Government has published a real estate guide to set standards and guidelines for dealing in the Island's unique property market.

Deputy Premier and Finance Minister Paula Cox introduced the $65 guide on Wednesday, saying it would "empower and embolden the people of Bermuda".

"Bermuda Real Estate ¿ An In-Depth Guide to Bermuda Real Estate and the Licensing Exam" was written by John Morgan in partnership with the Registrar of Companies and a committee of local real estate agents. It offers a local perspective on what have traditionally been guidelines based on the US and Canada.

Ms Cox said: "In keeping with this Government's commitment to empower and embolden the people of Bermuda, by making available to them the necessary tools for them to become effective, efficient and successful entrepreneurs, I am pleased today to unveil the Bermuda Real Estate book.

"We recognised the critical need for a guide to apply specifically to Bermuda's unique real estate industry. Hence this guide was created. We 'onionised' it and did not include the extraneous information which can appear in United States study guides.

"This guide contains real estate principles and laws specific to Bermuda, which provide answers to basic real estate questions. It is also designed with general sample questions and test-taking tips for pre-licensing students.

"In essence, this guide will prove a useful tool for local agents, licensees and those members of the public who are thinking about a career change to the real estate industry. Additionally, the instructors in the industry will find this document a great benefit. "It is a quick reference guide on real estate terminology and concepts, and is a proven must-have for pre-licensing students."

Stephen Lowe, Registrar of Companies and Superintendent of Real Estate, said: "We think the guide does an excellent job of presenting everything you need to know in order to get into the real estate industry in Bermuda."