Common Mistakes People Make When Renting Overseas
Why You Should Choose Barbados for Your Next Vacation
What Parents Should Know About Finding Childcare in Barbados
The Current Real Estate Market in Barbados
Things You Didn’t Know Are Illegal in the Caribbean
How Long Can You Live in Barbados Without Becoming a Citizen?
West Coast Versus South Coast Property in Barbados
Services Facility Management Companies Typically Provide
Thoughts on Residential Living in the Bridgetown City Centre
With significant levels of vacancy across the City Centre of Bridgetown, we sought to explore the notion of re-introducing Residential Living as an added usage by conducting a brief survey.
Q4 - Sales and Rentals Report
The Best Caribbean Islands To Invest in Real Estate
There's much to consider when deciding where to build a tropical home. Our guide to the best Caribbean islands to invest in real estate will help you choose.
Traits Your Barbados Real Estate Agent Should Have
A Guide To Selling Property in Barbados
The Renting Process in Barbados
How To Buy A House In Barbados
Tips on How To Buy Property in Barbados
Barbados is the perfect spot to purchase land for investment or build your dream home. Consider some tips on how to buy property in Barbados to get started.
The Welcome Stamp
The Welcome Stamp was the first digital nomad visa offering qualified individuals and families the opportunity to live and work in Barbados for up to 12 months.
Property Spotlight - Maranatha
Spacious, Maranatha is a lovely open-plan home in Durants. Perfect for entertaining.
Work From Barbados
Looking to relocate to Barbados? With the introduction of the 12 Month Barbados Welcome Stamp, you can work remotely for up to a year in one of our properties. Choose from a wide selection of villas, houses, apartments, and townhouses across the island.
Visit our bespoke website: www.welcomestampbarbados.com
12 Month Barbados Welcome Stamp
A reputable leader in the market and experts in Barbados long-term rentals, The Terra Group, comprising of Terra Caribbean, Terra Luxury, and Blue Sky Luxury have launched a comprehensive relocation guide suited to non-nationals looking to work remotely for up to a year on island.
Rethinking The Office
Over the years, there has been a growing global trend towards the Working From Home (WFH) concept. However, to date this trend has not been widely embraced in St. Lucia or the wider Caribbean. Due to Covid-19, at the end of March, 2020 with little to no notice, companies were all thrust into having to mobilize their teams to work remotely. With the phased reopening of Caribbean economies in June, we thought it would be interesting to have a greater understanding of people’s attitudes towards WFH. As such, over 500 office workers were surveyed across the region - Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia and Trinidad.
Property Feature - Grand View Cliffs 38
A fantastic 3 bedroom family home offering one of the best views on the island.
Re-Thinking The Office
In June with most of the Caribbean economies reopening for business, we surveyed over 500 office workers across Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia and Trinidad to better understand attitudes towards Working From Home (WFH).
Property Feature -The Palisades 4A
Located on the south coast of the island, just steps away from Freight’s Bay you’ll find The Palisades. An intimate townhouse community surrounded by several amenities.
Property Feature - Fairway Gardens 73
Tucked away within the quiet neighbourhood of Fairway Gardens, this attractive home is within walking distance to Accra beach and features two apartments which have been recently upgraded. The property can either be used as two separate apartments or as a single dwelling as an internal staircase joins the ground and first floor.
We Gatherin' Barbados 2020
2020 will be one to remember as we launch a year-long campaign celebrating our island, culture and values. Our Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Q.C.M.P announced her vision for the all-inclusive Barbadian homecoming last year at the nation’s Independence Day Parade. Inviting all Barbadians, and even those who just adore Barbados to return home and come together participating in activities and rebuilding the nation’s sense of community.
Experience Barbados’ Most Popular Season!
Crop Over is truly sweet fuh days!
For two months - from June to the first week in August - Barbados is the most magical, energetic and friendly place you will ever visit.
The Estates at St George
The Estates at St. George offers the chance to live life independently in an elegantly appointed apartment situated inside a secure gated community. Surrounded by a wealth of amenities, life at the Estates promises to be active and indulgent.
Land Tax Changes - In Full Effect
Land tax bills for the 2019-2020 period have now been issued with the implementation of the new rates proposed by the Prime Minister in her March 2019 budget speech. While improved values may not have changed, the tax due may have increased as a result of the change in rates.
Terra Caribbean Releases 12th Edition of The Red Book®
Terra Caribbean’s highly anticipated Red Book is filled with insightful, well researched and written pieces from some of the industry’s most reputable practitioners and experts.
The 140-page real estate reference guide is brimming with must-read articles on industry predictions, trends, analyses, along with advice for the investor, homeowner, developer, purchaser, vendor, and even the mere trend watcher.
Oistins for Easter!
The southern coast of the island is abuzz with preparation as the 42nd annual Oistins Fish Festival gets ready to kick into high gear. The festival, which predates many Barbadians, first took place in 1977 as a joint effort by the leaders of community groups in the Christ Church area.
All Aboard at St. Nicholas Abbey
Nestled almost perfectly north-north east along the island’s Atlantic coast, St. Nicholas Abbey has recently heralded some exciting news that has noticeably boosted its ‘must-see’ status.
A Real Estate Minute - Episode 4
In Episode 4 of ‘A Real Estate Minute’ our Real Estate Agent Betty Cathrow provides possible solutions to the often-sought-after question “Can I rent this property to cover my running costs.”
Watch the video to learn more!
Head South in 2019
The South Coast of Barbados is now more appealing than ever. Click "Read More" to find you why!
Terra Caribbean: 2018 In Review
For 2019, the Terra team has renewed their vow to give continued expert guidance and knowledge to all clients in their real estate endeavors. This keen outlook to 2019 is all thanks to the momentum gathered in 2018.
Click "Reade More" to find out a few of our favourite 2018 moments!
A new and hip South Coast experience, Blue Pineapple
Located on the Hastings boardwalk, the Blue Pineapple brings a totally different vibe to the South Coast.
2019: The Year of Real Estate Resolutions
Happy New Year one and all!
It’s a new year - and a good year - for considering property prospects in Barbados. As 2018 gives way to 2019, the buyers’ market trend persists, making now the perfect time to sit and work towards your real estate resolution.
We Wish You a Canine Christmas!
Christmas isn’t Christmas without the K9 Friends Barbados Charity Auction! The charity, which is synonymous with the festive season, continues to benefit the island’s furry residents by epitomizing the spirit of the season as locals and visitors patronize in the spirit of giving!
Terra Heart 2018
Terra Heart is a campaign created by Terra Caribbean Grenada, geared towards giving back (whether through voluntary assistance, monetary donations, etc.) to the community in the various parishes of Grenada, Carriacou & Petite Martinique. We truly believe that our assistance can help motivate and improve the lives of those in need. This Christmas our campaign was dedicated to the Programme for Adolescent Mothers, GSPCA Animal Shelter, The Queen Elizabeth Home for Children and the Grand Anse Home for the Aged.
Click here to view full video.
Adams Castle Estate- Lots in a great area
When preparing for your future build, one key factor takes precedence - location. The Adam’s Castle Estate development near Sheraton Mall is certainly one to be considered if central accessibility is high on your priority list.
Happy Independence Barbados!
What’s your favourite number? Why you might ask? Well this year, Barbados’ favourite number is 52 and here’s why - on November 30, as the clocks strike midnight, Barbados’ 52nd year of Independence will officially begin! This month, the most Barbadian of Barbadian sights, tastes and sounds are on display across the island, culminating with an extravaganza of activities on the last day! Let’s take a look at the day’s events as we invite you to participate in whatever your heart desires!
A Real Estate Minute - Episode 3
In Episode 3 of ‘A Real Estate Minute’ our Real Estate Agent Andrea Chase answers her most frequently asked question “I’m ready to purchase a property. What’s my next step?” Join Andrea, a veteran in the Barbados real estate market with over a decade experience in commercial, residential and multi-million dollar development sales! Watch the video to learn more. Look out for more of these videos coming soon!
If you have any questions for our agents, simply let us know!
Living at Ocean Reef
One of the latest additions to the kaleidoscope of south coast charm is the Ocean Reef condominium development. Before we get to the amazing things that make Ocean Reef great, let us give you a crash course on all the possibilities and perks that come along with owning a home here.
Introducing Latest Brochure - The Red List
We're excited to launch The Red List! This is our latest brochure that showcases key property listings, highlights some of the newest listings to hit the market and provides data on some of the most notable sales that have happened recently.
Food and Rum 2018!
This year, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. will stage its prestigious Barbados Food & Rum Festival a month early on October 18 - 21 - a move which has been reportedly received with delight by many who have been unable to participate in the festival in previous years. In addition to the date change, another novelty of this year’s event is its month-long run - yes, the whole month of October will be a celebration of food, with several pop-up events, food truck crawls, restaurant specials on the Dine Around programme as well as many other food festivities.
Choosing Bridgetown for Business
Since its establishment in the 1600s, Bridgetown has always been the central business hub of the whole island. While other business districts and estates have joined the island’s landscape over the years, Bridgetown still offers the perfect environment for setting up or relocating your business. From its proximity to the main goods port and varying financial and other services to easy public transport and road access, Bridgetown is without a doubt optimized for business.
Special Development Areas Act
The Special Development Areas Act sets out the designation of special development areas and provides relief for approved developers constructing or improving a building or structure in those areas and to persons financing such work (other than a commercial bank).
A Real Estate Minute - Episode 2
Join our Real Estate Agent Lisa Coyle in Episode 2 of ‘A Real Estate Minute’ - as she answers one of the most frequently asked questions from clients: ‘How's the Market?’ Gain more insight on why this is a popular FAQ and get a few tips on property investment. Watch the video to learn more!
Look out for more of these videos coming soon! If you have any questions for our agents, simply let us know!
Drivers of the T&T Commercial Market
Trinidad is known as the business hub of the Caribbean, so it’s only natural that we have an extensive commercial market.
This market segment has seen many shifts and movements over the last two decades.
It leads us to question, what exactly are the drivers of this market?
A Real Estate Minute - Episode 1
To kick off our new series ‘A Real Estate Minute’ - our agent Susan Armfield answers one of the most asked questions she gets from clients: ‘How do I know how much to offer?’ Watch the video for more insight!
Look out for more of these videos coming soon! If you have any questions for our agents, simply let us know!
Bridgetown: Capital of Commerce
Bridgetown is the capital of the island, and for centuries has served as the epicenter of all commercial activities across the island. Although several other commercial districts have appeared on the landscape over the years - such as Warrens - Bridgetown stays true to its mercantile roots. The British settlers disembarked in a sparse - and nameless - Bridgetown in 1628, where the most predominant feature of the desolate area was a primitive bridge believed to be erected by the island’s natives over its main waterway. Two name changes later, Bridgetown was born, and over the ensuing decades, its streets would be the scene of trade and social convergence.
Go for Gold This Weekend!
The sound of hooves on the turf at the Garrison Savannah are getting closer as the 2018 Sandy Lane Gold Cup is just around the corner! On Saturday March 3, the six-furlong track will see trainers, jockeys and their formidable thoroughbreds from around the world grace its grounds to take the coveted champion’s cup - the Gold Cup - from their local rivals.
Deciding on Your New Office Space?
One of the best ways to form a lasting impression with your clients and staff is having an office space that reflects all the tenets of your brand. When choosing an office space, many internal and external factors arise, but in the case of a business that has outgrown its old home, the new space must be an obvious improvement. So, in addition to finalizing the moving contract and doing an assets inventory, the following points must also be hashed out to ensure the perfect fit.
Why An Agent is Your Best Ally
There aren’t many things that can trump the internet, but within the real estate industry, our agents are the true champions.
The Internet has revolutionized the way in which information is brokered, and homeowners rely on various websites to guide them on their property-related journeys. But, it is a proven fact that although these options are right at our fingertips, the knowledge and expertise of a team of agents can never be supplemented.
What can $2m buy today? January 2018
This time last year, with a declining economy, we examined what $2m bought for the years 2007 to 2016.
As 2017 progressed, with a further contracting economy and a minor but impactful depreciation of the TT dollar, we look back at how these radical changes affected the Residential Sale market, with a snapshot of What $2m can buy today in different parts of the country.
What can $2m buy today? January 2017
With a New Year ahead, a slower market than 2016 and a depreciating currency, many of our clients ask us:
What can money buy these days?
To truly understand the buying power of $2m today and the time value of money, we first reviewed what $2m bought in past years. In our realistic analysis, we took into consideration, location and condition of these listings, our fluctuating inflation rate and stayed within a range of $1.8m to $2m.
Looking for a place to call home?
Join our Real Estate Agents Lisa Coyle and Emma Hutson on CBC TV’s Property Matters as they give you a guided tour at Les Fleurs Morning Glory, Fort George Heights No 17 and Moonshine 303. The agents join host Cassandra Samuel for a lovely inside view of these affordable properties for sale in Barbados. View the full tour here.
Always wanted to live in St. Philip?
Our team was happy to work with the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation on their new show ‘Property Matters’. Click to take a walk through some great St. Philip properties with our agents Annalisa and Sue!
Are you Ready for Run Barbados 2017?
December in Barbados will open with the exciting Run Barbados Marathon Weekend - the Caribbean’s most highly anticipated road race event that is an annual staple with the local, regional and international road racing fraternity. This decades'-old running tradition has grown exponentially over the years, and is now in its 34th year, promises to be even more exciting than ever.
Are businesses moving out of Port of Spain?
While Port of Spain is the business centre for much of the country and is an important financial services hub for the Caribbean, the commercial density has resulted in challenges in parking, traffic and office space availability.
Consequently, the traffic challenges and overpopulation in the Central Business District of Port of Spain have driven some organizations, local and international, to consolidate their offices from around the country to one of the developing commercial hubs/districts.
In the Market for a Great Land Lot?
The best way to achieve the perfect home is to build it. This provides a blank canvas to achieve your personal blend of fine details that you may sacrifice when considering an existing home. But in addition to creating your perfectly customised kitchen or one-of-a-kind wrap-around staircase, there is also the step of deciding on the perfect plot to complete your building story.
November + Barbados: A Festival for Foodies
It will be culinary Christmas for all local and visiting foodies this November when the sights, sounds, tastes and aromas of the Barbados Food & Rum Festival fill the air!
Could You Be Our Missing Link?
Terra Caribbean now has four offices operating across the region. We are looking for an energetic and enthusiastic individual to strengthen the bond between the offices in St. Lucia, Grenada, Barbados and Trinidad in the capacity of Regional Coordinator.
Investor Attitudes Survey 2017
With all the noise in the market, from BREXIT to the recent budget and NSRL to elections on the horizon, we thought this would be an opportune time to look at investor attitudes and the general Barbados market sentiment.
We sent a short questionnaire to a number of corporate/investor clients to gather their views on a few specific areas of the market. The results were notable and offer some interesting insights into the investors’ mindset in 2017.
Buying Property in Barbados
Below is a guide to buying, selling and owning property in Barbados. There are no restrictions on the purchase of property in Barbados by persons who are non-nationals or permanent residents. There are no capital gains or inheritance taxes in Barbados.
Are we hurricane ready?
Despite the old Trini colloquialism of “God is a Trini”, this year’s ongoing hurricane season, violent and tumultuous at best, has caused concern even in us laidback Trinis. With recent Hurricane Irma, ripping through countries of the Leeward Islands and South Florida and leaving death and millions of dollars of destruction in her wake, we ask ourselves, “Is T&T Hurricane ready?”
Commercial Property Hurricane Preparedness Tips
As the hurricane season falls between June and November, we’ve compiled some easy to read tips from our expert Facility Managers to ensure your commercial property is well-prepared. These tips are extremely helpful in securing your commercial property in the event of adverse weather conditions. Our Facility Managers not only focus on preparedness but also provide tips on what to do during the hurricane and in the aftermath.
Settle in St. Philip
In our last edition of The Red Book, we acknowledged the fact that the rural landscape of the island has now become the focus for local and overseas investors - and the most noticeable case of this is the parish of St. Philip. Now, the quiet, south-eastern countryside of Barbados is beaconing with residential and other developmental opportunities, positioning it firmly as one of the most desirable parishes to live in on the island.
Commercial Rental Rates over the years
Terra Caribbean Trinidad has collated data from over forty buildings and produced the Commercial Rental Rate Study for ten years, 2007 – 2017.
In 3 short years, 2014 to now, the commercial office rental real estate market has taken a steep nosedive into near stagnation. Within the last two years (2015-2017), as large corporations of the petrochemical industry have downsized operations globally, as well as in Trinidad, in response to a worldwide decrease in the demand for oil and by-products of oil, space in A Class and B Class commercial buildings have become available, resulting in a vacancy rate of approximately 20% - 25% in the private office rental market.
Introducing the Country Club Cottages
Managing Director at Apes Hill, Donovan Bagwell, recently sat down with the Terra Luxury team to give an update and some insight into one of the most prestigious communities on the island.
Our 6 Hottest New Listings
Looking for a great new home or the perfect spot to build your family home? Our agents are ready and able to match you with the perfect property!
We Know Trinidad and We Know Golf!
Terra Caribbean Trinidad was a proud sponsor of the Queen's Park Cricket Club's Members Golf Tournament 2017. This tournament which is held at the St. Andrew's Golf Club in Moka, Maraval is a staple on the Terra Caribbean Trinidad calendar every year.
Real Estate in the Information Age
In just a couple short decades, technology has changed the landscape of real estate, both locally and internationally. In Trinidad and Tobago, with over 900 active real estate agents or agencies, the business of real estate is no longer dictated by a rolodex and a phone, or a FOR SALE sign and a classified ad. The advent of expansive websites, social media, and instant messaging apps has transformed the speed and accessibility of information for end-users - the buyers and sellers that generate this market. The industry has matured and is now a grown adult in the T&T economy.
Terra Teams Conquer Rally Barbados 2017
And it’s a wrap! Rally Barbados 2017 was truly action packed and all the rally teams showed true grit!
With another exciting year of pulsating action and a growing number of international competitors, the 2017 versions of the island’s most anticipated motorsports event kicked off from the weekend of May 28 through to the weekend of June 2, taking competitors and spectators to several exciting stages across the landscape.
New to Market! Ocean Reef Condos!
We're excited to announce the release of a selection of condos for sale at the Ocean Reef development in Worthing. The five-storey development offers the most stunning views of Worthing Bay, private access to Sandy Beach and an excellent location near St. Lawrence Gap.
The Crossings - Where you want to be...
Located in the expansive neighbourhood of Santa Rosa, Arima, Phase 3 of Bhagwansingh’s at The Crossings is a welcome respite for young professionals, their families and investors alike.
Introducing Pollards Mill
The epitome of country living is summed up at the 2-plus acre gem Pollards Mill. This stately property dates to the 18th-century, and includes a main dwelling, a cottage and villa, as well as beautiful gardens that double as the perfect venue for tying the knot!
Join Us at the Republic Bank Mortgage Fair!
So you've decided that 2017 will be the year you purchase your very first home or piece of land to build your dream home but you aren't sure about financing nor the process for purchasing property. Come take advantage of some expert advice from Republic Bank and our experienced Real Estate agents this Saturday at the Republic Bank Mortgage Fair!
Rental Property Standards
Making a property ready for the rental market is largely straightforward, the property must be clean, well maintained and ideally in a desirable area. Clients in the corporate rental sector are often diplomats or workers in the international business corporations and have housing included in their employment package. These requirements while not essential for the general rental market may be necessary for a property to be considered suitable for some of these clients. Some examples of common requirements can be seen below.
Andrew Mallalieu: A Life of Real Estate and Formula 1
Andrew Mallalieu is a man of many facets. Locally, his face and name are pegged to the role of Chief Executive of real estate conglomerate The Terra Group, but it is his lesser known title that resonates across one of the biggest global sporting fraternities...
Terra Caribbean stands in solidarity with AREA and the FIU to Fight against Money Laundering
The Association of Real Estate Agents (AREA) hosted a Media Conference on Tuesday, 14th February, 2017 with the theme “AREA Supports the Fight Against Money Laundering and Financing Terrorism”. at The Government Campus Plaza Auditorium, Port of Spain.
We're now Live! - Terra Caribbean Trinidad launches new website at Buzz Bar
In the height of the Carnival 2017 season, Terra Caribbean Trinidad launched the new website at Buzz Bar, One Woodbrook Place on Thursday 9th February. The first launch of Terra Caribbean’s new website, a cocktail event, was held at Apes Hill Country Club, Barbados on Thursday December 15, 2016 and was a huge success.
A Night to Remember - Terra Caribbean Web Launch
Thursday December 15 was a night to remember for the Terra Caribbean team: the venue, the newly finished and amazingly stunning Apes Hill Club House; the occasion, a cocktail reception officially launching our new Terra Caribbean website.
Surf Tourism on the Rise
Barbados is a special place for surf, and we have seen an increase in surf tourism and the demand for holiday rental properties that are close to surf breaks. Even the most recent WSL World Champion Jon Florence, and surfing legend Kelly Slater have visited and spoken highly of surfing in Barbados. So, there is no better month than Barbados’ independence month to embrace the Independence Pro.
Introducing The Grove Development!
The old Barbadian adage ‘owning a piece of the rock’ is as relevant today as it has ever been. Developments such as The Grove ensure that Barbadians have the chance to keep the tradition alive, while enjoying peace of mind knowing that they have secured a sound, lucrative investment.
Introducing Cocktail Kitchen
St. Lawrence Gap is renewing its cool, trendy status one hot spot at a time! Right now, perched on the corner of the liveliest gap in the south is Cocktail Kitchen, the latest addition to the menu of Gap restaurants and bars.
Barbados’ Tourism Resurgence
Barbados’ most intricate sector is its tourism industry, and for property investors, this offers an attractive holiday rentals market. It encompasses several sub-sectors which feed what is considered the foremost driver of the island’s economy.
The Value of a Valuation
Over the past five decades, Barbados has offered investors a climate of steady appreciation on property values thanks to a resilient economic standing. This steady appreciation, doubled with economic factors, saw land values in some areas of the island go from $0.12 per square foot to $100 per square foot in more recent times. For several investors, this value served as a direct reflection of physical and perceived value of their investment, and would be made official through a solid valuation provided by a qualified, trusted valuer.
Shaking Up Thursday Night at Primo Bar & Bistro
If you haven’t had the chance to dine at Primo, the new culinary hotspot on the South Coast of Barbados, it’s a must. Tucked away in a secluded beachfront location just as you enter the St-Lawrence Gap, this two-level restaurant not only serves up some sumptuous meals, but also delivers on those must-capture sunset views. But don’t just expect to snap beautiful pics over a delicious meal. Primo is the latest venture for the owners of Cin Cin located on the West Coast of Barbados, so here’s the best spoiler alert you’ll ever get: it’s a completely luxurious experience from start to finish.