Coldwell Banker Islands Blog

Just over a year ago, the EarlyAct Club of Enis Adams Primary School, received its Charter from Ms. Monica Ramjeet, in a colorful ceremony attended by His Excellency Governor Boyd McCleary, Ministers of the Government, Hon Dancia Penn and Hon.Andrew Fahie and many Rotarians, school faculty and friends. One year on, the Club celebrated its first anniversary with a luncheon at the Moorings Mariner Inn on 8th February, 2012.
During the last12 months, the Club has added 10 more members taking membership to 40. It has taken its commitment to Community to heart, with community projects at the school, and at the Esslyn Henley Learning Center, where for two years now students have received Christmas gifts from the Club.
Club members have also supported many of the events of the sponsoring Rotary Club, including the annual health fair, the Kiddies Fiesta and the Clubs Christmas breakfast. Members of the dance troupe also figured prominently in the recent launch of the District Conference 2013 theme, the conference to be held in the BVI in May 2013.
President of the EarlyAct Club, Mateo Parsons, opened the luncheon with a confident message of welcome. Remarks were made by Principal Carleen Parsons, Educator Mrs Braithwaite, Mrs Gregg, Charles Benjamin and DGE Vance Lewis; there was a common theme to all remarks with agreement that the EarlyAct Club was a credit to the school.

Source:bvinews.com

Have your kids flown the nest? Do you feel like you are rattling around your British Virgin Islands Home? Do you want to reduce your utility bills? Although moving from a home that you have lived in for many years and possible brought up your family in can be difficult emotionally, there are ways to create a more suitable affordable living space within smaller homes, here are 5 tips to help you choose the perfect home when you are downsizing.

Think about which rooms you can do without

Before you begin searching for a your smaller home, sit with the family and make a list of what you like and dislike about your current home. Which rooms do you use a lot? Which spaces and pieces of furniture just collect dust? A good rule to use is the 6 times a year rule. Think about each room in your home and if you use them less than 6 times a year it is probable that you can do without them.

While you are thinking about your living space, choose which rooms you could use for more than one purpose. If you work at home and require a home office, a good idea is to put a small sofa sleeper or small bed in your office in your new home for when you have guests visiting. If you enjoy hosting dinner parties, you do not need to have a formal dining room in your new home, why not put a table in the kitchen and create a casual dining space.

Consider Purchasing Multi-use Furniture

When you have decided which rooms you can shed without affecting your way of life, consider the furniture you may need. Multi-use pieces like sofa sleepers, bunkbeds, nests of tables and coffee tables with drawers are saving graces when living in smaller spaces

If you have large pieces of furniture which are impractical - donate or sell them. If you are moving to a smaller home because your kids have left home, it will not be necessary to have so much furniture. Before you move, tell the kids to take what they want from their old rooms and also offer them any furniture which you will no longer be using in your new home.

Once you have decided on the furniture you want to keep, measure all larger pieces and when you are viewing homes take a measure with you so you can be sure it will all fit in rooms and through the doorways etc..

Good Design is Essential

In a small living space, design is especially important. Look closely at the storage space in any potential new home you look at. There are many older houses that do not have bedroom closets so you will need to bring space saving wardrobes or an extra dresser.

Don’t rule out homes which have little closet space, think about the possibility of building shelves and getting under bed storage boxes for seasonal clothes. If you are looking to move into an apartment, ask if there is storage space available to use within the building. It is important to explore all the options and to keep an open mind before you rule a place out.

Look at how much light comes into any property you view as light will make any small space look bigger. If there is outdoor living space this adds to a property and gives the feeling of a bigger home.

Choose a Place You Have Always Wanted to Live

The money you will save when moving from a bigger home, may mean that you are able to move to the place you have always wanted to live in. Look at all locations to see what is available to you within your price range.

Personal Space

Regardless of how small you decide to go, don’t forget that you will still need personal space, one of the main complaints from those who have already made the move is that they feel like they are constantly in someones way. Everyone has their own ideas of what personal space is to them and it is difficult to adjust to a smaller home at first. Be patient and you will all get used to it.

Regardless of how small, ensure that you have a place of your own in your new home, it doesn’t need to be a whole room – even just an armchair tucked away where you can read and have some quiet time will be perfect.

Downsizing is always a daunting process when you are used to having a large family home filled with people, however there are many positives to downsizing and it will not take long to adjust once you have found the perfect home for you.

This wonderful estate home, set on 10 acres in Privateer’s Bay on the island of Great Camanoe, is full of charm and character. Built with no expense spared in the late ‘60s for Dr. Upjohn of the Upjohn Pharmaceutical family, it has been loved and cared for by the current owners who have maintained and improved what is a truly special property.

Price:$4,250,000

Read more about this listing

When you want to dispose of any old, broken or unwanted appliances or electricals that are in your British Virgin Islands Home Recycling is a superb method to re-use things and to help in keeping the planet clean. By recycling, we are able to preserve the environment and reduce excessive waste. When recycling large home appliances or electronics, you will sometimes find guidelines that need to be followed. These products can occasionally contain dangerous elements that, if discarded incorrectly, may cause a significant problems with the ground or water. It’s also worth noting that both home appliances and electronics can usually be recycled in a safe and efficient way, and when they are not recycled, they are can cause clutter, trash, and waste that may by very harmful to the planet.

Home appliances

Kitchen appliances are frequently tossed out to the curb for garbage collectors. After that, they end up in a landfill where they rust, and expel dangerous waste into the environment. Since appliances aren’t biodegradable, they simply stay there and take up space. Large home appliances like fridges, ovens, freezers, washing machines, and dryers can be easily recycled. You should check out your local areas guidelines when you want to recycle these items. A great starting point would be to contact local charities. Many of these places will happily accept used home appliances, if they’re still in working order.

Other home appliances that can be recycled include microwaves, garbage disposals, dish washers, and air conditioning units. If they still work, think about making a donation of these items to a charity. They can often re-sell them, with the profits going towards the charity. It is important to note that products like freezers and fridges in addition to certain air conditioning units contain CFCs, which may be dangerous to the environment. Under the Clean Air Act, certain procedures should be followed when getting rid of or recycling these products. Many areas have a pick up service that will collect from your home and ensure that they are recycled properly.

Many home appliances that are no longer in working order can be used for scrap metal. A Procedure is performed that will remove any dangerous elements and iron from the appliances, so that the case can be re-used. Construction companies can frequently use these home appliances and re-purpose them for a number of uses. This is another good option for recycling your unwanted appliances. It is always a good option to donate any home appliances which are working to charity. For those that are not functional, donating them for scrap metal is certainly a great alternative.

Electronics

Similar to home appliances, electronics can generally be recycled. Computer monitors contain dangerous elements like mercury, lead, cadmium, and other substances that may be very dangerous to the ground and water supply if they’re discarded incorrectly. Newer television models also contain a few of these dangerous elements. Electronics which are working are great to donate to local schools and churches. Since many schools need as much financial help as possible, older computer systems and televisions can definitely prove useful. It is good to know that donations are tax deductible, which means donating them is even better.

Stereo systems, old photocopiers and fax machines, and damaged or unused cell phones will also be recyclable. You will find some programs within the works which will take old cell phones, refurbish them for use elsewhere. There are certain stores who will take older electronics and make certain that they are recycled in the proper manner. Some of the large electronic companies have corporate electronic recycling programs. Often these companies can either refurbish and re-sell the item, or use spare parts on another way. It is always best to recycle old unwanted electronics to prevent them from sitting in landfill sites causing environmental problems.

Some areas hold annual drives where people can come and donate their old electronics, computers are usually on the most wanted list. Many occasions you will see community events where local people could possibly get together, donate their old products, and discuss new ideas and applications them. There are many recycling programs available which will allow people to give their unwanted items, so why not ask in your local area.

So when you are buying new products for your home it is always advisable to recycle, it is up to us to make a difference to how things are disposed of so that we may help protect the environment we live in for us and future generations.

Team BVI Sailing team showed up in force at Cowpet Bay, to challenge the sailors from St. Thomas Yacht Club at this year’s MLK Jr. Day Regatta.
This annual event represents one of just a few opportunities to get the sailors from all of our closely packed islands together for such an enjoyable event.
Representing the BVI this time around, were an impressive group, composed almost entirely of BVI Belongers. This heavy local involvement is a direct result of the programs at the Royal BVI Yacht Club, to train sailors here in the art of competitive sailing, providing lifelong sport for these young sailors.
In the Laser Class, BVI Islanders Matthew Oliver and also Mollee Donovan sailed the 4.7 rig (smallest Laser sail for lighter teenagers) finishing third and first, respectively.
Mollee raced a superb regatta, finishing in first place in almost every single race.
In the Optimist Class, small racing boats for children 8-15 years old, sailors all start on the same starting line but are scored according to age division. Team BVI was represented by sailors in the Green (beginner) , White (9-10) and Blue (11-12) Fleets .
All sailors did great this weekend showing that their training with our resident coach Omari Scott has really paid off.

Source:bvinews.com

Cane Garden Bay Cottages are comfortably sheltered in a beautiful coconut grove, just a few steps away from one of the most magnificent beaches on Tortola Island. Sitting in a spacious 1 3/4 acres, each of the four cottages are of the highest quality construction, with furnishings and amenities to match.

Price:$1,295,000

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When you are planning a move to a new British Virgin Islands Home it can be a stressful time for all those involved and your pets will not understand what is really happening so it can be very unsettling for them too. It has been said that one of the greatest worries for people moving home was how their pets would react!

Below are a few tips which may help you and your pet deal with your move and help you all to settle into your new home quickly with minimal stress.

1. It is a good suggestion to keep your pets in one room throughout the packing stage, as allowing them to run around the house while all this is going on can make your pet much more anxious. Pets can sometimes sense something is going on and opt to hide in a favorite hiding place or in a neighbors garden, so by keeping them in one room and knowing where they are will help to move everyone from one house to the other all at the same time.

2. Ensure that your dog has its favorite toys and blankets and after you have moved, don’t clean the bedding for a while after the move so that there are familiar smells to go with the unfamiliar ones. If your pet is traveling separately to you and is not used to being in a carrier, place the carrier in its living area few days before moving day so that your pet can get used to it.

3. Your pet may fear that it is not coming with you, so it is best that you give it a lot of attention and reassurance before and after the move.

4. Both dogs and cats have been known to try to return to their original home, to avoid this happening, it is a good idea to keep them indoors and only let them outside with supervision for a few weeks after the move. It is advisable not to let them out unaccompanied for at least a week after moving to your new home and just in case they do manage to get out, ensure they have an up to date collar and/or chip. If your cat will let you, putting them on a specially designed cat lead while you take them out for the first few weeks will help them to get used to their new surroundings without the risk of them getting lost.

5. On moving day, ensure you do not feed your pet for at least three hours prior to the move, this will help with any unpleasant accidents that may occur in the carrier during the move!

6. If you are really concerned about your pet during the disruption of packing up your home, you may consider putting them into kennels or a cattery for a few days, especially if it has been there before (when you are on holidays) and was happy there. It is important to remember that you will need to make reservations for your pet well in advance and to make certain that all their vaccinations are up to date.

7. Although cats especially do not like being sedated as it makes them feel anxious, your vet will decide whether this is the best course of action for your pet on moving day and may prescribe a mild sedative.

8. Dogs and cats (particularly) are territorial creatures and this will mean that when you move to a new home they will want to mark their territory, for cats this may lead to conflict with other cats in the area which for the most part you should let occur, if however you are concerned that your cat is fighting a lot check it regularly for wounds.

9. Pets like routine, so when you are preparing to move keep to their normal routine as much as possible and continue with it as soon as you can when you are settled in your new home this is applies especially to the times they are fed and taken for walks.

Moving is a difficult stressful task and pets can pick up on your anxiety making them more anxious, so deal with your own stress first and then you will be able to deal with your pets and anything the move is likely to throw at you. Remember it will not be long until you are settled with your family and pets in your lovely new home!

The Virgin Islands will join with this rest of the world on February 2, 2012 to observe World Wetlands Day, under the theme, “Wetlands and Tourism.”
Acting Chief Conversation and Fisheries Officer, Mr. Kelvin Penn described the annual observance as it relates to the theme stating that the value of our wetland and their benefits can build stronger economies, sustainable livelihoods, healthy people and thriving ecosystems. “Wetlands Day is aimed at raising public awareness of wetland values and benefits in general, and the Ramsar Convention. With this, I urge the community to take a moment to appreciate the value of our local wetlands and take advantage of the benefits that they offer,” he said.
According to Mr. Penn, the western salt ponds are excellent examples of salt pond wetlands within the Greater Antilles.
He reminded us that they support a number of endangered fauna and flora species, including the endemic Anegada Rock Iguana and the re-introduced colony of Caribbean Flamingos.
“These birds nestle within the mangrove for feeding and good nourishment and the mangrove helps to prevent flooding during storms, and banks from scouring and erosion by waves. The salt pond comprises of a range of brackish saline lagoons and ponds amongst shrub dominated vegetation, tidal mudflats and mangrove. Each year tourists visit the site primarily for bird watching and locals use it for subsistence fishing, gathering of shellfish, bait collection, grazing, cutting of vegetation and mining,” he concluded.

Source:bvinews.com

The Royal BVI Yacht Club’s Sailing team, showed up in force at Cowpet Bay to challenge the sailors from St. Thomas Yacht Club at this year’s MLK Jr. Day Regatta. Representing the BVI this time around were an impressive group composed almost entirely of BVI locals. This heavy local involvement, is a direct result of the programs at the Royal BVI Yacht Club to train sailors here in the art of competitive sailing, providing lifelong sport for these currently young kids.
In the Laser Class, BVI Islanders Matthew Oliver and also Mollee Donovan sailed the 4.7m vessel, finishing third and first, respectively.
Mollee had a superb regatta, finishing in first place in nearly every single race. Jonathan Woods raced in the Radial Rig (medium size Laser sail) finishing in third place .
In the Optimist Class, small racing boats for children 8-15 years old, sailors all start on the same starting line but are scored according to age division. Team BVI was represented by sailors in the Green (beginner) , White (9-10) and Blue (11-12) Fleets .
In Blue, Sam Morrell placed second and third overall; in the White fleet Rayne Duff placed first, sixth overall; and also racing in White but not placing this regatta were Thad Lettsome and Sam Childs.
All the young sailors performed really well this weekend. showing that their training with our resident coach Omari Scott has really paid off.

Source:bvinews.com

When you are considering purchasing a British Virgin Islands Home home Buy low, sell high. Isn’t that what we are taught from an early age? If you want to put this valuable life lesson to the test, 2012 may be the best year in the last 3 decades to do so. These tips below may just help you to get started in the buying process-

1. Consult a Mortgage Provider

- Have your credit checked.

- Ascertain what your price range is

- Beginning with this particular step will answer many questions and take away any doubts or myths you may have.

2. Consult a Coldwell Banker BVI Realtor

- At Coldwell Banker BVI Real Estate we are here to help, we will take you step-by-step through every aspect of the purchasing process. Whether it’s suggesting a mortgage provider which has the very best options, values of property or information on maintaining your home when you have found the perfect place. Coldwell Banker provide the very best knowledge and understanding from beginning to end.

3. Get familiar with the local communities and types of homes in the areas you would like to live in.

- Internet searches and open houses are an good way to begin your research.

- Visiting the areas you are interested in to check out the local amenities and chat to people already living there will give you a feel for what living there will be like

4. Start putting money aside

- If you have your mortgage offer in place and know that your monthly payments will be $1000.00 but are currently paying $750 in rent, putting the extra aside will help with the down payment and get you used to paying out this amount, it will also reduce any fears you may have about affording the extra payments once you are in your new home.

5. Write a list of what your wants and needs are from your new home and discuss with a Coldwell Banker BVI Realtor – We are here to help!

- Be as flexible as you possibly can and realize that no home will be perfect and match every requirement you have, however you can come close, and even find a place that exceeds expectations.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps and consulting a Coldwell Banker BVI Realtor you are sure to make the best decision for you and your family.