Barbados Property News August-September 2025

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Opportunity

Ideally situated on Rockley Golf & Country Club, this exclusive new development features luxurious 2 & 3 Bedroom open plan condominiums in a great location. Offering comfortable living and excellent rental potential.

Contact Luxe for more info Investment

Editor’s Comments

What a wonderful Crop Over season it’s been! Lots of great concerts and parties, superb music and colourful pagentry on the streets in the culminating Kadooment parade. Barbados rocks!

A quick period of relaxation before school starts and then we are in the run up to the ‘season’. Although from the Agents I have spoken to, there was no real off season this year and that’s great news for the property industry in Barbados! The Pier Head launched in late July and this was welcome news for the regeneration of Bridgetown which is sorely needed. Congrats to all involved and we look forward to watching this impressive project as it evolves.

Things have been relatively quiet so far this season weather wise– but as they say in Barbados, don’t let me put ‘goat mout’ on it!!!! The hurricane season is still very much with us and as we all know, things can change quickly. In this issue we address being prepared and taking appropriate precautions. Never be complacent. Just last year we had a partial hit from Beryl and the fishermen are still reeling, never mind the small islands of the Grenadines. Are you adequately insured? Do you have non-perishable food stuff and water stored? Do you know where the hurricane shelters are in your area and the rules? Do you have a plan for your pets or big animals? So many things to remember and you don’t want to be spending hours in a supermarket when the alarm goes off. Stay safe everyone and read on…

Of course, BPN is full of property for sale and rent and we are on line on www. barbadospropertynews.com and on social media. Enjoy the summer and take time to relax in paradise.

Best Pamela x

On the cover: Rockley Residences

Credits

Publisher – Hiltop Publications Ltd, 11 Gunsite Townhouses

Brittons Hill, St Michael Barbados

Tel (246) 232 0692

Email: sportingb@caribsurf.com www.sportingbarbados.com www.barbadospropertynews.com

Editor/Advertising – Pamela L Hiles

Design and Art Direction – 809

Distribution – Hiltop Publications Ltd, Brian’s Print Brokerage

Printing – COT Printery

The Material and editorial contained in this publication have been deemed accurate at the time of going to print. The views expressed as editorial are those of the Editor unless stated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the permission of Hiltop Publications Ltd.

Cubed - Inch Marlow, Christ Church 2 bed, 2 bath modern, minimalist home near the beach US $585,000 (unfurnished)

Maxwell Beach Villas 103 - Christ Church 2 bed, 2 bath turn key beachfront retreat with rental potential on Barbados’ vibrant south coast. US $675,000 (furnished)

Park Lot 63 - Christ Church 11,254 Sq Ft prime lot perched on an elevated lot in the sought-after Regency Park neighborhood US $187,500

Mount Pleasant Plantation - Mount Pleasant, St. Philip 3 bed, 3 bath bungalow and 2 apartments on an acre of land with spectacular ocean views US $825,000

Southern Comfort - St. Thomas 4 bed, 4 bath property with phenomenal sea views, pool, and a distinctive architectural style US $747,500 (unfurnished)

4 bed, 4.5 bath

with basement studio and adjacent apartment with rental potential US $850,000 (appliances only)

Hills 86 - St. George 4 bed, 4.5 bath stunning 6,500 sq. ft. home on two expansive lots with breathtaking views US $1,575.000 (semi-furnished)

Lion Castle Lot 31 - St. Thomas

50,115 Sq. Ft. elevated corner lot nestled in the Lion Castle Development with spectacular views US $325,000

Standfast,

Ivy - St.

25,717 Sq. Ft. lot with planning permission for the development of nine residences with renders US $335,000

Mount
The
James
Rolling
Inch
Palm Avenue 288 - Sunset Crest, St. James
serene retreat
Regency

Rockley Residences Now Selling

Rockley Residences is an upscale condominium development located in the heart of the Rockley Golf & Country Club on Barbados’ vibrant south coast. Developed by Ron Davis, the project brings together thoughtful planning, modern design, and a prime location to offer a distinctive residential experience. It is designed by Peter Sandiford of Habitats Architectural Designs and constructed by Preconco Ltd, one of Barbados’ leading builders known for high-quality, durable construction. The residences also feature certified hurricane-rated windows and doors built by Domus Caribbean Solutions, adding an extra layer of safety and structural integrity to the already robust construction standards.

The development features a collection of spacious two- and three-bedroom condominiums, each offering open-plan interiors, high-end finishes, air-conditioned throughout, and private outdoor spaces. A full appliance package is included, and buyers have the option to purchase duty-free furniture, making the move-in process effortless and cost-effective.

On-site amenities include a central pool and sundeck, tennis courts, clubhouse with restaurant, and access to a 9-hole golf course. Residents also benefit from the convenience of nearby beaches, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife — all within walking distance.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the community incorporates rainwater harvesting, solar-ready infrastructure, and eco-friendly landscaping practices.

Luxe Caribbean Properties are the lead sales & marketing agent for Rockley Residences, with Brent Davis, Director of Sales, serving as the lead agent for the project. Brent brings deep local knowledge and a client-first approach to guiding buyers through every step of the purchase process.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation escape, investment property, or full-time residence, Rockley Residences delivers modern comfort in a premier Barbados location.

For more information, visit www.luxecaribbeanproperties.com, www.rockleyresidences.com or contact Brent Davis at (246) 233-5893 or info@luxecaribbeanproperties.com.

The vital tools for Hurricane Preparedness, Forecasting & Response

I think it is important that we look at some of the vital tools that are used for Hurricane preparedness, forecasting and relief after the passage of such storms.

As we are probably aware we have a list of things that we should do prior to the Hurricane Season, which officially runs from June 1st to November 30th each year, however, there has been a move to start monitoring from the middle of May, as have seen some earlier activity in recent years. I won’t worry about elaborating on those here as they are mostly the same from year to year and mostly common-sense things. For more detailed information, I would direct you to the official website of our Department of Emergency Management (DEM) - https://dem.gov. bb/

I will touch on a few areas that I think are important including expanding a bit on the role of the DEM here, Hurricane Hunters, Weather satellite imagery, Forecast Models, etc.

To start with we have our National Emergency Management System, which is the overarching mechanism which facilitates emergency management. It not only consists of the DEM which is responsible for the coordination of stakeholders and activities but the following groupings:

1. Emergency Management Advisory Council

2. Emergency Operations Centre /Emergency Management Teams

3. Fifteen (15) Emergency Management Standing Committees

4. Thirty (30) District Emergency Organisations (DEOs)

The main part of this is the various District Emergency Organisations (DEO’s) that we have around the island. They are divided into the 30 Constituencies we have but should have no political affiliation whatsoever, as that only spells disaster of its own kind for their effectiveness. These DEO’s are volunteer lead and managed, but they get training from various other entities, like First Aid, Damage Assessment, Shelter Management, Tree Trimming and Removal of Debris from Roads, etc. So, these are very important for getting communities prepared, coordination of information and messages (via VHF Radio), and assistance (if possible) during the passage of such systems and of course relief and assistance afterwards. Our DEM is much like the US version called FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and is an indispensable tool for which no costs should be spared, as such

means lives and livelihoods.

Hurricane Hunters are likely the most important tool for accurate hurricane forecasting, as they fly directly into storms to collect vital data that satellites cannot, such as minimum sea level pressure and wind data in order to establish where the center of circulation is – otherwise known as the eye of the storm or hurricane. This information is then fed back into the various computer models that have been designed to crunch the numbers and produce a likely forecast of intensity and direction. As they gather more data, on each run into the developing systems through full-fledged hurricane and even accumulatively over the years, it also helps to improve forecast models, leading to more accurate predictions of storm tracks and intensity, ultimately helping to save lives and property.

The first crewed flight into a hurricane happened in 1943 when a pilot-trainer flew into a Category 1 hurricane near Galveston, Texas on a bet. So since then, before satellites were used to find tropical storms, military aircraft flew routine weather reconnaissance tracks to detect formation of tropical storms and hurricanes.

Indeed, while there has been five airplane and crew lost in the Pacific region, there was only one loss in the Atlantic and that was in 1955, when a United States Navy Lockheed P2V Neptune of Airborne Early Warning Squadron Four (VW-4) disappeared in Hurricane Janet over the Caribbean Sea with nine Navy men and two Canadian journalists aboard – which shows the more international aspect of this from way back then and not just the USA. This was after Janet had hit us here in Barbados, then Grenada and went onto become one of the few Category-5 hurricanes in the Atlantic region or more so the southwest Caribbean Sea.

And it would be remiss of me not to mention the close call of a recon mission that left Barbados to go into Hurricane Hugo on … September 15, 1989 – While entering the eyewall of Hurricane Hugo, a NOAA WP-3D Orion (registration N42RF) encountered multiple severe downdrafts, causing the inboard right engine to overheat. The crew was forced to shut it down as the aircraft reached 220 m (720 ft) above the ocean in the eye. They dumped fuel and followed a United States Air Force WC-130 out of the hurricane.

The aircraft sustained major damage and was grounded for the rest of the 1989 Atlantic hurricane season. [Wikepedia]

This flight was ironically carrying Barbadian journalist Janice Griffith, a reporter with the Barbados Sun newspaper (Nation Newspaper), if you want to get the rest of it and it is very interesting and hair raising, Google “Hunting Hugo: The Hurricane Hunters’ Wildest Ride” or here is a link to help - https://www.wunderground.com/ hurricane/articles/hunting-hugo-part-1

So, take note that many have put their lives on the line in order to try discover more about Cyclone formation, tracking and forecasting, and in so doing helped save our lives and property. Many have done so safely, some have had close calls and some have been lost. Therefore, I am somewhat concerned when I notice unsubstantiated conspiracy-based claims that are affecting the efforts of all of this, as it affects us all.

Since, the weather satellite era started in the late 1950’s and first successful in 1960, Weather satellite imagery has become crucial, not only for their bird’s eye view of what is actually going on at the surface of the Earth, but also for improving weather forecasting models. They not only provide a global view of weather systems, including large-scale patterns and smaller features like thunderstorms and fog, their data is used to improve model accuracy by providing better initial conditions for model variables, particularly through data assimilation.

All of this data – from Ground Weather Station data, recent Radar data, Hurricane Hunter or Reconnaissance flights, Weather Satellites and all the Research, Experience and Scientific and Dedicated Human resources put in over the

decades – is and has been used to try and help us. Should we not be appreciative and supportive of all of this?

As more direct examples of Forecast Models, as I write this we have a possibly scenario this coming week as shown by the American GFS Model here of a potential Tropical Depression passing well north of the islands and note the US National Hurricane Center 7-day prediction that relies on it and other models from other countries.

Hurricane Protection You Can Trust – Cariguard Leads the Way

As Barbados faces increasingly intense hurricane seasons, preparation is no longer optional—it’s essential. For over 20 years, Cariguard has stood at the forefront of hurricane protection, offering durable, high-performance solutions, manufactured HERE In Barbados, and designed specifically for our harsh maritime climate.

Our products are built to last, combining strength and style to safeguard homes and businesses across the island. Whether you’re looking to secure windows, doors, openings or create safe zones within your property, our experienced team is ready to guide you. We understand that every home is different—and every budget is too. That’s why we offer tailored advice to help you choose the right protection without overspending.

Cariguard’s reputation for quality is unmatched. We’re proud to be the preferred supplier for Barbados’ National Hurricane Shelters and the new Geriatric Hospital, where hurricane security is critical. These partnerships speak volumes about the trust placed in our products and our people.

Don’t wait for the next storm to test your readiness. Let

Cariguard help you protect what matters most—with confidence, experience, and proven reliability.

Cariguard—Barbados’ trusted name in hurricane protection.

The Pierhead Launches: A New Chapter for Bridgetown’s Historic Waterfront

A bold new chapter is beginning on Bridgetown’s historic waterfront with the official launch of The Pierhead, a mixed use development set to transform one of the city’s most iconic sites.

On Thursday 24th July 2025, over 250 invited guests gathered at The Pierhead site to celebrate this milestone. Among those in attendance were The Honourable Prime Minister Mia Mottley and lead investor Neville Isdell, who both delivered remarks at the event.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley commended the initiative for its ambition and respect for Barbados’ heritage, calling it a significant step forward for Bridgetown’s ongoing regeneration. In response to what she would like to see at The Pierhead she said: “A place of refuge, opportunity and regeneration for ALL! A pathway to the

5th Century for our BRIDGETOWN!”

The Pierhead occupies a location long regarded as the heart of Bridgetown’s story. Once a bustling working port, this waterfront was alive with trade, culture, and community - home to the much loved Waterfront Café and countless memories for Bajans and visitors alike. Now, nearly 370 years after it first came to life, the site will be reimagined as a vibrant new district: an old soul with a new heart.

Neville Isdell, founder and sole investor of The Pierhead, said: “Seeing so many people gathered here at The Pierhead has been extraordinary. Tonight wasn’t just about a development - it was about Bridgetown’s future. The energy and support we’ve felt shows that this project is truly resonating, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of giving this remarkable site the new chapter it deserves.”

The project will include 178 apartments, 35 food & beverage units, retail, and cultural spaces, along with thoughtfully designed public areas, green spaces, and shaded routes. Heritage will be woven into the fabric of the district, with Blackwood’s Screw Dock

Aerial CGI of The Pierhead, Bridgetown, Barbados

taking centre stage and plans for a dedicated visitor attraction to tell the story of Barbados’ world famous rum. Sustainability is central to the vision, ensuring that the waterfront’s natural beauty and resources are protected for generations to come.

Mervyn Greene, Managing Director of The Pierhead, said: “What excites me most is that The Pierhead isn’t just commercially sound -it’s being built with sustainability at its core. This is a chance to invest in a project that will respect the environment, honour heritage, and deliver long term value for Bridgetown.”

“It’s about respect—respect for the land, for the past, and for future generations. Sustainability isn’t a feature; it’s a responsibility,” added Greene.

Phase 1, running from mid 2025 to mid 2027, will bring The Steel Building to life with 39 apartments, new retail and food & beverage spaces, and carefully designed public areas including landscaping and a heritage trail. This first phase will also deliver a beach club, The Pointe viewing area, beach access, and new transport links such as a water taxi station and a chain ferrylaying the foundations for a vibrant new district.

Phase 2, scheduled from early 2027 to the end of 2028, will see the construction of The House of Pillars, adding further depth and character to the district.

Phase 3, starting in 2029 and completing by mid 2031, will introduce The Bridge House, completing this ambitious vision for Bridgetown’s new waterfront chapter.

About The Pierhead

The Pierhead is a new mixed use waterfront district in the heart of Bridgetown, Barbados. Set within the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, it will bring together homes, shops, restaurants, cultural spaces, and green public areas to create a vibrant community destination. Rooted in nearly 370 years of history yet designed for the future, The Pierhead will celebrate Bridgetown’s heritage while introducing modern, sustainable design and new opportunities for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

www.pierheadbarbados.com

Left to right: Sir Paul Altman, The Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, S.C., M.P. Prime Minister and Neville Isdell
At the launch of The Pierhead
CGI of The Pierhead, Bridgetown, Barbados

Investing in Real Estate in Barbados: Do’s and Don’ts for Selecting your Agent

Do’s:

Choosing the right real estate agent or agency in Barbados is a critical step in a successful property transaction. The island has a unique real estate market and having a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional on your side can make all the difference. Here are some key “Do’s and Don’ts” to consider when making your selection.

• Do Look for Local Expertise. Barbados has diverse property markets, from luxury villas on the west coast to more affordable homes inland. A good agent will have in-depth knowledge of specific neighbourhoods, property values, and local developments. They can provide valuable insights that you won’t find online.

• Do Verify Licensing and Accreditation. Ensure your agent or agency is a member of the Barbados Estate Agents and Valuers Association (BEAVA). This ensures they adhere to professional standards and a code of ethics. Membership with BEAVA is a strong indicator of a reputable and knowledgeable agent.

• Do Check Their Experience and Track Record. Look for an agent with a proven history of success in transactions similar to yours. Whether you’re buying a vacation home, selling a commercial property, or looking for a rental investment, experience matters. Agencies that have been in business for a long time often have a strong network and deep understanding of the market.

• Do Read Client Reviews and Testimonials. Online reviews on platforms like Google, social media, or the agency’s website can provide valuable insights into an agent’s communication style, professionalism, and ability to close deals. Positive feedback from satisfied clients is a good sign.

• Do Prioritize Communication and Availability. Your agent should be responsive, transparent, and proactive. They should keep you updated on new listings, market trends, and any developments in your transaction. A good agent will make you feel comfortable and wellinformed throughout the process.

• Do Ask About Their Network. A well-connected agent will have a professional network that includes trusted attorneys, surveyors, valuers, and mortgage brokers. This network can be invaluable in streamlining the process and ensuring a smooth transaction.

• Do Schedule an Initial Consultation. Before committing, meet with a few potential agents. Discuss your goals, ask questions, and assess their professionalism and expertise. This is a chance to see if your personalities and working styles are a good fit.

Don’ts:

• Don’t Settle for the First Agent You Find. The temptation might be to go with the first agency you come across, but taking the time to

research and interview a few dfferent options will pay dividends. The best agent for you is not necessarily the one with the biggest name, but the one who best fits your specific needs.

• Don’t “Click” on Every Property Online. Clicking on multiple properties on different websites can lead to confusion. Each listed property is typically assigned to an agent, and clicking on four properties on four different websites might lead to four agents believing they are working with you. It’s often better to choose your agent first, then let them do the legwork to find relevant properties.

• Don’t Make a Low-Ball Offer Without Discussion. While your agent can help with negotiation, making a significantly low offer without their guidance can be insulting to the seller and may reduce your chances of having your offer accepted.

• Don’t Overlook Legal Knowledge. Property laws in Barbados can be complex, especially for non-residents. Don’t choose an agent who can’t guide you on legalities, taxes, fees, and regulations. A skilled agent will have a strong understanding of these issues.

• Don’t Ignore Your Intuition. Ultimately, you need to feel comfortable with the person representing you. If something feels off, or you don’t feel a strong personal rapport, it’s okay to move on and find someone you trust and can work with effectively.

Christopher Hassell is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative and President of the Barbados Estate Agents and Valuers Association (BEAVA).

The Go-Anywhere Spyder Crane

Engineered for optimal performance in narrow and confined spaces, both indoor and outdoor. Its innovative design features a dual-track chassis, complemented by distinctive ‘spider-type’ legs for outriggers that independently allow set up on uneven surfaces and the 360-degree continuous rotation boom provides safe lifting in multiple directions. They truly excel in areas where conventional lifting equipment or truck-mounted cranes fall short due to their size constraints. Another big advantage, is that it folds up for easy access through doorways and expands in about 5 minutes.

So, when planning your next project, and space is limited to manoeuvre, this friendly neighbourhood SPYDER crane will save the day. Here are some ideal applications for this superhero. Painting, renovating, commercial & residential equipment installation, cleaning and maintenance, lifting heavy-duty equipment, landscaping, tree trimming and more.

We have two units, the UNIC 295 which lifts up to 3 tons and the UNIC 547 which lifts up to 4 tons.

To rent the SPYDER CRANE give us a call at Crane and Equipment Ltd at 427-5438 or visit www.crane.bb

An Exclusive Investment. A Lifestyle Like No Other. Welcome to The Fitts.

Where luxury meets investment.

The Fitts is an exclusive boutique apart-hotel set along the pristine shores of Barbados’ West Coast. Designed for modern living, this oceanfront collection of contemporary residences offers both a refined lifestyle and strong rental returns.

• Breathtaking beachfront views from every residence

• Prime West Coast location, minutes from fine dining and world-class amenities

• Fully managed luxury living with exceptional rental potential

• A seamless investment opportunity in one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations

Ownership is now available through One Caribbean Estates.

For private viewings and investment details: +1 246 537 2200 info@onecaribbeanestates.com OneCaribbeanEstates.com

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