A few unanswered questions

[RAM]

I saw that my first question has been addressed vaguely, but would like to get an idea of basic living expenses. We are considering purchasing / building a home (likely $300-$500,000), and operating our US company remotely, as I have the ability to do so via the internet. This gives me the option of moving virtually anywhere that will have me. :lol:

What are real numbers for living expenses in, for example, the Nassau area? General food, utilities (gas, water, power), and other incidentals. How are vehicle costs (in other words, is it worth bringing our vehicle, or not?)?

Another very important factor to us is the quality of school, as we have a soon-to-be 12 year old. I feel that experiencing a new culture would be invaluable, but we also need to know that his education will not suffer.

Finally, does anyone know about the residency issue. I have read conflicting reports, one saying that a work permit is not required for my type of situation, as I will not be

If you have cash, LIS is a great IB school:

http://www.lucaya-is.org/

From the site:

The Lucaya International School provides education to English-speaking students in the 3-18 age range.

We follow an international curriculum starting with the International Baccalaureate Organisation's Primary Year Programme in the Primary School and leading to BGCSE (Bahamian General Certificate of Secondary Education) qualifications in the High School.

[bahamiangoddess]

Due to the fact that 90% of the goods consumed in the Bahamas are imported, you may find that goods and services are more expensive. Bahamians do not pay taxes, but we pay a fixed fee (duty) on a lot of items that are imported to the country. Currently gas is about $3.50-$3.75 per gallon. An average 2 bedroom apt will use about $75.00 - $100 per month for electricity. Water about $40-50 per month. Most homes in the Bahamas, with the exception fo Freeport, uses propane gas stoves. A 100lb tank costs about $75.00. which can last as long as 2 months depending on how often you cook. As for your vehicle, the duty on imported a vehicle is 47% of the purchased price plus 7% stamp tax for vehicles valued at $10,000 or less. For vehicles $50,000.00 or more 65% of purchased price plus 7% stamp tax. You can import your vehicle but you will pay the duty. Vehicle Licence is less than $250.00 for the year, it also depends on the size of the vehicle. Insurance is yearly and depends again on the type, age and size of vehicle. Sports vehicle costs more to insure. A work permit is not required, however you cannot just take up residency.