Real Estate Investor Magazine South Africa November 2019 | Page 59

T he primary objective of every investment is to yield great returns. However, the objectives are not limited to the financial benefits. The question to ask yourself as an investor is: Is this investment definitely going to yield good returns on capital? Well, an investment destination with no amenities, that does not advance social cohesion is a stale investment. The same cannot be said about the ev- er-green Mauritius and its beautiful attractions. The island state in the Indian Ocean, surrounded by various other is- lands, is a cornucopia of investment in one of the best des- tinations in the world. by applying for a residence permit from the Economic Development Board. Retirement status is not linked to the European rules concerning retirement age and all persons over 50, of independent means, can apply for the status and conditions of a retired person in Mauritius. A retired person who has been the holder of a residence permit for three years and who has transferred 40 000 USD (or equivalent in another currency) per year into their account at a local bank for three years will be able to apply for a permanent residence in Mauritius. Mauritius as a country Apart from the white sandy beaches and beautiful lagoons bared by Mauritius, the Island is inclusive, diverse, multi-ethnic, multi-faith, multicultural and multilingual. However, the government uses English as the main language. It is the only country in Africa where Hinduism is the main religion and it is highly rated in terms of democracy and economic and political freedom. The index of human development in the Island is the highest in Africa, meaning there is a room for business growth in the Island. The government of the country is very close to the Westminster parliamentary system. With the other Mascarene Islands, Mauritius is known for its fauna and flora, with many endemic species in the country. The island is particularly famous for the dodo, which with other endemic species, died soon after the arrival of the first human settlements. An investment destination Depending on an investors personal and entrepreneurial desires, there are diverse real estate investment options that an investor can chose from. A great number of people seem to have swayed towards the residential investment pillar. There are about 72% of property buyers who purchased their properties in their own name, an approximate 19% used the mediation of a company and about 7% used investment instruments such as trust fund bodies. Approximately 80% of those who registered their property through the mediation of a company were French citizens while 70% of those who bought their property through trust funds were South Africans. Many people are choosing to cross borders to Mauritius for the beautiful country it is. Moving from country to country just for holidays is normal and can easily be done, but purchasing property in another country is something completely different. It means taking life-long decisions and taking into consideration your old age. Retiring in Mauritius Mauritius is unanimously recognised as an ideal destination for a carefree retirement. This idyllic country offers great opportunities to invest in real estate, while at the same time paying less tax. Another factor in its favour is that the cost of living is still relatively low. On top of all the advantages concerning climate, security, ease of access and health facilities. the Island has implemented a legal framework to welcome those people who wish to spend their retirement years in it. Foreign nationals over 50 can thus retire at Mauritius Azuri – perfect harmony between luxury and hospitality Since its inception five years ago, Azuri has metamorphosed into a vibrant and tight-knit community. This golf village is located on a large estate in the coveted northeast coast of Mauritius. If the promise of a peaceful and quality life under the sun doesn’t seal the deal, these are more advantages for purchasing prime property at Azuri. Mauritians, expatriates and South African investors can purchase property and residency. Splendid contemporary residences designed by famed architects as well as gain access to a secluded beach bustling cafe, an array of restaurants. But above all, the residents of the seaside village benefit from gorgeous natural surroundings, a safe neighbourhood, convenience and a sense of community. Azuri meets the growing demand for alternative island living opportunities. Azuri Golf & Ocean Village is defining what it means to live in a progressive, multicultural, urban beachside retreat. Amongst some of the benefits of being a home owner in Azuri are the luxury amenities homed by Azuri that include the Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa, an array of restaurants & bars, a state-of-the-art golf course Boutiques, a gourmet shop, a fabulous spa, a fitness club, Azuri Boat House, Azuri Nautical Club and The Montessori Playhouse. To make certain the livelihood of a property buyer relocating to the country with their family, there are a number of top-of-the- league private and international schools all situated approximately 20-25 minutes by car from Azuri. Furthermore, the country has a sophisticated and resourceful healthcare system which provides access to highly-specialised treatments including plastic surgery, fertility, cardiology, dentistry, and hair grafting. SOURCE Azuri Ocean & Golf Village – Mauritius SA Real Estate Investor Magazine NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 57