NEW YORK – Based on figures from the CBO and the Joint Committee on Taxation, federal taxes will increase by a total of $423 billion in 2013 if the Bush-era tax cuts are allowed to expire. According to the Associated Press, the increase in taxes will be the largest since 1942.
In light of this, for those looking to secure their funds offshore and control their own spending, the newest development on Roatan, Crystal Sands Villas, may be the answer.
Amy Murphy, a realtor with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty in Scottsdale, Arizona, has experienced an influx of buyers seeking to purchase homes in the Caribbean – with a 70% surge in inquiries since the election.
As the owner of her own Caribbean property on the island of Roatan off the coast of Honduras, Amy has first-hand experience of this offshore buying trend.
Since the late 1990s, the value of her property has rocketed from $38,000 to $250,000, a growth trend which is tempting more buyers to invest before taxes rise.
Amy said: “In 2012, the Wall Street Journal, Kiplinger’s and International Living each designated the island of Roatan – along with the Cayman Islands – as among the top destinations for retirees in the world.
“Roatan distinguishes itself by offering full-service spas, world-class golf, dining and shopping all at reasonable prices. It’s a haven for anyone looking for an affordable and peaceful island lifestyle and it’s appealing for Americans who don’t want to give money to governments, agencies and programs they do not endorse.
“Many buyers looking to invest money in this market believe that entrepreneurs and families should be able to control their own spending, without being forced to fund an overly deficit US Government.”
The newest development on Roatan is an exclusive community in the pristine area of Turquoise Bay. Called Crystal Sands Villas, the properties consist of eco-friendly designer villas on one of the last unspoilt white sand beaches in the Caribbean. Each luxury property will enjoy 24-hour gated security with concierge service, spa, marina and medical services, all with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef – the second largest reef in the world.
Amy continued: “Prices to buy into this idyllic and secluded Caribbean community will increase 25% in January, with building commencing next summer. The investment potential is huge, especially as the year-end approaches.
“With land appreciation in Roatan averaging at around 13.5 percent each year over the past decade, anyone buying into the development now could look to sell in several years, potentially earning a significant return,” she continued.
“As this luxury community becomes more established, a greater number of people with wealth and a desire to escape from the stress and politics of urban life will want to buy into it.
“My advice to anyone wanting to make a move is to take advantage of securing their funds offshore before taxes rise and begin living a life of beaches and beauty on a tropical paradise like Roatan.”
