Still affordable Vanuatu

First National Vanuatu in Port Vila officially opened its doors on 27 May with more than $35 million of listings. This figure is on track to double within the next few weeks, as the business enjoys the unique position of being the most professionally represented and only "Australasian networked" real estate firm in the small Pacific nation, according to principal Glen Craig.

Craig describes the friendly Vanuatu Islands as "representing exceptional value for beachfront and coastal property" - ranging from ocean-view residential properties at $350,000 to executive beachfront apartments from $450,000 and beyond. Furthermore, there is an established expatriate population in Vanuatu, largely made up of Australians, which ensures that many facilities otherwise non existent are flourishing and well patronised.

A 2000 sq m beachfront section can be bought for under $200,000, while larger sections on elevated sites overlooking the lagoon and ocean can be secured for similar money.

Craig says that real estate opportunities are about 10 years behind Fiji. "This really is like Viti Levu a decade ago, great beaches, friendly people, excellent diving and fishing, and still unspoilt and accessible."

Port Vila is a small port town with good banking and telecommunications infrastructure (including a GSM mobile network).

Tourism is well developed and the French influence on the Island ensures the port retains its crown as one of the gourmet hotspots of the South Pacific. The port is surrounded by a number of blue lagoons providing safe swimming and leisure pursuits for families.

With 11 low cost flights a week from New Zealand and Australia, Vanuatu is truly a convenient location.

Mr Craig, who has knowledge of tax-free Vanuatu's legal and regulatory systems, says the company is also ideally placed to work with Australian and New Zealand developers who may wish to invest in Vanuatu. 

Contact: Glen Craig +678 50012