The property market in the Channel Islands is not so straight forward as other countries as the housing is restricted in Jersey and Guernsey with house permits only being given to expats who are able to fill gaps or bring proceeds to the Islands.
Those who are unable to get a government housing permit will need to live in private homes and with the accommodation and space being limited the demands for houses are high which makes it hard for expats to find properties. Prices of houses in the Channel Islands are generally three times higher than in the UK and when contacting estate agents they don’t usually demand payment of the person who is looking for property. The sellers of the house will need to pay the agents commission once the property has been sold.
It is advised that real estate agents, property lawyers and immigration specialists are contacted so that they c7an help find the best home within your budget without much difficulty.
Top tips for buying property:
- Reach an agreement: Once the perfect property has been found, a purchase price should be agreed. The seller’s lawyer will then be required to prepare all the documents along with a draft contract.
- Consent: This will be needed from the housing minister to buy, rent or lease out property in the Channel Islands. This application will need to be made by yourself, estate agent or lawyer.
- Your lawyer will then need to follow a number of steps to complete the property purchase,
Your lawyer will take a number of steps to assist you with your purchase including;
- Title: Your appointed lawyer will need to check the person who is selling the property is the owner – As well as this lawyer’s will also check if there are any rights or claims over the property.
- Letters: The minister for planning & environment, utility companies and the parish will need to be contacted for checks about the property
- Site visit: Your appointed lawyer will need to visit the property to check the boundaries
- Surveys: This is required by the bank before a mortgage is agreed
- Court: The lawyer and seller may need to attend or be represented before the Royal Court to pass a contract.
- Paying for property: Payment of the property should be paid for no later than the Tuesday following the sale. Whilst this is processed the contract is passed in the court.
- Stamp Duty: Your appointed lawyer will calculate the stamp duty which is payable on your property purchase
- Possession: Buyers are given property on the day of the passing of the contract. Keys will then be handed over in court once the contract is passed.