Guernsey stands to benefit from the uncertainty and chaos being experienced both in the UK and further afield, according to local property professionals Swoffers.
The firm has seen continued interest from new clients looking to move to the island, echoing Deputy Gavin St Pier’s view that the island stands as a ‘rock of granite stability’ in the ‘boiling, angry, sea of turmoil that is UK politics today’.
“We have certainly seen an increase in enquiries from people looking to relocate and not just from the UK,” said Managing Director, Craig Whitman.
“The fact that Guernsey is such a stable, vibrant jurisdiction; that we are open for business, that we are easy to relocate to and that we have a wide range of affordable properties available to buy or rent means we are attracting lots of interest.”
He added that the threat of a general election and some of the statements currently being made by the Labour Party about what they might do if they were in power has also caused concern amongst high net worths living in the UK.
“Some are looking to make the move now and not wait for what might or might not happen next,” said Craig.
“Where we have seen the biggest explosion of interest is in Open Market rentals. People want to move quickly to take advantage of what the island can offer and then have time to look for their permanent home once they are on-island.”
Deputy Gavin St Pier recently advised the States that the island was well prepared for whatever the Brexit outcome, stating: “We have daily contact with departments across Whitehall and meet with colleagues once a week.”
He acknowledged that, “the current political situation in the UK is unprecedented. It is turbulent, uncertain and its institutions are clearly highly stressed.”
“Guernsey’s political situation is completely the opposite, and that’s why we offer such an attractive alternative,” said Craig.
