Open Market sales show no sign of slowing down in the New Year

Friday 24 December 2021

Buyers' interest in the Open Market - sparked in part by the Bailiwick’s response to the initial stages of the pandemic - remains high as the year comes to an end and looks like starting the New Year in similar fashion.

James Starkey, Open Market Negotiator at Cooper Brouard, has made 15 of the company’s Open Market sales in 2020 and already has five sales ready to complete early in 2022.

“Market conditions remain strong with a steady stream of applicants coming to the island," said Mr Starkey. "Many are looking ahead of the April tax deadline and we are expecting to see another increase in activity then.

“We are also seeing more and more locally-qualified applicants choosing to look at Open Market houses as they see value in the lower to middle end of the market due to the increase in the Local Market.”

There is demand across the board but the part of the market in greatest need of high-quality stock is between £1.5million and £3million. Mr Starkey has clients in this price bracket with a variety of requirements from family homes to lock up and leave homes. 

There is also serious interest in the highest price brackets of the Open Market.

Among Open Market properties currently for sale on Cooper Brouard's website, the most expensive quoted price is £5.75million for 2, Choisi in Les Gravees in St. Peter Port. 

“Though omicron has thrown everyone a bit of a curve ball, Guernsey is still being judged by its handling of the early stages of the pandemic," said Mr Starkey.

"People remember that we acted swiftly and decisively and that made the island a more desirable destination.

"With regard to the practicalities, we are conducting a number of initial viewings via video or WhatsApp but, as it stands now, house hunters are still willing and able to travel to complete the process.”

Pictured (top): James Starkey of Cooper Brouard.