property advisory services neptune court valuation & appraisal services p.o. box 1490 quantity surveying providenciales development cost consultants turks & caicos islands project management t: 649 941 3663 developer’s representation inspection reports e: info@casl.tc www.constructionadvisoryserviceslimited.com Liaison Committee, <strong>the</strong> real estate industry benefited from three incentives to boost inward investment. They are currently valid until June 30, <strong>2020</strong>. • 50% reduction in Stamp Duty across all islands • Waived Custom duties on construction material • 50% reduction in planning fees Throughout <strong>the</strong> border closure and lockdown, both <strong>the</strong> TCI Government and people responded with discipline, diligence and faith. Thanks to <strong>the</strong> steadfastness <strong>of</strong> essential workers in all sectors, <strong>the</strong>re was never a shortage <strong>of</strong> food, fuel or medicines. Police checkpoints at major intersections ensured adherence to <strong>the</strong> stay-athome regulations. Residents took to <strong>the</strong> routine <strong>of</strong> hand sanitizing, face masks and social distancing with quiet dignity and typical good humor. The two hospitals on Providenciales and Grand Turk were well prepared for any outbreaks, with protocol and equipment in place early-on. Quarantine measures were put in place for folks in contact with suspected cases <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> virus and residents returning from overseas. As well, <strong>the</strong> UK Government sent a “Specialized Assistance Team” <strong>of</strong> doctors, medical planners, logisticians, security specialists and planners as back-up. A new world <strong>of</strong> opportunity Besides TCI’s blend <strong>of</strong> exclusivity, privacy, safety and security, Forbes Realty’s Sara Kaufman notes that due to recent volatility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> stock market, real assets may become more appealing for investors. At <strong>the</strong> same time, now that people have a taste <strong>of</strong> slower, more peaceful days, Sara anticipates an increase in retirees and <strong>the</strong> search for a lifestyle such as <strong>of</strong>fered on North, Middle and South Caicos, along with o<strong>the</strong>r family islands in <strong>the</strong> TCI. Chandra Craigg, real estate agent at ERA Turks & Caicos, believes that in a world <strong>of</strong> uncertainty in business, travel and health, we now have an opportunity for people to write <strong>the</strong>ir own story. In an age <strong>of</strong> unscripted territory, real estate will provide opportunities for buyers, sellers and agents to creatively fulfill <strong>the</strong>ir goals. She notes that certain aspects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> real estate business will be enhanced, such as digital connectivity through video conference applications such as ZOOM, followed by increased verbal communication and one-on-one dialogue. Besides working remotely from home, many TCREA realtors <strong>of</strong>fer <strong>the</strong> latest technology for virtual showings, a tool long in use in this island nation where <strong>the</strong> majority <strong>of</strong> clients are outside <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> country. This allows investors to get into <strong>the</strong> market immediately, while COVID-19 stimulus incentives are still in place. 68 www.timespub.tc
Building Your Vision Creating Reality Innovation Design Performance Residential Commercial Remodeling Grace Bay Court, Suite101 P.O. Box 762 Grace Bay, Providenciales Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, BWI Tel: + (649) 431 2971 www.ho2group.com Info@ho2group.com