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TCI Realtors sell over $290 Million despite COVID-bust to tourism

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#TurksandCaicos, February 8, 2021 – In reviewing the past decade of a buoyant real estate industry; 2020 surged ahead of 2018 as second best, according to the Market Report Year in Review Comparison published by Turks and Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty and it meant realtors banked an impressive $290,223,626 in sales despite the dismal impact of Covid-19 on travel.

“The 2020 TCI real estate market performed better than we ever could have hoped for in the context of COVID–19, a four-month country-wide shut down and stringent travel requirements,” informed the Market Report circulated in mid-January 2021, which added, “With airports and resorts closed, and most commercial planes not flying, the luxury market was, quite urgently, seeking out real estate!”

Resulting in record vacant land sales and multi-million dollar closes on signature properties in the British  overseas territory, the Report attributes the banner year to a reduction in stamp duty. 

The reduction was one of the Government’s revenue raising measures as the coronavirus pandemic robbed the country of critical tourism earnings.

“Quarter two, (led by the sale of a couple of a trophy properties and several new development villa sales) was also assisted by welcomed stimulus from the TCI Government with a concession halving stamp duty for the second quarter. This helped us close sales during this torturous time for our hotel, resort and villa rental partners grappling with the border’s closures. And this is really the first time in our history that our real estate industry has not been so directly tethered to tourism flow,” informed the Market Report.

The report, fueled by statistics from the Turks and Caicos Real Estate Association, (TCREA) informs that 323 listings brought in a whopping $290,223,626 in sales; an average of $898,525 per close.

Showcased as the most significant, big pay day sales for 2020 were:  Emerald Pavilion sold for $13 million; Bajacau sold for $18.8 million; Amanyara Villa 16 sold for $6.75 million; Dream Big Villa sold for $5.75 million; Long Bay House sold for $5.825 million and Cerulean for $4.8 million.

Land sales in 2020 topped 2019; the fourth best performance for Turks and Caicos in the past decade. 

The Turks and Caicos Market Report illustrated that over $63.2 million in vacant lots was earned from 168 listings.

It was a 4.4 percent increase over the year prior.

“Within the 168 sales there were 14 land sales over $1M and the overall average price, as noted on the graph, has experienced a slight increase. Nine beachfront parcels, three in Leeward and six in Long Bay transacted in 2020. The Bight experienced an uptick in sales which were predominantly along Leeward Highway. Leeward’s growth continues with construction throughout and continued land sales as noted below. Discovery Bay shows steady land sales and we predict this will increase with the plans for road pavement along with the recently launched new development, The Strand, in Cooper Jack. Long Bay was the winner again this year posting 42 land sales. The outer-islands recorded land sales in North, Middle, West Caicos, Grand Turk & Ambergris Cay.”

The Ministry of Finance reported increases as well for the public purse due to stamp duty. 

“Stamp Duty on Land Transactions for the quarter was $2.2 million and totaled $12.8 million at the end of the second quarter which was $3.4 million ahead of the estimates,” reported Premier Sharlene Robinson, TCI Minister of Finance in an October 27, 2020 update to the nation.

The 2020 Stamp Duty Waiver for real estate purchases was available from September 20th through to December 20th, and was offered in three tiers, namely:  a 75 percent reduction of stamp duty on property valued up to $2 million, made between September 21st and October 20th; a 50 percent reduction of stamp duty on property valued up to $2 million, made between October 21st and November 20th and a 25 percent reduction of stamp duty on property valued up to $2 million, made between November 21st and December 20th.

Fifty-seven condominiums were sold to top 2019; leading the sales were luxury condos at Grace Bay Club; The Palms;  Ocean Club; The Regent Grand and the Shore Club.

“Condominium sales performance finished the year end with a slight increase after the significant drop in sales volume last year. The average price increased by 37 percent due to the sale of several luxury re-sale condominiums. The sale-to-list ratio remained high at 92 percent and the overall-average price per square foot increased slightly to $488. The price per square foot for condominiums over $1M was $661 and over $3M was $780.”

Condo sales volume boomed by 15 percent after a review of 2020.

Interest continues to abound in 2021 for the alluring alternative life Turks and Caicos real estate listings offer, despite the end to stamp duty concessions. 

The Report explained the remarkable performance is due to these truths:  “They want quality, the ease-of-use and access and security, and are less motivated by rental income opting for personal use and long-term capital appreciation. As a Hamptons real estate agent said in early summer, “life plans changed in a weekend”, and while that may be an overstatement for this market, it is clear that buyers (and most existing TCI property owners) have put their umbrellas in the sand with a clear intention: They really want to be here!”

In Y2020, 93 private homes were sold; more than 16 of them sold for $3 million dollars and nearly 30 percent of those single family homes were in the villa development category.

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Academy Eagles FC crowned Beaches Turks & Caicos sponsored Provo Men’s Premier League champions 2026  

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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The Academy Eagles FC were crowned champions of the Beaches sponsored Men’s Provo Premier League after securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over defending champions, SWA Sharks, at the Venetian Road football field.

In a match that featured a mix of youth and experienced players, the Academy Eagles eventually broke through late in the game when Jean Innocent found the back of the net in the 77th minute. Innocent doubled the lead in the 95th minute from the penalty spot to clinch the championship.

Academy Eagles head coach Aaron Lawrence expressed immense pride in his squad’s performance. “I applaud the team for their discipline throughout the season and their ability to stick to the plan heading into this game,” Lawrence shared, adding special praise for team captain Myherwens Varis for “following tactical instructions throughout the game.”

“This victory would not have been possible without the thoughtful support from our main sponsor, Beaches Turks and Caicos resort. This is the second year running with this relationship. This has provided exposure for the semi-professional players and the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association,” Lawrence noted.

On the opposing sideline, SWA Sharks coach Jack Watson was modest in defeat. While he noted that his team executed their strategy well, he recognized the Eagles’ determination. “I congratulate the Eagles team for wanting the win more,” Watson said. “We played to the game plan, but I fault a lapse in judgment that gave up two goals.”

Beaches Turks and Caicos, returning for a second year of sponsoring the competition, expressed ongoing dedication to youth football in the islands. General Manager Deryk Meany shared his enthusiasm, “I am satisfied with the impact that the league is having on youth development throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and our resort’s involvement in fielding a team for the competition.” The final phase of the tournament now transitions to a knockout format among the eight participating clubs.

League executives also weighed in on the success of the season. Provo Premier League President, Phillip Baptiste, expressed his satisfaction with the league format and highlighted the significant progress made by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) over the course of the tournament.

“This is what true success looks like as corporate partners like Beaches Turks and Caicos resort joins forces with the TCIFA in providing an avenue for youth development and sports. While we are happy for the continued sponsorship, we are anticipating more support from other entities. This is not only a win for sports, it is a win for development here in the TCI,” Baptiste shared.

TCIFA Technical Director Dane Ritchie echoed these positive sentiments, pointing to the league’s development as an avenue for showcasing local talent on a broader stage. “Our team continues to learn as they work on developing talents with the youth players, as well as providing a broader marketing avenue for the league to be seen internationally with FIFA+ streaming,” Ritchie said.

He added, “the TCIFA commends the growth of the coaching staff involved in the league and looks forward to further enhancing the competition to make them more competitive in the Caribbean leagues.”

Beaches FC and Cheshire Hall FC have both punched their tickets for the first two spots in the semifinals with a 2-0 win over Teachers’ Young Strikers and 5-0 thrashing of Provo United respectively in the first two quarter finals.

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Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates Stars at its Annual Prestige Awards

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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The French Village main stage at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort was transformed into a dazzling beacon of green and gold as the resort celebrated its highest achievers. Under the inspiring banner of “One Team, One Vision, Endless Achievements,” the annual Prestige Awards recently closed the chapter on an exceptional 2025.

More than 120 nominees across twelve distinct categories walked the red carpet, greeted by flashing cameras and the cheering of their peers. The evening was laced with vibrant entertainment that kept the energy high between award presentations. Attendees were also treated to an exquisite five-course menu, carefully curated to match the prestige of the occasion and celebrate the rich culinary talent present at the resort.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to operate one of the premier family resorts in the Caribbean. General Manager Deryk Meany took the stage to address the audience while reflecting on a year of resilience, innovation and unparalleled guest service.

“This is a celebratory milestone that as leaders we are happy to share with the stars of the hospitality industry,” Meany shared. “You have shown the world the true mettle of leadership and commitment here at Beaches Turks and Caicos.”

To further recognize unique contributions to the resort’s operational success, Meany personally distributed the General Manager’s Special Awards. These honours were bestowed upon Eric ‘Cookie’ Johnson from the kitchen, Harriet Beeput from administration, and Javier Sarita from the entertainment department for their exceptional behind-the-scenes dedication.

The climax of the evening featured the announcement of the resort’s most prestigious overarching awards. Felipe Luzardo Neira from the kitchen took home the MVP of the Year (Manager of the Year) award, while Chad Peterkin from engineering and maintenance was named All-Rounder of the Year (Supervisor of the Year). The loyalty & travel department proved their collective strength by securing the A-Team of the Year title.

Individual team members were also recognized for their ultimate service standards. Deandra Astwood from the front office earned the Platinum Team Member of the Year award. The highest individual honour, Diamond Team Member of the Year, was awarded to Javain Campbell from the restaurant department. Campbell used his moment in the spotlight to highlight the importance of cross-departmental collaboration and community outreach.

“This accolade is a testament to the commitment and teamwork within all the departments of the resort,” Campbell noted after receiving his award. “The opportunity to volunteer at different Sandals Foundation activities as well as be a mentor to other team members means the world to me. This achievement will allow me to do more in leadership as I have been tasked with representing the entire team here at the resort.”

The Prestige Awards ensured that every facet of the resort’s operations received proper recognition. From environmental sustainability to guest entertainment, the specific category winners showcased a wide array of talents:

  • Movers & Shakers was awarded to Katherine ‘Tinkerbell’ Jiminez from the entertainment department
  • Legendary Team Member was secured by Kadian Smith from the restaurant
  • Circle of Joy went to Emanie Jocelyn Seide from security and loss prevention
  • Earth Guardian was claimed by Bernard Florvil from engineering and maintenance
  • Sandals Foundation Sentinel was awarded to Tanya Swann from administration
  • Standing Ovation Award was proudly accepted by Richard Myers from the laundry team
  • Money Maker Award went to Teesha McCallum-Hamilton from the resort shop
  • Heart of the House Hotel Manager’s Award was presented to Carlton Biggs from stewarding department
  • People’s Choice Award was won by Claire Ann Balones from the off site department
  • Pacesetter Award was given to Kassandra Henry from accounts & cost control
  • Founder’s Circle Award was claimed by Susan Outten from the restaurant

As the night drew to a close, the focus shifted to the rigorous selection process that led to the evening’s celebrations. The Prestige Awards do not merely look at a single moment of excellence, but rather evaluate a full twelve months of unwavering dedication to the guest experience. Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby highlighted the rewarding journey these team members took to reach the main stage.

“This event is a culmination of a number of activities for the resort’s leadership and the team members who have been exemplary and consistent throughout the year,” Coleby shared. “Congratulations are in order for each nominee as they have been crowned winners for the different months of 2025.”

With the trophies distributed and the 2025 season officially wrapped, the staff at Beaches Turks and Caicos now look forward. Fueled by the “One Team, One Vision” mantra, these award winners are already setting the standard for another year of endless achievements.

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Finance

TCI Financial Services Opens Debate on Cryptocurrency Rules 

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Turks and Caicos, May 12, 2026 – A new era of digital finance regulation could be on the horizon for the Turks and Caicos Islands, as the Financial Services Commission moves to establish a legal framework for virtual assets and cryptocurrency-related businesses.

The TCI Financial Services Commission on Friday launched a public consultation on its proposed Virtual Assets Business Bill, 2026, legislation designed to regulate virtual asset service providers, stablecoin issuers and other digital asset activities operating in or from the territory.

Globally, governments and regulators have been racing to catch up with the rapid growth of digital currencies, blockchain technology and online financial platforms. Concerns over money laundering, cybercrime, fraud and the collapse of poorly regulated crypto exchanges have pushed jurisdictions to tighten oversight while still trying to attract financial innovation and investment.

The proposed TCI bill appears aimed at positioning the territory within that evolving international framework.

According to the FSC, the legislation is aligned with international standards and guidance from bodies including the Financial Action Task Force, International Organization of Securities Commissions and the Financial Stability Board.

The Commission said the bill would introduce a “comprehensive licensing, supervisory, prudential and enforcement framework” for the sector. The proposed law includes anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations, cyber resilience requirements, enforcement measures and even a regulatory sandbox intended to support innovation.

Among the notable features are proposed reserve and governance rules for stablecoins, which are digital currencies typically tied to traditional assets like the US dollar. The draft legislation also outlines exemptions for certain technology providers and closed-loop token systems.

The FSC said the consultation period is intended to gather public and industry feedback before the bill is submitted to Cabinet next month. Written submissions must be received by June 8, 2026.

The consultation paper and draft bill have been published on the FSC website for public review.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

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