Channel Islands commercial property purchases compared

For clients seeking to purchase commercial property in both Jersey and Guernsey, understanding the difference and similarities from the outset is invaluable.

Whether you are a local business expanding your footprint, an international investor exploring opportunities, or a buyer seeking guidance on the process, this guide aims to compare five key aspects of how purchasing commercial property works in each island.

Jersey

• Conveyances are passed before the Royal Court only on Friday afternoons
• Parties must attend before the Royal Court for completion of a conveyance or contract lease (either in person or by attorney)
• There is a Public Registry in Jersey, but it is a registry of deeds and not title
• Purchasers of immovable property must hold a valid registration card (or consent if a company)
• Stamp duty is payable on an accumulative scale based on the purchase price of the property - different rates apply for residential properties and concessionary rates are available for first time buyers

Guernsey

• Conveyances are consented to before the Contracts Court (part of the Royal Court) on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and a completion date is set
• Parties must attend before the Contracts Court to confirm their consent to the completion of a conveyance before the Jurats (in person or by attorney)
• There is a Public Registry in Guernsey, but it is a registry of deeds and not title
• Anyone can buy any type of property in Guernsey however in the case of residential property, there is a distinction between Open and Local market properties
• Document duty is payable on an accumulative scale based on the purchase price of the property

Download the full comparison guide for more information, or speak to one of our team to learn more.