SellingIsland GuidesGuernsey
Local Market vs Open Market: what actually differs
Market categories, conveyancing, completion dates and fees — a plain-English guide for Guernsey sellers.
Harry Editorial · 18 June 2026 · 1 min read
The short version
Guernsey splits residential property into two markets, and which one your home sits in decides who is allowed to buy it.
Who can buy
- Local Market — restricted to buyers with the relevant housing permissions.
- Open Market — open to anyone with the right to reside in the Bailiwick, including new arrivals.
Getting your market category right at listing is the single biggest factor in reaching the correct buyer pool.
The legal step
Conveyancing runs through Guernsey advocates, and completion is set by agreement between the parties rather than a fixed court sitting.
What it costs
Harry charges 0.5% on completion — roughly a third of a typical 1.5% high-street agent fee.
Tip: instruct your advocate early. It is the most common cause of delay between offer and completion.
Thinking of selling?
List your island home with Harry and pay 0.5% on completion — roughly a third of a typical high-street agent fee.