Close to the Normandy coast of France, the Channel Islands are an archipelago comprising Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm. The islands are just a short flight away from Britain and mainland Europe and, with a warm climate and a host of beautiful coastlines and countryside, they prove attractive destinations for those wishing to relocate.
Why Jersey?
We put this question to Jonathan Hughes, partner and head of Ogier’s Property Law Group.
“The traditional arguments made for coming to Jersey – from the point of view either of a family or a business – used to revolve around unspoiled beaches, great restaurants, golf courses and low tax rates,”
he explains.
“Today, those arguments still hold true – but more and more the things that are swaying people to the island are about the high quality of lifestyle, healthcare and education, digital connectivity, a thriving entrepreneurial culture and the availability of quality property.
“The process of moving offshore needs specialist advice, which is why our relocation team is called in to assist on the residency process, wealth structuring, and buying property – as well as being able to guide clients to trusted contacts in the property, tax and banking fields for expert bespoke advice.
“Since Locate Jersey was established to attract high net-worth individuals and businesses to the jurisdiction, we have seen an increase in inquiries and arrivals. Our experienced teams are perfectly positioned to offer the expert, well-connected and above all discreet service that clients need.”
Christine Mauger of Choice Properties in Jersey reports that, as far as the high-end property market is concerned, there is increasing interest from a whole range of individuals of various backgrounds and ages, looking to relocate to the Channel Islands.
“The good news for the local market,”
she says,
“is that there is demand from this sector for luxury properties right across the board, from apartments to coastal homes and country estates but, as is always the case, location is everything.
“Generally speaking, the most sought after property is a newly constructed, modern home, on an elevated site, with excellent sea views. Quality of build is paramount, with cutting edge design and the latest technology incorporated. Privacy is usually an important factor and easy access to a good restaurants is also a frequent requirement. Fortunately, there are numerous top class eateries across the islands, so this one is more easily achieved!”
Ms Mauger points out that, at the moment, demand for this type of property outstrips supply. Therefore, another alternative often considered is to buy in the right location but with a view to demolishing the old house and building to one’s own design.
“When one combines all these factors, along with the favourable taxation rules for the very wealthy, it explains the current strength in the market and certainly indicates that prices will rise in the medium and longer term.”
Trinity, Jersey
L’Ecluse which translates to ‘The Lock’ is steeped in Jersey history with the earliest image of the property being from circa 1870. This cleverly designed home is located high above Vallee des Vaux, overlooking one of the island’s most unspoilt and peaceful areas, yet within easy reach of the town and schools. The imposing seven-bedroom property is on four floors, stands in around seven vergees of land and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. It was purchased by the present owners in 2006 and has since been completely re-designed and finished to a very high standard. Outstanding views across the valley can be appreciated from most rooms and the decked terrace areas. The property also includes a two-bedroom, detached guest/staff cottage with its own drive.
£3.8m / €4.2m / $4.66m
Fine & Country Channel Islands
+44 1534 888 858
[email protected]
www.fineandcountry.com
St Brelades, Jersey
In a secluded elevated location and approached via a long driveway, this is one of Jersey’s most exclusive homes. Impeccably presented, this imposing period property is a combination of traditional architecture and an elegant and classical interior. Occupying almost 5.5 vergees of private land, it includes five bedroom suites, five reception rooms, landscaped gardens and extensive paved terraces with far-reaching coastal views. Additionally, the property has a magnificent indoor pool complex and guest/staff accommodation.
£5.95m / €6.59m / $7.3m
Fine & Country Channel Islands
+44 1534 888 858
[email protected]
www.fineandcountry.com
Mont De La Rosiere, St Saviour, Jersey
Beaufield House is an elegant period residence with its original part dating back to circa 1640. Set in approximately 14.6 acres, it has open country views to the distant sea. Approached through electric gates, the property has a total of 12 bedrooms, eight bathrooms, seven receptions and more than 12 parking spaces. Of particular note is the striking Art Deco style health and swimming pool complex of over 3,000 square feet. It includes a sauna and steam room, male and female changing and shower rooms, a massage/treatment room, Jacuzzi, dining area, relaxation area, gym and separate kitchen. In addition to the main house there are three other properties within the estate. A four-bedroom detached house, three-bedroom granite cottage and a two-bedroom granite cottage. There are beautiful grounds and terraces, a walled vegetable garden, pond and tennis court plus a separate rear driveway for staff and deliveries.
£12m / €13.282m / $14.71m
Choice Properties
www.choicejersey.com
Why Guernsey?
This question is first answered by Martyn Baudains, partner and head of Ogier’s Guernsey Property Law team. He says,
“Outstanding travel links, great climate, a relaxed island culture, excellent public services and a can-do business culture that prizes innovation and energy – it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to relocate to Guernsey.
“Our specialist relocation team has seen an increase in inquiries both from businesses and families – partly driven by the establishment of a government agency, Locate Guernsey, to market the island as a relocation destination – who are looking for a base to operate from, or a new home. While the favourable tax rates are a factor, the deciding reasons more often relate to Guernsey itself, and everything it has to offer.
“But navigating through the process of moving offshore requires expertise in terms of the residency process itself, the process of finding and buying (and often extending or adapting) a property, and in terms of wealth structuring advice. Our team offers the discreet service that our clients need, and with contacts and relationships stretching back decades in the island, our local knowledge will help you to access the right support in the property, tax and banking fields as well.”
We also asked Richard Le Tocq, head of Locate Guernsey, to explain in more depth how the government agency works.
“Locate Guernsey acts as a single point of contact for businesses and individuals who are considering relocation to our beautiful island,”
he says.
“We’re part of the States of Guernsey, our island Government. The reasons people consider relocating to Guernsey are many and varied. Individually, they’re very strong: a wonderful lifestyle, a safe and secure part of the world with a real sense of a community; wonderful climate and a competitive tax regime. But when you put all those together, it’s a very compelling narrative and one that has led to many people choosing to make Guernsey their home over the years. And I haven’t even mentioned our high quality health and education systems, that we’re self-governing and that connections off island are frequent and regular with several 40-minute flights into London every day, for example.
“One key thing to mention is that actually moving into Guernsey’s Open Property Market is really straightforward. We have no intrusive wealth tests, so if one can buy a property, one is entitled to live there too. It’s very quick and simple and for that reason – as well as all the others I’ve mentioned – Guernsey is a great destination for incomers. At Locate Guernsey we provide help and guidance to those who are looking to relocate and I’m always keen to talk to people, explain more and offer what help we can.”
As we go to press, the new Island Development Plan is due to be considered for adoption by Guernsey’s Government in mid-October. This will set out the planning policies for the island for the next 10 years. Jim Rowles, director of planning for the States of Guernsey Planning Service, explains,
“The plan is designed to be positive, proactive and flexible and will provide the island’s planning system with up-to-date tools that will help it to secure investment and business opportunities for the island.
“The new plan achieves a successful balance between economic, social and environmental objectives and recognises the linkages between these. It promises greater flexibility for a wide range of development proposals and ‘shines a spotlight’ on particular opportunities for major investment, for example within the designated Regeneration Areas and Harbour Action Areas.
“Recently, Guernsey’s planning process has helped to facilitate the multi-million pound Admiral Park and Leale’s Yard developments. Both are substantial mixed-use schemes which represent very significant investments in Guernsey’s future. Planning plays a significant role in shaping such developments. These and many other decisions show that the island’s planning process, the professionalism and experience of its officers, and the willingness of the planning service to adopt a positive, proactive approach to development, help to ensure that Guernsey is very clearly ‘open for business’.”
Le Vauquiedor Manor, Guernsey
Recognised as one of the island’s most attractive Georgian residences and reflecting some of the style and elegance of a French country house, Le Vauquiedor Manor is within two acres of beautifully tended gardens on the outskirts of St Peter Port. The property has been substantially modernised and renovated with an eye on maintaining the essence and character of the period. It includes six to seven bedrooms (three of which are suites), several reception rooms, a snooker/family room, turret folly and wine cellar. An independent wing offers further accommodation as does a secondary staff wing. The coach house provides a four to six car garage as well as a three-bedroom guest cottage.
£6.5m / €7.2m / $8m
Cooper Brouard Ross Le Marquand
+44 1481 236 039
[email protected]
www.cooperbrouard.com
Sortilege, Guernsey
This property has a fabulous elevated position on the prestigious Fort George from which can be enjoyed superb views from Alderney in the north all the way round to Jersey in the south east. Sea activity in this stretch of the ‘Little Russell’ is constant and always interesting. The accommodation is modern and bright with spacious living rooms and a super kitchen/breakfast room opening to a private west facing deck and garden. The property includes three bedroom suites with the potential to create a fourth. For those who find stairs a problem, a tidy lift covers the two floors.
£3.25m / €3.6m / $3.98m
Cooper Brouard Ross Le Marquand
+44 1481 236 039
[email protected]
www.cooperbrouard.com
Sartoria, Guernsey
Surrounded by peace and privacy, Sartoria offers 9,000 square feet of living space over two floors. A recent addition to the property has been the orangery which now links up the drawing and dining rooms providing a wonderful area for entertaining. Again, with entertainment in mind, the first floor sun terrace provides ample space for both dining and relaxing and the perfect spot to watch the spectacular sunsets. Two bedroom suites are on the ground floor while the master and remaining three double bedroom suites together with the health suite are on the lower ground floor with access to the gardens and pool terrace.
£5.95m / €6.59m / $7.3m
Cooper Brouard Ross Le Marquand
+44 1481 236 039
[email protected]
www.cooperbrouard.com
