Sept. 2, 2008 -- The property market in the Caribbean continues to be a healthy investment and with increased globalization of financial services, the region is also becoming a centre for economic activity. To complement their wide range of properties for sale in the region, Caribbean Land and Property are now offering a host of new financial services to support investors seeking to make the most of their money.

David Jessop, Director of the Caribbean Council writes that “hardly a week has gone by when one or another bank, private equity firm, hedge fund or privately wealthy individual has not been seeking advice on the opportunities available in the region.” To cater to the demand, Caribbean Land and Property Financial Services division now offers offshore banking, offshore company formation, economic citizenship and mortgages in the Caribbean. These sought after services are not just limited to property buyers but can be utilized by people all over the world who wish to save on taxes and create a secure haven for their personal and corporate wealth.

Manager of the Financial Services department Katie Sosna says “We want to help people make the most out of their money and advise them on options that can give them better returns on their capital. For instance, individuals may want to invest in property and yet be unaware that by setting up an offshore company they can purchase the same property a nd limit their tax and licensing liabilities for the period of the incorporation.”

Offshore banking and company formation has often been negatively associated with illegal activities but is actually a perfectly legitimate way for individuals and businesses to protect their funds from high taxes, economic and political instability,  corruption, stifling bureaucracy and even personal and familial situations. Offshore company’s, often referred to as IBC's (International Business Company), can be formed through Caribbean Land and Property in as little as one day. Offshore banking accounts can be opened simultaneously allowing clients to trade through their new company from day one.

Obtaining a second passport is an investment that can pay dividends economically, personally and politically. The Economic Citizenship program allows individuals and families to apply for a second passport in either Dominica or St Kitts & Nevis which are the only two Caribbean countries who still offer the program. The main benefits include an escape from excessive taxation, increased business opportunities, relocation advantages and easier travel with visa-free entry to over 100 countries. In addition the host country also benefits by using this significant foreign investment for improvements in infrastructure and cultural development.

Application for the Economic Citizenship program can only be made through a registered and government approved agency. Caribbean Land and Property Financial Services are pleased to be a trusted service provider to support and expedite a client’s application to secure a second passport.  Additionally this service provides an experienced liaison between applicant and Government to ensure that there is no unnecessary travel until the time of the final interview. The process takes only 2-3 months to complete with approval being subject to thorough checks by an international agency.

The mortgage service for Caribbean properties will also be welcomed by potential investors who have traditionally found this facility hard to obtain in the region. The mortgage service from Caribbean Land and Property is available in 14 countries, offers up to 75% loan for land or home purchase and presents much needed support in this arena.

The Caribbean and Latin America is one of the world’s strongest growth areas and a survey released yesterday from the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) states “In spite of the deteriorating international economic scenario, this year Latin America and the Caribbean will complete six consecutive years of growth, with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rising 4.7% in 2008.”

The enhanced financial services now offered by Caribbean Land and Property are thus an additional boost to a thriving environment of economic stability and investment in the Caribbean.