New development situated above historic plantation ruins. Veranda views capture breath-taking turquoise Caribbean waters, and the lush magnificence of Mt. Nevis can be appreciated from the Master Suite. 2 bedroom/2 bath, 1113 SF. Asking $350,000.
Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos.
In a press release from the St Kitts Tourism Authority, the agency forecasts cruise visitor arrivals to increase by more than 20% in the upcoming October 2010 - September 2011 cruise ship season.
“It is a significant achievement for St. Kitts to be able to forecast a fourth year of arrivals growth for the upcoming season,” Senator Ricky Skerritt, St. Kitts & Nevis Minister of State for Tourism and International Transport, said. “If all goes well, we should reach the 600,000 arrivals mark by September 2011, and this would represent a 200% increase in just 5 years since reaching the 200,000 mark for the first time in 2006.”
Skerritt continued, “St. Kitts also wants to grow on-shore expenditure by the ships’ crew, whose numbers are expected to exceed 200,000 next season; bringing a total of more than 800,000 potential cruise customers to Port Zante.” The addition of RCCL’s Serenade of the Seas, which will call fortnightly at Port Zante on Tuesdays from May 2011, will also help increase the numbers.
The BVI Charitable Fund of the Community Foundation Ltd has announced that the 2010 Virgin Islands Winemakers Dinners will be held December 1-7. This year´s event will feature seven gourmet 5-course dinners and 7 delicious 3-course luncheons at a collection of special venues throughout the BVI. Each of the 2010 dinners will feature 5 gourmet courses with each course prepared by a master chef and paired with two wines poured by award winning winemakers.
Net proceeds of the Dinners will be distributed to YEP (Youth Empowerment Project); the Food & Beverage Management Program at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College; Sailability BVI; BVI Special Olympics and the swimming pool project of Virgin Gorda Charitable Company Ltd.
This year´s Winemakers Dinners include new partnerships with the Rotary Club Sunrise of Road Town, the Rotary Club of Road Town, the Food & Beverage Management Program at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and YEP (Youth Empowerment Project). The members of these two Rotary Clubs in the BVI will be selling a limited number of tickets to the seven Winemakers Luncheons at $50 per ticket with 80% of the proceeds of each such ticket sale benefitting the member´s Rotary Club.
Chef Vikram Garg from Halekulani Resort in Waikiki, Hawaii will remain as the Founding Executive Chef, and collaborate with Chef Alexander Yates from The Restaurant at Leverick Bay. Yates will serve as the Executive Chef of the 2010 Virgin Islands Winemakers Dinners. Wine and food pairings will be made by Richard Grosche, wine journalist from German wine magazine.
Earlier events have been sold out, so plan ahead to attend this successful community charitable event.
The British Virgin Islands Football Association is pleased to announce the dates of its forthcoming Men´s National competitions.
In memory of the late Wendol Williams, the Association will hold “The Wendol Williams Cup”, a knock-out cup competition, along the same lines as the Terry Evans Cup. The Competition will start on Sunday the 29th August 2010. The final will be played in September.
Immediately after the Wendol Williams Cup, the Association will launch its 2010 National League, with matches to be played in both Virgin Gorda and Tortola. The opening round of matches will start on the 19th September.
Clubs will play each other twice - on a home and away basis, with the competition to end on the 15th December 2010.
The Men´s National team travels to Barbados in mid October to compete in the CFU Caribbean Digicel Championships against Barbados, St. Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines.
(resource - 2BVIPlantinum.com)
As of Dec. 18, 2010, through April 30, Delta Airlines will serve Aruba with weekly flights from La Guardia in New York. Service will be on Saturdays only and Delta plans to utilize B737-800 aircraft comfortably seating 16 passengers in business and 144 in economy. The flights will conveniently leave New York’s La Guardia airport at 10:36 in the morning and arrive in Aruba at 17:30 in the late afternoon.
Delta Airlines expansion of service into Aruba underscores AAA’s (Aruba Airport Authority) focus on diversification within our gateways and AAA believes that Delta’s service perfectly compliments Continental Airlines’s service from La Guardia.
(resource - Aruba.com)
While moving into a home of any size can be a large undertaking, for buyers looking to downsize, the transition is often more challenging. But whether they are empty nesters requiring less space, young professionals moving to a new city for job opportunities or families looking to save, more and more buyers in today’s real estate market are opting to downsize.
Though moving to a smaller space may involve making a few sacrifices, having less room does not mean having to scale back on style. In fact, a homeowner with minimal square footage to work with can maximize their home’s overall charm just by using a bit of creativity.
Below are eight effective tips from Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks and Caicos for how to downsize with style:
• Keep, sell, donate, and trash. Although it is difficult to part with possessions, doing so is often a must for anyone planning to move into a smaller home. Begin by dividing belongings into keep, sell, donate, and trash categories. Post items for sale online, or hold a garage sale; offer unwanted furniture and clothes to a friend or family member or donate it to local charities. Knowing that others will appreciate these things might make parting with the items a bit easier.
• Scale it back. Unless a homeowner is trying to make a dramatic statement with an extra-large couch or coffee table, a small space will likely look and feel better with moderately-sized or even slightly smaller furnishings. In fact, a room with furniture that appropriately fits the space will actually seem larger. It is all about scale.
• Look for multipurpose living room furniture. A piece of furniture with more than one purpose is a downsizer’s dream. Coffee tables and ottomans that double as storage cubbies allow guests a place to rest their drinks and feet while the host’s belongings remain hidden underneath. And who needs a guest room when the couch has a pull-out bed?
• Don’t just dream of storage, dream on it. Platform and storage beds are ideal for storing items that are used infrequently such as seasonal clothing, spare bedding and linens. Plus, they free up valuable space in bedroom closets, especially those that are shared!
• “Build” a wall with a simple screen. The smaller the home, the more purposes each room serves. But this does not mean a homeowner must eat where they sleep. Buyers opting to downsize should consider putting up a screen to divide a room with more than one use into sections. The room will still feel open but the screen will provide some much needed privacy and separation.
• Consider hanging curtains. Just because the new home has fewer windows does not mean its owner has to settle for boring window treatments. Hanging curtains on the side of the window pane can make it appear larger, and curtains that run from floor to ceiling can create the illusion of height.
• Maximize wall space. Homeowners who have run out of floor space and need additional room should look to the walls. Shelves that are hung on walls or above doorways will provide more space and serve as stylish room accents. Furthermore, while it sounds simple, the addition of a mirror on any wall will add depth and light to a room, making even the smallest space seem larger. Mirrors also add elegance and charm to a home’s décor, often at a reasonable price.
• Utilize new technology. New technology, such as flat screen televisions, ipod & docking station and laptop computers, allows for more space in the living or office areas while adding a modern touch to the home.
For information on homeownership in the Turks & Caicos Islands contact us here.
Many of our readers own vacation properties, which they leave empty and unsupervised for weeks or months at a time. Here are some hints on protecting your property, both for short- and long-term absences.
1. A residence which presents a “lived-in” appearance is a deterrent to burglars. Never leave notes that can inform a burglar that your house is unoccupied. Make certain all windows and doors are secured before departing. An empty garage advertises your absence, so close the doors.
2. When going out at night, leave one or more interior lights on and perhaps have a radio playing (TV sets should not be left unattended). Timers may be purchased that will turn lights on and off during your absence. This is a good idea not just for a night out, but for extended stays away.
3. Do not leave door keys under flower pots or doormats, inside an unlocked mailbox, over the doorway, or in other obvious places.
4. Discontinue milk, newspaper, and other deliveries by phone or in person before you leave. Arrange for lawn or landscaping care to be continued, and have someone remove advertising circulars and other debris regularly. Toys or yard tools scattered about will create an impression of occupancy.
5. Notify the post office to hold or forward your mail, or have a trustworthy person pick it up regularly. Stuffed mail boxes are a give away that no one is home, in either condo buildings or detached homes.
6. Inform neighbors of your absence so they can be extra alert for suspicious persons. If you feel comfortable asking, leave a key with them so they can periodically inspect your home. If not your neighbors, ask a friend to stop by every now and then. Ask them to vary the positions of your shades and blinds, and turn on different lights inside.
7. When you leave, do not publicize your plans. Some burglars specialize in reading newspaper accounts of other people’s vacation activities. This include blogging or posting on your social networks that you are leaving.
8. If you find a door or window has been forced or broken while you were away, do not enter. The criminal may still be inside. Use a neighbour’s phone immediately to summon police.
9. Do not touch anything or clean up if a crime has occurred. Preserve the scene until police inspect for evidence.
10. Always Remember to:
*Lock before you leave
*Trust a neighbour or friend with a key
*Be a concerned neighbour and watch out for others.
None of us wants to invite crime, so just take a few precautions and you may prevent a break-in.
Single in the Islands: Tips for Single Home Buyers
Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands – July 28, 2010 – Today’s housing environment has more single home buyers entering the real estate market than ever before. With inventory levels high, interest rates near record lows and affordability up in many areas across the islands, many people who may have never considered buying a home in the past are recognizing that a mortgage payment on a house or condo can actually be the same or less than what they would spend on renting an apartment or home.
For most people, buying a home is the most significant financial investment they will ever make, and perhaps even more so for singles who are making the transition on their own. With that in mind, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos has come up with five tips to help single home buyers navigate the home buying process:
Keep an eye on the future. A family of one is much more likely to upsize rather than downsize. Some day someone who is single may add a significant other to their family and possibly even children. Though additional space may not be needed immediately, it’s important to consider potential future plans for a home. Keep in mind that there is no such thing as the “perfect” house. Instead, determine what is essential – number of bedrooms, approximate square footage, neighborhood, etc. And when you do move up, your first home could be kept and refinanced, providing you with the equity to purchase your next home. The first home could then be rented out to cover the mortgage or financing against it.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approval will let single home buyers know where they stand financially while informing the mortgage company that they are ready to buy. Additionally, this step will demonstrate to everyone involved in the purchase that the home buyer is serious and well qualified.
Location, location, location. The golden rule of real estate applies to single home buyers as well. A recent survey from Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC found that out of 1,000 single homeowners more than half opted for homes in suburbia rather than bachelor or bachelorette pads in urban or rural areas. Factors such as proximity to work, family and nightlife, as well as convenience often play a role in the decision of where to purchase a home. Speaking with a Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos agent can help narrow the search to find the neighborhood and location that best suits a home buyer’s needs and lifestyle.
Plan ahead for maintenance fees. Owning a home is a rewarding experience. However, being the only person with a set of house keys also means being the only person responsible for maintenance. A leaky faucet and unkempt lawn won’t take care of themselves, so be sure to include future repairs and maintenance in the budget. Also keep in mind that certain properties such as condominiums and townhomes require less exterior maintenance and might be a good option for those single home buyers who find the idea of maintaining a yard a bit daunting.
Consider resale value and longevity. Purchasing a home is a great long-term investment. However, there are many reasons single home buyers may need to move, such as relocating for a job or a lifestyle change. Therefore, it is important to think about the length of time that the home will be owned and also consider the resale value of prospective properties during the search. A local real estate agent can share the average home price of properties in the area, how long each property has been on the market and what features increase a home’s value and appeal.
Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos located in Grace Bay, Providenciales, can be reached at reception@coldwellbankertci.com or www.coldwellbankertci.com. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos has been serving the Turks & Caicos Islands market for 21 years. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.
About Coldwell Banker® Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker® organization has been a premier provider of full-service residential and commercial real estate. Coldwell Banker is the oldest national real estate brand in the United States and today has a network of more than 98,000 agents working in more than 3,600 offices in 49 countries and territories. The Coldwell Banker brand is known for creating innovative consumer services as recently seen by being the first national real estate brand to augment its web site www.coldwellbanker.com for smart phones, the first to create an iPhone application featuring international listings and the first to fully harness the power of video in real estate listings, news and information through its Coldwell Banker On LocationSM YouTube channel. The Coldwell Banker system is a leader in specialty markets such as resort, new homes and luxury properties through its Coldwell Banker Previews International® marketing program.
Many of our readers own vacation properties, which they leave empty and unsupervised for weeks or months at a time. Here are some hints on protecting your property, both for short- and long-term absences.
1. A residence which presents a “lived-in” appearance is a deterrent to burglars. Never leave notes that can inform a burglar that your house is unoccupied. Make certain all windows and doors are secured before departing. An empty garage advertises your absence, so close the doors.
2. When going out at night, leave one or more interior lights on and perhaps have a radio playing (TV sets should not be left unattended). Timers may be purchased that will turn lights on and off during your absence. This is a good idea not just for a night out, but for extended stays away.
3. Do not leave door keys under flower pots or doormats, inside an unlocked mailbox, over the doorway, or in other obvious places.
4. Discontinue milk, newspaper, and other deliveries by phone or in person before you leave. Arrange for lawn or landscaping care to be continued, and have someone remove advertising circulars and other debris regularly. Toys or yard tools scattered about will create an impression of occupancy.
5. Notify the post office to hold or forward your mail, or have a trustworthy person pick it up regularly. Stuffed mail boxes are a give away that no one is home, in either condo buildings or detached homes.
6. Inform neighbors of your absence so they can be extra alert for suspicious persons. If you feel comfortable asking, leave a key with them so they can periodically inspect your home. If not your neighbors, ask a friend to stop by every now and then. Ask them to vary the positions of your shades and blinds, and turn on different lights inside.
7. When you leave, do not publicize your plans. Some burglars specialize in reading newspaper accounts of other people’s vacation activities. This include blogging or posting on your social networks that you are leaving.
8. If you find a door or window has been forced or broken while you were away, do not enter. The criminal may still be inside. Use a neighbour’s phone immediately to summon police.
9. Do not touch anything or clean up if a crime has occurred. Preserve the scene until police inspect for evidence.
10. Always Remember to:
*Lock before you leave
*Trust a neighbour or friend with a key
*Be a concerned neighbour and watch out for others.
None of us wants to invite crime, so just take a few precautions and you may prevent a break-in.
Many of our readers own vacation properties, which they leave empty and unsupervised for weeks or months at a time. Here are some hints on protecting your property, both for short- and long-term absences.
1. A residence which presents a “lived-in” appearance is a deterrent to burglars. Never leave notes that can inform a burglar that your house is unoccupied. Make certain all windows and doors are secured before departing. An empty garage advertises your absence, so close the doors.
2. When going out at night, leave one or more interior lights on and perhaps have a radio playing (TV sets should not be left unattended). Timers may be purchased that will turn lights on and off during your absence. This is a good idea not just for a night out, but for extended stays away.
3. Do not leave door keys under flower pots or doormats, inside an unlocked mailbox, over the doorway, or in other obvious places.
4. Discontinue milk, newspaper, and other deliveries by phone or in person before you leave. Arrange for lawn or landscaping care to be continued, and have someone remove advertising circulars and other debris regularly. Toys or yard tools scattered about will create an impression of occupancy.
5. Notify the post office to hold or forward your mail, or have a trustworthy person pick it up regularly. Stuffed mail boxes are a give away that no one is home, in either condo buildings or detached homes.
6. Inform neighbors of your absence so they can be extra alert for suspicious persons. If you feel comfortable asking, leave a key with them so they can periodically inspect your home. If not your neighbors, ask a friend to stop by every now and then. Ask them to vary the positions of your shades and blinds, and turn on different lights inside.
7. When you leave, do not publicize your plans. Some burglars specialize in reading newspaper accounts of other people’s vacation activities. This include blogging or posting on your social networks that you are leaving.
8. If you find a door or window has been forced or broken while you were away, do not enter. The criminal may still be inside. Use a neighbour’s phone immediately to summon police.
9. Do not touch anything or clean up if a crime has occurred. Preserve the scene until police inspect for evidence.
10. Always Remember to:
*Lock before you leave
*Trust a neighbour or friend with a key
*Be a concerned neighbour and watch out for others.
None of us wants to invite crime, so just take a few precautions and you may prevent a break-in.