Coldwell Banker Islands Blog

Recycle the coins you bring back from the islands, by donating them to the UNICEF Change for Good program. American Airlines, a large presence in the travel plans of visitors to the Caribbean islands, donated $1.2 Million for UNICEF in 2009.

American Airlines has been participating in the program since 1994. Last year, travelers donated $1.2 million in U.S. and foreign currency, the most ever for American.

The money is collected on select international flights and at Admirals Clubs and Flagship Lounges. Donations received in January and February are earmarked to provide assistance to Haitian children.

“American Airlines and its participation in the Change for Good program is invaluable to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF for its ability to bring both funding and attention to UNICEF’s work,” said Caryl Stern, president and CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF.

“A little change goes a long way. We are so thankful for the generosity of American Airlines customers and the dedication of the committed American Airlines employee volunteers who choose to help improve children’s lives,” Stern said.

Change for Good is an innovative partnership between UNICEF and the international airline industry. Established in 1987, it is one of UNICEF’s best-known and longest-running partnerships. Currently more than 10 international airlines support the Change for Good program.

Thanks to the generous support of customers and participating airlines, Change for Good has generated over $90 million that UNICEF has used to provide a healthier, happier future for millions of children.

Send your unused foreign currency today to UNICEF. If you are unable to donate your foreign currency on an American Airlines flight or at an Admirals Club or Flagship Lounge, you can still support Change for Good by sending your gift to the following address:

U.S. Fund for UNICEF
ATTN: Change for Good Program
125 Maiden Lane
New York, NY 10038

Very well located prime land in commercial area of Cunucu Abou, clean and ready for construction is situated in close proximity to the hotels and the city of Oranjestad. From this location you have easy access to the main highway leading to the city center and airport. The hotels are near by as well. The location of this, 2300m2 / 25300 sq. ft. piece of valuable land is excellent for almost any type of commercial enterprise. Highly motivated seller will consider any serious reasonable partner investor. 25,300 SF, 2300 SM. Asking $460,000 US.

The Westin Aruba Resort will host its Sixth Annual Aruba Wine, Food & Art Festival from Thursday, June 3 ^ Saturday, June 5, 2010. This three-day festival will include live musical entertainment, art exhibitions, elegant cuisine offered by renowned chefs, plus local and international liquors and wineries represented by six different countries. During the final day of the festival, guests can delight their taste buds by sampling a sophisticated five-course menu created by the invited celebrity chefs. The meal will pair perfectly with Moët & Chandon and Dom Pérignon champagnes.

Aruba’s artist community will present the fourth annual exhibition, curated by Jan van Straaten of the Westin Aruba Art Gallery. The Daniel Aguirre Jazz Band will provide the musical entertainment.

“The Westin Aruba Resort is delighted to host Aruba’s Wine, Food & Art Festival for the sixth year in a row,” said Richard Roy, General Manager, The Westin Resort Aruba. “It is an honor to be a part of this cultural event which celebrates local artwork, delectable cuisine, island music and premium international wines and liquors.”

For a schedule of daily events, visit Aruba.com.

According to a recent survey by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC among its network of real estate professionals, in the last 12 months, 37% of sales professionals surveyed noted an increase in home buyers looking for homes that can accommodate more than one generation of their family. In addition, almost 70% of Coldwell Banker sales agents believe that economic conditions may cause greater demand for multi-generational homes in their market during the next year.

The Coldwell Banker respondents cited financial drivers as the No. 1 reason why home buyers or sellers are moving into a house with other generations of their family (39%). Twenty-nine percent said that health care issues are the primary reason, and 6% cited a strong family bond as the main factor.

Sellers with “mother in-law suites” or additional spaces that could accommodate a family interested in a multi-generational living arrangement should highlight this aspect of the home. Whether it’s a garage apartment or refurbished basement, this separate space can help one home stand apart from the others on its block.

Buyers must be clear about their exact needs. Some families may just want an extra bedroom or two for family members, while others require areas with a separate kitchen, entrance, handicap accessibility or even a larger garage for additional cars. Desired location may also be influenced by proximity to local hospitals, senior centers or other important activities to family members.

Extended families purchasing a home together should consider signing a written contract outlining everything from finances to chores and childcare. Each family should assess their situation individually and find a plan that works best for them.

Check with our Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates for advice and resources if you want to purchase or sell a home that might be suited for more than one generation.

Centrally located at the famous Eagle Beach, this fully furnished and airconditioned 3 bedroom 2.5 bathroom condominium is exquisitely decorated, well appointed and contains marble floors throughout the unit. The open kitchen that adjoins the dining and living area is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops and an entertainment bar. The master bedroom features a private balcony with a bold ocean view, walk inn closet and the ensuit bathroom includes an oversize Jacuzzi. Included with this condominium is a covered garage which adds to its uniqueness. From the 4th floor on the L-shaped balcony you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Eagle Beach evening sunset and the cruise ship harbor in Oranjestad. The community is ocean front and less than 5 minutes driving distance to Oranjestad. The amenities include three swimming pools, fitness and business center, a play room for kids, tennis court, racquet club and 24/7 security. The highly motivated sellers will consider any reasonable offer. Asking $825,000.

Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details and photos.

Richard Gere will open the inaugural Aruba International Film Festival (AIFF) as its official host at the opening June 4.

As described on Aruba.com, “For seven days every June, Aruba aims to become a premier destination for the global film industry, and a platform to promote the understanding and appreciation for the art of cinema and filmmaking. Over time, the film festival will further world awareness for the island of Aruba as a center of art, culture and creativity. With participants enjoying a relaxed Aruban ambiance, AIFF will promote a more casual interaction between filmmakers and audience, making the film festival incredibly friendly and accessible to all participants.

“The annual AIFF will bring participants from around the world to view a wide selection of films, join in discussions, take part in workshops and panels, and attend special parties and events. Actors, directors, producers, writers, industry executives and media will converge on the island to experience firsthand what has made Aruba the destination of choice for the many loyal visitors who return to the island year after year.”

The inaugural Festival will showcase between 20 and 30 films throughout the week, of which the majority will be independent films of special interest. This year, there are expected to be a number of world premiers and “blockbuster” studio films to complement the independent, art-house selections.

Find out more at the AIFF web site.

You’ve decided to sell. Look at your home through the eyes of a prospective buyer and be honest with yourself: what needs to be cleaned, painted, repaired and tossed out or given away? If you were buying this home what would you want to see? Your goal is to make your home look good, maximize space and attract as many buyers as possible.

The first and most important thing you want to do in preparing your house for market is to make sure it has good curb appeal. Curb appeal is simply the first impression a prospective buyer gets when driving by the house.

It has been said that up to 80% of the decision to buy a house is made before even entering the home, so it doesn’t matter how great your house looks inside if buyers won’t go through the front door. You could have the greatest floor plan, and the greatest decor, but if your house is unsightly from the outside, a lot of people will never ring the bell.

So by all means start on the outside of the house and use common sense. Keep the lawn mowed and watered, trim the shrubs, make sure there isn’t any peeling paint, and keep weeds out of the flower beds. Put some color in the landscaping and plant some flowers.

Make sure there aren’t any unsightly vehicles in the driveway. If you have an older car that looks its age, park it down the road or at a friend’s house. Keep the yard clean and pristine. When you can look at the outside of your house from the street and it looks better than it ever has, it is time to move to the inside of the house.

Here’s a checklist:
- Water, mow, weed, & edge lawn regularly.
- Trim hedges,prune trees, and tend to flowerbeds regularly.
- Mend cracks in walkways, driveway, walls, foundation, and patios.
- Patch up or repaint doors and windows with peeling paint.
- Clean and align gutters.
- Repair and replace loose or damaged roof shingles.
- Repair and repaint loose siding and caulking.
- Keep your garage door closed.
- Move old cars elsewhere while the house is on the market.
- Be sure your front door area has a warm, “Welcome” feeling.

Inside you want to make things look as open and bright as possible. Keep all the blinds and curtains open and the windows clean. If a room feels or looks cluttered, move some of your extra furniture into a storage space or a friend’s house. Remember, you’ll be moving anyway, so start sorting and have that garage sale.

Keep the inside of your house smelling good. Any senses you can stimulate when someone enters your house will help create emotional attachment to the home. Don’t overdo the aroma therapy, but make the house smell pleasant - no stale cooking odors, no pet odors, no diapers.

Keep everything as clean as you can. Give the impression that you take care of your property and care about your home. You want your house to look, feel and smell it’s best. Make those repairs you’ve put off so doors work well and the plumbing doesn’t drip. Purchase a couple of ceiling fans or small room fans to keep it cooler for showings.

Are you ready for Buyers:
- Repaint walls or replace carpets with neutral colors.
- Fix all cracks, leaks and signs of dampness in the attic.
- Fix all cracks, holes or damage to plaster, wallboard, wallpaper, paint, and tiles.
- Replace broken or cracked windowpanes, moldings, and other woodwork.
- Repair leaky faucets and showerheads.
- Clean and remove clutter to make your house appear bigger and brighter.
- Rent storage to keep the garage and attic clear.
- Remove excess or very large furniture.
- Hire a professional cleaning service once every few weeks while the house is on the market.
- Remove as many items from kitchen counters, closets, and attics to make your house seem more spacious.
- Make your kitchen and bathroom look as bright and fresh as possible.
- Use your nicer guest towels in the bathrooms.
- Hang up fresh curtains.
- Install new cabinet knobs.
- Make sure kitchen and bathroom are clean and odor free.
- Replace burned out light bulbs.
- Open drapes and blinds.
- Don’t let pets wander around the house during showings.
- Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink or laundry in the washer or dryer.
- Make the beds.
- Put on soothing music.

Remember that people make emotional decisions. We justify with logic what we decide with emotions. Keep your mind open, try for a warm and bright interior, have great curb appeal, and you will be on the right path to preparing your house for the market. Our Coldwell Banker agents can answer any questions you have about getting ready for a sale, and advise you on the best timing for the highest price.

In the area Babijn, Paradera, you will find this 941 m2 (10128 sq ft) property land surrounded by beautiful nature with great views to the hilltop of Seroe Crystal. The land is located only 7 minutes away from Oranjestad and the Beach. This is a great chance to build your dream home for great outdoor living for you and your family. Askng $99,000.

Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details and photos.

The Ritz-Carlton has announced plans to open a 320-room oceanfront resort in Palm Beach by 2012. It will feature several restaurants, spa, 2 swimming pools, and a 24-hour casino. Ritz-Carlton Club Level will be available to guests who want a more private stay, complete with concierge service.

“Aruba is an island destination with growing appeal to discerning travelers from Europe and the United States. Its stunning beaches and majestic views make the island one of those exceptional places in the Southern Caribbean, blending serenity and scenic attractions our guests seek when planning a vacation,” said Ezzat Coutry, senior vice president, Southeast Region, Caribbean and Latin America, in a press statement.

The Ritz-Carlton Aruba is the hotel group’s latest project in the Caribbean. Ritz-Carlton has hotels in St. Thomas, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, Mexico and The Bahamas.

Shopping for a new home is an emotional experience. It is, however, also a business transaction, and must be treated as such.

Three of the most devastating things that can go wrong are:
^ Paying too much
^ Losing a dream home to another buyer
^ Buying the wrong home

When you have a systematic plan before you shop, you’ll be sure to avoid these costly errors. Here are some tips on making the most of your home purchase:

Get the information you need
What price do you offer a seller? Is the seller’s asking price too high? Is it a deal? Your own research is important, as is the assistance of a Realtor. A professional Coldwell Banker Realtor can offer an unbiased opinion on the value of a home, based on many factors and a great deal of information. Without knowledge of the market, your offer could be too much. Or worse, you could miss out on a great buying opportunity. Hire the right person and trust that person to represent your interests.

Buy YOUR home
What do you need and want in a home? Sounds simple, but clearly identifying your needs and bringing an objective view to home shopping leaves you in a much better position. How much space do you really need? Too small and you may feel like you live in constant clutter. Too big and maintenance may become too daunting. Outline all of your priorities, and work on finding not just a great home, but a great home for you.

Check the title
Before you sign any document, be sure the property you are considering is free of all encumbrances. As a part of his or her services, a Coldwell Banker Realtor can supply you with a copy of the title to ensure there are no liens, debts, undisclosed owners, leases or easements against the title.

Update the survey
Before the purchase is completed, an updated survey is essential. This report will indicate boundaries and structural changes (additions to the house, a new swimming pool, neighbor’s new fence which is extending a boundary line, etc.), and will guarantee that you are indeed getting what you pay for.

Minimize the unexpected
For $300 - $500, a professional inspector will conduct a thorough inspection of the home. His/her expertise can mean the difference between uncovering major flaws before or after you own a home. Make the final contract subject to the report’s findings.

Get pre-approved
It only takes a few days to get financing pre-approval. When you are shopping for a home, this gives you more power. A seller is more likely to consider an offer from a serious buyer.

Remember additional costs
Besides the funds for the purchase of a home, you’ll need funds for items such as loan fees, insurance, legal fees, surveys, inspections, etc.

Take a deep breath
Before you sign, ensure that all documentation clearly reflects your understanding and conditions of the transaction. Has anything been forgotten? Don’t rush. You could lose money, financing, or even the sale if you attempt to push things through too hastily.