Coldwell Banker Islands Blog

Melissa Boals grabbed top honours in the first Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty Crab Race held in back of our Nassau headquarters Thursday.
The petite marketing manager won handily when she grabbed Miss Melis, a whopper of an Andros pond crab, after it crossed the finish line ahead of 12 other contestants.
Ace Bahamas real estate sales agent Rudy Carroll placed second with Muddo Mucker while listing manager Sheska McPhee’s Holy Spirit was hot on his heels for third.
The race was held in aid of the exciting Crabs for Computers educational initiative for school children on the island of Andros.
Spirits ran high as real estate agents and admin staff vied for the top spot.
There was some rockin’ and rollin’ as everyone moved and grooved to the tunes of local musician Eddie Minnis’ popular hit ^”Church Out. Crab Crawlin’”
Bahamians love church and love to go crabbin’. And when church gets out in the islands during the rainy season (that’s when the crabs crawl), many will go in search of crabs for a good Sunday lunch.
The race was a fun way to support the Crabs for Computers initiative, spearheaded by Mangrove Cay, Andros, Commissioner Gilbert Kemp.
Under Mr. Kemp’s guidance, the industrious youngsters of the Mangrove Cay community spent their summer holiday catching these fierce, but delicious crustaceans. With their large biters, they can deliver an extremely painful pinch, if handled incorrectly.
The crabs are offered for sale at a very reasonable rate with the funds earmarked towards buying computers.
Andros is one of the most wondrous islands in the Bahamas in terms of natural beauty and resources. It’s not as developed as some of the other islands and the schools are limited. However, thanks to their hard work, the children will now be able to connect to the world via the internet.
Congratulations to Mr. Kemp and the students of Mangrove Cay, Andros

With the hurricane season well underway here in the Caribbean, a few thoughts at preventative care and 1st-line reaction seem timely.

Homeowners should begin their disaster preparations by developing a plan. A good plan includes not only an emergency preparedness kit, with important papers, food and water, and extra blankets and flashlights, but also a well-thought out plan for how family members will evacuate and communicate-making sure that everyone in the family is familiar with the plan and knows what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.

Homeowners who live in high-risk areas should have a “go-bag” ready in case they need to leave quickly; including a change of clothing, insurance policy and agent contact information, and toiletries as well as money, an evacuation route and a place to stay. If you rent your property, it is only common sense and considerate to leave a hurricane preparedness information packet for your guests.

It’s smart to catalog all of your possessions using a digital camcorder or camera and move expensive items to a higher location such as a second floor or attic. This is also true if you are an absentee owner and leave your own possessions in an empty or rental property.

Make sure your home is properly insured against natural disasters, since many plans don’t cover earthquakes, hurricanes and floods-especially in high risk areas-and consider supplemental disaster insurance policies that cover losses from specific catastrophes that traditional policies don’t cover. Homeowners should first review their existing policy to determine what’s covered since supplemental plans can cost a few hundred dollars to several thousand each year depending on the type of disaster and the home’s location, size and type, and then determine their area’s disaster risk. If you are a condo owner, then be sure you know what the association policy covers and what is left to you.

In the event of a hurricane, reinforce doors and windows against strong winds. Hurricane film is an inexpensive, clear plastic film that keeps glass shards from becoming dangerous missiles and can be left in place year-round, however it can’t prevent heavy winds from blowing in the entire window frame. Another less expensive alternative is plywood; its downside is that it’s temporary and is often put up at the last minute when a hurricane is approaching. An easier but more expensive alternative is roll-up or accordion-style storm shutters that are permanently attached to a house. The most expensive option may be high-impact windows, made of two panes of tempered glass separated by a plastic film. They are always in place and since they look like standard windows, they don’t affect a home’s appearance. Many homes in the Caribbean do have hurricane shutters. Know what you have available.

Preventative maintenance can also lessen property damage. Leaky roofs and foundation cracks can let water into a home more readily and weaken the structure, so it’s important to make repairs quickly. It’s also good to clear gutters and drains, invest in a battery-powered sump pump, and prevent sewage backup by installing a check valve, which allows waste to only flow one way. It’s also smart to catalog all of your possessions using a digital camcorder or camera and move expensive items to a higher location such as a second floor or attic.

If flood waters do make their way into a home, be proactive within the first 24 hours. Before entering the home, check for any visible structural damage. Turn off all water and electrical sources, even if the power isn’t currently operational. Before making repairs or removing any water, fully document the damage by taking photos or video and notify your insurer as soon as possible. Wear waders or waterproof boots and rubber gloves because water could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. After the insurer has approved removing the water, use a sump pump or wet vac, open doors and windows, and remove wet contents, including carpeting and bedding, to mitigate mold damage.

For more information, visit www.houselogic.com.

(resource: RISMedia.com)

e360’s latest 2nd Home Trend Report, conducted this past June/July, shows positive signs for the Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates, throughout the Caribbean. The report surveyed existing second home buyers on preferences for timing, attributes, location, and pricing of an additional second home purchase.

Of those 45% indicating that they are in the market for a second home, Mexico was the top international destination with more than half of the total interest. More impressively, of the remaining 54% who indicated that now would not be a good time to buy, 79% indicated that they would be likely or very likely to purchase in the next 2 years.

As consistent with current market trends, lifestyle and vacation attributes are the leading motivator at 46%. Investment purposes showed 41%. Second home purchases for the purpose of retirement ranked 3rd at just over 11%.

The desire for a second home geared for vacation purposes is not a surprising finding. E360’s Global Research Analyst, Chad Martin, said “This is a consistent trend with the preferred attributes of the buyer being water views and proximity to water or mountain activities.” Lake and ocean views combined for an overwhelming majority of the preferred attributes surveyed with mountain views coming second.

Martin added that while spa and medical facilities have exhibited recent high growth rate forecasts in recent studies, respondents did not translate that growth into the highest motivation for second home purchases. Green-based second homes also did not show the highest appeal, nor has golf amenities translated into sales.

The appeal of being close to the water with an ocean view should help keep our beautiful Caribbean Island as an attractive 2nd home location in the next few years. Contact a Coldwell Banker agent with any questions you have on investing in our real estate.

The Berry Island chain, located just 120 miles east of Miami, is best known for its fantastic Bahamas real estate opportunities and superb fishing. Miles of flats are laden with bonefish and permit, the deeps are loaded with game fish and the reefs are teaming with snapper, grouper and hogfish. Definitely an angler’s dream! However, these islands offer plenty for the non-fisherman as well.
Great Harbour Cay, the “capital” of the Berry Islands, is an ideal spot for families! There is virtually no crime on the island. It is relatively small and easy to get around in a golf cart or jeep. It offers all the necessities, such as an international airport, full service marina, 9 holes of golf, grocery stores, restaurants and a medical clinic. Best of all, there are five splendid miles of white, powdery sand beaches that line the east side of the island.
The north end, called Sugar Beach, is an undeveloped stretch, boasting wild beauty with lush green hills, caves to explore and secluded coves. The sea here has more wave activity, perfect for body-surfing. Heading south along Great Harbour Cay Drive, one can marvel at the beautiful beach homes. Many of these are second homes are owned by people from across the globe.
Midway along the island coast is a wide expanse of beach, jutting out into a point. This beach is called “Hotel Point” and many say it is the most beautiful beach along the entire seven mile long island.
This tucked away spot will someday, perhaps, have a hotel, but for now, it is a secluded place, perfect for a picnic or a game of volleyball. When the tide is low, families often head down to Sand Dollar Beach, located at the southern tip of Great Harbour Cay. Here you can pick up literally handfuls of sand dollars.
This area of flats is bordered by Shark Creek, a mangrove creek that separates Great Harbour Cay from Haines Cay. This area is full of wildlife. Kayaking is a popular way to peacefully approach the many species of birds, such as the Spoon Bill Ibis and the Great Blue Heron. Looking down into the crystal clear water, you may likely see spotted eagle rays, sea turtles and maybe even a baby shark. Kids just love this spot. The shallows and the variety of sea life keep them occupied for hours.
After adventuring, there are a few popular restaurants on Great Harbour Cay. The Beach Club, established in 1970, is located directly across from the airport. They offer a variety of sandwiches and drinks, and, of course, world famous cheeseburgers.
The Rocky Hill restaurant is located in the Great Harbour Cay Marina. This poolside eatery offers lunch and dinner. It is a popular hangout for tourists and locals in the evenings.
For Bahamian fare, visitors head into the “Village” to Coolie Mae’s overlooking the sea. The village of Bullock’s Harbour has several small grocery stores stocked with all the necessities. Also located in town is the post office, clinic, administrative office, mail boat dock, playground and the school.
As you can see, Great Harbour Cay really has plenty to offer besides fishing. Many first timers come for a visit. Some instantly decide this is where they want to build their island home so they can always come back to enjoy this island paradise.

The Berry Island chain, located just 120 miles east of Miami, is best known for its fantastic Bahamas real estate opportunities and superb fishing. Miles of flats are laden with bonefish and permit, the deeps are loaded with game fish and the reefs are teaming with snapper, grouper and hogfish. Definitely an angler’s dream! However, these islands offer plenty for the non-fisherman as well.
Great Harbour Cay, the “capital” of the Berry Islands, is an ideal spot for families! There is virtually no crime on the island. It is relatively small and easy to get around in a golf cart or jeep. It offers all the necessities, such as an international airport, full service marina, 9 holes of golf, grocery stores, restaurants and a medical clinic. Best of all, there are five splendid miles of white, powdery sand beaches that line the east side of the island.
The north end, called Sugar Beach, is an undeveloped stretch, boasting wild beauty with lush green hills, caves to explore and secluded coves. The sea here has more wave activity, perfect for body-surfing. Heading south along Great Harbour Cay Drive, one can marvel at the beautiful beach homes. Many of these are second homes are owned by people from across the globe.
Midway along the island coast is a wide expanse of beach, jutting out into a point. This beach is called “Hotel Point” and many say it is the most beautiful beach along the entire seven mile long island.
This tucked away spot will someday, perhaps, have a hotel, but for now, it is a secluded place, perfect for a picnic or a game of volleyball. When the tide is low, families often head down to Sand Dollar Beach, located at the southern tip of Great Harbour Cay. Here you can pick up literally handfuls of sand dollars.
This area of flats is bordered by Shark Creek, a mangrove creek that separates Great Harbour Cay from Haines Cay. This area is full of wildlife. Kayaking is a popular way to peacefully approach the many species of birds, such as the Spoon Bill Ibis and the Great Blue Heron. Looking down into the crystal clear water, you may likely see spotted eagle rays, sea turtles and maybe even a baby shark. Kids just love this spot. The shallows and the variety of sea life keep them occupied for hours.
After adventuring, there are a few popular restaurants on Great Harbour Cay. The Beach Club, established in 1970, is located directly across from the airport. They offer a variety of sandwiches and drinks, and, of course, world famous cheeseburgers.
The Rocky Hill restaurant is located in the Great Harbour Cay Marina. This poolside eatery offers lunch and dinner. It is a popular hangout for tourists and locals in the evenings.
For Bahamian fare, visitors head into the “Village” to Coolie Mae’s overlooking the sea. The village of Bullock’s Harbour has several small grocery stores stocked with all the necessities. Also located in town is the post office, clinic, administrative office, mail boat dock, playground and the school.
As you can see, Great Harbour Cay really has plenty to offer besides fishing. Many first timers come for a visit. Some instantly decide this is where they want to build their island home so they can always come back to enjoy this island paradise.

The Berry Island chain, located just 120 miles east of Miami, is best known for its fantastic Bahamas real estate opportunities superb fishing. Miles of flats are laden with bonefish and permit, the deeps are loaded with game fish and the reefs are teaming with snapper, grouper and hogfish. Definitely an angler’s dream! However, these islands offer plenty for the non-fisherman as well.
Great Harbour Cay, the “capital” of the Berry Islands, is an ideal spot for families! There is virtually no crime on the island. It is relatively small and easy to get around in a golf cart or jeep. It offers all the necessities, such as an international airport, full service marina, 9 holes of golf, grocery stores, restaurants and a medical clinic. Best of all, there are five splendid miles of white, powdery sand beaches that line the east side of the island.
The north end, called Sugar Beach, is an undeveloped stretch, boasting wild beauty with lush green hills, caves to explore and secluded coves. The sea here has more wave activity, perfect for body-surfing. Heading south along Great Harbour Cay Drive, one can marvel at the beautiful beach homes. Many of these are second homes are owned by people from across the globe.
Midway along the island coast is a wide expanse of beach, jutting out into a point. This beach is called “Hotel Point” and many say it is the most beautiful beach along the entire seven mile long island.
This tucked away spot will someday, perhaps, have a hotel, but for now, it is a secluded place, perfect for a picnic or a game of volleyball. When the tide is low, families often head down to Sand Dollar Beach, located at the southern tip of Great Harbour Cay. Here you can pick up literally handfuls of sand dollars.
This area of flats is bordered by Shark Creek, a mangrove creek that separates Great Harbour Cay from Haines Cay. This area is full of wildlife. Kayaking is a popular way to peacefully approach the many species of birds, such as the Spoon Bill Ibis and the Great Blue Heron. Looking down into the crystal clear water, you may likely see spotted eagle rays, sea turtles and maybe even a baby shark. Kids just love this spot. The shallows and the variety of sea life keep them occupied for hours.
After adventuring, there are a few popular restaurants on Great Harbour Cay. The Beach Club, established in 1970, is located directly across from the airport. They offer a variety of sandwiches and drinks, and, of course, world famous cheeseburgers.
The Rocky Hill restaurant is located in the Great Harbour Cay Marina. This poolside eatery offers lunch and dinner. It is a popular hangout for tourists and locals in the evenings.
For Bahamian fare, visitors head into the “Village” to Coolie Mae’s overlooking the sea. The village of Bullock’s Harbour has several small grocery stores stocked with all the necessities. Also located in town is the post office, clinic, administrative office, mail boat dock, playground and the school.
As you can see, Great Harbour Cay really has plenty to offer besides fishing. Many first timers come for a visit. Some instantly decide this is where they want to build their island home so they can always come back to enjoy this island paradise.

The Berry Island chain, located just 120 miles east of Miami, is best known for its superb fishing. Miles of flats are laden with bonefish and permit, the deeps are loaded with game fish and the reefs are teaming with snapper, grouper and hogfish. Definitely an angler’s dream! However, these islands offer plenty for the non-fisherman as well.
Great Harbour Cay, the “capital” of the Berry Islands, is an ideal spot for families! There is virtually no crime on the island. It is relatively small and easy to get around in a golf cart or jeep. It offers all the necessities, such as an international airport, full service marina, 9 holes of golf, grocery stores, restaurants and a medical clinic. Best of all, there are five splendid miles of white, powdery sand beaches that line the east side of the island.
The north end, called Sugar Beach, is an undeveloped stretch, boasting wild beauty with lush green hills, caves to explore and secluded coves. The sea here has more wave activity, perfect for body-surfing. Heading south along Great Harbour Cay Drive, one can marvel at the beautiful beach homes. Many of these are second homes are owned by people from across the globe.
Midway along the island coast is a wide expanse of beach, jutting out into a point. This beach is called “Hotel Point” and many say it is the most beautiful beach along the entire seven mile long island.
This tucked away spot will someday, perhaps, have a hotel, but for now, it is a secluded place, perfect for a picnic or a game of volleyball. When the tide is low, families often head down to Sand Dollar Beach, located at the southern tip of Great Harbour Cay. Here you can pick up literally handfuls of sand dollars.
This area of flats is bordered by Shark Creek, a mangrove creek that separates Great Harbour Cay from Haines Cay. This area is full of wildlife. Kayaking is a popular way to peacefully approach the many species of birds, such as the Spoon Bill Ibis and the Great Blue Heron. Looking down into the crystal clear water, you may likely see spotted eagle rays, sea turtles and maybe even a baby shark. Kids just love this spot. The shallows and the variety of sea life keep them occupied for hours.
After adventuring, there are a few popular restaurants on Great Harbour Cay. The Beach Club, established in 1970, is located directly across from the airport. They offer a variety of sandwiches and drinks, and, of course, world famous cheeseburgers.
The Rocky Hill restaurant is located in the Great Harbour Cay Marina. This poolside eatery offers lunch and dinner. It is a popular hangout for tourists and locals in the evenings.
For Bahamian fare, visitors head into the “Village” to Coolie Mae’s overlooking the sea. The village of Bullock’s Harbour has several small grocery stores stocked with all the necessities. Also located in town is the post office, clinic, administrative office, mail boat dock, playground and the school.
As you can see, Great Harbour Cay really has plenty to offer besides fishing. Many first timers come for a visit. Some instantly decide this is where they want to build their island home so they can always come back to enjoy this island paradise.

Pros and Cons of Going Condo

Condominiums and townhouses offer an affordable option to single-family homes in many markets, and they’re ideal for those who appreciate a maintenance-free lifestyle. But before you buy, make sure you do your legwork. These are some of the important elements to consider:

^ Storage. Some condos have storage lockers, but usually there are no attics or basements to hold extra belongings.

^ Outdoor space. Yards and outdoor areas are usually smaller in condos, so if you like to garden or entertain outdoors, this may not be a good fit. However, if you dread yard work, this may be the perfect option for you.

^ Amenities. Many condo properties have swimming pools, fitness centers, and other facilities that would be very expensive in a single-family home.

^ Maintenance. Many condos have onsite maintenance personnel to care for common areas, do repairs in your unit, and let in workers when you’re not home - good news if you like to travel.

^ Security. Keyed entries and even security personnel are common in many condos. You’re also closer to other people in case of an emergency.

^ Reserve funds and association fees. Although fees generally help pay for amenities and provide savings for future repairs, you will have to pay the fees decided by the condo board, whether or not you’re interested in the amenity.

^ Resale. The ease of selling your unit may be dependent on what else is for sale in your building, since units are usually fairly similar.

^ Condo rules. Although you have a vote, the rules of the condo association can affect your ability to use your property. For example, some condos prohibit home-based businesses. Others prohibit pets, or don’t allow owners to rent out their units. Read the covenants, restrictions, and bylaws of the condo carefully before you make an offer.

^ Neighbors. You’re much closer to your neighbors in a condo or town home. If possible, try to meet your closest prospective neighbors.

Check with our Coldwell Banker Agents with your specific questions on any condo purchase.

One of the Bahamas’ biggest draws is its geography. We are an archipelago of 700 islands scattered in a sea of breathtaking colours - from cobalt to various shades of turquoise to sea greens.
When purchasing Bahamas real estate for a second home, prospects are often faced with a dilemma; which of our beautiful islands do they want to invest in?
It all comes down to lifestyle. What turns you on? The first plus about the Bahamas is its proximity to the United States and regular scheduled air service.
So, when looking at Bahamas real estate, determine what your interests are. If you like more of a fast pace, the capital of Nassau or nearby Paradise Island are ideal with their many shops, fine restaurants, resorts and casinos. If you’re into fishing in a laid-back environment, then the Berry Islands may be calling.
Our agent in the Berry Islands, American born Lauren Higgs, has lived on Great Harbour Cay, one of the fishing capitals of the Bahamas, for many years. A contributing writer with The Coastal Angler, Lauren takes you on a journey to the spectacular island group in her first article in a series. Read

One of the big attractions about the Bahamas is its geography ^ 700 islands scattered throughout a tapestry of cobalt, turquoise and green that makes our sea truly spectacular.
When purchasing Bahamas real estate for a second home, prospects are often faced with a dilemma; which island do they want to invest in?
It all comes down to lifestyle. What are you into? The first plus about the Bahamas is its proximity to the United States and regular scheduled air service.
So, when looking at Bahamas real estate, determine what your interests are. If you like more of a fast pace, the capital of Nassau or nearby Paradise Island are ideal with their many shops, fine restaurants, resorts and casinos. If you like to fish in a laid-back environment, then the Berry Islands may be just the place for you.
Our agent in the Berry Islands, American born Lauren Higgs, has lived on Great Harbour Cay, one of the fishing capitals of the Bahamas, for many years. A contributing writer with The Coastal Angler, Lauren takes you on a journey to the island group in her first article in a series. Read