Managing Director for Caribbean Land and Property, Stewart Andrews says “We are seeing a greater number of enquiries for property from those approaching retirement. Many are anxious that their life-long savings and pension plans may not cover their expenses for the rest of their lives. They want to know what they can buy for their budget in the Caribbean and the general cost of living thereafter. We are mindful of the particular needs of this demographic group and our property advisors are equipped to offer information specifically tailored to their requirements.”
The good news for retirees is that the Caribbean region generally has a lower cost of living that the US or Europe and thus offers economic advantages to expatriates seeking a place in the sun. Many Caribbean countries have stable currencies that are fixed to the US dollar and for Brits and Europeans the strength of the Pound and Euro make it an advantage to exchange currency and can enable retirees to stretch their money much further than if they stayed in their native lands.
However retirees are also being cautioned to consider all of their needs before making a move. Although many goods and services in the region have always been cheaper than in the industrialized nations, the cost of living in the Caribbean is also accelerating in line with global financial trends. Whilst certain local products and services can be found at an economical price, other imported goods can be far more expensive. To assist clients in their enquiry, Caribbean Land and Property have compiled a Country Comparison Chart that gives an overview of affordability of various commodities and services on a number of the islands. In addition, their on-the-ground property experts are also ready to assist in answering any questions on the day to day costs of Caribbean living.
Another area of priority for retires considering a move to the Caribbean is the ease of travel and accessibility to their former homeland. Since many retirees have a family of children and grandchildren they want to consider the impact of the geographic distance before making a leap to a whole new country. Those who desire to remain in close contact with their loved ones are urged to consider islands with easy international accessibility, direct connections and regular flights. Fortunately many Caribbean countries do have direct and quick flights and some can be reached in as little as 2-3 hours from the United States. Advisers at Caribbean Land and Property can inform potential clients of the ease of travel to and from their potential new home. They also remind clients that once they have found their ideal place, most family and friends will be all too willing to take advantage of a new place to take a vacation.
With the many factors to consider in retirement, Caribbean Land and Property feature an online article on their site as a simple guide for retirees considering the Caribbean. The brief guide prompts persons to think about issues such as lifestyle options, medical and insurance needs, the choice between constructing a new home and buying one that is ready made, and tips for finding the perfect island paradise.
The Caribbean offers many ideal places to retire and enjoy the golden years with a warmer climate, more relaxed way of life and fantastic leisure opportunities. Caribbean Land and Property are pleased to enhance the experience for those looking into Caribbean as a retirement destination and support clients in making informed and wise choices to secure the perfect Caribbean home.
