French St. Martin Real Estate Laws, Taxes and Island Information
Summary - French St. Martin Real Estate Laws, Taxes and Island Information
On French St.Martin, real estate transactions are always handled by the Notaire(Notary). The Notaire
is responsible for perparing the final deed and obtaining all relevant searches about the property.
The Notaire must check that each party has full capacity or the right either to sell or purchase
property. Like on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, the Notaire is responsible, by law, to both parties
and is obligated to do a proper title search to insure a clear title transfer. A personal attorney
is not necessary.
- Land lease and fee simple deeds are available.
- Approximately 10% transfer fees; includes Notary and taxes.
- Land tax is applicable. Call or e-mail us for more information.
- 33 1/2% capital gains tax.
- Offshore companies are welcome but with restrictions.
- Land speculation is limited. Build within six (6) months or additional taxes
apply.
- Building permits and zoning require some local knowledge.
Island Information for French St. Martin and Dutch St. Maarten
St. Maarten/St. Martin is the smallest island in the world to be divided between two
different nations. The island is split between the Dutch and French, and the two cultures
live very peacefully together on 37 square miles. In fact, the island's inhabitants are quite
proud of their nearly 350-year history of peaceful co-existence. The island's two sides
offer you the culture and lifestyle of both the Dutch and the French. There are
approximately 35,000 inhabitants on each side of the island, and 82 nationalities are
represented. Located 18.5 North and 63.5 West, in the heart of the Caribbean, this small island
dual nation has been a prestigious tourist haven for years. The capital of the Dutch side
is Philipsburg and the capital of the French side is Marigot.
Both sides of the island have their own official language (French and Dutch) but
English is spoken everywhere. Both sides have their own currency ( French Franc and
Netherlands Antilles Guilder), but U.S. Dollars are accepted everywhere. It is very easy
to exchange currencies in banks, hotels, and "Exchange Desks. The island is on Atlantic
time, one hour ahead of eastern standard time in the US. The climate is tropical and constant
all year long, the average temperature is around 80 degrees (F).
St. Maarten/St. Martin has 37 beaches that are secluded areas of beautiful white sand.
All kinds of water sports are available including; windsurfing, swimming, sailing, jet skiing,
diving and snorkeling. Half-day or full-day sailing excursions to undeveloped beaches nearby are
also available.
St. Maarten's/St. Martin's climate and natural beauty make it a perfect place for other sports
and recreation. Golf, tennis, biking, hiking and horseback riding are other activities
that allow you to explore the island's natural splendor.
St. Maarten/St. Martin has the best of nightlife on both sides of the island. Casinos (on the
Dutch side), nightclubs and dance bars are just some of the attractions available on the
island. In addition, there are literally hundreds of fine restaurants to choose from.
REMAX ISLAND PROPERTIES WILL BE THERE FROM THE BEGINNING OF EACH DEAL TO THE CLOSING. WE SPECIALIZE IN ST. MARTIN REAL
ESTATE, OFFSHORE INVESTMENT, PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT. CALL OR E-MAIL FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Main Office: 011 (599)544-4062
Or
1-800-STMARTIN
info@remaxislandproperties.com
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