Purchasing Land on Taveuni Estates

What are the differences between the lots?

The lots are on various elevations ranging from coastal to 1250 feet. All of the lots offer stunning views, it really is personal preference which level you choose. While lower lots are nearer amenities, higher lots enjoy cooler weather. Some lots are next to reserves or creeks.

When you have decided which elevation you would like the next step is to decide which direction you would like your property to face – some of the lots are more North or West facing than others though of course you can always build your house to face a certain way.

All of the lots are approximately an acre, however some are slightly less and some slightly more. We can provide the exact dimensions and gradients of any lot that interests you.

What is the criteria for pricing?

The criteria used to price the available lots is based on location and aspect. For example, the more valuable properties face North West and look out onto the sea and surrounding islands. These properties are cooler in summer due to the view angle at the front of the house and the island’s latitude. The more southerly facing properties are more exposed to the afternoon sun and overlook the sea, as opposed to the sea and islands. Other factors to take into consideration are features such as location next to a reserve or stream, etc.

What is the purchase process?

The process of purchasing would involve the execution of Taveuni Estate’s Standard Sales and Purchase Agreement and the placing of the free and clear title in escrow with local solicitors until the transfer is complete. In the case of Taveuni Estates financing the purchase, Taveuni Estates would retain possession of the Title until the full purchase balance has been received, upon which the transfer of the property to you will be effected.

Is Finance Available?

We are currently selling land on the basis of a 10% deposit and the balance to be settled over 5 years in monthly repayments on interest free terms. Taveuni Estates has its own financing department for approved customers.

Can one obtain permanent residency in Fiji?

Another big plus when investing in Fiji real estate is the government’s attitude toward non-residents investing in their country. Fiji encourages foreign investment and as a property owner you are automatically entitled to apply for Permanent Residency Status, which in most cases, is a straight forward process provided you meet the basic requirements. These include the investment of a minimum sum of F$75,000 in property and can substantiation of an annual income of more than F$25,000. The Permanent Residency application form can be completed once you have evidence of your proof of purchase such as a completed Sales and Purchase Agreement and the application fee is F$451. It is not essential to obtain your Permanent Residency Status unless you intend to reside permanently in Fiji. A standard Tourist Visa (which you would automatically obtain on arrival at the airport in Fiji) grants you a stay of up to 4 months at a time and can be extended for a further 2 months. Permanent Residency Status does not entitle the holder to work in the country. This is a more involved process which varies depending on the circumstances.

Explain the different types of land in Fiji

There are three types of land in Fiji:

• Native land owned by the indigenous Fijians which makes up 80%
• Crown Land owned by Government for the use of schools, hospitals, roads etc. which was appropriated by the old British Government and returned to the original Fijian landowners last year and leased back.
• The third is freehold (fee simple) land 8% owned by individuals of all races of which Taveuni Estates forms a part.

How would I be sure that my investment in TE is secure?

As to the security of Taveuni Estates and any concern for ongoing provision of services, we can tell you that the Estate is owned by a fourth generation Fiji Citizen through his family Company Somerset Holdings Ltd, which was founded in the 1860’s. Taveuni Estates is a debt free Company and is self sufficient through its agricultural and service charge income, allowing the owner to offer finance to purchasers.