Seven things you need to know before moving to Guernsey

With its safe and friendly community, a thriving business scene and some beautiful coastline – it’s easy to see why more and more people are deciding to call Guernsey home.

The island remains a popular destination for those wanting a change in lifestyle and we continue to see strong demand for property.

If you’re thinking of making the move, here are a few things to know that should help you settle in…

Guernsey is the second largest of the Channel Islands, located 48km from the Normandy coast and approximately 120km from the south coast of England.
Guernsey has a two tier property market for both rental and sales properties. Generally speaking, the Local Market is available for local residents and employment permit holders, whereas the Open Market is for individuals arriving from the UK or overseas. Before starting your property search, it's important to know whether you are eligible for Local or Open Market housing.
Measuring just 10km long with an area of 62 sq km, Guernsey is home to a little over 63,000 people. The island is made up of 10 parishes, each with its own unique character and charm.
To complete the purchase or sale of a property in Guernsey you have to attend the Contracts Court (known locally as the conveyancing court). The court sits twice a week with proceedings overseen by a Jurat Lieutenant Bailiff and two other Jurats. Both the buyer and seller have to appear before the court and agree the sale or purchase of the property (as the case may be). If you are unable to attend in person you can sign a Power of Attorney to allow someone else – such as the property agent – to represent you.
As an independent self-governing jurisdiction Guernsey has its own system of taxation. Personal income tax is charged at a flat rate of 20 per cent for individuals, after applying personal allowances and other deductions. There is no capital gains tax, inheritance or wealth tax. In addition, if you buy a property worth £1.5m or more the amount of tax you pay will be capped at £250,000 of your worldwide income.
Guernsey has a burgeoning local restaurant scene that continues to grow. From our world famous dairy cows and abundance of fresh seafood, to our sun ripened tomatoes and sweet tasting strawberries – the island has a fine selection of local produce. One of our most popular dishes is Guernsey gâche, a sweet bread that is traditionally served at Christmas. Other specialties include Guernsey bean jar (a stew made with beans and vegetables) and ormer (a type of shellfish found off our coast).
Whether it’s a music festival, a traditional Guernsey event like La Viaër Marchi, an agricultural show or an array of heritage, food and walking festivals, there’s always plenty to do come rain or shine. If all that’s not enough, you can also take a boat to one of our sister islands of Sark, Herm or Alderney.

Residential Director Nick Paluch will be giving an update on the Guernsey property market at Locate Guernsey’s Relocate to Guernsey Show happening on 3 October at St Paul’s in London.