We had a chance to interview  Christian Wattiau of SiBarth Real Estate in St. Barths, to discuss the prospect of living, working, and playing in this island paradise and get his insights on what the island has to offer prospective purchasers. Here are his answers to ten questions we posed about St. Barths Real Estate..

What local amenities does this area have to offer (parks, community center, recreation programs)?

The harbour, The airport, The marine reserve, a stadium, tennis courts, public swimming pool.

Can you describe the local school system, and what type of education children get here (private, public, charter – focus on sports, the arts, etc.)? 

A public school and 3 private schools that follow the French system until the end of Collège. Children start school at 3 years and finish at 15 years.

 What is the community culture like (i.e. private, gated, urban, diverse, etc)

Diverse, a mix of local St Barths Caribbean island culture and French culture

 What is transportation like to the area’s major surrounding cities, or within the city?

There is no public transportation on this 25 km square island. There are a few taxis that operate in the high season for tourists and private boat and airplane charters.

 Is there a strong political presence or community leader involvement in this area?

Yes, the “Collectivité” is the local authority of this French overseas territory and has a President elected for 5 years.

 Are there any local traditions that bring the community together? (sports events, charity events, sales, holiday celebrations)?

August is the recreation time with “Fêtes de quartier” Each area of the island organizes a party with diverse tournaments and sports contests ending with music at night. The Mardi Gras Carnaval is held in February with music and costumes. The tradition at Easter is to camp on the beach. The island hosts many Regattas, such as the famous Bucket Regatta and Les Voiles de St Barth and there are numerous watersports and tennis tournaments.

 What is the job market like or major industries that are at the core of this area?

The island is driven mostly by tourism and therefore the businesses that support this eg hotels, restaurants, villa rentals.

 What are some thriving small local businesses that make an impact in the community?

Builders, Real Estate, Fishing

 What are the local property taxes like and what other financial responsibilities should a property owner in this area be prepared for?

The local St Barths Tax Code is the code applied for any property located on the island. There are no yearly property taxes. Upon purchase, the one-time transfer tax is currently 5% of the sale price, to which the buyer has to add some related minor taxes and notary fees, making up a total of about 6%.

In case of capital gain upon a resale, a capital gain tax has to be settled with the local government. While such tax rate is currently 25%, it is important to point out that a substantial discount may be obtained, increasing over time, in accordance with the number of years of ownership. As an example, there are no local capital gain taxes after 15 years of ownership for a secondary residence, and after 10 years in the case of a main residence.

There is no income tax on the rental revenue. Property owners may obviously face their own fiscal obligations in their country of residence.

Please note any Key Listings you have in your area?

 

 

Villa TMN

 

 

 

Villa LAP

 

 

Villa  ABV

 

Villa TOP

If you want to learn more from Christian or would like information on his properties, contact him via the information provided , or click on one of these beautiful properties to connect to his website. Or if you think you have a question that should be answered in our next conversation with him, please forward that to a member of our editorial team via Michael@hauteliving.com.