Coldwell Banker Islands Blog

Whether you are buying your first home or your fifth, the process of buying a home can be an emotional, time-consuming venture. Feeling that you made the right decision and got a good deal can make all the difference to your peace of mind either as an investor or owner-occupant. We wrote about the first 10 todos last week, so here is the 2nd installment.

#11 Proceed quickly
When you’re ready to buy, act. Good properties sell. This is especially true given the current state of worldwide real estate markets. However, when you work with a Coldwell Banker Realtor, you have access to the latest technology. As part of the MLS and Agent Handshake networks, our Coldwell Banker Realtors have access to properties within hours of when they are listed.

Technology works to your advantage. Our company websites allow you to sign on as a client, and receive notification of new listings via email. You save time and effort, and you can view only those homes that come closest to meeting your needs.

#12 Clarify relationships
In any real estate transaction, be very clear about who is working for whom, and what the relationship represents. Unless otherwise stated, an agent represents the seller in transactions for the sale of a home. This agent, as part of his or her fiduciary duty, must ensure that the seller’s (and not your) position is represented throughout the entire process. Get a buyer’s agent on your side, or ensure that someone is acting in your best interests.

#13 Ask for a written CMA
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is an analysis of comparable homes in a given neighborhood. It shows you the sale prices of comparable homes, along with asking prices of other homes in the area currently on the market. A Coldwell Banker Realtor can request this report for any home and community. Ask for this report in writing. With this valuable document, you’ll have solid, reliable information about how fairly a home is priced compared to its real market value.

#14 Know the seller
Understanding a seller’s reasons for moving could work to your advantage during negotiations. For instance, a seller who has been transferred to another city or island may be more motivated to sell than someone who is still shopping for a new home. A vacant house, or a house that has been on the market for several months and has been reduced in price, could also provide the opportunity for lucrative negotiations.

#15 Keep it impersonal
Conversely, information could be used to your detriment. Information about your mortgage, size of down payment, move-in deadline, or circumstances for buying could be used to the seller’s benefit in negotiations. While you want your Realtor to know these details, maintain your poker face and keep your cards hidden with the sellers and their agents.

#16 Measure twice, sign once
While you definitely want to move quickly once you’ve made the decision to purchase, you don’t want to cave in to pressure for a quick close. Someone who is trying to pressure you into buying a home is likely doing so for a reason. Make sure the reasons for you to buy a home are your reasons, not theirs.

#17 Exercise your negotiating skills
Even if you prefer not to haggle, it’s worth it, especially when it’s your home and one of your biggest investments. Most people expect to haggle over the price. In the Caribbean, negotiating is a part of the culture. There is always room for negotiation, and your Coldwell Banker Realtor should be a professional negotiator.

#18 Avoid bidding wars
In some cases, the seller’s Agent may use scare tactics to rush the sale or increase the price. Falling for this trap could cost you money. If there is another buyer, or some other reason this pressure is being applied, whoever wins also loses because they tend to overpay. Let reason be your guide. If you really want to place an offer in competition with other buyers, be sure your agent protects your interests and makes it clear how high in price you will go.

#19 Get it in writing
Legally, sellers must disclose all known material defects of a property. Ask for this in writing. Also be sure to consider the ramifications of these defects. Will they be costly down the road? Are they “serious” defects? Get 2nd or 3rd opinions if necessary. Inspect, ask questions, investigate until you are satisfied.

#20 Be aware of hidden costs
While Realtors often tempt first-time buyers with rent/mortgage comparisons, there is more to a home than simply the mortgage. You will be responsible for other items including mortgage insurance, appraisal fees, legal fees, inspection fees, transfer taxes, title insurance, inspections, property tax, increased bills, condo fees, home insurance, etc. Your Coldwell Banker agent can give you a good idea of the costs associated with buying a home that are beyond its final negotiated price. Your lender can provide a Good Faith Estimate of closing costs, and your escrow officer will also state the transaction fees.

Looking for a home can be fun, but also stressful. Let Coldwell Banker be the professional working on your team.

Whether you are buying your first home or your fifth, the process of buying a home can be an emotional, time-consuming venture. Feeling that you made the right decision and got a good deal can make all the difference to your peace of mind either as an investor or owner-occupant. We wrote about the first 10 todos last week, so here is the 2nd installment.

#11 Proceed quickly
When you’re ready to buy, act. Good properties sell. This is especially true given the current state of worldwide real estate markets. However, when you work with a Coldwell Banker Realtor, you have access to the latest technology. As part of the MLS and Agent Handshake networks, our Coldwell Banker Realtors have access to properties within hours of when they are listed.

Technology works to your advantage. Our company websites allow you to sign on as a client, and receive notification of new listings via email. You save time and effort, and you can view only those homes that come closest to meeting your needs.

#12 Clarify relationships
In any real estate transaction, be very clear about who is working for whom, and what the relationship represents. Unless otherwise stated, an agent represents the seller in transactions for the sale of a home. This agent, as part of his or her fiduciary duty, must ensure that the seller’s (and not your) position is represented throughout the entire process. Get a buyer’s agent on your side, or ensure that someone is acting in your best interests.

#13 Ask for a written CMA
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is an analysis of comparable homes in a given neighborhood. It shows you the sale prices of comparable homes, along with asking prices of other homes in the area currently on the market. A Coldwell Banker Realtor can request this report for any home and community. Ask for this report in writing. With this valuable document, you’ll have solid, reliable information about how fairly a home is priced compared to its real market value.

#14 Know the seller
Understanding a seller’s reasons for moving could work to your advantage during negotiations. For instance, a seller who has been transferred to another city or island may be more motivated to sell than someone who is still shopping for a new home. A vacant house, or a house that has been on the market for several months and has been reduced in price, could also provide the opportunity for lucrative negotiations.

#15 Keep it impersonal
Conversely, information could be used to your detriment. Information about your mortgage, size of down payment, move-in deadline, or circumstances for buying could be used to the seller’s benefit in negotiations. While you want your Realtor to know these details, maintain your poker face and keep your cards hidden with the sellers and their agents.

#16 Measure twice, sign once
While you definitely want to move quickly once you’ve made the decision to purchase, you don’t want to cave in to pressure for a quick close. Someone who is trying to pressure you into buying a home is likely doing so for a reason. Make sure the reasons for you to buy a home are your reasons, not theirs.

#17 Exercise your negotiating skills
Even if you prefer not to haggle, it’s worth it, especially when it’s your home and one of your biggest investments. Most people expect to haggle over the price. In the Caribbean, negotiating is a part of the culture. There is always room for negotiation, and your Coldwell Banker Realtor should be a professional negotiator.

#18 Avoid bidding wars
In some cases, the seller’s Agent may use scare tactics to rush the sale or increase the price. Falling for this trap could cost you money. If there is another buyer, or some other reason this pressure is being applied, whoever wins also loses because they tend to overpay. Let reason be your guide. If you really want to place an offer in competition with other buyers, be sure your agent protects your interests and makes it clear how high in price you will go.

#19 Get it in writing
Legally, sellers must disclose all known material defects of a property. Ask for this in writing. Also be sure to consider the ramifications of these defects. Will they be costly down the road? Are they “serious” defects? Get 2nd or 3rd opinions if necessary. Inspect, ask questions, investigate until you are satisfied.

#20 Be aware of hidden costs
While Realtors often tempt first-time buyers with rent/mortgage comparisons, there is more to a home than simply the mortgage. You will be responsible for other items including mortgage insurance, appraisal fees, legal fees, inspection fees, transfer taxes, title insurance, inspections, property tax, increased bills, condo fees, home insurance, etc. Your Coldwell Banker agent can give you a good idea of the costs associated with buying a home that are beyond its final negotiated price. Your lender can provide a Good Faith Estimate of closing costs, and your escrow officer will also state the transaction fees.

Looking for a home can be fun, but also stressful. Let Coldwell Banker be the professional working on your team.

Whether you are buying your first home or your fifth, the process of buying a home can be an emotional, time-consuming venture. Feeling that you made the right decision and got a good deal can make all the difference to your peace of mind either as an investor or owner-occupant. We wrote about the first 10 todos last week, so here is the 2nd installment.

#11 Proceed quickly
When you’re ready to buy, act. Good properties sell. This is especially true given the current state of worldwide real estate markets. However, when you work with a Coldwell Banker Realtor, you have access to the latest technology. As part of the MLS and Agent Handshake networks, our Coldwell Banker Realtors have access to properties within hours of when they are listed.

Technology works to your advantage. Our company websites allow you to sign on as a client, and receive notification of new listings via email. You save time and effort, and you can view only those homes that come closest to meeting your needs.

#12 Clarify relationships
In any real estate transaction, be very clear about who is working for whom, and what the relationship represents. Unless otherwise stated, an agent represents the seller in transactions for the sale of a home. This agent, as part of his or her fiduciary duty, must ensure that the seller’s (and not your) position is represented throughout the entire process. Get a buyer’s agent on your side, or ensure that someone is acting in your best interests.

#13 Ask for a written CMA
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is an analysis of comparable homes in a given neighborhood. It shows you the sale prices of comparable homes, along with asking prices of other homes in the area currently on the market. A Coldwell Banker Realtor can request this report for any home and community. Ask for this report in writing. With this valuable document, you’ll have solid, reliable information about how fairly a home is priced compared to its real market value.

#14 Know the seller
Understanding a seller’s reasons for moving could work to your advantage during negotiations. For instance, a seller who has been transferred to another city or island may be more motivated to sell than someone who is still shopping for a new home. A vacant house, or a house that has been on the market for several months and has been reduced in price, could also provide the opportunity for lucrative negotiations.

#15 Keep it impersonal
Conversely, information could be used to your detriment. Information about your mortgage, size of down payment, move-in deadline, or circumstances for buying could be used to the seller’s benefit in negotiations. While you want your Realtor to know these details, maintain your poker face and keep your cards hidden with the sellers and their agents.

#16 Measure twice, sign once
While you definitely want to move quickly once you’ve made the decision to purchase, you don’t want to cave in to pressure for a quick close. Someone who is trying to pressure you into buying a home is likely doing so for a reason. Make sure the reasons for you to buy a home are your reasons, not theirs.

#17 Exercise your negotiating skills
Even if you prefer not to haggle, it’s worth it, especially when it’s your home and one of your biggest investments. Most people expect to haggle over the price. In the Caribbean, negotiating is a part of the culture. There is always room for negotiation, and your Coldwell Banker Realtor should be a professional negotiator.

#18 Avoid bidding wars
In some cases, the seller’s Agent may use scare tactics to rush the sale or increase the price. Falling for this trap could cost you money. If there is another buyer, or some other reason this pressure is being applied, whoever wins also loses because they tend to overpay. Let reason be your guide. If you really want to place an offer in competition with other buyers, be sure your agent protects your interests and makes it clear how high in price you will go.

#19 Get it in writing
Legally, sellers must disclose all known material defects of a property. Ask for this in writing. Also be sure to consider the ramifications of these defects. Will they be costly down the road? Are they “serious” defects? Get 2nd or 3rd opinions if necessary. Inspect, ask questions, investigate until you are satisfied.

#20 Be aware of hidden costs
While Realtors often tempt first-time buyers with rent/mortgage comparisons, there is more to a home than simply the mortgage. You will be responsible for other items including mortgage insurance, appraisal fees, legal fees, inspection fees, transfer taxes, title insurance, inspections, property tax, increased bills, condo fees, home insurance, etc. Your Coldwell Banker agent can give you a good idea of the costs associated with buying a home that are beyond its final negotiated price. Your lender can provide a Good Faith Estimate of closing costs, and your escrow officer will also state the transaction fees.

Looking for a home can be fun, but also stressful. Let Coldwell Banker be the professional working on your team.

This week, the Montagu Foreshore, a beautiful piece of real estate in Nassau Bahamas, will come under the spotlight at a town style meeting at The Nassau Yacht Club.
The Montagu Foreshore Steering Committee has asked residents, vendors, businesses and others for their views on the use of the property that stretches east of the Nassau Yacht Club to the Royal Nassau Sailing Club and includes Fort Montagu.
The committee was formed under the sponsorship of the MP for the area, Loretta Butler-Turner, the minister of state for social development.
The Montagu, as it’s referred to, once played host to one of the most beautiful beaches in Nassau. But land reclamation, dredging and the erection of a sea wall are all thought to have contributed to severe beach erosion.
Over time, fish vendors moved into the area, along with jet ski operators, both competing for space to sell their seafood and launch watercraft. End result ^ traffic bottlenecks.
The Montagu’s especially significant to Bahamas residents. Fort Montagu was built in the 1700s to protect the eastern entrance of Nassau harbour from an invasion by the Spanish.
The Montagu Beach Hotel, imploded in the 1990s, is the first hotel that opened year round in the Bahamas instead of only during the winter tourist season.
It was here that the Flipper film series was shot. And it was here that Nassau couples danced their Saturday nights away, or Bahamians coming of age took their first sip of beer in the English style pub.
Over the years, the quaint charm and beauty of this gorgeous real estate was lost.
So it’s with a sense of relief that serious attention’s being focused on an area where people congregate to jog, watch the sunrise, stage regattas and enjoy cook-outs.
“We have been working to understand the uses of Montagu foreshore, the commerce on the ramp and the recreational traffic and uses since the committee was formed under the auspices of Montagu MP and Minister of State for Social Development Loretta Butler-Turner in July,” said Diane Phillips, chairman.
“Now we are most eager to get public input as we prepare to draft a report for the minister’s consideration…Public opinion is critical…”
The committee is hoping for a big turn out at the meeting at 6pm on Thursday.
Both Butler-Turner and Earl Deveaux, minister of the environment, are scheduled to attend.

Whether you are buying your first home or your fifth, the process of buying a home can be an emotional, time-consuming venture. Feeling that you made the right decision and got a good deal can make all the difference to your peace of mind either as an investor or owner-occupant. We wrote about the first 10 todos last week, so here is the 2nd installment.

#11 Proceed quickly
When you’re ready to buy, act. Good properties sell. This is especially true given the current state of worldwide real estate markets. However, when you work with a Coldwell Banker Realtor, you have access to the latest technology. As part of the MLS and Agent Handshake networks, our Coldwell Banker Realtors have access to properties within hours of when they are listed.

Technology works to your advantage. Our company websites allow you to sign on as a client, and receive notification of new listings via email. You save time and effort, and you can view only those homes that come closest to meeting your needs.

#12 Clarify relationships
In any real estate transaction, be very clear about who is working for whom, and what the relationship represents. Unless otherwise stated, an agent represents the seller in transactions for the sale of a home. This agent, as part of his or her fiduciary duty, must ensure that the seller’s (and not your) position is represented throughout the entire process. Get a buyer’s agent on your side, or ensure that someone is acting in your best interests.

#13 Ask for a written CMA
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is an analysis of comparable homes in a given neighborhood. It shows you the sale prices of comparable homes, along with asking prices of other homes in the area currently on the market. A Coldwell Banker Realtor can request this report for any home and community. Ask for this report in writing. With this valuable document, you’ll have solid, reliable information about how fairly a home is priced compared to its real market value.

#14 Know the seller
Understanding a seller’s reasons for moving could work to your advantage during negotiations. For instance, a seller who has been transferred to another city or island may be more motivated to sell than someone who is still shopping for a new home. A vacant house, or a house that has been on the market for several months and has been reduced in price, could also provide the opportunity for lucrative negotiations.

#15 Keep it impersonal
Conversely, information could be used to your detriment. Information about your mortgage, size of down payment, move-in deadline, or circumstances for buying could be used to the seller’s benefit in negotiations. While you want your Realtor to know these details, maintain your poker face and keep your cards hidden with the sellers and their agents.

#16 Measure twice, sign once
While you definitely want to move quickly once you’ve made the decision to purchase, you don’t want to cave in to pressure for a quick close. Someone who is trying to pressure you into buying a home is likely doing so for a reason. Make sure the reasons for you to buy a home are your reasons, not theirs.

#17 Exercise your negotiating skills
Even if you prefer not to haggle, it’s worth it, especially when it’s your home and one of your biggest investments. Most people expect to haggle over the price. In the Caribbean, negotiating is a part of the culture. There is always room for negotiation, and your Coldwell Banker Realtor should be a professional negotiator.

#18 Avoid bidding wars
In some cases, the seller’s Agent may use scare tactics to rush the sale or increase the price. Falling for this trap could cost you money. If there is another buyer, or some other reason this pressure is being applied, whoever wins also loses because they tend to overpay. Let reason be your guide. If you really want to place an offer in competition with other buyers, be sure your agent protects your interests and makes it clear how high in price you will go.

#19 Get it in writing
Legally, sellers must disclose all known material defects of a property. Ask for this in writing. Also be sure to consider the ramifications of these defects. Will they be costly down the road? Are they “serious” defects? Get 2nd or 3rd opinions if necessary. Inspect, ask questions, investigate until you are satisfied.

#20 Be aware of hidden costs
While Realtors often tempt first-time buyers with rent/mortgage comparisons, there is more to a home than simply the mortgage. You will be responsible for other items including mortgage insurance, appraisal fees, legal fees, inspection fees, transfer taxes, title insurance, inspections, property tax, increased bills, condo fees, home insurance, etc. Your Coldwell Banker agent can give you a good idea of the costs associated with buying a home that are beyond its final negotiated price. Your lender can provide a Good Faith Estimate of closing costs, and your escrow officer will also state the transaction fees.

Looking for a home can be fun, but also stressful. Let Coldwell Banker be the professional working on your team.

Whether you are buying your first home or your fifth, the process of buying a home can be an emotional, time-consuming venture. Feeling that you made the right decision and got a good deal can make all the difference to your peace of mind either as an investor or owner-occupant. We wrote about the first 10 todos last week, so here is the 2nd installment.

#11 Proceed quickly
When you’re ready to buy, act. Good properties sell. This is especially true given the current state of worldwide real estate markets. However, when you work with a Coldwell Banker Realtor, you have access to the latest technology. As part of the MLS and Agent Handshake networks, our Coldwell Banker Realtors have access to properties within hours of when they are listed.

Technology works to your advantage. Our company websites allow you to sign on as a client, and receive notification of new listings via email. You save time and effort, and you can view only those homes that come closest to meeting your needs.

#12 Clarify relationships
In any real estate transaction, be very clear about who is working for whom, and what the relationship represents. Unless otherwise stated, an agent represents the seller in transactions for the sale of a home. This agent, as part of his or her fiduciary duty, must ensure that the seller’s (and not your) position is represented throughout the entire process. Get a buyer’s agent on your side, or ensure that someone is acting in your best interests.

#13 Ask for a written CMA
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is an analysis of comparable homes in a given neighborhood. It shows you the sale prices of comparable homes, along with asking prices of other homes in the area currently on the market. A Coldwell Banker Realtor can request this report for any home and community. Ask for this report in writing. With this valuable document, you’ll have solid, reliable information about how fairly a home is priced compared to its real market value.

#14 Know the seller
Understanding a seller’s reasons for moving could work to your advantage during negotiations. For instance, a seller who has been transferred to another city or island may be more motivated to sell than someone who is still shopping for a new home. A vacant house, or a house that has been on the market for several months and has been reduced in price, could also provide the opportunity for lucrative negotiations.

#15 Keep it impersonal
Conversely, information could be used to your detriment. Information about your mortgage, size of down payment, move-in deadline, or circumstances for buying could be used to the seller’s benefit in negotiations. While you want your Realtor to know these details, maintain your poker face and keep your cards hidden with the sellers and their agents.

#16 Measure twice, sign once
While you definitely want to move quickly once you’ve made the decision to purchase, you don’t want to cave in to pressure for a quick close. Someone who is trying to pressure you into buying a home is likely doing so for a reason. Make sure the reasons for you to buy a home are your reasons, not theirs.

#17 Exercise your negotiating skills
Even if you prefer not to haggle, it’s worth it, especially when it’s your home and one of your biggest investments. Most people expect to haggle over the price. In the Caribbean, negotiating is a part of the culture. There is always room for negotiation, and your Coldwell Banker Realtor should be a professional negotiator.

#18 Avoid bidding wars
In some cases, the seller’s Agent may use scare tactics to rush the sale or increase the price. Falling for this trap could cost you money. If there is another buyer, or some other reason this pressure is being applied, whoever wins also loses because they tend to overpay. Let reason be your guide. If you really want to place an offer in competition with other buyers, be sure your agent protects your interests and makes it clear how high in price you will go.

#19 Get it in writing
Legally, sellers must disclose all known material defects of a property. Ask for this in writing. Also be sure to consider the ramifications of these defects. Will they be costly down the road? Are they “serious” defects? Get 2nd or 3rd opinions if necessary. Inspect, ask questions, investigate until you are satisfied.

#20 Be aware of hidden costs
While Realtors often tempt first-time buyers with rent/mortgage comparisons, there is more to a home than simply the mortgage. You will be responsible for other items including mortgage insurance, appraisal fees, legal fees, inspection fees, transfer taxes, title insurance, inspections, property tax, increased bills, condo fees, home insurance, etc. Your Coldwell Banker agent can give you a good idea of the costs associated with buying a home that are beyond its final negotiated price. Your lender can provide a Good Faith Estimate of closing costs, and your escrow officer will also state the transaction fees.

Looking for a home can be fun, but also stressful. Let Coldwell Banker be the professional working on your team.

The Cayman Islands will be hosting the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) games 2010. 20 athletes will compete in the U-17 and U-20 categories.

The CARIFTA Games is an annual junior athletics competition founded by the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA). The Games were first held in 1972 and consist of track and field events including sprint races, hurdles, middle distance track events, jumping and throwing events, and relays. Only countries associated with CARIFTA are eligible to compete in the event.

The 38th edition of the Carifta Games at Vieux Fort, St. Lucia, ended on Monday 13 April this year with a myriad of outstanding performances, and a batch of record setting results during the three days of competition.

(resource: CaymanNetNews)

<img src=”http://www.sailwithterry.com/images/sailboat457.jpg” width=160 align=”left” vspace=4 hspace=4″SailWithTerry LLC is announcing a chance to win a FREE Caribbean Sailing Vacation for two sponsored by The Paper Tiger Filing System Software the best filing system ever invented.

SailWithTerry, LLC has teamed up with The Monticello Corporation, the makers of The Paper Tiger filing system software, to provide this once-in-a-lifetime vacation. The drawing will be held during halftime of Super Bowl XLIV on February 7, 2010. The winner of the Caribbean sailing vacation will be immediately posted on The Paper Tiger website. To enter the drawing, simply go to The Paper Tiger website and enter your name and email address. The sailing trip a Captain Only Charter, valued at over $4,500 can be used by the winner or given as a gift. No purchase is necessary.

While it takes some digging, yes, no purchase is necessary but the site makes you believe there is. Go to the left sidebar, and click on “Enter the Contest” where you will see 6 choices - nothing about “free.” Scroll down to a small line of text, “Contest Rules” - click there - and that page tells you how to just email to enter.

The Following is Included in Captain Only Sailing Charter:

*Sailing Yacht and Captain
*Fuel - Water - Linens & Towels - Ice - Mooring Buoys
*Cooking & Dinning Equipment
*Taxes and Permits
*Water Toys and Snorkeling Equipment

Not Included in Captain Only Package

*Travel Expenses
*Provisioning/Food/Beverages
*Gratuity: The Charter industry in the BVI works under the normal system of gratuity accepted in the USA hospitality industry. Given that service is acceptable to the client a gratuity of 10 - 20% of the charter fee is standard in the industry.
&Friends & Family can join you on this sailing trip at standard pricing

Capt. Terry Clark explains, “You will be taking a sailing vacation in the British Virgin Islands (60 miles east of Puerto Rico). Your custom agenda can range from high voltage and high activity to relaxing sailboat sailing with visits to world class spas. On this sailing cruise you set the pace and choose between a wide offering of water-based and land-based activities.The typical sailing trip includes sailing, snorkeling, diving, hiking, kayaking, exploring, relaxing and partying.

“Our customers are looking for a unique Caribbean vacation. They want adventure travel, not just another hotel room with four walls. Our guests want to experience many Caribbean Islands in the BVI, taking in The Baths, Saba Rock, The Caves and other great locations from the comfort of their personal ‘floating hotel’ in the Caribbean.”

How can you lose! Good luck -

USA Travel just published a glowing report of the Cayman Islands, listing it best for divers and beach lovers, and the birthplace of recreational scuba in the Caribbean in 1957. Larry Olmsted reports, “Known for tourism and banking, the Cayman Islands are a work in progress, with two massive residential and tourism projects - essentially new towns - underway in the British Overseas Territory.

“The Caymans now claim to be the world’s fifth-largest financial center, with more than 600 banks. Its reputation as a tax haven attracts foreign second-home buyers. But U.S. buyers are often driven by the other thing the Cayman Islands have become synonymous with: scuba diving, ranked among the world’s best. There are also vast swaths of beaches, great restaurants, pristine natural beauty and sports of every description. Added appeal comes from the safe atmosphere and modern infrastructure.”

Grand Cayman, home to 50,000 residents, has 5-star hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist amenities. Cayman Brac is home to 2,000 people and offers a small-town appeal.

2nd home buyers choose 7-Mile Beach on Grand Cayman, which runs from the capital, Georgetown, to West Bay at the north end of the island. Offerings include condos and large resorts, and 3 residential communities in Dragon Bay and the new resort of Camana Bay.

Olmsted compares 3 Cayman neighborhoods, 7-Mile Beach, Cayman Kai, and Little Cayman-Cayman Brac.

7-Mile Beach he lists as the top choice for investors, and top of the market price-wise. Prices vary widely from the luxury Ritz-Carlton residences to less expensive Secret Harbor. Cayman Kai, at the tip of a peninsula, is a planned community developed over 30 years. Resales run $1M - $5M. Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are famed for diving and popular with vacation home investors. Prices range from $400,000 - $500,000, approximately.

Read the USA Today article for more information.

We at Coldwell Banker thank USA Today for the great reviews and know Cayman Islands offer great values now to 2nd home buyers. Contact any of our agents to discuss a real estate purchase.

Do you dream of a vacation where you can truly relax and get away from it all? Where the most difficult decision you have to make is whether to have one more dip in the cooling turquoise waters before your afternoon nap or later? If this is what you’ve been looking for then look no further! We can help you arrange your dream vacation from the comfort of your own home. Everything can be prearranged from accommodation, car rental, excursions and activities, to a Welcome Pack of groceries, ready and waiting at your villa or apartment.

Here’s a sample: Villa Lynda, located on the south side of Providenciales, a beachfront vacation rental located in Chalk Sound. Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay beaches are just a short distance away. This newly constructed ocean and beachfront home has views of the water from every room, a gourmet kitchen with breakfast bar, and exquisite interior furnishings and home details.

From $7700/week. 4 bedrooms,4.5 baths. Pool. Visit our Coldwell Banker Villas Rentals page to learn more about spending your Caribbean vacation here.