Buying a home in Guernsey

With a population of just 63,329*, the small island of Guernsey lies off the coast of France. Known for its range of popular beaches, vibrant scenery and agricultural history, Guernsey attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The independent and self-governed island is a part of the British Isles, has a milder climate than the UK and benefits from a diverse landscape. If you’re a resident or have recently bought a home in Guernsey, you may be familiar with the two-tier system; which splits properties on the island into two categories.

‘Local Market’ property is primarily reserved for those with an automatic right to live in Guernsey, for example, those who gain residence at birth, or through a long period of lawful residence. The majority of houses in Guernsey (approximately 27,000 properties^) are classified as Local Market. Local Market properties may also be available to the immediate family of those who come to live and work in Guernsey because of their essential skills.

The second category is ‘Open Market’ (approximately 1,600 properties^), which may be suitable for those who haven’t lived in Guernsey before and do not meet the criteria to live in a Local Market property. These properties are usually private family homes.

How can the Marsden help?

We’ve been helping people to own their own homes for over 160 years and in 2018, we formed a trusted partnership with SPF Private Clients to support and widen the choice of mortgages available to Guernsey residents.

Whether you’re looking for a new home in the centre of town or a semi-rural cottage; SPF’s team of experienced advisers are here to provide expert mortgage advice and a tailored service to suit your individual circumstances.

Acting as the largest and longest running mortgage broker in Guernsey; SPF have full access to our range of mortgage products, giving you more options when it comes to purchasing or remortgaging your home. Whether you’re looking for a residential, retirement or expat mortgage, we’re here to support you now and in the future.

To get in touch with SPF, visit our dedicated ‘Contact SPF’ page. Alternatively, if you’d like to find out more, please visit the SPF website.

*GOV.GG Electronic Census; Latest Population, Employment and Earnings. Population figure to September 2020.
^States of Guernsey; Population Management Law Guide.