions of flights from Manchester, Munich and Glasgow to the long-established routes from London, Toronto, New York and other major North American cities. The growing tourism sector points to high year-round rental income-generating potential for investment properties.

While the island’s ‘Platinum’ West Coast is arguably better known for high-end properties, it is Barbados’ South-east coast that beckons as an investor haven. Undeveloped and pristine, the South-east coast is packed with potential, not people. While developments line Barbados’ West Coast, only the South-east coast offers two distinct residential resorts – The Crane Resort and Beach Houses – both with unique ownership opportunities and exceptional potential for capital appreciation.

The Crane Resort overlooks the pink sands and turquoise waters of Crane Beach – voted ‘Best Caribbean Beach’ by USA Today Readers. The 38-acre resort is also home to The Crane Private Residences – a private residential community. Ideal for long term living, The Crane Private Residences combine all the best features of typical condo units with the advantages of being surrounded by a full resort community. Sister property, Beach Houses, features low density, free-standing villas and sits just outside Barbados’ National Park, offering majestic views of Skeete’s Bay Beach and Culpepper Island.

Prices range from US$617,000 – 2.9million. Fractional Ownership at Beach Houses is also available from US$180,000 for four weeks. To learn more, visit http://www.craneresorts.com.