Rivière Noire, or Black River, is tucked away on the sunny western coast of Mauritius, a scenic backdrop filled with verdant mountains and azure waters. Once a simple fishing village, this area has transformed over the years into an exclusive enclave known for its luxury lifestyle. Our home of prestigious residences and upscale living lies in the namesake district of Rivière Noire, firmly set amongst the historically rich sights such as the Martello Towers and the sacred Ganga Talao. Geographically, Rivière Noire enjoys a coastal location, bordered by the districts of Plaines Wilhems and Savanne, making it both a tropical gem and a mountain retreat.
The Exclusive Property Market in Rivière Noire
The current property market in Rivière Noire is strong, with increasing demand for luxury homes and apartments. There is a favourable balance of supply, driven by the area's growing appeal among high-end buyers seeking an exclusive lifestyle, beautiful sceneries and warm climates year-round. Stability can be found reflected in the political and economic situations in the area, further drawing in investment.
When buying a house in Rivière Noire, buyers can expect to pay an average real estate commission of around 5%, which is generally shared between buyer and seller. Additional costs related to purchasing a luxury home or apartment include transfer tax, notary fees, and possible construction inspection or legal costs. The transfer tax on private properties in Rivière Noire is currently around 5%.
Taxation in Rivière Noire
The wealth tax on the private ownership of a house in Rivière Noire is not applicable as Mauritius does not levy a wealth tax. Profits made when selling a privately-owned main residence or second home are also generally exempt from tax. The corporate tax rate for registered companies in Rivière Noire, as across Mauritius, stands at 15%, while the income tax for registered residents is also presently capped at 15%.
Mortgage Requirements and Restrictions
In terms of mortgage requirements for buying a house in Rivière Noire, banks typically require proof of a steady income, a good credit history and a minimum down payment of around 10%-20% of the property's value. The exact mortgage limit varies from bank to bank.
Location, Accessibility, and Transportation
Rivière Noire is home to some of the most expensive and sought-after residential areas on the island, including Tamarin and Flic en Flac. Accessibility is handled by well-maintained roads, with the closest big city, Port Louis, only 25km away. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, the main international gateway to Mauritius, is approximately 50km away.
Education and Infrastructure
The area boasts a number of high-quality schools, such as West Coast International School and École du Centre. Rivière Noire's infrastructure is robust, with a comprehensive range of amenities from luxury shopping to world-class cuisine.
Luxury Lifestyle and Entertainment
The lifestyle in Rivière Noire caters to the high-end, from luxury lifestyle shops like Vanilla Village and Ruisseau Créole mall, to Michelin-starred restaurants and upscale nightlife experiences. Wellness, wildlife, and water sports adventures abound, and hospitals like Clinique Du Nord and Clinic De l’Ouest cater to residents' health needs. The cultural scene is dynamic, with local theatres, art galleries, and annual events like the Jazz Festival.
Living in Rivière Noire promises an idyllic blend of laid-back island living and luxurious modern comforts. Whether you're admiring the views from your penthouse or basking in the natural beauty along the Le Morne Brabant trails, Rivière Noire offers a lifestyle that's unmatched in its elegance and exclusivity.