I would like to start by welcoming the new members to our Nevisian & Kittitian communities. Your journeys have all been different, some more complex than others, but the one thing that is true for all of you is your desire to redefine your way of life.
Helene, Pulmattie and I love being a part of this process, and we look forward to guiding you through your transition.
We have been delighted by the latest developments in the quarantine requirements for inbound passengers. As of yesterdat, 7th October, all fully vaccinated arrivals must stay at either an approved government facility or a Taskforce checked private residence. The time of the stay has been reduced significantly: a test sample must be taken in the first 24 hours, and a negative result means immediate release from quarantine.
We anticipate this will have a huge impact on the numbers of visitors to the islands, and we can’t wait to see the restaurants full and the islands once more enjoyed as they should be. Notably, protocols remain in place that require everyone to wear masks in public spaces and make regular use of hand sanitizer.
On the Nevis side, the waiving of the Alien Land Holder License fee by Nevis Island Administration played a significant role in driving sales. Many new homeowners who took advantage of the waiver are using the money saved for home improvement projects, providing work to local contractors and maintenance personnel.
Even with the setback of reaching Level 4 status on the CDC travel advisory map, enquiries for St Kitts and Nevis real estate remains high for both sales and rentals. There has been an increase in vacation rental cancellations, but we anticipate this problem resolving itself now that we have the new, significantly reduced, quarantine expectations.
So where does that leave us?
Regarding real estate sales, the tail end of the fourth quarter could be as active as the first and second quarters of 2021. Buyers have purchased their ideal properties without even coming to look at them, and others have gone through multiple quarantines in order to pin down their perfect home. It has been difficult, but the reward makes it worthwhile.
Whatever happens, we will continue to offer you advice and guidance, and look forward to welcoming you to the island whenever you are able to make it here. 2020 was the ten year anniversary of Nevis Style Realty and while ordinarily we would have celebrated this milestone, it felt inappropriate at the time. Instead, we will celebrate by continuing to work with you to find the perfect home for your new way of life, your future here on the island, and your Caribbean.
Warm wishes,
Wayne Tyson