When it comes to finding the perfect real estate agent, especially in a competitive market like Mauritius, making the right choice is important. With over 400 registered estate agents on the island, it’s natural to wonder: How do I choose the right one? How can I be sure I’ll get access to the best properties and services available?

This is where doing your homework matters. In this Vlog, Timo Geldenhuys – Director of Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty, gives an overview of how to choose your real estate agent wisely.

So, why is it crucial to choose a reputable agent? Leading regional and global brands operating in Mauritius adhere to strict internal policies. Agents from these brands are not only well-trained and experienced, but also have a deep understanding of the local market. 

They often have access to a broad range of properties, including the latest developments on the island. Working with a recognised agency ensures you’re tapping into a network of trusted professionals who can offer valuable insights and access to high-quality properties.

One common pitfall is when clients start making inquiries with multiple agents, which can lead to confusion and duplicate property showings. This can make the process more stressful and less efficient. 

To avoid this, Timo’s advice is simple: pick one agent. Agencies like Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty, among other leading firms, have access to nearly all properties available on the island, whether off-plan developments or resale.

Choosing a single, dedicated agent means you’ll have a professional guiding you through every step of the process. It’s not just about finding a property; it’s about having someone who understands your needs and can explain the various aspects of the market, while supporting you throughout your journey. By sticking with one agency, you ensure a more streamlined and personalised experience. 

Now, if for any reason the service isn’t meeting your expectations, you can always explore other options. But generally, a committed agency will offer unparalleled service.

If you’re looking for a professional who will put your interests first and provide exceptional service, feel free to reach out to us – info@sir.mu

When planning to invest in property in Mauritius, one important question pertains to funds transfer.

Chris Lazare – Director of Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty met Valerie Lincoln, Private Banker at AfrAsia to discuss the banking services available to foreigners in Mauritius. 

Opening a bank account as a foreigner is actually pretty easy. The process is relatively simple and requires only a few essential documents, such as a valid identification, proof of address, and in some cases, a bank reference letter. There is also a form to fill out. 

Generally, opening an account takes between 3 to 4 business days.

Other than opening a bank account as a foreigner, another important information you will need concerns the banking services. Our banks offer a range of services tailored to the needs of foreigners, whether they are visiting, travelling for business, or considering settling in the country.

Bank accounts can be opened in multiple currencies, including the Mauritian rupee, euro, US dollar, and British pound. This allows clients to manage their finances flexibly according to their specific needs.

For those looking to invest or start a new life in Mauritius, it is possible to create various structures such as companies, which can also have their own bank accounts. These structures can be advantageous for optimising investments and benefiting from the island’s economic opportunities.

Foreigners can easily obtain real estate loans to finance property acquisitions on the island. These loans can be granted in multiple currencies, depending on the client’s income, and the process is also relatively straightforward. 

Generally, banks can finance up to 70% of the property amount, but this percentage can increase to almost 100% if additional guarantees are provided. Financing can cover both built properties and off-plan projects, with funds called over a period of up to 24 months.

If you need more information, contact us – info@sir.mu

A thrilling property update, foreigners, who already are residence permits holders, can now explore a broader range of properties in Mauritius beyond the existing approved schemes. Let’s get into the details. 

Timo Geldenhuys: In my previous videos, I highlighted the numerous avenues for property acquisition, including schemes like IRS, RES, PDS, Ground+2, and Smart City Schemes. However, a pivotal amendment to the Non-citizens Property Restriction Act has emerged, offering new options for property acquisition by foreigners.

This amendment specifically targets existing permit holders, who now have the freedom to invest in properties outside the previously mentioned schemes.

Let’s see the terms and conditions.

Various permit holders qualify. They include:

• The primary holder of a permanent residence permit
• The primary holder of a residence permit issued by virtue of a previous purchase under the aforementioned property schemes
• The primary holder of an occupation permit as an investor, professional, or self-employed individual
• The primary holder of a short-term occupation permit
• The primary holder of a family occupation permit
• The primary holder of a retiree permit

The criteria that the property must meet are as follows:

• The property cannot exceed 5,276 square metres, which is equivalent to 1.25 Arpent
• The property can be a vacant piece of land, a villa, a standalone house, an apartment or penthouse.
• It cannot be agricultural land.
• The land cannot exceed 5,276 square metres in size.
• It cannot be leasehold land, thus excluding all beachfront properties currently under leasehold.

The amendment to the Non-citizens Property Restriction Act sets a threshold for property acquisition by foreigners, requiring a price exceeding USD 500,000 or its equivalent in foreign hard currency, such as Euros or Pounds. 

Standard taxes in Mauritius apply, including a 5% transfer fee and 5% registration duty, that are typically shared between buyer and seller. Moreover, an additional 10% tax is imposed solely on the buyer.

This elevated cost underscores the exclusivity of such acquisitions, tailored for long-term residents who have identified specific properties they wish to purchase outside of the established schemes.

While the premium price reflects the uniqueness of these opportunities, it also opens doors for acquiring family homes within existing residential areas, a privilege not commonly available to foreigners.

If you have any property-related inquiries or needs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty.

If you have any questions, contact us – info@sir.mu 

Welcome back to another exciting episode of 2-Minute Tuesdays! In this vlog, we’ll discuss air connectivity in Mauritius, exploring the numerous airlines that link the island to major international hubs across the globe.

Timo Geldenhuys: Today, we are discussing the connectivity and air traffic to and from the island, emphasizing the ease of access. As you are aware, Mauritius is a small tropical island, and our reliance on incoming and outgoing flights is crucial.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we enjoyed robust global connectivity. However, like every other place worldwide, we faced challenges during the pandemic, but I am delighted to share that we have successfully restored full air connectivity. 

Presently, we operate flights to over 150 cities worldwide through our diverse alliance partners.

Mauritius boasts direct connections to 9 out of the 15 largest hubs globally. We offer direct flights to all our major target markets, encompassing South Africa and Europe, with daily flights to France and the U.K. Notably, we maintain two daily A380 flights from Dubai, showcasing our strong connectivity and accessibility from a global perspective.

First and foremost, if you’re a foreigner and own a property on the island, you can come and leave easily. Moreover, from an investment standpoint, continuous influx of people onto the island is crucial. Presently, we welcome approximately 1.3 million tourists annually. The goal is to increase this number to 2 million by 2030 and ambitiously reach 8 million tourists per year by 2050. The enhancement of air connectivity in Mauritius is a key factor in achieving these targets, promising consistent expansion. 

So, the answer is clear – getting on and off the island is very easy.

Indeed, we have an array of international airlines facilitating easy access to Mauritius. Renowned carriers such as Air Mauritius, Emirates, and British Airways contribute to our extensive connectivity. Additionally, smaller European airlines like Edelweiss and Corsair play a significant role. Our connections also extend to the East, reaching Australia. Whether you are coming from Europe, the Middle East, or Down Under, accessing Mauritius swiftly is made convenient through our diverse airline partnerships.

If you have any property-related inquiries or needs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty.

If you have any questions, contact us – info@sir.mu 

Welcome to a fresh episode of 2-Minute Tuesdays, where we’ll dive into rental properties in Mauritius. This is especially valuable if you’re considering a move to Mauritius and wish to explore the island before making a long-term commitment to property ownership.

Timo Geldenhuys: What a privilege to be standing in these beautiful gardens at Chateau Bel Ombre. Part of the heritage domain, here stands a beautiful property development called Heritage Villas Valriche. 

One frequently asked question concerns rental properties in Mauritius. The motivations for coming to Mauritius vary, and not everyone arrives with the intention to purchase property immediately. Many individuals prefer to test drive the island before committing to a long-term stay, and others come for job opportunities, prompting the need for rental properties.

Navigating the rental market in Mauritius is both diverse and challenging. Presently, demand significantly surpasses supply, particularly in the two primary areas we operate – the West Coast, covering the Black River and Tamarin area extending up to Cascavelle, and the North, encompassing the greater Grand Baie area. 

Both those regions have a shortage of stock, and one of the reasons for that is that during the COVID period, construction came to a standstill, and subsequently Mauritius has relaxed its restrictions and made it easier for people to come, live and work in Mauritius. As a result, there’s been an influx of people and the demand is just outstripping the supply.

For prospective renters, my recommendation is to plan ahead when searching for rental properties in Mauritius. Regarding property types, we offer a diverse range of options in Mauritius, primarily including apartments, duplexes, and villas. Additionally, the pricing spectrum is extensive, providing flexibility to suit various budget considerations.

In our operational market, a one or two-bedroom apartment can be secured for around MUR 40,000, while a beachfront villa may range from MUR 250,000 and beyond. Our focal point lies in spacious 4-bedroom family homes, a sought-after option priced between MUR 80,000 and MUR 120,000. This range facilitates the inclusion of amenities such as a pool, space for pets, and a comfortable environment for children.

For those desiring a more lavish and secluded lifestyle, consider areas like Heritage Villas Valriche on the West Coast. As for the East Coast, developments like Anahita are available, and there is also Blue Bay down South. Of course, popular choices include predominant areas like Tamarin and Black River, while the North, with its schools, major healthcare services, and shops, naturally attracts a substantial expat community.

If you have any property-related inquiries or needs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty.

If you have any questions, contact us – info@sir.mu