Private island plots losing their star appeal

THERE are 600 islands up for sale around the world, with the number on the market jumping three-fold since 2006.

Island

WITH white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and unadulterated solitude, a private island is most people's idea of paradise.

But all may not be as it seems as a number of atolls languish on the market and experts warn that some buyers are realising that the hassle of living on one, and keeping it maintained and habitable, may be more than it is worth.

There are currently 600 islands up for sale around the world, from the Caribbean to the chillier waters of northern Scotland, ranging in price from $50,000 to $100 million.

The number on the market has jumped three-fold since 2006.

The spectacular Petra Island near New York City has been for sale for years and comes complete with a stunning home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The price is only available on request.

Allan Island off Washington State, was rst on the market for $25 million in 2005 but Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen now wants $13.5 million. Following the amicable split between Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis, Little Halls Pond Cay in the Bahamas is said to be on the market after it was reported that neither party was interested in keeping the idyllic spot.

Broker Farhad Vladi said: "Some celebrities are getting out of the market as quickly as they can.''

Some 12,000 islands have been put up for sale in the past 100 years -- but only 1000 have been fully developed to make for comfortable living.

Problems include establishing power to remote locations, dealing with off-season storm damage, wild animals and untamed jungle or forest. Actor Nicolas Cage got rid of his $3 million Leaf Cay in the Bahamas after an endangered reptile put paid to his hopes for a luxury home.

Singer Celine Dion is reportedly trying to sell her island in Canada for close to $30 million - although hers does come with a French-style chateau. Relatively easier on the bank account is Jonathan Island, a secluded getaway in Rhode Island.

For $1.4 million, it has a protected wildlife sanctuary along with a modern two-bedroom cottage.

If your tastes are a little grander then Little Hawkins Island, off Georgia, has been heavily developed with a spacious home featuring wraparound porches, swimming pool and dock - although it is reflected in the price tag of $20 million.

Petra Island POA
Little Bokeelia Island $29.5M
Allan Island $13.5M
Little Hawkins Island $20M
Jonathan Island $1.4M