St. Maarten Real Estate Blog

How Coldwell Banker's Social Media Strategy will Help You with St Maarten Real Estate

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:01:16 -0400

With a presence on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter, and now an active participant in the blogging world, Coldwell Banker is staying at the front of the social media wave. Chief Marketing Officer Michael Fischer discusses how the company is anticipating consumers' needs and always staying one step ahead, in an interview with RISMedia.com. 1. What is the company's overall social media strategy? "The idea behind our getting involved with social media was to establish a better relationship between the Coldwell Banker brand and consumers as well as with our agents. Certain networks and platforms work better for different audiences. We have a strong Facebook and Twitter platform for our agents while our YouTube channel (On Location) and Blog (Blue Matter) focus on creating a conversation and establishing dialogue with our consumers. Social media has been a wonderful opportunity for the Coldwell Banker brand to continue the conversation beyond our internal newsletter to agents or website to consumers. "On Location meets an unmet need for home buyers and sellers. Our entire rationale in video is to combine an agent's personality, which clearly comes across in video, with the unique aspects of a property. It's a marketing opportunity our industry hasn't had before. We have had thousands and thousands of videos uploaded in a little more than a year...and consumers have responded as well." 2. Why is social media important? "We are committed to social media as it gives us the chance to create a two-way conversation within the brand as well as with our consumers. By being present in social media, we can put a face to the Coldwell Banker name so that our clients can connect with us on an even deeper level. "For example, On Location provides not only Jim Gillespie (CEO) with a forum to address real estate matters, but our agents are using the site to showcase their expertise on local market conditions and expose their listings." 3. How will the newly revamped coldwellbanker.com be valuable to today's consumers? "We have put a lot of thought and energy into our new Coldwell Banker website and have worked to create a site that is different from all the others on the Web. Revamping our website was all about helping consumers find the information they are looking for in a more straightforward way. One new feature is a rating system, which is used internally to drive algorithms on the backend that will recommend properties to consumers, much like iTunes recommends music according to songs you have purchased in the past. "In addition, our new BlueScape Search feature is a Pandora-inspired search that takes the rational thinking out of the home-search process and creates a truly emotional search. After rating at least five photos, BlueScape compiles a group of properties that are unique to an individual consumer's taste. It's more visual and completely new to our industry." 4. what was the motivation behind creating your Blue Matter blog? "We felt the real estate industry, when it comes to blogging, was not focused on the consumer. The Web is full of real estate blogs, but they are all just industry people talking to each other. With Blue Matter, we have an opportunity to share unique insights and thought-provoking commentary. "Coldwell Banker has a strong point of view on how to guide consumers through today's difficult market. Our blog gives us a chance to be honest with consumers and provide them with a reasonable path through today's real estate market." 5. Why is it important for today's real estate companies to not be content with just having a great-looking website? "Today's consumers want information where they are. The old philosophy of creating virtual brick and mortars and driving people to online sites is no longer going to cut it. Consumers want information coming directly to them or served in areas where they spend time, such as social media sites. Consumers are more mobile than ever, so we need to make sure we are reaching them-whether it be through an app, a mobile-enabled site, TV commercials or video." 6. What is the company's goal with social media? "Our goal in being involved with social media is to understand what our customers, brokers and agents want and need, and there is no better way of keeping a pulse on what is going on than by being involved in social media. While Coldwell Banker has been around for 104 years, we never want to rest on our laurels. We have always been interested in understanding what's out there as well as what we need to do as a company to adapt to consumers' needs and ensure we respond more quickly to these needs than other real estate companies. Our use of social media has differentiated us as a company, and at the end of the day, we want people to be proud of their association with us." 7. What do you see in the future for Coldwell Banker and social media? "As we move into the future, the social media platforms that are popular today will change as there are always going to be new ways of connecting. We are constantly working to stay on top of what is available and what is coming down the road so that when there is an opportunity to connect and engage with customers, we will have tried and understood the new medium and be ready to move forward." We at Coldwell Banker are pleased to offer you these new tools for your real estate needs. Stop by our office at any time and talk to one of our agents about our personal commitment to providing information and service.

Beacon Hill - Simpson Bay - Condo for Sale - St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 17:34:17 -0400

1 bedroom/1 bath home with beach access, garden, terrace, appliances, and garage. Contact our Coldwell Banker office for price and details.

Condo for Sale - Atlantica Beach Club - St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 20:34:10 -0400

How about vacationing in this 3 bedroom/2.5 bath condo and enjoying this view! Atlantica Beach Club is a gated community with pool. The home has appliances, terrace, hurrican protection, fans, A/C, and TV. Asking $575,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos.

Plan and Prepare for Hurricane Season on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:05:22 -0400

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)

St Maarten Commercial Opportunity - Restaurant - Nettle Bay

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:32:06 -0400

Ongoing restaurant with capacity of 50 and room for more seating. Deck on the beach, lagoon frontage and beach access. Total area of 526 M�. Fully equipped kitchen, furnishings included. Rent: � 2,000 / month. Located on Nettle Bay, French St Martin. Built 2005. Asking $395,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Waterfront - Home Rental - Baie Nettle - St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:40:42 -0400

Lagoon front home for rent. Nice villa wonderful to spend your hollidays. Private pool, very spacious, barbecue. Close to beaches, shops, airport, golf, night life. 3 bedrooms / 3 bathrooms. Dock, fenced yard, garden, gazebo, terrace, security system, inernet. Weekly rental : (price for one week) low season : 2500 � to 3000 � medium : 3500 � to 4000 � high : 4500 � to 7000 �. Price $5,160,000 US/wk. Visit our Coldwell Banker Vacation rental page for details.

Lagoon Front Villa - Waterfront - Baie Nettle - St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:36:39 -0400

Superb villa (130 m� sq m) 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, separate and furnished kitchen, living and dining room, covered terrace, deck and private pool. Very nice tropical garden in front of the lagoon. Very comfortable and spacious. Privacy and quiet place. The residence is secure with electric gate, fees : 700 � per year. Dock possibility with collectivity agreement. Close to beaches, shops, airport, and golf. Asking $1,199,700. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos and information.

Report Shows Strong Demand for 2nd Homes - Consider St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:20:38 -0400

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 Islands 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.

Residential Lot for Sale - Dawn Beach Estates - St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 20:11:25 -0400

This view lot in St Maarten is in the gated community of Dawn Beach Estates. Lot size is 1038 m2. Asking price $135,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for contact information.

Considerations for Purchase of a Condo on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:22:29 -0400

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.

Winair Adds Flights from St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:31:03 -0400

Winair recently announced its latest expansion by introducing flights to Dominica, St. Lucia and Tortola from St. Maarten. Winair will be the only carrier offering non-stop service to St. Lucia from St. Maarten, and daily direct flights between Dominica and St. Lucia. In addition, Winair code shares with several leading airlines, including Air France, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air Caraibes, Continental, US Airways, Delta, Insel Air and KLM. (photo courtesy of Winair)

St Martin - Studio for Sale - Ocean View - Mont Vernon

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 20:56:17 -0400

Wonderful ocean view from this studio in Mont Vernon, French St Martin. The home has been renovated and is sold furnished. There is a large terrace, pool, and private beach access. Asking $175,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos and details.

Simple Tips for Better Showings to Sell Your St Maarten Home

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:56:18 -0400

1. Remove clutter and clear off counters. Throw out stacks of newspapers and magazines and stow away most of your small decorative items. Put excess furniture in storage, and remove out-of-season clothing items that are cramping closet space. Don't forget to clean out the garage, too. 2. Wash your windows and screens. This will help get more light into the interior of the home. 3. Keep everything extra clean. A clean house will make a strong first impression and send a message to buyers that the home has been well-cared for. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, mop and wax floors, and clean the stove and refrigerator. Polish your doorknobs and address numbers. It's worth hiring a cleaning service if you can afford it. 4. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows to air out the house. Potpourri or scented candles will help. 5. Brighten your rooms. Put higher wattage bulbs in light fixtures to brighten up rooms and basements. Replace any burned-out bulbs in closets. Clean the walls, or better yet, brush on a fresh coat of neutral color paint. 6. Don't disregard minor repairs. Small problems such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they'll give buyers the impression that the house isn't well-maintained. 7. Tidy your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves, add new mulch, trim the bushes, edge the walkways, and clean the gutters. For added curb appeal, place a pot of bright flowers near the entryway. 8. Patch holes. Repair any holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if applicable. 9. Add a touch of color in the living room. A colored afghan or throw on the couch will jazz up a dull room. Buy new accent pillows for the sofa. 10. Buy a flowering plant and put it near a window you pass by frequently. 11. Make centerpieces for your tables. Use brightly colored fruit or flowers. 12. Set the scene. Set the table with fancy dishes and candles, and create other vignettes throughout the home to help buyers picture living there. For example, in the basement you might display a chess game in progress. 13. Replace heavy curtains with sheer ones that let in more light. Show off the view if you have one. 14. Make the bathrooms feel luxurious. Put away those old towels and toothbrushes. When buyers enter your bathroom, they should feel pampered. Add a new shower curtain, new towels, and fancy guest soaps. Make sure your personal toiletry items are out of sight. 15. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If that's not possible, crate them or confine them to one room and let your Coldwell Banker agent know where they'll be. 16. Lock up valuables, jewelry, and money. While a real estate salesperson will be on site during the showing or open house, it's impossible to watch everyone all the time. 17. Leave the home. It's usually best if the sellers are not at home. It's awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there. Ask any of our Coldwell Banker real estate agents if you have any questions on the best way to show your home to prospective buyers.

St Maarten tourist arrivals increase

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 11:42:00 -0400

As a result of the rebranding efforts of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, the island has increased its tourist arrivals by 7.9% for the first quarter and 2.1% in the first 6 months of 2010, over 2009 arrivals. The branding campaign, launched last November, was created by the island's advertising agency, Tambourine, and promoted by KTCpr, St. Maarten's public relations firm. The first quarter of 2010 also saw a boost in hotel occupancy by 5.7%. The average timeshare occupancy during the first three months was 83.3%. Cruise passenger arrivals for the first quarter totaled 542,012, a slight increase from 2009's 541,023. Between January and March 2010, St. Maarten's total air arrivals reached 160,908, up from 149,065 in 2009. U.S. visitors accounted for 47.5% of the total air arrivals at 76,430.

New Travel Site for St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:52:38 -0400

A new website has just been launched which is a good source of information for "St Maarten All Inclusive Packages" and for anyone planning a trip to the island. This new website offers a comprehensive guide on St Maarten, with information on its history, facts, golfing, things to do, and planning honeymoons and weddings. The site presents choices on St Maarten all inclusive packages that are offered by the hotels and resorts. Visit stmaartenallinclusive.com before planning your trip to learn more about the island and get information on what you can expect for a vacation. The website provides honest reviews on the kind of packages that are offered by the hotels. This is a great way to find a holiday package that will be within your budget and suit all your requirements.

Ocean View - Vacation Rental - Belair - St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 18:56:39 -0400

A lovely, comfortable house which sleeps up to 10. Beautiful ocean views, infinity pool, 2 separate entrances, parking for 3 cars, and only minutes from white sandy Belair beach, Philipsburg with all its shopping and Simpson Bay's busy restaurants and night life. The house is comprised of three bedrooms / 2 bath on the lower level and living / dining / kitchen / another full bath on the upper level. Both living area and fully enclosed terrace have pull out sofa-beds to sleep up to 4 additional guests. Fully air-conditioned, flat screen TV, Internet connection. Maid service available upon request. Weekly rental rates are $ 2700 in low season(May to December 15th), $ 3200 in High Season ( January 05 to Apil 30th) and $ 3900 over Christmas / New Year. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos.

Caribbean Research Project Needs Contributors

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 18:42:53 -0400

Sweet Patootee is an independent media production company, which specializes in producing history documentaries for television. Their reputation for research and writing reveals how diversity and citizenship issues have played a defining role in shaping British history and culture. Their projects build national and international networks to bring neglected historical sources into the public domain, and the cornerstones of their approach are oral testimony and archive retrieval. Sweet Patootee is currently working on a 1937-1948 Caribbean reminiscences project. As part of their approach they are searching for American contributors. They would like to make contact with American women and men/and or their relatives, who would contribute reminiscences of the Caribbean from 1937-1948 (whether as civilians or as members of the armed forces). Contact information is as follows: Rebecca Goldstone Sweet Patootee Tel/Fax; 01144 207 686 5101 Web: www.sweetpatootee.co.uk

Land for Sale, Spring Garden, Princess Quarter, St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 21:08:39 -0400

If you've been trying to own some property on St.Maarten for last couple of years and have been unsuccessful due to the high prices, then look no further. These extremely low priced properties comes with all of the perks of high end locations, having the ocean view, and situated in a pleasant and quiet neghbourhood. These lots are priced to sell fast, so if it's in your budget do not hesitate, and grab hold of the opportunity while you can. Lot sizes are 580 m2 to 800 m2. Priced at $63,800. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Protect Your Home While You're Away from St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 19:11:44 -0400

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.

Phillipsburg, St Maarten, a Top Travel Destination

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 21:44:20 -0400

A blog post by Anthony Megna on Helium.com raved about the amenities found in Philipsburg, St Maarten. Here are some excerpts: "Philipsburg is the capital city on the Dutch side. It fills the narrow stretch of land between Great Bay and Great Salt pond inland. It is a busy little city, with plenty of duty-free shops, nightclubs, restaurants and oceanside docks for the boats that visit there from all over the world. Tourism is the #1 industry on St. Maarten, and the climate is quite lovely all year round. Most of the tourists like to visit the duty-free shops that sell everything from gold to leather goods to liquor. Profitable bargains can be had at most shops, and prices for gold are some of lowest you'll find in the Caribbean because no tax has to be paid on the goods. "Front Street is the main street in Philipsburg, and where all the stores and restaurants are located. You can stroll down the entire street in an afternoon, perusing and window shopping if you wish! It's fun to people watch as well, because Philipsburg is a huge cruise destination. "If you get the chance to visit Philipsburg you'll see the white courthouse which looks like a church with a cupola on top. That is a main landmark so you can't get lost. Also, to get a better sense of the history of the island, visit the Simartin Museum. You will see some of the fascinating artifacts from the Arawak Indians that are the original inhabitants of the island. There are also interesting ship artifacts that exist in the museum from centuries ago!" Read the full post at Helium.com.

Commercial Opportunity for Sale - St Maarten - Waterfront Restaurant

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:56:21 -0400

This waterfront restaurant on the beach, sold fully furnished is available in Philipsburg, of St Maarten. The lease for 9 years is set at $4,000/month. Included are fans, air conditioning, security system, TV, and storage. Asking price $378,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page for more photos.

St Martin - Oyster Pond - Home for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:41:39 -0400

Adorable little house built in traditional Caribbean style. Lots of termite-proof mahogany, louvered shutters, shade, breeze and really fabulous views over Oyster Pond Marina and the Ocean. Set in lush vegetation, this little gem has 2 bedrooms / 2 baths on the main level and a third bed/bath in a separate building. Cozy and private, with a jacuzzi on the terrace and the option to use the pool at the Mississippi Hotel. Air conditioned, fans, WiFi, hurricane protection, and gazebo. Asking $298,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos.

100 Home Tips to Get You Through Hurricane Season on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:30:01 -0400

Online Degrees.net offered to share their blog on hurricane preparedness with us. We wrote some tips in June, but one can never be too prepared. Visit their blog for all of the 100 tips. Here are the 1st 12, for General Supplies: 1. Pack a to-go bag: This overnight bag should be easy to take with you if you have to evacuate in a hurry and should include a change of clothes, bottled water, flashlight and important documents. 2. Cash: ATMs and credit card machines may not work for a while after the storm. 3. Battery-operated radio: Make sure you have extra batteries too, so that you can keep up with news reports and alerts. Hand-crank radios work well, too. 4. Secure a two-week supply of prescription medicine: Anyone on prescription medications, as well as pregnant women, should pack a two-week supply of their meds in a sealable plastic bag, clearly labeled. Include instructions for taking the medications, too. 5. Flashlight and lanterns: Make sure you have a couple of flashlights, candles, matches, lanterns and other alternate sources of light. 6. Personal hygiene items: It might be hard to get to the store to buy toilet paper, tissues, soap and other sanitary items after the storm. 7. Extra keys: Having an extra set of keys in your kit is a good idea in case people get separated or if they're lost in a flood or the confusion. 8. Pet items: Remember food, medicine and water for your pet, too. 9. Disinfectant: You never know what mess you'll have after a storm. 10. Checklist: This printable checklist can serve as a guide for your own personal checklist. Give one to each family member to personalize. 11. Extra batteries: You'll need extra batteries for your radio, flashlights, and other items. Get these early before they all sell out. 12. Prepare early: Emergency items sell out quickly at the stores, so stock up your kit before hurricane season even starts, and replenish food supplies every six months. Other categories in this extensive review are *First Aid *Repair & Maintenance *Food & Water *Power Outages *Entertainment *Special Needs *Evacuating *Paperwork *Staying Informed *Safety Be sure and read the full blog, as you will probably find some ideas to help you and your loved ones be ready for our next major storm.

Condo in the Maho on St Maarten for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 13:48:02 -0400

Superb apartment with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, open furnished kitchen, living, large terrace, fully furnished. Panoramic sea view. Close to shops, casino, restaurants. Hotel services, parking. Beach access, hurricane protection, alarm system. Built 2003. Asking $233,200. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos.

7 Reasons to Own a Home on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:31:49 -0400

7 Reasons to Own Your Home 1. Tax breaks. Usually these favor homeowners. Check with a local Coldwell Banker to discuss tax advantages of home ownership. 2. Appreciation. Real estate has long-term, stable growth in value, not withstanding the recent market fluctuations. 3. Equity. Money paid for rent is money that you'll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home. 4. Savings. Building equity in your home is a ready-made savings plan. 5. Predictability. Unlike rent, your fixed-mortgage payments don't rise over the years. However, keep in mind that property taxes and insurance costs will probably increase. 6. Freedom. The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and benefit from your investment for as long as you own the home. 7. Stability. Remaining in one neighborhood for several years gives you a chance to develop and enjoy a sense of community. Come visit our Coldwell Banker office and discuss your home buying opportunities with one of our experienced agents.

Visit Saba when you come to St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 13:01:16 -0400

Saba, an island near St Maarten, was featured in the Miami Herald Caribbean Travel Section, written by Josh Noel. You can fly to this 5-square mile island from St Maarten on WinAir, go by boat or by ferry. Here are some highlights. "About 150 miles east of Puerto Rico, Saba, pronounced "say-bah," was built on the tip of a dormant volcano and therefore has no beach, just rock wall in all directions plunging to the sea. To get anywhere, you basically need to go up or down. "Such a landscape makes Saba a world-class diving and hiking destination. The Dutch island has an easy charm, friendly souls and is one of the most culturally progressive Caribbean destinations. But it also is rugged and unforgiving, with fascinatingly moody weather and a landscape demanding respect...any Caribbean island too wild to host cruise ships is an island worth visiting." Noel chose to hike Mount Scenery, the highest point on the island. "When I arrived, it was bathed in sunshine. I took advantage of my good fortune and began the island's most popular hike: 1,064 steps built into the earth, leading to the 3,000-foot summit. Backpack filled with water, snacks and a raincoat, I was so excited that I forgot an obvious truth: climbing 1,064 steps isn't easy. "But it was rewarding. I gained views of an endless sun-dappled ocean, the tiny strip of runway I'd landed on a few hours earlier and two of the island's three 'towns' Windwardside and Hell's Gate, both dotted with red-roofed homes. Clouds soon rolled in, and I couldn't see more than 50 yards. But then they blew out." Saba ranks as a top 10 international diving destination, and the sharks are reef and nurse sharks, not the threat of great white sharks. Noel did snorkel, and was treated to a close-up encounter with a turtle. There is no groundwater available on Saba, and not the normal tourist "amenities." But the people are friendly, and a trip to the island offers a change of pace from your normal Caribbean experience. There are 4 hoels to choose from. Visit Saba Tourism for more information. (photo courtesy of www.desmic.com)

Nettle Bay Condo for Sale in St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 13:24:35 -0400

Beautiful apartment located in quiet and secure residence in front of the lagoon and surrounded by a beautiful tropical garden. Amenities include pools, tennis, sports room, water sports, and restaurants. 1 bedroom with bathroom, living room,+ office or small room or storage room, large covered terrace with kitchen. Fully furnished. Asking $180,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos and details.

Coldwell Banker On Location Wins Award for Excellence

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 20:08:33 -0400

The International Academy of the Visual Arts has named Coldwell Banker On Location, the brand's YouTube channel, a recipient of this year's Communicator Awards for Creative Excellence in the real estate website category. The category honors the best site for the sale or rental of residential or commercial property. "We were the first national real estate brand to add streaming video to our website. Today, our agents across the globe have posted more than 15,000 videos to our On Location channel," said Mike Fischer, chief marketing officer for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "The most exciting part of On Location is that we have only just begun-there's a lot more to come." On Location has been rated among the top 10 most-viewed brand channels on YouTube. This April, just 11 months after launching On Location, Coldwell Banker announced it had received over 1 million views. The site was launched in May 2009 and was produced in collaboration with FD Kinesis. "Home buyers would much rather see a home than only read about it," Fischer said. "Our On Location videos empower them to get a feel for a home, a community or a real estate professional that they could not get from photos or a text description alone. Equally important are the home sellers who are now expecting video to be a part of marketing their property." With thousands of entries received from across the United States and around the world, the Communicator Awards is one of the largest and most competitive awards program honoring the creative excellence for communications professionals. The Communicator Awards are judged and overseen by the International Academy of the Visual Arts, an invitation-only body consisting of top-tier professionals from acclaimed media, advertising and marketing firms. (source: RisMedia.com)

St Maarten International Fashion Week Starts July 5

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 17:23:26 -0400

Starting today, St. Maarten's International Fashion Week 2010 will feature nearly 20 designers from around the world, along with dozens of beautiful models. Organizers encourage interaction with the designers, and they plan for more than just a fashion event. There will be a significant level of added value to the local economy. There will be a number of events that will be open to the public with free admission during the course of the week. The Fashion Extravaganza will take place on July 10, and wrap up the event. As part of the fashion week, a workshop will be organized with some of the designers and the Director of the Fashion Week. The purpose will be to give the young people on the island insight into this industry and how they themselves could eventually be part of it. Contact the organizers for information.

Coldwell Banker Changes Web Site to Maximize Buyer Experience

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:22:51 -0400

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC officially launched the new version of its website, www.coldwellbanker.com, which has been in beta form since December 2009. Wholly re-thought and re-designed, the site features optimizations that completely alter and enhance the experience of searching for a home online, the company stated. The site includes a variety of new features, such as: -BlueScape Search - Taking cues from popular music recommendation websites, Coldwell Banker developed BlueScape, a visually-driven real estate search platform to help "dreamers" find just that^the home of their dreams. Instead of limiting search options to zip code or the number of bedrooms, users begin the search by rating abstract images with a "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" from landscape scenery to images of snow mobiles and taxi cabs. At any time, users can submit a query and the BlueScape technology will identify homes that are a good fit using all properties available through ColdwellBanker.com nationwide. -Keyword Search - For those who prefer a more traditional approach to searching for a home, Coldwell Banker has added keyword capabilities to its general real estate search function so that consumers can more easily narrow down the properties they are interested in viewing. -Similar Properties ^ Coldwell Banker also added a "You May Also Like" feature that offers additional homes of interest, based on a range of characteristics from properties consumers select as "preferred." -Expansive Use of Video - Taking advantage of the popularity of Coldwell Banker On Location, the brand's YouTube channel which has had more than 13,000 videos posted by agents and 1.3 million video views in a bit more than one year, the new site integrates video into real estate search. Additional capabilities of the ColdwellBanker.com site include: Technology that immediately identifies the current location of visitors via their IP address, offering up homes for sale in that area; Join Us: a recruiting resource enabling brokers to promote job opportunities and create local career pages; Learn: helpful real estate news and tips for consumers, such as real-time industry articles from the Associated Press and Home File: Place for consumers to store, share and organize a limitless amount of property searches, sales associate and real estate office information and industry articles. Coldwell Banker also included integrated video and social networking capabilities to the new site. Visitors will have access to an array of videos powered by Coldwell Banker On Location, the company's branded YouTube channel, offering behind-the-scenes looks at towns and neighborhoods, tips and timely news on real estate topics and video listings of homes for sale. (resource: RISMedia.com)

Prima Vista Estate Lots for Sale in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:52:04 -0400

The Prima Vista Estate Project is a new gated residential area presently under construction located in the area of Upper Prince's Quarter in St Maarten. This exclusive development offers a choice of forty-eight comfortably sized lots averaging 1300 m2 to contruct high quality, comfortable villas. Asking $145,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more information.

Summer Sale at Sonesta of St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:47:04 -0400

The Sonesta in St Maarten is offering a Summer Splash Sale, up to 50% off on room only and all includisve rates. Book by July 15 for travel through Aug. 31. The Sonesta Great Bay Beach & Casino St. Maarten welcomes you to a luxurious, redesigned interior with a variety of exciting new facilities. Overlooking the beautiful Great Bay Harbor, and close to Philipsburg, the island's capital, their prime location offers the best of both worlds: great shopping, dining and entertainment in the quaint downtown setting and a tropical escape within our beachfront oasis. With spectacular views, unparalleled service, a full range of amenities and nearly a mile of white, sandy beach, the Sonesta Great Bay Beach & Casino St. Maarten provides the ultimate Caribbean experience. Call 599.542.2446 for information.

Homeowner's Insurance for St Maarten Real Estate

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 01:01:29 -0400

5 Things to Know About Homeowner's Insurance 1. Know about exclusions to coverage. For example, most insurance policies do not cover flood, earthquake, or wind damage as standard items. These types of coverage must be bought separately. 2. Know about dollar limitations on claims. Even if you are covered for a risk, there may be a limit on how much the insurer will pay. For example, many policies limit the amount paid for stolen jewelry unless items are insured separately. 3. Know the replacement cost. If your home is destroyed you'll receive money to replace it only to the maximum of your coverage, so be sure your insurance is sufficient. This means that if your home is insured for $150,000 and it costs $180,000 to replace it, you'll only receive $150,000. 4. Know the actual cash value. If you chose not to replace your home when it's destroyed, you'll receive replacement cost, less depreciation. This is called actual cash value. 5. Know the liability. Generally your homeowner's insurance covers you for accidents that happen to other people on your property, including medical care, court costs, and awards by the court. However, there is usually an upper limit to the amount of coverage provided. Be sure that it's sufficient if you have significant assets. Check with our Coldwell Banker office for answers to your specific questions on buying real estate.

Puerto Rico Joins the Coldwell Banker Island Affiliate Family

islandsit@gmail.com (Heather Goodman) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 13:07:27 -0400

It is with great pleasure that we announce the addition of Puerto Rico to the growing family of Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates. Puerto Rico has long been the gateway and hub for many of the Islands in our region. As some of you may know, Coldwell Banker Isla del Coqui is one of the largest and most successful real estate companies in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Coldwell Banker Isla de Coqui has had a terrific track record for over 20 years and has been the top producing brokerage in their marketplace, with 7 offices and approximately 226 sales associates. Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates Managing Director Jim Reed said, "With the addition of Puerto Rico to our region, Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates now boasts 51 offices and over 500 sales associates throughout the Island countries of the Atlantic & Caribbean. We are excited about the growth and the potential synergies that Coldwell Banker Isla de Coqui brings to our group. We are proud to welcome Puerto Rico to Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates." Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates is the Coldwell Banker Master Franchisor for the Caribbean and Atlantic Island region. For further information on Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates, please contact the Managing Director, Mr. Jim Reed, at (561) 691-8130 or email jireed@mindspring.com. About Coldwell Banker� Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker� organization has been a premier full-service real estate provider. In 2009, Franchise Times magazine's prestigious Top 200 issue ranked the Coldwell Banker system number one in real estate for the ninth straight year and number eight among all franchisors. The Coldwell Banker System has approximately 3,200 residential real estate offices and more than 110,000 sales associates in 41 countries and territories around the world. The Coldwell Banker System is a leader in the industry in residential and commercial real estate, and in niche markets such as resort, new home and luxury properties through its Coldwell Banker Previews International� division. It is a pioneer in consumer services with its Coldwell Banker Concierge� Service Program and award-winning Web site, www.coldwellbanker.com. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, the world's largest real estate franchisor. Coldwell Banker� is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Villas at Porto Maho now available on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 22:35:29 -0400

The Maho Group, a St. Maarten-based developer of resorts and real estate, has announced the sales release of The Villas at Porto Maho, an exclusive, waterfront, residential community of just ten villas. The four-, five- and six-bedroom villas boast a minimum 18,000 square feet of living space (for a four-bedroom villa) with prices starting from $4.2M. Designed by the Italian firm, Associated Architects, each of the residences will overlook the ocean at famed Simpson Bay Lagoon. The contemporary style will showcase the region's natural beauty with skylights and floor-to-ceiling sheets of glass with views of the lagoon, the Caribbean Sea and distant Anguilla. Architecture has considered green elements in the siting of the residences to maximize the trade winds for cooling, use of solar panels, rainwater collection and filtration, a black-and-grey water treatment plan, and low-energy electrical and air conditioning systems which recycle heat. This landmark real estate project anchors what will be known as Porto Maho, a "destination within a destination." The area is already home to the island's largest casino, exhilarating nightclubs, the region's best duty-free shopping and an array of international restaurants. Porto Maho signifies a new concept in Caribbean living; the seamless integration of lifestyle and domicile with everything one needs to live comfortably and effortlessly. Contact our Coldwell Banker office for sales information, and visit the Villas web site to learn about the development. Read more about these luxury villas at LuxuryProperty.com.

New air service to St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 22:27:33 -0400

GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes (Sao Paulo) began flights to Saint Maarten on June 12. This air service, initially under the charter system, will take place on Saturdays using the VARIG brand, although the company has already applied for authorization from the authorities to operate regular flights. The flights will leave Sao Paulo International Airport/Guarulhos at 2:48 p.m. (1448) on Saturdays, with a stopover in Manaus, then depart for St Maarten at 6:10 p.m. (1810), arriving at 9:30 p.m. (2130). The return flight will depart from Saint Maarten at 11:30 p.m. (2330), arriving in Manaus at 2:50 a.m. (0250) and in Guarulhos at 8:35 a.m. (0835) on Sundays.

5 Things to do Before Putting Your St Maarten Home on the Market

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:46:37 -0400

There are plenty of details to take care of before you introduce your home to the public ready to sell. Here are a few suggestions on how present your property as the best it can be from the day it hits the market. 1. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you'll be able to make repairs before open houses begin. 2. Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine. 3. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don't plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin. 4. Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house. 5. Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you're a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments? You can do this with a condo entrance as well. Be objective. Call our Coldwell Banker office with your questions, and ask for a thorough market analysis before you set a price.

Villa Sophia in Almond Grove of St Maarten for sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 19:32:20 -0400

Villa Sophia is truly a gem located within the gated community of Almond Grove Estate with convenient access to both the French and Dutch sides of the island. As you walk through the front door, you are greeted with the sense of being "home." The open floor plan and 5,000 sq.ft of living space allow views of the airport, Simpson Bay Lagoon, marina, and beautiful sunsets. There are travertine tiles throughout the house. All finishings are impecable. 5 bedrooms, 6 baths, 3 floors, asking $1,785,000 US. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Baie Nettle Sea View Home for Sale, St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 16:55:44 -0400

Quiet and secure residence with swimming pools, private beaches and tennis. Ideal and very privileged. 2 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms, kitchen overlooking the living room and terrace (20 m�) covered. Breathtaking view over the sea and the bay of Marigot. Close to shops, Marigot, beaches, restaurants, golf and airport. Asking $273,700. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more information.

Tips to Help You Search for a Home on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 14:52:31 -0400

Buying real estate, especially in what may be a foreign country, can seem pretty overwhelming. Here are some guideless to help you through the process. 1. Research before you look. Decide what features you most want to have in a home, what neighborhoods you prefer, and how much you'd be willing to spend each month for housing. 2. Be realistic. It's OK to be picky, but don't be unrealistic with your expectations. There's no such thing as a perfect home. Use your list of priorities as a guide to evaluate each property. 3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and closing costs. Then, talk to a lender and get prequalified for a mortgage. This will save you the heartache later of falling in love with a house you can't afford. 4. Don't ask too many people for opinions. It will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion, but be ready to make the final decision on your own. 5. Decide your moving timeline. Will this be a 2nd home? A vacation home with others? A retirement property to rent for a few years before you move? All of these factors will help you determine your timeframe and may affect the type of loan you choose. 6. Think long term. Are you looking for a starter house with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in this home for a longer period? Will it be a rental or income property? This decision may dictate what type of home you'll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that will best suit you. 7. Insist on a home inspection. If possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects for one year. 8. Get help from a Coldwell Banker agent. Hire a real estate professional who specializes in buyer representation. Stop by our Coldwell Banker office or email us to talk about your buying opportunities and what you need to get started.

US Flights to Land at St Martin's Airport

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 22:09:25 -0400

Grand Case Aiport on St. Martin, the French side of the country, will get its first flight from the U.S. soon. Although it wasn't announced who the carrier will be nor was an exact date of the launching of the flight given, Corrine Picaut, director of the St. Martin Office of Tourism, says the flight will be a small, 50-seat plane arriving from New Jersey. Currently, there are no flights from the U.S. to Grand Case. All of the U.S. flights instead fly to the Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten, the Dutch side of the country. (resource: Travel Agent Central)

Beethoven Rd Villa for Sale, St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 14:50:53 -0400

Magnificent new built home with 1 bedroom apt, wine cellar, home entertainment room, spectacular ocean views overlooking Belair, Great Bay and surrounding Islands. Luxury finished. Pool, gazebo, terrace. 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths. Asking $1,300,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for photos.

Hurricane Preparedness on St Maarten-St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com (Louise Peterson) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:35:56 -0400

Hurricane season starts June 1st and lasts through to the end of November. For 2010, the National Hurricane Center has predicted an "active" storm season with as many as 23 named tropical storms. 8-14 of those storms could develop into hurricanes; of those, 3-7 hurricanes may be a category 3 or higher. Have a survival kit and disaster plan ready. Here are some suggestions and tips: *Bottled water - one gallon per person for 72 hours *Flashlights with extra batteries - candles can pose a serious fire hazard should there be propane or gas leaks in the area *Supply of nonperishable food items - protein bars, canned goods (don't forget a can opener!), dried or prepackaged energy food *Medicine - 30-day supply stored in plastic waterproof containers, clearly marked and kept in a zip-lock bag *Eyeglasses *Proper footwear and protective clothing for post-hurricane *Portable radio and extra batteries *Important documents - drivers license, passport, notes of allergies, important contact numbers, insurance documents, extra cash, ATM and bank/credit cards *Generator - ensure it is filled with propane/gas and in good working order *Insurance coverage for yourself and family, home, boat and vehicles - ensure it's current and up to date. Make a note of contact information, should you need to make a claim or contact your provider in case of injury *Know how to shut off electricity, gas and water if so advised by authorities *Action or Evacuation Plan - hotel, friend's home or shelter, evacuation plan if residing on an island or coastal areas that are remote or vulnerable to storm surge *Let friends and family know how to contact you and where you plan to be, forward land lines to cell phones *Text message rather than voice mail; uses less battery time and communication is faster *Cell phone and charger, car charger, extra batteries *Care and plan for your Pet's safety - food, water, medicine, bowls, plastic bags, collar with your name and contact info, extra leash, pet crate for transporting, name and number of vet and copies of vaccinations, photo, favorite toy or blanket *Secure hurricane shutters or board your home securely, move all outside items to basement or inside storage. Flying debris and items can cause tremendous damage to your home, vehicles and neighborhood. *Car, keep gas tank full - especially important if you live in a remote place or on an island where supplies may be limited or cut-off after a storm *Know where to get information on storm conditions - local radio station, tv station, website or through the internet on your cell phone *Secure your boat - consider turning off the EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) if your boat is docked, secured and unoccupied. When boats with this system start to sink or capsize, a signal via a satellite is sent to the nearest emergency satellite call center. These centers need to maintain clear and unjammed communication lines for satellite phones and emergency personnel during a hurricane. The National Hurricane Center released the following names for 2010 hurricanes... Alex Bonnie Colin Danielle Earl Fiona Gaston Hermine Igor Julia Karl Lisa Matthew Nicole Otto Paula Richard Shary Tomas Virginie Walter What is a storm surge? For those residents living on the coast or in the islands a storm surge is something we are always concerned about. Storm surge is water that's pushed toward the shore by winds swirling around the storm. Recent hurricanes have produced storm surges in the neighborhood of 15 feet, combined with winds in excess of 75 miles per hour. This can be very dangerous. Water weighs approximately 1700 pounds per cubic yard - extended pounding by frequent waves can demolish structures not specifically designed to withstand these forces. Please be prepared and have a plan, and review it on a yearly basis. If you are an absentee homeowner, arrange for someone to secure the premises in your absence, a neighbor, friend, or property management company. For more information on how to prepare for a hurricane please visit the National Hurricane Centers website: www.nhc.noaa.gov Information provided courtesy of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos

Villa Lista on St Maarten for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 31 May 2010 22:29:20 -0400

The minute you walk through the front door of this gorgeous home you fall in love with the open spacious floor plan and expanding views of Philipsburg and the harbour. The 3 bedroom/2 bath house is less than three years old and has been featured in major architectural magazines and boasts modern touches which truly makes this house one of kind. There is a fenced garden, and one bedroom apartment for rental income. Asking $800,000 US. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Monte Vista Home for Sale on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 28 May 2010 17:59:27 -0400

This home with a harbour, marina, and ocean view has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths plus a separate studio and caretaker apartment. Located on a private mountaintop in a gated community, there is a community pool and guardhouse. Asking price $1,100,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos and details.

St Maarten Homeowners - Does Moving Up Make Sense?

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 26 May 2010 16:48:36 -0400

These questions will help you decide whether you're ready for a home that's larger or in a more desirable location. If you answer yes to most of the questions, it's a sign that you may be ready to move. 1. Have you built substantial equity in your current home? Look at your annual mortgage statement or call your lender to find out. Usually, you don't build up much equity in the first few years of your mortgage, as monthly payments are mostly interest, but if you've owned your home for five or more years, and/or placed a significant amount down, you may have unrealized (in a tax sense) gains. 2. Has your income or financial situation improved? If you're making more money, you may be able to afford higher mortgage payments and cover the costs of moving. 3. Have you outgrown your neighborhood? The neighborhood you pick for your first home might not be the same neighborhood you want to settle down in for good as you raise a family. For example, you may have realized that you'd like to be closer to your job, or live in a better school district. 4. Are there reasons why you can't remodel or add on? Sometimes you can create a bigger home by adding a new room or building up. But if your property isn't large enough, your housing regulations don't allow it, or you're simply not interested in remodeling, then moving to a bigger home may be your best option. 5. Are you comfortable moving in the current housing market? If your market is hot, your home may sell quickly and for top dollar, but the home you buy also will be more expensive. If your market is slow, finding a buyer may take longer, but you'll have more selection and better pricing as you seek your new home. Every community and country is different. Check with a Coldwell Banker agent for local real estate market trends. 6. Are interest rates attractive? A low rate not only helps you buy a larger home, but also makes it easier to find a buyer. Stop by our Coldwell Banker office and find out what your property is worth. That's the best way to start planning for a move.

St Maarten/St Martin Annual Deep Sea Fishing Tourney in June

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 24 May 2010 17:48:06 -0400

St. Maarten St. Martin will host the annual deep sea fishing competition June 23-27, 2010, targeting big game fish: Sailfish, Blue Marlins, White Marlins, Stripped Marlins, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, etc. The emphasis will be on Blue Marlins. This year's entry fee has been lowered to $2500 per boat so that anglers can enter different Calcuttas and add to their fun and adventure. Billfish and game fish will earn anglers over $100,000 in cash and prizes. Approximately 40 boats are expected to compete. For information about competition, rules and regulations, visit www.the-fishing-event.com.

Dawn Beach, Red Pond, Villa in St Maarten for sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 21 May 2010 19:33:33 -0400

Spectacular views of the ocean and St Barthelemy from this 5 bedroom/5 bath villa of 2200 SF. Main house is spacious and bright with 4 large bedrooms and baths, and huge covered terrace with pool and gazebo. There's also a A separate studio, with independent cistern, and security system. Asking $1,712,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos and details.

Tax Questions You Should Ask to Purchase Real Estate on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 19 May 2010 15:11:25 -0400

Every country and even areas within countries have their own tax laws. To assess the future value of your real estate investment, ask your Coldwell Banker real estate Agent these tax questions. 1. What is the assessed value of the property? Note that assessed value is generally less than market value. Ask to see a recent copy of the seller's tax bill to verify this information. 2. How often are properties reassessed, and when was the last reassessment done? In general, taxes jump most significantly when a property is reassessed. 3. Will the sale of the property trigger a tax increase? The assessed value of the property may increase based on the amount you pay for the property. 4. Is the amount of taxes paid comparable to other properties in the area? If not, it might be possible to appeal the tax assessment and lower the rate. 5. Does the current tax bill reflect any special exemptions that you might not qualify for? For example, some tax districts offer reductions to those 65+ or for home businesses. Our Coldwell Banker Agents are highly qualified and experienced in local real estate laws. Be sure and use their expertise to learn as much as possible about the property you want to purchase.

Commercial Opportunity + Beach Access on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 17 May 2010 17:39:01 -0400

Philipsburg waterfront restaurant + beach fully furnished for sale on St Maarten. Security system, AC, storage, and 2 baths included. This is a waterfront property. Lease is $4,000/mo for 9 years. Asking $378,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos.

Villa with Pool and View for Sale on St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 14 May 2010 19:05:57 -0400

This stunning villa in French St Martin was built in a botanic garden with views of Marigot Bay, island hills, and the Caribbean sea. There are 5 bedrooms, 4 baths in the main house, a terrace, pool, and 2-bedroom separate cottage with a private entrance and jacuzzi. Located in Pic Paradis, and offered at $1,255,320. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more information.

St Maarten Sellers - 7 Reasons to Work with a Realtor

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 12 May 2010 18:34:29 -0400

Real estate transactions are complicated, and becoming more so. Each country has its own individual laws for foreign investors and tax considerations. Here are some reasons why you should always use a real estate professional - not a friend, relative, or acquaintance - to represent you when you sell property. 1. Help navigating a complicated process. Buying or selling a home usually requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multipage settlement statements. A knowledgeable expert will help you prepare the best deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes. 2. Supply information and opinions. Realtors can provide local community information on utilities, zoning, schools, and amenities. They'll also be able to provide objective information about sales in your community. 3. Help with negotiating. There are many negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession, and inclusion or exclusion of repairs, furnishings, or equipment. You want someone representing you to negotiate these items with the buyer and buyer's agent. 4. Offer expertise in property marketing. Real estate doesn't sell due to advertising alone. In fact, a large share of real estate sales comes as the result of a practitioner's contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, and family. When a property is marketed with the help of a Realtor, you will have the full value of the internet and global marketing. 5. Speak the language. If you don't know a CMA from a PUD, you can understand why it's important to work with a professional who is immersed in the industry and knows the real estate language. 6. Offer experience. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. Even if you have done it before, laws and regulations change. Realtors, on the other hand, handle hundreds of real estate transactions over the course of their career. Having an expert on your side is critical. 7. Offer an objective voice. A home often symbolizes family, rest, and security - it's not just four walls and a roof. Because of this, homebuying and selling can be an emotional undertaking. As a seller, your net profit will be one of the largest "pay days" you will ever experience. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the emotional and financial issues most important to you. Don't try and sell without professional expertise and experience on your side. Contact one of our Coldwell Banker agents when you are thinking of selling real estate.

St Martin called the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 11 May 2010 16:24:36 -0400

A recent blog on ABCNews.go.com supports the view that St Martin/St Maarten can definitely hold the title of Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. They state, "If Paris' bustling open-air markets and patisseries are too far for your schedule, try the French side of St. Martin, where European expats and locals alike prepare dishes rivaling the bistros along Montmartre. The 37-square mile island seamlessly blends Caribbean- influenced flavors with haute French cuisine. Offering over 37 gorgeous beaches, each with its own unique flair, doesn't hurt either. "Salt fish and Johnny cakes, conch sausage and cod fritters with a side of sauce chien (a spicy vinaigrette infused with herbs) are part of the island's local cuisine. "Affordably-priced food prepared by the hands of locals abound in the affectionately known 'lolos,' simple roadside barbecue pits that emit fumes of fresh seafood, ribs and chicken. No lolo meal would be complete without a side of rice and beans, macaroni salad and fried plantain, with a Carib beer to wash down the less-than-$10 meal. "Grand Case holds the bulk of the best-known lolos along the water, including Talk of the Town and Sky's the Limit. "Rosie's in the seaside town of Marigot buzzes with reggae music while hungry passers-by gather on the corner to read a simple cardboard sign on a street signal that displays the day's special. Rosie's is the perfect place to pick up a meal before hopping aboard a ferry to neighboring islands St. Barth's and Anguilla. "Dessert lovers will be more than pleased with St. Martin's selection of French boulangeries, particularly in Marigot. Sarafina stood out as a favorite, and once in the open air bakery it doesn't take long to see why. The creative display of macaroons, profiteroles, napoleons and glazed tarts represent virtually every color of the rainbow. Large bites of fresh fruit and cake sit in creamy gelato flavors. "Grab a box full of sugary treats and walk along the marina for a relaxing afternoon. This is la dolce vita, indeed. Other favorites including La Sucriere (which is just steps away from Sarafina) and La Croissenterie (on the marina) are other sure bakery bets. But man cannot live on dessert alone. Or can he? Freshly made bread abounds in these bakeries, as well, from crusty baguettes to moist, chocolate croissants. " Come visit St Martin for its cuisine and beaches, and stop by our Coldwell Banker office to talk real estate.

Golf on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 08 May 2010 14:27:46 -0400

St Maarten offers one place for great golf, the Mullet Bay Golf Course. There originally was also a resort, but it was destroyed by a hurricane in 1995. The course offers beautiful scenery and wraps around Mullet Bay providing plenty of water shots over the bay. Many of the greens are packed sand in places, and soft green grass is rare. While the greens are challenging, and the course is rough, these add to the fun of playing in an exotic location like St Maarten. Green fees are about $100/per person/18 holes incuding cart - but then the course has a monopoly. Compared to many other destination courses, for instance Hawaii, this is not exceptionally high. They do rent clubs, but if you are a serious golfer, you always should bring your own. Thanks to Don Burleson, here are some Golf Tips for St Maarten, as published in Travel-golf.org: - "Don't take the St. Maarten golf course too seriously! Throw away the score card and have fun! - "They have incredible bunkers with nice shell-based sand. I got lots of practice in bunker shots. - "Best months to golf in S. Maarten are November though February, but in other months, make sure to tee off early in the morning to wrap-up before it gets too hot! - "USGA golf rules don't always apply! For example, how do you handle an art hill hazard on the green? - "Arrange transportation ^ If you don't have a rental car, make arrangements for a taxi to pick you up in 4.5 hours. - "The fairways are hard as a rock, and you will get lots of extra roll yardage. Some links for more information: SMGA - St Maarten Golf Assn Blog Review - Some day, someone will rescue the golf course Have fun and stop by our Coldwell Banker office after your game to say "hi."

Baie Nettle Waterfront Home for sale in St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 07 May 2010 11:49:47 -0400

Waterfront home in secured residence with 4 pools, private beach, 3 tennis courts. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, furnished kitchen, hurricane protection, spacious and bright. Perfect for seasonal rental. Asking $275,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for photos and details.

6 Creative Ways to Afford a Home on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 05 May 2010 18:20:11 -0400

Not every buyer has enough stashed away for a large downpayment, and a credit score above 700. Here are some ideas that might help you become a homeowner in a not-ideal situation. 1. Investigate local and national down payment assistance programs. These programs give qualified applicants loans or grants to cover all or part of your required down payment. 2. Explore seller financing. In some cases, sellers may be willing to finance all or part of the purchase price of the home and let you repay them gradually, just as you would do with a mortgage. 3. Consider a shared-appreciation or shared-equity arrangement. Under this arrangement, your family, friends, or even a third-party may buy a portion of the home and share in any appreciation when the home is sold. The owner/occupant usually pays the mortgage, property taxes, and maintenance costs, but all the investors' names are usually on the mortgage. Companies are available that can help you find such an investor, if your family can't participate. 4. Ask your family for help. Perhaps a family member will loan you money for the down payment or act as a co-signer for the mortgage. Lenders often like to have a co-signer if you have little credit history. 5. Lease with the option to buy. Renting the home for a year or more will give you the chance to save more toward your down payment. And in many cases, owners will apply some of the rental amount toward the purchase price. You usually have to pay a small, nonrefundable option fee to the owner. 6. Consider a short-term second mortgage. If you can qualify for a short-term second mortgage, this would give you money to make a larger down payment. This may be possible if you're in good financial standing, with a strong income and little other debt. If you want to purchase real estate, but aren't sure you qualify, come in and talk to one of our Coldwell Banker agents. They are trained in local laws and customs. Helping buyers and sellers of real estate is our business.

Playwright who Adopted St Maarten is Gone

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:55:18 -0400

Sir Ian Valz, an outstanding Guyana-born, Caribbean-based dramatist and playwright, has passed away in St. Maarten, his adopted home. A master of his craft, Valz directed over 60 plays and acted in over 30. He held the position of sports and cultural director in Guyana before migrating to St. Maarten in 1994. There he became the drama director at the Cultural Center in St. Martin, where he created, `The Teenage Age Acting Company,` for our youth. From a very young age, Valz mesmerized audiences with his stage performances, capturing the attention of Soap Opera fans who were glued to their radios in Guyana to listen to his hit serial `House of Pressure.` His movie, `Panman, Rhythms of the Palms,` won awards at the Brooklyn Int`l Festival and top honors in the narrative feature film category of the 2008 Hollywood Black Film Festival. He was knighted in 2006 by Her Majesty, Queen Beatrix of Holland. (resource: CaribbeanWorldNews.com)

Villa Hello Dolly on St Maarten for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 21:16:16 -0400

This beautiful and spacious villa of 450 m� will amaze you with its originality and its functionality. The home offers 7 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms in total, and includes a studio, and an apartment with two bedrooms. The residence is quiet and secure 24/24. Sublime lagoon and sea view 180 �. Completely private with its infinity pool overlooking a large terrace, the tropical gardens and lush vegetation will seduce you immediately. Fenced yard, garage, garden, gazebo, and terrace. Asking $1,270,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details and more photos.

Feng Shui Concepts to Help your St Maarten Home Sell

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 20:59:29 -0400

To put the best face on a listing and appeal to buyers who follow Feng Shui principles, keep these tips in mind. 1. Pay special attention to the front door, which is considered the "mouth of chi" (chi is the "life force" of all things) and one of the most powerful aspects of the entire property. Abundance, blessings, opportunities, and good fortune enter through the front door. It's also the first impression buyers have of how well the sellers have taken care of the rest of the property. Make sure the area around the front door is swept clean, free of cobwebs and clutter. Make sure all lighting is straight and properly hung. Better yet, light the path leading up to the front door to create an inviting atmosphere. 2. Chi energy can be flushed away wherever there are drains in the home. To keep the good forces of a home in, always keep the toilet seats down and close the doors to bathrooms. 3. The master bed should be in a place of honor, power, and protection, which is farthest from and facing toward the entryway of the room. It's even better if you can place the bed diagonally in the farthest corner. Paint the room in colors that promote serenity, relaxation, and romance, such as soft tones of green, blue, and lavender. 4. The dining room symbolizes the energy and power of family togetherness. Make sure the table is clear and uncluttered during showings. Use an attractive tablecloth to enhance the look of the table while also softening sharp corners. 5. The windows are considered to be the eyes of the home. Getting the windows professionally cleaned will make the home sparkle and ensure that the view will be optimally displayed. Talk to any of our Coldwell Banker agents about other ways to maximize the marketing potential of your property when you are ready to sell.

St Maarten on Celebrity Cruise Schedule

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 14:02:28 -0400

Celebrity Cruises has announced its Solstice-class ships will offer trips in the Caribbean in the winter season of 2011-2012, including ports of call at St Maarten. Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. "Our guests told us that they wanted more variety in the Caribbean, so we not only sent all four of our newest ships, we also created a line-up of itineraries offering cruisers the opportunity to choose from a wide range of sailing lengths and destinations on our award-winning ships ^ all of which include Celebrity's signature service, style and world-class cuisine." Leaving from Bayonne, Cape Liberty, New Jersey, from November 2011 to April 2012, Celebrity Silhouette will sail 14 alternating Southern and Eastern Caribbean voyages of 12 nights in length. The Southern Caribbean itineraries will visit St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Antigua, St. Lucia and St. Maarten. Celebrity Silhouette's Eastern Caribbean cruises include visits to San Juan, Labadee (Celebrity's private-island destination in Haiti), St. Croix, St. Thomas, Antigua and St. Maarten. Out of Fort Lauderdale, the Celebrity Equinox will visit St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Barbados, Dominica and St. Maarten on 10-night itineraries. Also the Celebrity Constellation will sail for 14-nights to Aruba, Curacao, Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Maarten and St. Thomas. In the Caribbean, Celebrity has designed its line-up of shore excursions to give cruisers a way to unwind in tropical paradise through nature-based activities, and opportunities to experience local history and culture. Visit CelebrityCruises.com for information.

Buying Overseas Real Estate - Basic Questions to Ask and Answer for St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:06:43 -0400

Caribbean Property Magazine's April issue ran an excellent article on "15 CRITICAL QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN BUYING OVERSEAS REAL ESTATE" which we summarize here. If you are considering a purchase outside your country of residence, read the entire article (click on the link) and it should help you avoid mistakes, or at the least, suggest research you need to do before you buy. If you have found a property to interest you - whether condo, house, land for development, investment - look at the big picture and try to isolate yourself from your enthusiasm about the view, or price, or location. The country of your choice may be paradise, but it is still a foreign country. 1. Country Access - is there year 'round access to the area and how long will it take from the airport 2. Building Requirements - are there some, and if not, are there standards in place or deed restrictions 3. Sewage - is there a central sewer system, and if not, and you need to install a septic tank, require a "perk test" 4. HOA - is there a Homeowner's Association, what are the fees (they will only go up), how financially stable is the association, and how much deferred maintenance is shown 5. Greenbelts - are there common areas, open space areas, a master plan - check the developer's plans and programs for working with the community on a shared future 6. Amenities - what are they, what do they cost, what are the long-term maintenance requirements 7. Title - what type of guarantee of title will you receive, what language will be included for coastal laws and changing shoreline 8. Telecommunications - is there state-of-the-art telecommunication equipment in place or planned - check phone service, bandwidth, and service providers 9. Water and water pressure - is there enough fresh water and water pressure, does it plan for future growth, how will the growth be paid for - check pressure in any structure by turning on all the faucets and flushing at the same time 10. Hot water - check for hot water plumbing, and if building a new home, double check that hot water will be included 11. Infrastructure - does this include fiber optic, underground electricity, paved streets, sidewalks, storm drains, high-speed internet access - don't take any of this for granted, and make sure the development has planned for these services or find out how the homeowner will be assessed 12. Assume nothing - you probably will be an off-site owner while your new home is built - who will oversee construction, what avenues of communication will you use, check references of the developer and builder - make sure you verify the plans for proper wiring, air conditioning, dryer vents, etc. - take nothing for granted 13. Development Company - check their financial condition and references - realize financing is unusual so the developer may provide buyer financing - how will this affect their balance sheet 14. Safety and security - if you want 24/7 security, double check it will be part of the property maintenance and cost 15. Health care - Most major Latin American cities have state-of-the-art medical facilities, but if you purchase outside these, it may be a distance to good health care As the author concludes, "Much of the world outside North America and Europe is the land of 'Buyer Beware.' Be sure you know the answers to these important questions and make a conscious decision about what levels of creature comforts are mandatory and which may be optional for you...An educated buyer is a happy owner. There are items you may take for granted that will not be the standards in other countries." Contact your local Coldwell Banker office for help with your research and investigation into answering these questions. All of our agents are knowledgeable about their local areas and laws.

Middle Region Estate Home for Sale on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:26:10 -0400

Incredible opportunity for first time homeowners. The property has a separate building consisting of 2 (1) bedroom 1 bath apartment units and 1 (2) bedroom unit having potential monthly income of $1,500.00. The main house has 3 bedrooms, 2 � baths, with a hillside view, and some appliances included. There is a fenced yard, garage, garden, and terrace. Asking $365,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Caribbean Countries approve ban on ocean dumping

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 15:35:04 -0400

The Associated Press reports that "Countries in the Caribbean have agreed to bar the dumping of all garbage at sea, ending rules that allow the disposal of metal, glass and other refuse a short distance from shore and almost any trash farther out. "The nations adopted the new requirement under the U.N.'s International Maritime Organization and it will take effect in May 2011, IMO consultant Jeff Ramos said Wednesday. Ocean garbage endangers marine life, water quality, and local economies, just to name a few bad effects. "The United Nations created the ban to protect areas that are vulnerable because of heavy ship traffic or sensitive ecology. It has already taken effect in the Antarctic, the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, the Persian Gulf and the Mediterranean. "'It's a big deal,' said Ramos, a U.S. Coast Guard commander based on the Dutch island of Curacao near Venezuela. 'Especially in the Caribbean, with all the tankers and the traffic going to the Panama Canal, it will make a big impact.' "The U.N. outlawed dumping in 1993 for the Caribbean, but it could not take effect until the region's nations reported their capacity for receiving trash from ships. After a lengthy U.N. awareness campaign, member countries gave notice last month that enough receptacles were in place. "The new ban will outlaw discharging of any solid waste at any distance except for food, which could still be dumped 3 miles from shore. It will be up to individual countries to check ships' logs and verify compliance." Ocean garbage endangers marine life, water quality, and the economies of the islands.

Mindset of US 2nd Home Buyers on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 21:54:30 -0400

Earlier we wrote about the numbers released in the National Assn of Realtors' vacation home study, which showed a modest increase in 2nd home sales in 2009. More is at work in those statistics, though, than just buyers deciding to purchase. While Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist of NAR, said the typical vacation-home buyer makes a lifestyle choice, buying in this economic climate also shows these folks felt the property was a good investment, a good use of their discretionary funds at this time. By the purchase, they also said they see a 2nd home as an investment, to use for vacations yes, but with an eye toward future appreciation. The study also showed a changing attitude in the US toward 2nd homes. In the U.K. and Europe, vacation homes are part of the culture. Since the typical age of a 2nd home buyer in the US is 46, a subtle shift could be taking place toward younger buyers of these homes. "Historically, people become interested in buying a second home in their mid 40s," Yun said. "The large number of people who are now in their 30s and 40s will dominate the second-home market in the coming decade." Be sure and contact our Coldwell Banker agents in the Caribbean to discuss your options for a vacation home purchase, including Fractional Ownership. This is a great time to buy on all our islands.

Real Estate in French St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 20:20:17 -0400

French St. Martin real estate offers investors outstanding value for their money, as you can get find great values here compared to other Caribbean islands. If you are shopping for oceanview or beachfront property, with crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, you should consider our island. St. Martin is the smallest island in the world divided between two different countries. St. Martin is French territory and St. Maarten belongs to the Dutch. The laws on land development on St. Martin real estate are quite different from the Dutch St. Maarten Real Estate. In St Martin, the Notary or Notaire handles all real estate transactions. The final deed preparations as well as the relevant searches regarding property titles are the responsibility of the Notaire, who is obligated to the buyer and the seller to do a proper search and ensure clear transfer of title. There is no need for a personal attorney for any St. Martin real estate dealings. Buyers of all St. Martin Real Estate transactions must pay a 10% transfer fee, which include Notary fees, 33 1/2% capital gains tax, and land tax. Basic local knowledge is required regarding zoning and building permits. Contact our Coldwell Banker office for more details and with questions you have on buying property in either St Martin or St Maarten.

Waterfront Home for Sale on French St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 17:41:53 -0400

Located in the heart of a tropical garden, this lagoon-front 1 bedroom residence lies opposite the largest lagoon on the French Caribbean island of St Martin. This superb apartment has a large bedroom with bathroom, living room, a large covered terrace with kitchen, and is pacious and air conditioned. This is a secured residence with 2 pools, tennis, private parking,watersport, close stores, restaurants, golf, airport, Marigot gym room and beaches. Asking $236,075 US.

Oceanview Duplex Home on St Martin in Marigot For Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:46:33 -0400

Duplex on Frenchy St Martin with a wonderful sea view. 1 bedroom - bath - living - kitchen. Large covered terrace, AC, extra storage.. Direct beach and pool access. Close to Marigot Center. Asking $294,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details and photos.

Coldwell Banker's On Location Wildly Successful

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:56:35 -0400

Coldwell Banker On Location, the brand's YouTube channel focused on listing, community and agent profile videos, continues to redefine the use of video in real estate. Just 11 months after launching in May 2009, Coldwell Banker On Location has drawn 1 million channel views. Since Coldwell Banker Real Estate launched their brand channel on YouTube to debut Coldwell Banker On Location, the site has more videos on its YouTube site than any other real estate brand. "We believe that video plays a major role in the home buying and selling process," said Michael Fischer, senior vice president, Marketing, for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "There is no other medium that can showcase the personality of a home and agent more effectively than video. And our agents, from all corners of the world, have responded by posting more than 11,000 videos to date. Clearly, Coldwell Banker On Location has set a high bar for video use in our industry, but more importantly home sellers are starting to expect video as a part of the marketing portfolio of a home...Video is now a mainstay in real estate and consumers are proving this to be true." Take a look at our Curacao site - On Location is available, and stay tuned for videos to be uploaded by our agents. http://www.youtube.com/coldwellbankercur

Dream Oceanview Villa for Sale in Pelican of St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 21:07:32 -0400

Superb villa with panoramic 180 degree sea view. Very modern, secure, high quality service and neat. All parts of the villa have ocean view, equipped kitchen opening onto a huge terrace overlooking the lounge, 4 large and beautiful bedrooms with dressing room and 4 bathrooms. Studio equipped and furnished. Luxurious and spacious villa facing the ocean. Security system, generator, garden, terrace, fenced yard. Asking $5,000,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

NAR 2010 Investment & Vacation Home Buyers Survey

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 23:25:14 -0400

The National Assn of Realtors has released figures that show vacation home sales recovered somewhat in 2009, but investment sales fell off sharply. NAR's 2010 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey, covering existing- and new-home transactions in 2009, shows vacation-home sales rose 7.9 percent to 553,000 last year from 513,000 in 2008, while investment-home sales fell 15.9 percent to 940,000 in 2009 from 1.12 million in 2008. NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said, "The typical vacation-home buyer is making a lifestyle choice, with 9 out of 10 saying they intend to use the property for vacations or as a family retreat. Investment buyers primarily seek rental income, with 6 in 10 planning to rent to others, although 1 in 5 wants a family member, friend or relative to use the home." 26 percent of vacation-home buyers and 8 percent of investment buyers intend to use the property as a primary residence in the future. Similar to 2008, cash factored strongly in the second-home market: three out of 10 vacation-home buyers in 2009 paid cash for their properties, while half of investment buyers paid cash. Fairly similar ratios for each group indicated portfolio diversification or good investment opportunities were factors in the purchase decision. The typical US vacation-home buyer in 2009 was 46 years old, had a median household income of $87,500, and purchased a property that was a median distance of 348 miles from their primary residence; 34 percent were within 100 miles and 40 percent were more than 500 miles. 3 out of 4 were married couples. Investment-home buyers last year had a median age of 45, earned $87,200, and bought a home that was relatively close to their primary residence - a median distance of 24 miles. Roughly one in four investment buyers purchased more than one property in 2009. While these statistics are from buyers in the US, the trends can be carried forward to offshore properties. The Baby Boomers are not just an economic factor in the USA. Demographically, the long-term demand for second homes looks favorable because large numbers of people are in the prime years for buying a second home. "Historically, people become interested in buying a second home in their mid 40s," Yun said. "The large number of people who are now in their 30s and 40s will dominate the second-home market in the coming decade, with a strong underlying demand, although sales in a given year will vary depending on the economy." (resource: RealEstateChannel.com)

Sailing Anchorages around St Maarten/St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 19:40:03 -0400

Amy Lassiter, of AllatSea.net, wrote recently of anchorages she found on a recent sail around the island of St Martin. Here's an introduction to 3 of the special places, so you can read the full description on her post. Oyster Pond "Shared by both the French and Dutch side, Oyster Pond is an attractive shelter amidst the chaos of the waves during winter months. Of all of the places I sampled, it captured a piece of my heart. Perhaps this is a result of purchasing my new Benetau 393 here or maybe that the Dinghy Dock Bar has the best happy hour on the island! Whatever the reason, Oyster Pond is definitely not to be missed." Baie Longue "When you close your eyes and visualize the perfect 'picture postcard' beach, you could very easily be daydreaming about Baie Longue. Located on the French side, this day anchorage is one that I visit quite often. Backing onto an exclusive resort, the white sand beach seems endless, perfect for taking a morning stroll or a late afternoon walk to watch the sun set. The water is crystal clear and the snorkeling is excellent. It's an ideal place for spotting schools of bright colored fish as they play by the keel or swim along the rocks of the headland on the east end." Kim Sha Beach "Compared to the tranquility of Baie Longue, Kim Sha is at the opposite end of the spectrum. Cornering Simpson Pay and Pelican Key, it is bursting with locals and tourists and promises life and activity throughout the day and long into the night. There are a number of dinghy docks nearby offering easy access to many restaurants, bars, casinos, water sports, and shops." Bring your boat to St Maarten and spend the night. You'll be glad to did! (photo courtesy of FrenchCaribbean.com)

Spas of St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 17:55:30 -0400

Virgin Voices.com presents some of the spas available for residents and tourists alike on St Maarten. Visit their web page for full details, but here is a brief guide. *L'Aqualigne - at Pelican Resort Club. The oldest spa on the island, created by cosmetologist and philosopher Marc Van Theilen. It embraces natural remedies to promote beauty from the inside out. *Christian Dior Spa - at the Cliffs. Focuses on anti-aging treats like its state of the art micro-dermabrasion treatment to smooth, stimulate, tone and re-oxygenate the skin. *Good Life Spa - at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort. Offers packages geared to expectant mothers and offers men's treatments. *Hibiscus Spa - at the Westin St Maarten Dawn Beach Resort. Promotes a total lifestyle approach that encompasses the entire person - body, mind and soul, with revitalizing, rejuvenating and beautifying face and body treatments. *Elysees Spa - at the La Samanna Resort. Its "just arrived" package includes a facial, a massage to rejuventate neck and lower back after traveling. This is a sampling of the spa treatments and professionals available on St Maarten. Be sure an include a Spa Day in your next vacation.

Simple Fixes to Help Sell your St Maarten Property

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 18:12:07 -0400

Simple and inexpensive updates can add appeal to your home and help catch the eye of prospective buyers. Check with your Coldwell Banker realtor for more ideas, but consider one or more of these to spruce up your home for sale. *Colors - Use welcoming colors. Paint trim, eaves, and shutters a warm brown and brighten the front door with a deep blue or another soft color. *Benches - Place wrought iron or wood benches beside the door or under trees in the front yard, to give the idea of welcome and comfort. *Lighted path - Use energy-efficient solar lights to lead visitors to the front door and illuminate the entry after dark. Also use shrubs and colorful plants along the walkway to the front. *Wall lanterns - Use lanterns on each side of the front door to welcome buyers. A dark doorway is not inviting. *Clean the yard and front porch - don't let clutter and trash spoil that first impression given a buyer. These ideas should get you thinking of inexpensive quick fixes you can do to your property to make it look more inviting and get those buyers inside.

Carnival Coming to St Maarten in April

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 18:04:44 -0400

April 15-May 2 are the dates this year for St Maarten's 41st Annual Carnival. The celebration will be filled with days and nights showcasing culture, concerts, and activities. This year's theme, "Sweet Revelry Again for Carnival 2010," showcases the island's vibrant spirit. "Carnival is a special celebration to our island," said Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "It is a time where we celebrate our heritage and we encourage everyone to join in the festivities" she added. The celebration begins in St. Maarten Festival Center with the annual opening Jump-Up, also known as Unity Jump Up, between the French and Dutch side of the island, with everyone joining in and dancing behind the bands playing calypsonian songs. The celebration continues with the Senior Queen Show where all the districts of St. Maarten are represented. The Youth Extravaganza begins on April 23 where the children of St. Maarten showcase their talents followed by the Junior Parade on April 25 where the children celebrate by marching through the streets of Philipsburg, showing off their colorful costumes. The 18-day event transforms Festival Center into a competition platform for "calypsonians" to compete for the title of King and Queen followed by the Jouvert Jump on April 28, starting at 4 am, where thousands of people go to the Jump Up around the pond. There are also cultural performances by local artists and seven international concerts, Reggae Night on April 28, will feature performances by Beenie Man, Jah Cure and Busy Signal, and Latin Night on May 1, includes Luis Miguel and Bachata & Miguelito, followed by the Junior Queen Show and road marches. Carnival culminates with the Grand Carnival Parade on April 29 and Second Day Parade April 30, with cultural songs and dances as well as revelers in vibrant costumes that depict local heritage. The burning of King Momo symbolizes the end of Carnival, cleansing the island of its sins and leaving it fresh and revived for the New Year. For more information on Carnival and St. Maarten, visit http://www.VacationStMaarten.com. (resource: AnguillaNews.com)

Ark Shell at Guana Bay Home for Sale in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 21:54:12 -0400

Beautiful 2 story home offering a magnificent view of the of the ocean and St. Barth's. The house sits on 12,992 sq.ft of land and has a total living area of 4,785 sq.ft The top floor has 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, kitchen, living room, dining room, office, laudndry room and a porch. The ground floor consists of 1 studio and 1 1-bedroom apartment. There is a fenced yard, garden, and terrace. Asking $850,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Villa Belair for Sale on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:27:08 -0400

On Rabbit Hill Road in St Maarten, this 6 bedroom, 5 Bath home on 3 levels features a view, pool, drive-through garage, courtyard enclosed, 3 cisterns, 180 m3 generator, automatic laminated glass, and guest quarters. Asking $1,300,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Don't Make These 1st Time Buyer Mistakes on Your St Maarten Home Purchase

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:19:16 -0400

These are common 1st Time Buyer Mistakes. Use a Coldwell Banker agent to avoid them and save yourself time and money. 1. You don't ask enough questions of your lender and end up missing out on the best deal. 2. You don't act quickly enough to make a decision and someone else buys the house. 3. You don't find the right agent who's willing to help you through the homebuying process. You can find an agent at Coldwell Banker who is knowledgeable and will take the time to understand your needs and wants. 4. You don't do enough to make your offer look appealing to a seller. 5. You don't think about resale before you buy. The average first-time buyer only stays in a home for four years. Make your needs list first, then your wants, and look at enough homes to understand the difference. Get prequalified and work with a Coldwell Banker realtor. These simple steps should keep you from making these mistakes.

Pointe Blanche Home for Sale on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 21:54:26 -0500

Beautiful spacious property in friendly Ground Dove area of Pointe Blanche. The main-house of this property consists of 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with a separate 2 bedroom 1 bath apartment units with a potential monthly rental income of $1,200. This property requires some minor work, but a little TLC would quickly double the value of this house, so don't wait, seize this opportunity to own real estate in one of the most desirable living areas on St.Maarten. Asking $425,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for photos and details.

Villa Terres Basses Home for Sale on St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 21:50:17 -0500

This is a wonderful villa on a 10 000 sqm flat lot with a main house (3 bedrooms/ 3 bathrooms) and cottage (2 bedrooms/1 bathroom). 2 cisterns, of 40 and 70 cubic. Property tax: Euro 2700/year Home owners association: about Euro 2000/year Rental income for main house: about 3500/week in high season. Furniture are negotiable. Houses are in good condition, buildings about 20 years old. Asking $1,352,290. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listng page for photos and details.

Donate those Leftover Caribbean Coins to UNICEF

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:09:10 -0500

Recycle the coins you bring back from the islands, by donating them to the UNICEF Change for Good program. American Airlines, a large presence in the travel plans of visitors to the Caribbean islands, donated $1.2 Million for UNICEF in 2009. American Airlines has been participating in the program since 1994. Last year, travelers donated $1.2 million in U.S. and foreign currency, the most ever for American. The money is collected on select international flights and at Admirals Clubs and Flagship Lounges. Donations received in January and February are earmarked to provide assistance to Haitian children. "American Airlines and its participation in the Change for Good program is invaluable to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF for its ability to bring both funding and attention to UNICEF's work," said Caryl Stern, president and CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. "A little change goes a long way. We are so thankful for the generosity of American Airlines customers and the dedication of the committed American Airlines employee volunteers who choose to help improve children's lives," Stern said. Change for Good is an innovative partnership between UNICEF and the international airline industry. Established in 1987, it is one of UNICEF's best-known and longest-running partnerships. Currently more than 10 international airlines support the Change for Good program. Thanks to the generous support of customers and participating airlines, Change for Good has generated over $90 million that UNICEF has used to provide a healthier, happier future for millions of children. Send your unused foreign currency today to UNICEF. If you are unable to donate your foreign currency on an American Airlines flight or at an Admirals Club or Flagship Lounge, you can still support Change for Good by sending your gift to the following address: U.S. Fund for UNICEF ATTN: Change for Good Program 125 Maiden Lane New York, NY 10038

Villa Sea View Terres Basses for Sale on St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 00:35:19 -0500

12,000 M� Mediterranean style villa 2 minutes from La Samanna Resort and Bay, and Longue Beach. 300 SqM of living space, 3 bedrooms/3 baths, seperate studio pool, terrace, gym or massage room, garage, basement available for apartment. The lot size allows for an extra 300 M� villa, possibly a vacation rental. Asking $1,626,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Multi-Generational Homes seen as a Trend for St Maarten real estate

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:55:52 -0500

According to a recent survey by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC among its network of real estate professionals, in the last 12 months, 37% of sales professionals surveyed noted an increase in home buyers looking for homes that can accommodate more than one generation of their family. In addition, almost 70% of Coldwell Banker sales agents believe that economic conditions may cause greater demand for multi-generational homes in their market during the next year. The Coldwell Banker respondents cited financial drivers as the No. 1 reason why home buyers or sellers are moving into a house with other generations of their family (39%). Twenty-nine percent said that health care issues are the primary reason, and 6% cited a strong family bond as the main factor. Sellers with "mother in-law suites" or additional spaces that could accommodate a family interested in a multi-generational living arrangement should highlight this aspect of the home. Whether it's a garage apartment or refurbished basement, this separate space can help one home stand apart from the others on its block. Buyers must be clear about their exact needs. Some families may just want an extra bedroom or two for family members, while others require areas with a separate kitchen, entrance, handicap accessibility or even a larger garage for additional cars. Desired location may also be influenced by proximity to local hospitals, senior centers or other important activities to family members. Extended families purchasing a home together should consider signing a written contract outlining everything from finances to chores and childcare. Each family should assess their situation individually and find a plan that works best for them. Check with our Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates for advice and resources if you want to purchase or sell a home that might be suited for more than one generation.

Terres Basses View Home for Sale on St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 20:44:06 -0500

Wondurful villa with panoramic lagoon view. 8000M waterfront property. Large free-form infinity pool, jacuzzi, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, studyo, gym, massage room. Plus 2-2 bedroom cottage with pool, 1 bedroom bungalow, private dock. Total 6 bedrooms, 5 baths. Great rental income. Asking $4,900,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listng page for details.

Villa Margot for sale in Almond Grove of St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:39:15 -0500

From the moment you step on to the property you will feel the captivating appeal of this place: Comfortable niches, a wrap around covered terrace, an adorable little guesthouse/office, a plunge pool, lots of plants, lots of windows, a lovely breeze, a panoramic view over the Simpson Bay Lagoon and the ocean. The main level comprises 3 bedrooms and two bath, an open plan kitchen / dining / living area, and the separate little one room building with independant bath. The lower level features a spacious one bedroom apartment, laundry room, work room, and space for further additions. Conveniently located in Almond Grove, close to schools, shopping, restaurants etc. Asking $845,000 US. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details and photos.

Preparing to Sell your St Maarten Home

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:41:32 -0500

You've decided to sell. Look at your home through the eyes of a prospective buyer and be honest with yourself: what needs to be cleaned, painted, repaired and tossed out or given away? If you were buying this home what would you want to see? Your goal is to make your home look good, maximize space and attract as many buyers as possible. The first and most important thing you want to do in preparing your house for market is to make sure it has good curb appeal. Curb appeal is simply the first impression a prospective buyer gets when driving by the house. It has been said that up to 80% of the decision to buy a house is made before even entering the home, so it doesn't matter how great your house looks inside if buyers won't go through the front door. You could have the greatest floor plan, and the greatest decor, but if your house is unsightly from the outside, a lot of people will never ring the bell. So by all means start on the outside of the house and use common sense. Keep the lawn mowed and watered, trim the shrubs, make sure there isn't any peeling paint, and keep weeds out of the flower beds. Put some color in the landscaping and plant some flowers. Make sure there aren't any unsightly vehicles in the driveway. If you have an older car that looks its age, park it down the road or at a friend's house. Keep the yard clean and pristine. When you can look at the outside of your house from the street and it looks better than it ever has, it is time to move to the inside of the house. Here's a checklist: - Water, mow, weed, & edge lawn regularly. - Trim hedges,prune trees, and tend to flowerbeds regularly. - Mend cracks in walkways, driveway, walls, foundation, and patios. - Patch up or repaint doors and windows with peeling paint. - Clean and align gutters. - Repair and replace loose or damaged roof shingles. - Repair and repaint loose siding and caulking. - Keep your garage door closed. - Move old cars elsewhere while the house is on the market. - Be sure your front door area has a warm, "Welcome" feeling. Inside you want to make things look as open and bright as possible. Keep all the blinds and curtains open and the windows clean. If a room feels or looks cluttered, move some of your extra furniture into a storage space or a friend's house. Remember, you'll be moving anyway, so start sorting and have that garage sale. Keep the inside of your house smelling good. Any senses you can stimulate when someone enters your house will help create emotional attachment to the home. Don't overdo the aroma therapy, but make the house smell pleasant - no stale cooking odors, no pet odors, no diapers. Keep everything as clean as you can. Give the impression that you take care of your property and care about your home. You want your house to look, feel and smell it's best. Make those repairs you've put off so doors work well and the plumbing doesn't drip. Purchase a couple of ceiling fans or small room fans to keep it cooler for showings. Are you ready for Buyers: - Repaint walls or replace carpets with neutral colors. - Fix all cracks, leaks and signs of dampness in the attic. - Fix all cracks, holes or damage to plaster, wallboard, wallpaper, paint, and tiles. - Replace broken or cracked windowpanes, moldings, and other woodwork. - Repair leaky faucets and showerheads. - Clean and remove clutter to make your house appear bigger and brighter. - Rent storage to keep the garage and attic clear. - Remove excess or very large furniture. - Hire a professional cleaning service once every few weeks while the house is on the market. - Remove as many items from kitchen counters, closets, and attics to make your house seem more spacious. - Make your kitchen and bathroom look as bright and fresh as possible. - Use your nicer guest towels in the bathrooms. - Hang up fresh curtains. - Install new cabinet knobs. - Make sure kitchen and bathroom are clean and odor free. - Replace burned out light bulbs. - Open drapes and blinds. - Don't let pets wander around the house during showings. - Don't leave dirty dishes in the sink or laundry in the washer or dryer. - Make the beds. - Put on soothing music. Remember that people make emotional decisions. We justify with logic what we decide with emotions. Keep your mind open, try for a warm and bright interior, have great curb appeal, and you will be on the right path to preparing your house for the market. Our Coldwell Banker agents can answer any questions you have about getting ready for a sale, and advise you on the best timing for the highest price.

Top Attractions in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 21:51:49 -0500

The St Maarten tourist board has set the Top 10 Island Attractions, as reported by EliteTraveler. � 12 Metre Regatta - Renowned as "The Number One Shore Excursion in the Caribbean" , participants board America's Cup-winning Stars & Stripes, Canada II or True North for a once in a lifetime adventure. The crew will teach guests how to operate the ship and assign each person a "crew member" position. Grind a winch, trim a sail, punch a stop watch, or just sit back and relax as you hit the raceway. Visit www.12Metre.com for more information. � Rhino Safari - Adventurers of all ages are guaranteed a thrill of a lifetime ride onboard a 10 foot inflatable motorboat along St Maarten's magnificent coast line. Participants will follow a personal guide while making a stop at a wild reef for some spectacular snorkeling. For more information, e-mail RhinoSafari@StMaarten.com. � Horse Back Riding - A great way to enjoy the sights of St. Maarten, visitors can check out Lucky Stables (www.luckystables.shoreadventures.net), a top riding facility on the island, located on a 30-acre nature park in Cay Bay. The stable provides trails for horseback riding as well as horse and carriage rides, while its ideal beachfront location is perfect for taking a mid-day swim. � Deep Sea Fishing - Search the seas of St. Maarten for Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Skip Jack Tuna, Big Eye Tuna, Yellow Fin Tuna, Sailfish, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Dolphin, King Fish, Barracuda, Spanish Mackerel, Wahoo and more. Enjoy the turquoise waters and sapphire blue Atlantic Ocean. St. Maarten offers visitors a variety of fishing experiences for experienced, avid and recreational fishermen. Excursions are available from operators throughout the island. � Sunset Cruise - Departing from the dock at SkipJack's Restaurant in Simpson Bay, guests can board the ship for an hour and a half ride on the largest lagoon in the Caribbean. Enjoy the sights of Point Pirouette, Mullet Bay, and the luxurious houses of the rich and famous. On the return voyage, get an up close and personal look at the incoming flights as they fly right overhead. Visit www.SailStMaarten.com for more information. � Cheri's Caf� - Located in the center of Maho, Cheri's Cafe (www.cheriscafe.com) features live music and entertainment six nights a week. This popular nightspot is a must visit for those who love to dance beneath the stars. � Sunset Beach Bar - Sunset Beach Bar is St. Maarten's most popular beach bar situated at the end of the runway of Princess Juliana's International Airport. Visitors can watch planes take off and land overhead each and every day while enjoying tropical refreshments. � GuavaBerry Shop - Don't miss historical Philipsburg's world-famous Guavaberry Emporium. Guavaberry is the legendary liquor of St. Maarten and is produced on Front Street on the site of an abandoned 18th Century Jewish synagogue. � 37 Beaches - Kick back and relax on one of the 37 beaches in St. Maarten, all open to the public. Those on the windward Atlantic side offer more waves and are perfect for sailing or surfing, while those on the Caribbean side provide calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some of the most popular include Mullet Bay, Pinel, Legalion, and Orient Beach. � Butterfly Farm - One of the most popular St. Maarten attractions, The Butterfly Farm(www.thebutterflyfarm.com) features hundreds of rare and exotic butterflies in a beautifully landscaped, quiet garden. At any given time, some 40 species of butterflies, numbering as many as 600, flutter inside the garden under a tented net. The farm offers informative guided tours, and is great fun for children of all ages.

WestJet to Serve St Maarten Year-round

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 21:13:54 -0500

WestJet has announced it will expand its seasonal service to St Maarten to year-round arrivals. The airline currently flies non-stop between Toronto and St. Maarten three times a week and will continue at this rate until April 29. With the expansion of the service to year-round, WestJet will service St. Maarten once a week, on Sundays, with additional calls during the high season. "We are pleased with the number of guests using the South-bound service and the North-bound service. It is a mixture of leisure and business travellers, as well as guests visiting friends and family in Canada and on the island. There is a large Caribbean population in the Greater Toronto area, and we know they appreciate the opportunity to return home from time to time via WestJet," said WestJet Manager of Public Relations Robert Palmer. "This is a strategic expansion of new routes within our network, and an extension of flight offerings to some of our key winter routes that remain popular destinations through the summer season," said Executive Vice-President of Strategy and Planning Hugh Dunleavy.

St Maarten Buyers - Avoid Common Errors when You Purchase

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:31:48 -0500

Shopping for a new home is an emotional experience. It is, however, also a business transaction, and must be treated as such. Three of the most devastating things that can go wrong are: ^ Paying too much ^ Losing a dream home to another buyer ^ Buying the wrong home When you have a systematic plan before you shop, you'll be sure to avoid these costly errors. Here are some tips on making the most of your home purchase: Get the information you need What price do you offer a seller? Is the seller's asking price too high? Is it a deal? Your own research is important, as is the assistance of a Realtor. A professional Coldwell Banker Realtor can offer an unbiased opinion on the value of a home, based on many factors and a great deal of information. Without knowledge of the market, your offer could be too much. Or worse, you could miss out on a great buying opportunity. Hire the right person and trust that person to represent your interests. Buy YOUR home What do you need and want in a home? Sounds simple, but clearly identifying your needs and bringing an objective view to home shopping leaves you in a much better position. How much space do you really need? Too small and you may feel like you live in constant clutter. Too big and maintenance may become too daunting. Outline all of your priorities, and work on finding not just a great home, but a great home for you. Check the title Before you sign any document, be sure the property you are considering is free of all encumbrances. As a part of his or her services, a Coldwell Banker Realtor can supply you with a copy of the title to ensure there are no liens, debts, undisclosed owners, leases or easements against the title. Update the survey Before the purchase is completed, an updated survey is essential. This report will indicate boundaries and structural changes (additions to the house, a new swimming pool, neighbor's new fence which is extending a boundary line, etc.), and will guarantee that you are indeed getting what you pay for. Minimize the unexpected For $300 - $500, a professional inspector will conduct a thorough inspection of the home. His/her expertise can mean the difference between uncovering major flaws before or after you own a home. Make the final contract subject to the report's findings. Get pre-approved It only takes a few days to get financing pre-approval. When you are shopping for a home, this gives you more power. A seller is more likely to consider an offer from a serious buyer. Remember additional costs Besides the funds for the purchase of a home, you'll need funds for items such as loan fees, insurance, legal fees, surveys, inspections, etc. Take a deep breath Before you sign, ensure that all documentation clearly reflects your understanding and conditions of the transaction. Has anything been forgotten? Don't rush. You could lose money, financing, or even the sale if you attempt to push things through too hastily.

St Maarten Coral Reef Damaged

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 18:51:42 -0500

Proselyte Reef, one of St. Maarten's most important reefs located off Philipsburg, was badly damaged recently, when a towing cable scythed across it, destroying three swathes of coral thirty feet wide. Local divers reported to both Gary Brown of Ocean Media and the St. Maarten Nature Foundation on January 29 that they suspected a tugboat towing a barge was responsible for the damage. The reef urgently needs to be restored before it deteriorates beyond repair. Dive master Lucian de Lima said Proselyte Reef was St. Maarten's most important reef system, as it was the healthiest and offered the most diversity. She said the island's reefs were important for protecting the island from hurricane damage, and the reef is of historical value. It is surrounded with artefacts from a British frigate that sank in the vicinity in 1801. This time it has been damaged in three different spots. According to St. Maarten Nature Foundation Chief Marine Park Ranger Etienne Lake, particularly the fan corals and gorgonian corals were damaged. (resource: DailyHerald)

Rhone Findlay to Represent St Maarten in Optimist Sailing Championships

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 20:22:47 -0500

St. Maarten's Rh�ne Findlay will represent the Netherlands Antilles at both the North and South America Optimist Sailing Championships later this year. Findlay earned the position from sailing in the Cura�ao Youth Optimist Championships this past weekend. Findlay competed in 11 one-hour long races in three days in less than ideal conditions. Waves two to 2.5 meters swamped many boats and winds ranging from up to 33 knots caused many of the young sailors to capsize. "Rh�ne suffered some bad luck and was capsized by freak waves often, but righted himself and bailed out to continue without hesitation ending the regatta in ninth place out of 15," said Findlay's father who helped on the race safety boat so had a close up view. Findlay qualified as one of five to go to Uruguay in March and one of the nine to go to Canada in June to represent the Netherlands Antilles.

US Demographic Shifts will Affect Caribbean Buying Habits

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:30:28 -0500

4 U.S. demographic shifts for the coming years will become major forces in the housing markets of both the US and their 2nd home countries. According to Housing in America: The Next Decade, a new research paper authored by John K. McIlwain, senior resident fellow, Urban Land Institute/J. Ronald Terwilliger Chair for Housing, emerging trends in demographics and consumer behavior will result in a residential market very different from that before the recession. The effects of widespread foreclosures and their drain on market values, and the loss and need to re-establish a private market residential finance system, will be felt more in the U.S. But shifts in housing demand triggered by baby boomers, their children, and by immigrant households will be felt offshore. Currently, there is an unprecedented number of foreclosures and short sales on the market, and more homeowers are choosing to walk away from the mortgage rather than sustain a large financial loss through a short sale. This suggests a fundamental change from the long-held notion of homeownership as the ultimate American Dream. McIlwain explains that this disillusionment over homeownership - as a way to build wealth - could persist for decades to come, as those entering the housing market will be more apt to rent longer, and to place more emphasis on buying for shelter rather than investment purposes. The shift away from using real estate as a means to build an investment portfolio could be felt throughout the region. The demographic waves identified by McIlwain include: 1. Aging Baby Boomers (55-64) will continue to work, many will stay in their homes until values recover, and those who can move or invest in a 2nd home will opt for mixed-age environments which offer active lifestyles. This group has lost a very large part of its wealth and ability to invest. 2. Younger Baby Boomers (46-54) also will not be able to sell their homes at what appreciation they intended, and may not move as quickly as in past years. Their ability to purchase 2nd homes will be greatly diminished because of flat incomes and less home equity. They also will be drawn to more compact communities that emphasize connectivity. 3. Generation Y, actually larger in number than the baby boomers, has grown up with computer technology. They value community, places - either virtual or actual - where they gather and share information. They are less interested in homeownership than previous generations, have smaller incomes, and want walkable, connected communities which are Green. 4. Immigrants (in the US), which already number over 40 million, will have a huge impact, especially when extended families are included - children, grandparents, grandchildren, etc. The tendency of immigrants to cluster, and to live in multi-generational households, suggests that they would prefer larger homes if they could afford them and in neighborhoods with a strong sense of community. Any investment in 2nd homes would mirror the "cluster" concept. All of these 4 groups share the desire to live and work in more pedestrian-friendly, transit-oriented, mixed-use environments. McIlwain concludes, "The suburban century is over. This is the urban century." Many will still be able to afford vacation home whole ownership, or fractional ownership shares in vacation destinations, and investments in a property for future retirement. But the numbers of those buyers who will be from the US - according to this study - will dramatically decrease, and their interests in the types of properties considered, with what is left of their disposable income, will - or has already - definitely change. Read more on McIlwain's report at RisMedia, and visit the Urban Land Institute to learn about the global real estate community.

New St Maarten Air Service

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:35:20 -0500

BVAirways, Inc. has received final British Virgin Islands' government certification and approvals to begin providing scheduled airline service based out of Tortola-Beef Island Airport under the trade name BVI Airways. BVI Airways anticipates beginning scheduled service in late February 2010. Pending their receiving landing rights and approvals at the destination airports, BVI Airways will provide service between the BVI and the gateway airports on St. Maarten and Antigua utilizing the pressurized and air conditioned BAe Systems Jetstream 32 jet-prop airliner. As a continuation of its Tortola ^ St Maarten flights, BVI Airways also plans to provide service between Dominica and St Maarten. BVAirways Chief Operating Officer, Scott DeLacy commented, "In addition to our fares, our competitive edge will be schedules convenient for connecting to the major European airlines' flights ^ no more day long waits at the airport. Not only will our service provide greater travel opportunities to the people of the BVI, but we also expect to have a very positive impact on the BVI economy by increasing the amount of airline seats for tourism into the BVI and making the trip to the BVI more attractive to tourists by the convenience of our schedule." BVAirways, Inc., a BVI corporation, was founded in 2009 for the sole purpose of creating an airline based in the British Virgin Islands. BVI Airways' executive management has nearly 50 years of airline operational experience between them. (resource: CaribbeanNetNews)

Black History Month in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 14:40:24 -0500

In collaboration with human rights activists' non-governmental organizations in St. Maarten, the library will host various activities and events during Black History Month this year. At the request of the United Nations Human Rights High Commissioner, the central theme this year will be non-discrimination and a discrimination free society. Every day during the library's opening hours, you can view the exhibition of information available in the library on the life, struggles and achievements of African descendants in the Americas, the Caribbean and St. Maarten. There will be movie time every Wednesday afternoon from 5:00 to 7:00. Culturally artistic presentations such as poetry, songs, music, dance and an interesting lecture will be presented every Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00pm.

Negotiating the Best Terms to Sell Your St Maarten Property

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:15:35 -0500

Your house is For Sale and you have been marketing it. All of a sudden you get an offer. The questions start racing through your mind. Do you accept it as is? Do you counter the offer? Is a better offer around the corner? Which points should you negotiate? The best time to decide on what kind of offer you will accept is before you even put the property on the market. This isn't as easy as it seems. There are a lot of decisions to make besides price. Everything in real estate is negotiable. People may want you to pay some of the closing costs, they may want some repairs done, they want a new roof installed before closing, they may want to rent back for a couple of months before closing. Decide what is most important to you: * Do you need a certain amount of cash? It is a good idea to discuss the sale with your financial advisor. In many cases, the cash you get from selling your personal residence may be tax free. This may be an important factor in deciding what kind of offer you will accept. * Do you need the money from your house for a down payment on another property? Decide how much you have to get from the sale of your house, so you can structure a counter offer around your cash needs. When an offer is presented do your best to find out what is most important to the buyers: * They may be asking for many concessions, but one or two will be most important, and the others just bargaining points. * They may be asking for a new roof but may be just as happy with a lower sales price. * Be sure and obtain a pre-qualification letter from any buyer. You want to know that the party who is making an offer will actually be able to get a loan for the property. Unless someone made you a full price cash offer, it is always a good idea to counter the offer. If someone made a serious offer on your house, there is always room for negotiating. Your house stays on the market until you accept an offer. By negotiating you buy yourself time for someone else to make a second offer. But there is no need to get greedy. If you are happy with an offer by all means accept it. If your house has been on the market for a long time, you may happy to just see an offer. But if the house is new on the market, you may be able to get a better offer while negotiations are still taking place with that first buyer. Buyers will make the offer with a deadline for acceptance. Wait until near the end of the deadline to make a counteroffer. This way you do not look anxious and, again, it gives you time in case another offer comes in. There is nothing like competition between two people who are interested in a house to help drive the purchase price up. If you determine the price you will accept before selling the house, and use some negotiating tactics when offers come, you will make sure you get the top dollar for your house when it is time to sell. Your Coldwell Banker agent is trained in negotiating and how to get the best price for your home. Give us a call.

St Maarten Heineken Regatta to Headline Ziggi

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:57:58 -0500

Simpson Bay St.Maarten-Holland's biggest Reggae Star Ziggi will be performing on the final night of the 30th anniversary Heineken St Maarten Regatta on Sunday March 7 on Kim Sha Beach. Having shot to fame since 2004, with singles like 'In my Head', 'High time' and 'Missing the Way' Ziggi has been compared to many great Reggae artists, and is predicted a bright future in the Music world. Ziggi comes back to the Caribbean, which is where he grew up listening to Reggae, Dance Hall and Hip Hop, all of which influences are now deeply intertwined in his melodies. For the Regatta performance, Ziggi will be teaming up with Maikal X, also known as Shyrock or Rollarocka. This artist hails from the Netherlands, with his roots in the Caribbean. Both Ziggi and Maikal X will be backed by the Renaissance Band. Artist booker for the Regatta Michele Ferron is excited; "Ziggi and Maikel X are both very talented young performers, and the perfect act for this event. Their music is diverse and inspired, with a broad appeal. I am sure everyone will be dancing to these sounds on the beach with a cold Heineken in their hands, sailors and locals, young and old. This is exactly what the Regatta parties are all about: a great time, great music and great beer." Mark your calendar!

St Maarten Wants to Strengthen Ties with South America

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 20:10:37 -0500

St. Maarten tourism officials are planning a South America trip, to enhance the island's presence in the ever-growing Latin American tourism market. Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson will meet with key Argentine and Brazilian wholesalers and tour operators. As reported by the Daily Herald, "The ABAV Tradeshow held in Brazil in October 2009, while presenting many positive opportunities for St. Maarten, made one aspect crystal clear for tourism officials from St. Maarten: the destination is lagging behind in its positioning strategy as it relates to the vital South American market. "Cura�ao, Aruba and Barbados, through securing agreements with Brazil in particular, managed to secure the services of Gol and TAM airlines, using Venezuela as a hub, something St. Maarten is yet to do... "Since the October tradeshow, however, Richardson has been adamant about 'catching up' with regional competition by securing agreements with Brazil, which in turn would enhance St. Maarten's efforts to meet objectives as a year-round tourism destination."

What Return Can You Expect from Updating the Kitchen in your St Maarten Home

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:51:24 -0500

When experts ask buyers what project most affects the selling price of homes - not counting the first impression made by the outside of the house - they reply," It all starts in the kitchen!" Kitchens and master bathrooms are the big selling points in any house. That is what will move the home (a sale depends on other factors too). But how profitable is it to update your kitchen in this market? Or purchase a home knowing you will have to remodel the kitchen and baths? A kitchen remodel can be costly and at least a major inconvenience for a home owner, but it can also be very rewarding - with an excellent return on investment. If your home is competing against homes with beautifully updated kitchens, those properties will certainly sell first, all other factors being equal. Typically, kitchen remodeling will give you one of the highest home remodeling returns, at about 80-100% return on dollars spent. Maybe a major remodel may be more than you want to tackle. If so, consider minor remodels, which can be just as effective in highlighting the home - and the small enhancements can use some of the good features in your kitchen. Here are a few ideas for minor changes: * Tile the backsplash behind work areas and stove * Add color - if your counters are one color, accent with tile, stainless steel appliances, and fashionable countertops * Do something interesting with the hardware These and many other remodeling jobs will add value to your home, whether a new purchase or to help sell your house. Decide on a budget and shop materials and designs. Also, be honest with yourself if you have the patience and carpentry abilities to do the work yourself. If not, check with our Coldwell Banker office for referrals to local builders who do home remodeling. Keep in mind that some investments are worth the money, and a local Coldwell Banker agent can give you an idea of whether the remodel will keep your home competitive with market values.

Cole Bay Home on St Maarten for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 20:32:19 -0500

Spacious 2-story, 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bathroom house. Fenced yard with private swimming pool and jacuzzi. Terrace, fully furnished, built 1978. Asking $600,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

St Maarten Heineken Regatta Coming in March

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:08:40 -0500

The 30th competition of the St Maarten Heineken Regatta will be held March 4-7. The event will include the pre-event Budget Marine Match Racing Cup on March 2 as well as the GILL Commodores Cup on March 4th. As reported by AllatSea, "George David's 90-foot Reichel/Pugh-designed Rambler, in its first appearance at this race, will bring an exciting mix to the 30th edition of this event, listing what some may call the stars of sailing from around the world as the crew. With a long list of wins including the 2007 Nordbank Transatlantic Race, 2007 Middle Sea Race, 2008 Buenos Aires to Rio Race as well as setting the course record in the 2009 NYYC Queens Cup, Rambler is sure to set the bar for others who race against her." 23 crew are listed as participants, which will bring some fo the top racers to St Maarten. 80 charter boats from both Sunsail and Moorings have been confirmed, and it looks as if the bareboat fleet will maintain its large numbers for another year. The charter boat fleet is the largest of this event as well as the largest of all the Caribbean regattas. Visit YouTube for a preview of the race and yacht club, and Heineken Regatta for more information.

St Maarten Votes for Autonomy

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 17:58:57 -0500

The Netherlands Antilles has held its last election as an autonomous country within the Dutch kingdom, choosing lawmakers who will serve only nine months before the region's political status is dissolved. The outcome of Friday's election was seen as a sign of support for agreements negotiated between the islands and the Netherlands to dismantle the Netherlands Antilles by October 10. The winning parties have built a strong relationship with Dutch officials and support the change under the conditions outlined. Under a new arrangement, the islands of Curacao and St. Maarten will become autonomous countries within the Dutch kingdom and obtain more freedom to govern local affairs. Meanwhile, the islands of Saba, St. Eustatius and Bonaire will become special Dutch municipalities and respond directly to the Dutch government, instead of the soon-to-disappear Antillean government based in Curacao. The Netherlands will still be responsible for all islands' defense and foreign affairs. (resource: eTaiwanNews)

Should You Use a Realtor to Sell your St Maarten Home

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:29:18 -0500

Can a Realtor really help you sell your house more quickly? Is it worth paying the commission to have a Realtor sell your home? If you decide to use a Realtor how do you decide on the best one for you? Find out in this special report. Selling your home can be one of the most profitable sales you ever make in your life. But one of the most important decisions can be deciding whether to sell the house yourself or use a realtor to help market the property for you. Let's take a look the main benefit of selling your house yourself: you don't have to pay a realtor's commission, which is usually between 6-8% of the sale price. This can be a huge chunk of money. On a $200,000 sale that comes out to $12,000 in a sale with a 6% commission rate. The commission is usually split between two realtors and their brokers. Sellers' agents list the property and get half the commission. The buyer's agent also gets half of the commission. The seller of the property is actually paying both of these commissions out of the proceeds of the sale. Keep in mind that most home buyers today use a buyer's agent, so you will end up paying 3-4% of the sale price to the buyer's realtor, even if you sell the house yourself without an agent. In addition to commission considerations, decide how much free time you have to show and market the property, and answer phone calls. Also, are you knowledgeable about selling houses and writing contracts and negotiating? You may enjoy the home selling process and want to take care of the sale yourself, but if you don't have the time, energy, and expertise you should consider listing the house with a realtor. Now, let's discuss the main benefit from listing your house with a realtor: your property goes straight into the multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS is the resource that every Realtor in the nation uses first to find properties for sale. Once a property is listed in the MLS, every buyer's agent has access to the information. Most buyers agents check the MLS at least daily, to keep current on properties that may fit their client's needs. Other benefits of using a realtor include better negotiating skills, knowledge of the local real estate laws, and experience both in writing contracts and following an escrow through to closing. Most realtors also are marketing experts, and can make suggestions to increase the desirability of your house or some ways to increase the value. If you decide to use a realtor, there are some important questions to ask when interviewing agents for the job. Remember that although they are the professional, you are still the one hiring them and paying their "salary." Make sure you get all your questions answered to your satisfaction before signing the listing contract. Ask how many houses they have sold in the past 12 months. Find out how long they have been an agent. Find out what they generally charge for commission. Ask for a copy of their marketing plan. What web sites do they have? How do they attract buyers? More than 75% of all buyers use the internet for their home search. Weigh the pros and cons. It's one of the most important decisions you will make in your investment portfolio during your lifetime. Be honest with yourself about how much time you can spend and the level of your expertise. If you decide to list with a realtor, find one you trust who will work hard for you, be ethical, and honest with all parties in the sale. Give one of our Coldwell Banker agents a call today.

Dawn Beach Club in St Maarten Joins Vacation Network

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:03:04 -0500

The Dawn Beach Club in St Maarten has joined the vacation exchange network of Interval International. The project was developed by Babitbay Beach Development Corporation B.V., a related company of Columbia Sussex Corporation, one of North America's leading independent owners and operators of resorts and hotels. "We are thrilled to be offering consumers an opportunity to purchase a vacation interest at our beautiful resort in one of the Caribbean's most popular vacation destinations," stated Joe Yung, director of development of Columbia Sussex. "When you combine ownership at Dawn Beach with Interval International's high-quality programs and products, you have a very attractive value proposition." Situated on the island's south-eastern shore, the property includes three-bedroom, two-bath oceanfront condominiums with spacious floor plans. The 1,800-square foot units feature contemporary furnishings and teak finishes. Each has a fully appointed kitchen with stainless steel appliances, satellite television and Wi-Fi, and a patio or balcony. Visit Interval World for information. (resource: FractionalLife)

St Maarten Coldwell Banker Agents Ready for Your Internet Business

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 21:58:17 -0500

We recently read a blog by Brian Jambor of U.S. Cybertek, Inc. which discussed how Realtors respond to internet queries. Although InsideSales.com said in a recent study a Realtor has 5 minutes to effectively call and find out how to serve an internet visitor when that query is received, the average number of hours it takes a Realtor to respond is 54 - 54 hours compared to 5 minutes! We at Coldwell Banker have a better system. It's called Lead Control. This is our promise to you, from Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates' (CBIA) Lead Control: "With CB LeadControl you will be able to instantly respond to the visitor from your iPhone or Blackberry, or pass him or her along to another agent at our firm." This is a system we at CBIA have created just for our clients, interested web visitors, referral customers - anyone who finds us online. Our agents can log on through any computer, update the status and activities of any customer, set up future contact times, and see instantly who to contact on any given day - or be reminded, if they have missed that call to action. Jambor writes, "That being said, what kind of a system would you need in order to immediately contact Internet visitors? It would have to have the following features: *Be Internet Based of Course *Send information to your Cell Phone *Send a copy of the information to your Email *Add the visitor to a mailing list so he/she will receive valuable information about your market areas *Schedule a follow up plan that alerts you via cell phone/email when you need to follow up again." At Coldwell Banker St Maarten, we are committed to this new system and to contact you, our internet visitor or prospective client, within this timeframe. We know you want and expect a fast response to your inquiry. But we ask that you include a phone number if you do want a 5-minute call back. Real estate is not a 9 to 5 job, and we pledge a combination of calling, following up, and providing content of value. We want your feedback if you don't feel your needs have been addressed properly and quickly. We value your business and your referrals. Give us a try!

Maho Rental on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:51:35 -0500

Want to visit St Maarten and stay awhile? Consider this rental on Maho. Nice apartment 1 bedroom/1 bathroom, living room, located in quiet and secure residence close stores, airport, beaches, restaurants, food store...Pool, jacuzzi, parking. Low season: $800 Mid : $1000 High and very high:$1200/$1400. Ocean view, jacuzzi, pool, full furnishings. 1 bedroom/1 bath. Contact our Coldwell Banker office for details.

Top 5 St Maarten Home Updates to Help You Sell and Maximize Your Return

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 21:19:08 -0500

According to a recent HomeGain survey, a web company that offers home values and sells leads, the top five home improvements that Realtors recommend to home sellers based on cost and return on investment (from highest to lowest ROI) are: 1. Cleaning and de-cluttering ($200 cost / $1,700 price increase / 872% ROI) 2. Home staging ($300 cost / $1,780 price increase / 586% ROI) 3. Lightening and brightening ($230 cost / $1,300 price increase / 572% ROI) 4. Landscaping ($320 cost / $1,500 price increase / 473% ROI) 5. Repairing plumbing ($385 cost / $1,250 price increase / 327% ROI) Cleaning and de-cluttering continues to rank as the top suggested home improvement (since the survey was originally conducted in 2000), recommended by 98% of Realtors, costing less than $200 and returning a value of nearly $1,700 to the home's sale price, or an 872% return on investment. "Many Realtors agree, especially in a buyer's market, that sellers who make these recommended home improvements often get their homes sold faster and at higher prices," stated Louis Cammarosano, General Manager at HomeGain. Rounding out the top 12, the list of low cost, do-it-yourself home improvements includes: updating electrical, replacing or shampooing carpets, painting interior walls, repairing damaged floors, updating kitchen, painting outside of home, and updating bathroom/s. The home improvement projects with the highest price increases to a home's resale value are updating the kitchen ($1,200 cost / $2,850 price increase), followed by painting the outside of the home ($900 cost / $1,815 price increase) and home staging ($300 cost / $1,780 price increase). If you are considering home improvements before you list your home for sale, call one of our Coldwell Banker agents to discuss what your return on investment could be in our current market. (resource: RisMedia)

Multi-family in Baie Nettle St Maarten for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:42:29 -0500

Beautiful and large apartment duplex of 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Air-conditioned, open kitchen, large living room on large covered terrace + another terrace, sea view, tropical garden, quiet and secure residence in front. Near shopping, beaches, airport and Marigot. Swimming pool and private parking. Fully renovated. Asking $370,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for photos and details.

Should St Maarten Buyers Remodel or Keep Looking for the Perfect Home?

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 20:48:54 -0500

You've been looking at homes but just haven't seen one with all the features you want, so you're thinking of buying and remodeling. With today's large inventory, and competitive prices, would that money be well spent? Or should you keep looking? Here are some points to consider. 1. What professionals can advise you? Call in an architect when an addition is being considered or major interior work is to be tackled, such as moving walls, stairs, or windows. Have a contractor offer input regarding materials and labor costs for these major undertakings. A designer may be the best person to call if the work is more cosmetic, such as changing wall colors, tiles, or countertops. A specialist such as a structural engineer might be best for advice relating to specific problems like a cracked foundation. 2. What will the project cost? Most professionals have done enough projects to estimate the final price tag, based on square footage, materials, appliances, level of finish, custom cabinets or stock, and labor. The best experts also will tell you to set aside funds for unforeseen problems, such as decaying joists or possible pest damage. 3. What is your time frame for living in the house? The cost of remodeling becomes more sensible if amortized over a longer time frame, and you stay (or plan to stay) in your new home at least five years. The higher costs associated with major renovations, like kitchens and baths, will take longer to recoup. 4. Will the cost be supported by other homes in the area? Here's where the expertise of a Coldwell Banker salesperson about comparable sales and values in the neighborhood is invaluable. You, as buyers, need to know that the improvements you will make are warranted for the house, and reflected in the value of neighboring homes. You don't want to own a property over-improved for the surrounding homes. Investments also should be made only when area prices are stable or appreciating, which is not the case in many areas in early 2010. 5. Are you willing to be inconvenienced? Camping out and using a makeshift kitchen in a basement is fun only for so long. You should decide how long you are willing to be inconvenienced - if you plan to live in the home during construction. 6. Is remodeling the best use of your funds? Only you can decide your long-term investment goals, but be honest with yourself about whether the changes are where you really want to invest your money. Would you rather buy a house, avoid changes, and spend discretionary dollars on vacations, save for retirement, save for a larger down payment for a more expensive home? This decision should be made with your financial goals foremost in mind. Come in and talk with a Coldwell Banker agent. We can advise you on the market, recommend local professionals, and help you make these important decisions.

Coldwell Banker CEO Shares Thoughts for the New Year

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:47:24 -0500

Jim Gillespie, President & CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, started in real estate in 1975, in Hinsdale, IL. He had been working as a youth program director for a La Grange, IL YMCA and a tennis partner there talked him into trying real estate. He told Gillespie he would work a lot of evenings and weekends, make more money in real estate, and be helping people with one of the most expensive transactions they will ever make: buying a house. He remembers the sense of helping, of providing a service, from the first transaction where he listed a home he had sold previously. A couple bought the home in Hinsdale in 1975, then the husband got transferred in late 1976, and they had to sell. But they made money on the home. When the couple thanked him, it gave him a good feeling to know that he helped them out. The CEO learned over the years to listen, and read through the lines. Here is an example. "I was just sitting in the office, and this couple called in on a house they had seen. I showed them about nine or 10 homes during the course of three appointments. As we looked at these homes, I tried to listen to everything they said to me and each other and observe them closely to see what they liked and disliked. They demanded a home with a two-car attached garage. "Eventually, this one property came on the market. I went on a broker's tour. As soon as I got inside the house, I knew the couple would love it. So I called them and met them at the house. They fell in love with the house as soon as they went inside. The funny thing was that when we were walking back to the car to sign the contract, we all noticed that the house had a carport. But by that time, they didn't even care. "Now, I had heard, around the office, this little saying: "Buyers are liars." And by the end of this transaction, I understood what that meant. Buyers are not necessarily liars; they just don't always know what they want. This transaction taught me that." Gillespie's people skills earned him over $1M in his first 6 months in the business, Rookie of the Year, and a promotion after 6 months to Office Manager. When asked by Realtor.org what he adapted from those first sales, he answered, "I learned that you need to listen to your customers and pay attention to how they react when you are showing different homes. Practitioners need to remember what the client likes and dislikes. This transaction also gave me confidence that I knew what I was doing and would be good in the real estate business." Our goal for 2010 here at Coldwell Banker is to provide outstanding customer service in every way to everyone who comes through our doors. Our wishes for a Happy New Year to all.

St Maarten's Newest Yacht Club: Porto Cupecoy

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:14:36 -0500

The new facility at Porto Cupecoy boasts the highest standards and amenities for your yachting needs. The marina can accommodate vessels up to 250' and is the only true resort-style marina on the island and the closest to St. Maarten's international airport. Each slip comes with the ability to rent it out when not in use. The marina is easily accessed from the bridge along a 15' deep x 70' wide fully marked channel that leads to the scenic western end of St. Maarten's famous lagoon, complete with pilotage for each departure and arrival. There are pleasure craft and megayachts for sale as well. Marina features are: ^ 54 slips, including 11 side-to mega yacht slips ^ Up to 480 volts and 100 amps shore power and double water connections ^ Premier VIP Concierge Service ^ Free Wi-Fi ^ High Speed Fuel Dock offering Marine Grade Diesel and Gasoline ^ Captain's Lounge ^ Fitness Center with Pool and Tennis Courts ^ On Site Provisioner and Car Rental ^ Daily Free Water Bus to ferry crew to all entertainment and nightlife of the Simpson Bay area Contact information: Porto Cupecoy Yacht Club James Roidis +599 545 2318 james@l-mg.com www.portocupecoy.com

Terres Basses Villa for Sale on St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:11:45 -0500

This spectacular 3 bedroom/3.5 bath villa on French St Martin with pool, dock, and terrace is located near beaches, shops, restaurants, and golf. Additionally, there are 2 apartments with terrace. Asking $2,700,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details and photos.

Happy Holidays from Coldwell Banker St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 14:16:25 -0500

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from the Associates at Coldwell Banker. This card was from our Curacao affiliate, but expresses the thoughts of all of us.

St Maarten Academy Graduates Make History

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:20:30 -0500

St. Maarten Academy made history this year, graduating 106 students who all passed every subject they sat in the Caribbean Examinations Council CXC secondary education final exams. For the first time, more than 100 students had sat the exams and passed all subjects taken. Also for the first time, one student passed nine subjects at grade one level and two students passed a total of 12 subjects. School principal Shareed Hussain said the graduates had made history in declaring excellence as a habit of St. Maarten Academy. He said the 2009 graduating class had set a new benchmark for the younger students of the school.

Condos in Maho of St Maarten for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 20:41:28 -0500

Condos starting at only $189,000 With a monthly mortgage payment lower than your rent, Royal Islander Club La Terrasse now makes becoming a homeowner in St. Maarten more affordable and accessible than ever, courtesy of our new, collaborative "Live Rent Free" program with Scotiabank. 0% down payment - for a limited time! Through this exciting alliance, over 20 one- and two-bedroom, fully furnished condos priced from $189,000 USD are being offered with an exclusive mortgage rate and financing terms accessible only to La Terrasse purchasers by Scotiabank. Buyers who qualify do not require a down payment. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more details on this great opportunity.

St Maarten Home Buyers: Now is Your Time

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 21:17:20 -0500

Marc Roth of Business Week recently wrote, "If You Don't Buy a House Now, You're Stupid or Broke. Interest rates are at historic lows but cyclical trends suggest they will soon rise. Home buyers may never see such a chance again." Now is when prices worldwide are at their lowest in years. Now is when inventory is at the highest rate in years. Now is when rates are historically low, the lowest recorded in nearly 40 years. Many call this confluence of buying factors the change of a lifetime. It is, at least, the once-in-a-generation opportunity. Roth explains that the most important driving force of this buyers jackpot is the low interest rate. He says, "The most important lesson is to understand the actual financial impact the rate has on the cost of purchasing and paying off a home. Every quarter-point change in interest rates is equivalent to approximately $6,000 for every $100,000 borrowed over the course of a 30-year fixed. While different in each region, for the sake of simplicity, let's assume that the average person is putting $40,000 down and borrowing $200,000 to pay the price of a typical home nationwide. Thus, over the course of the life of the loan, each quarter-point move up in interest rates will cost that buyer $12,000. "As the global economy stabilizes, it is reasonable for us to see 30-year fixed rates climb to 6% within the near future and probably to a range of 7% to 8% when the economy is humming again. If every quarter of a point is worth $12,000 per $200,000 borrowed, then each point is worth almost $50,000. "Let's put that into perspective. You have a good stable job. You would like to own a $240,000 home. However, even though home prices have steadied, you may be thinking you can get another $5,000 or $10,000 discount if you wait. Or you may be waiting for the news to tell you the economy is "more stable" and it's safe to get back in the pool. In exchange for what you may think is prudence, you will risk paying $50,000 more per point in interest rate changes between now and the time you decide you are ready to buy. "If you are someone who is looking to buy or upgrade in the $350,000-to-$800,000 home price range, and many people out there are, then you're borrowing $300,000 to $600,000. At 7%, the $300,000 loan will cost just under $150,000 more over the lifetime, and the $600,000 loan an additional $300,000, if rates move up just 2% before you pull the trigger. "What I'm trying to impress upon everyone is that if you are planning on being a homeowner now and/or in the foreseeable future, or if you are looking to move your family into a bigger home, then pay more attention to the interest rates than the price of the home. If you have a steady job, good credit, and the down payment, then you really are being offered the gift of a lifetime." Stop in our Coldwell Banker office and let's talk about your options, and your buying opportunity of a generation.

Submarine Diving off St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:11:47 -0500

Submarine excursions are ideal for those not ready for an up close and personal encounter with the island's marine life. The semisubmersibles dive offshore St Martin and seat about 25. Divers outside use fish and dog food to lure marine critters around the vessels. Other crew members steer the vessel, and a third, using a microphone, served as a lecturer, describing and elaborating on what comes into view. The dive is part of a 3.5 hour tour of St. Maarten. The Atlantis submarine in Barbados and the semisubmersible one in St. Martin are owned by the same Canadian company, Atlantis Submarines International Inc. Founded by a former designer of submersibles for North Sea oil rigs, the company builds and operates the submarines. Its fleet of 12 recreational subs caters to tourists in Hawaii, Grand Cayman, Aruba, Guam, St. Thomas and Cozumel, Mexico.

Air Caraibes to Serve Paris-Curacao

islandsit@gmail.com () — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:49:31 -0500

Starting tomorrow, 12/12, Air Caraibes, the Guadeloupe-based French airline, will offer direct service between Orly Airport in Paris and St Maarten twice weekly. The will fly Saturday and Tuesday, with a stop to refuel in Haiti. Orly has good connections to the South of France and is not as busy as Charles de Gaulle. Many residents of the Antilles have family or connection in the south of France. Air Caraibes is privately owned by the French Dubreuil Group. It is a merger of the smaller airlines ^ Air Guadeloupe, Air St. Barth�l�my, Air St. Martin and Air Martinique - that previously flew between the French islands. The airline has been serving St Maarten since 1973. ATR 72-500 and one Brazil-made Embraer. They employ 800 people throughout the French islands and French Guiana and transported more than one million passengers in 2008. The company boasts annual revenue of 230 million euros and clocked six million euros profit in 2008. (resource: theDailyHerald)

Coldwell Banker Redefines St Maarten Property Search

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:16:56 -0500

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has unveiled the wholly redesigned Coldwell Banker website available now at beta.coldwellbanker.com. A key objective of the site launch is to help redefine real estate search which, to date, has focused primarily on such functional aspects of home-buying as number of bedrooms or listing price. The beta launch of the new Coldwell Banker website offers consumers a unique portfolio of new search options that incorporate elements of such online innovators as music recommendation engines and major e-commerce sites. "Recognizing both the value of consumers' time as well as the excess of often unhelpful information about real estate found online, our goal at Coldwell Banker is to provide potential homebuyers and sellers with the most comprehensive, informative and user-friendly experience possible," said Jim Gillespie, president and chief executive officer, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "The new Coldwell Banker website not only provides consumers with up-to-date property listings, home-related tips and industry news, but it allows consumers to search for homes using a variety of methods." Features of the new site include: tground-breaking BlueScapesm search platform, a fresh approach to real estate search that allows consumers to discover the aspects of their "dream home" based on their attraction to a series of images and settings; a "You May Also Like" feature that offers additional homes of interest, based on a range of characteristics from properties consumers select as "preferred"; technology that immediately identifies a consumer's current location via their computer's unique IP address, and offers properties for sale in that area; keyword searching that enables users to find properties featuring specific details of their choice and integration and expansion of virtual tours and video display of select listings where available. "Despite its focus on hard numbers like square footage and price, real estate is also a deeply emotional process," explained Michael Fischer, senior vice president of marketing, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "Home buying is often driven by a gut feeling like the first time you lay eyes on a home or that vision you have in your mind's eye of the perfect mountain view. We've widened the definition of real estate search to give consumers the chance to explore those intangibles." (resource: press release, RisMedia.com)

Terres Basses in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 19:46:01 -0500

Terres Basses, on the island of St Martin, is a lowland area, with a residential community on the western end of the island. Three spectacular beaches are found here, Plum Bay, Baie Rouge, and Baie Longue, and many villas for vacation rental. Plum Bay has a secluded beach and is near the popular surfing spot, Long Beach. There are no amentities, such as restaurants, so bring what you'll need for a day at the beach. This may be one of the most romantic beaches on the island, with calm waters and the chance for a bit of privacy, especially throughout the weekdays. Baie Rouge is also a quiet intimate beach, with a view of the islands of Anguilla and Devil's One. These are both great day trips as well. Baie Longue attracts the rich and famous and is home to the 5-star La Samanna Hotel. The 2-mile long sandy beach features multi-million dollar homes as well as the resort. The villas offer several accommodation options. Villa Harmony is on Plum Bay with a French Caribbean atmosphere. Villa Soleil Eternel is another choice for a villa, and Caribbean all the way with a bit of luxury on the side. Enjoy Terres Basses for a romantic getaway on less-crowded beaches. They are close to other attractions on the island of St Martin. (resource: Destination360.com)

Villa Vue Mer in Terres Basses on St Martin for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:51:41 -0500

Beautiful villa located in Terres Basses the city's most wonderful of island! Built on 1 hectare of land with views of the Caribbean Sea and its islands. A true haven of peace in a lush tropical greenery. Consisting of 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms with dressing rooms, a beautiful interior volume and a spacious living room overlooking a large covered terrace and garden. Possibility of a fitness room. More cottage with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Pool. Asking $2,400,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

Remodel vs Sale of your St Maarten Home

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:29:02 -0500

In this economy, you need to weigh carefully the benefits of home improvements versus the price you can expect if you sell. First, estimate your costs to buy a new home. These might include new loan fees, packing, moving and improvements you want to make right away. Second, estimate your costs to sell your present home. Add up the realtor commission, closing costs, repairs, replacing appliances and/or improvements like carpets. Third, if you like your neighbors and your location, consider doing some remodeling. You can get exactly the home you want and not risk buyer's remorse. Estimate the cost of making the most crucial renovations needed for you to stay. Decide what you would like to do and price materials and labor. Call contractors and get estimates. This is especially important if you need to add on extra square footage. Fourth, make your best effort to include everything it will cost in time and money to sell your home and buy a new place. Then, estimate what you may get for your house and how much cash you will realize that you can put down on a new home. This step is when you need the advice of your Coldwell Banker professional realtor. Look at what it would cost to move, then what it would cost to remodel. Try to factor in the unknowns of friends, schools, neighbors, and economic conditions. Either way, it's not an easy decision. Our Coldwell Banker agents can help you understand the market forces which would affect your sale.

St Maarten December Events

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 22:02:28 -0500

The Christmas Holidays are celebrated with enthusiasm on the island of St Maarten. Here is a brief calendar of coming events, courtesy of Experience St Maarten: *1 - Miss Caribbean Hibiscus Pageant *4 - Saba Day *6 - ENNIA Hell's Gate Challenge (Saba) Triathlon *6 - The 2009 MYBA St. Maarten Charter Show *12 - Santa Scramble Golf Tournamnet *13 - Kayak Race: Kayak Pinel - Plum Bay *15 - Kingdom Day *12-20 - Reggae Fest in Anguilla *20 - Green House 7K Run *25 - Christmas Day Public Holiday *26 - Boxing Day Public Holiday Take advantage of the low prices offered now by ships, planes, and hotels and come visit St Maarten.

St Maarten may Develop Medical Tourism Industry

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:39:42 -0500

Tourism and Economic Affairs Commissioner Frans Richardson has suggested that St. Maarten has the potential to become an attractive destination for medical tourism, which is also being considered by other Caribbean islands, such as the Bahamas and Barbados. Richardson said that more than 50 countries have identified medical tourism as a national industry. Medical tourism is a rapidly-growing practice of travelling across international borders to obtain health care. It also refers to the practice of health care providers travelling internationally to deliver health care. According to Richardson, The high cost of health care, long waiting lists for certain procedures, the ease and affordability of international travel and improvements in both technology as well as standards of care in many countries are some of the factors fuelling the industry. St. Maarten is at an advantage for medical travel because of reliable airlift out of Europe and North America ^ two of the areas attracting medical tourists. He admitted St Maarten would have work on an infrastructure to accommodate medical tourism. As reported by the Daily Herald, "Colombia provides a knee replacement for about US $5,000 dollars, including all associated fees and hospital stay-over expenses, while other popular medical travel worldwide destinations include Argentina, Cuba and Costa Rica and popular cosmetic surgery travel destinations include Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico. "In South America, countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil and Colombia lead on plastic surgery medical skills, relying on their experienced plastic surgeons. "Richardson wonders, 'Who is to say that St. Maarten cannot, someday, also become known for medical tourism?'"

Remodeling your St Maarten Home

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:37:38 -0500

Whether you just bought a house or you have lived there for a while, the fastest way to increase your home's value is by making a plan. Never start working on a project without having your resources and your broad picture in mind. Do your homework first and you will fare better if upgrades are made intentionally and not on impulse. Home improvement projects cost about 20 to 25 cents on the dollar. The other 75 to 80 cents spent go directly back into the home through increased value. So many homeowners are remodeling homes in this current market because they can't sell for the price they want or need. List the things you want to change and the updates you would like to make. Don't worry about organization, just write it all down. Take a guess on how long you may want to live in the house. This will affect how much you want to invest in updating or remodeling the property. Take the list and categorize the projects by how much they may cost, including your time and money. It's OK to list an outdoor tennis court, but keep your financial picture in mind. Collect pictures of home projects you like and do some research on-line. Once you have a categorized list, prioritize what is "must have" and what is a dream. See if you can find a reasonable balance. Then prioritize the must-haves. Doing small home improvements can really pay off. Are you torn between improving your home's decor, versus making upgrades you know will increase your home's resale value? Many homeowners are surprised to hear that doing a little bit of both will actually pay off. Start by making two lists - upgrades for your home value and upgrades just for you. Upgrades for your home may consist of replacing old faucets, permanent lighting and doors. Upgrades for you are furniture, artwork and window treatments. Gone is the dartboard approach to picking projects and wondering if what you are doing is really making a difference. With this plan, you will see real progress. Once you have a plan, talk to your Coldwell banker realtor to see what sort of return those improvements may bring. Some will add considerably more value to your home than others. This is an important step, because a professional realtor will know what is of value in your community. Almost any realtor will say that the #1 upgrade with the greatest return is the kitchen. * Do a mini-remodel. Change the paint. It sounds simple, but it works. You can also paint a faux-wood finish onto your cabinets. *Add a splash of color with a new backsplash. New tile is attractive. Home improvement stores teach classes on this. *Stainless Steel appliances are popular now - The cold feel and look of steel are a hot ticket item for buyers. *Transition your appliances as they wear out and go with a similar metallic look in your light switches. *Hang a pot rack with fresh new pots, pans and a hanging wine bottle holder. *Add a rolling island. In our next Thursday Tips post, we'll explore the benefits of remodel vs selling. Stay tuned.

St Maarten New Visitor Campaign

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:13:43 -0500

St Maarten has created a new campaign to lure visitors, emphasizing the "feeling of the experience" they hope will happen to travellers on the island. St. Maarten Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson explained that the concept behind the new branding can be summed up with one statement: "It's all in our name." Richardson is new in the job, and will use the branding campaign in advertising, public relations, marketing and sales, and a new website. Positive adjectives purposefully misspelled with "capital double 'A's" followed immediately by the words "St. Maarten" will try to create audience recognition. The campaign identity, created by advertising agency Tambourine, will be visible in all logos, videos, print and outdoor advertising, specialty marketing items, brochures and stationery as well as an image gallery that features all new photography from an extensive on-island photo shoot recently completed by Tambourine. Adjectives will constantly be changing depending on the focus of specific ads. For instance, when promoting St. Maarten as a wedding and honeymoon destination, an ad may read: "PAASSIONATE ST. MAARTEN." When conveying St. Maarten as an active vacation playground, an audience could see: "PLAAYFUL ST. MAARTEN." Those of us who live here know St Maarten is Sensaational and maagical...

Child's Gym to Open in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:06:54 -0500

Princess Port de Plaisance will open the 1st full-service child-appropriate gym on St Maarten in December, with the goal of affecting the rise in child obesity. The gym will be equipped with a line of resistance equipment recently designed specifically for children ages five to 18, such as child-appropriate treadmills, weight machines, bikes and kick boxing equipment. Personal kids' fitness instructors will be on hand to supervise children using the kids' gym. The 70-square metre gym will be located in the renovated spa and fitness club at Port de Plaisance which will be rebranded Princess Country Club when re-opened. The Country Club will contain a full-service spa and fitness centre: an adult's gym, a spa, a full service salon, three studios (each with capacity to accommodate some 30 persons at a time) and the lap pool; it aims to fulfil just about any request for its clients. The intention is for entire families to come out to the Country Club and work out together, in the facilities for children as well as for their parents. Katsiaryna Ozkan, wife of Princess Group of Companies President and mother of 4, said all the equipment ordered was child safe, so parents wouldn't have to worry about their children being hurt while exercising. The entire gym was also being constructed child-safe to minimise possible injuries to children. "We want to bring families here to be fit together. If the father or mother is engaged in a sport, the children can work out in a gym that suits their level. We realised that there is a need for kids to continue being active and we wanted to ensure that there are facilities available for them to lead healthier lifestyles," she said. special discounts would be offered to early birds who signed up for use of the facility. The Parliamentary Committee on Obesity reported last week that they were concerned about child obesity and found obesity among youngsters to be very high, and they underscored the need for a preventative approach, which owners of the new gym are hoping that their facility will provide. (resource: DailyHerald)

Thinking of Listing your St Maarten Property? Ask your Realtor these questions first

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:28:58 -0500

1. Is Real Estate your full-time profession? 2. How many properties have you sold in my neighborhood? 3. How many other sellers are you representing now? 4. Do you have assistants or support staff who would handle my transaction? 5. Is your license in good standing? 6. How many years of experience do you have? 7. Are you a broker? 8. Are you a member of a MLS? 9. What professional organizations do you belong to? 10. How will you network to sell my home? 11. Can you provide names and contact information for 3 references? 12. Do you speak any language other than English? 13. How will your company and the other agents there help sell my property? 14. How well do you know the market you serve? 15. Can you give me a market analysis of sales in my neighborhood and other homes on the market? 16. What is the average Days on Market? 17. What time on market can I expect? 18. Explain what marketing you would do for my home, including on the internet. 19. What will you differently marketing my property than for all of your other listings? 20. How do you use technology, both in marketing and servicing my needs? 21. How do you separate yourself from your competition? 22. Will you hold Open Houses? 23. Will you be present at showings? 24. Will you obtain feedback from showings and share that with me? 25. How often will you communicate with me on your progress in finding a Buyer? 26. What suggestions do you have for staging the property? 27. What suggestions do you have for showing the property? 28. Should my home be sold "As Is"? Why or why not? 29. What input do I have in your advertising? 30. Other than yourself, who is the best agent in this area to sell my home and why? 31. Why should I list with you? 32. At what price do you think my property will sell in the current market? 33. What is your pricing strategy if it doesn't sell quickly? 34. What is your commission? 35. What services do you provide? 36. What is the term of the listing agreement? 37. What is your cancellation policy? 38. Do you offer a guarantee? 39. Explain the Listing Agreement. 40. What is Dual Agency and your position on this? You may not get all of these questions asked, but interview more than one realtor when you get ready to list, and be satisfied that the answers of the agent you choose will place your interests first. We feel sure you will find Coldwell Banker offers more services and more knowledge than any other company you will consider.

St Maarten to Welcome the new Cruise Ship, Oasis

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:51:08 -0500

The World's Largest Ship to Arrive on St Maarten Imagine launching the world's largest, most expensive and most extravagant cruise ship ever during the cruise industry's worst-ever slump. Imagine borrowing heavily to pay for the ambitious project and lining up extraordinary assistance from the government of Finland to finance the deal in the midst of an historic credit crunch. "We didn't anticipate she would be born in the down cycle, but we knew that she would operate in downturns," said Adam M. Goldstein, president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean International. He estimates the useful life of the ship at 30 to 40 years. Oasis, by any measure, is a jaw-dropper. The gross tonnage (which measures not weight, but the volume of enclosed space) is 44-percent larger than the next biggest ships -- Royal's Freedom of the Seas and sister vessels. With 2,160 crew members, Oasis will carry 5,400 passengers at double occupancy, up to 6,300 passengers when extra beds are filled. "It's not only the biggest but also the most modern and the most green," said Teppo Raitis, STX Europe's senior vice president and director of the shipyard, which has carved a niche in creating giant, complex vessels. "The ship represents 1.7 million design hours. That's 1,000 man-years." Read about all the amenities, cabins, thems, activities, spa and more - at Trading Markets. Some ports aren't able to accommodate the Oasis, but the ship actually is remarkably nimble. "She can actually move sideways, like one of those old cartoons of a car parking," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. Royal Caribbean is adamant about choosing destinations where the ship can dock directly, rather than anchoring offshore and ferrying passengers in on tenders, an option Goldstein said carries "too many variables" that could sour passengers' experiences. And many smaller islands also would be overwhelmed by the arrival of 5,400 visitors. "We're proud of the destinations we will showcase -- St. Maarten, Labadee, eventually Falmouth," Goldstein said. Other ports are expected to build facilities to accommodate the Oasis-class ships over time. We welcome passengers on the Oasis, and hope they will find time to stop by our Coldwell Banker office.

St Maarten Charter Show in December to Utilize Carbon Offsets

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:10:26 -0500

The MYBA St. Maarten Charter Show will be offsetting greenhouse gas emissions from the event through Yacht Carbon Offset. A growing number of yacht owners and charterers want to compensate for their vessels' carbon footprint. Carbon Offsetting can easily be included in the arrangements of a luxury yacht charter, and is a proportionate response that preserves full freedom of operation. The equivalent carbon emissions reductions are achieved by independently verified green energy projects, and the effectiveness of the action is underpinned by Yacht Carbon Offset's Lloyds Register Quality Assurance Certification. Lucille Frye, Show Manager of the MYBA St. Maarten Charter Show said: "The St Maarten Show brings together Captains, Brokers, Vendors, Media and other industry professionals from around the world, and is a great opportunity to consider carbon offsetting within the industry. We warmly welcome Yacht Carbon Offset as sponsors." Attending yachts are also invited to Offset their estimated fuel used for the show, which runs from December 4-7. (resource: SuperYachtTimes)

10 Tips for 1st Time St Maarten Home Buyers

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:05:22 -0500

1. Be picky, but don't be unrealistic. There is no perfect home. 2. Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want and which are most important to you. 3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your downpayment and your closing costs. 4. Don't wait to get a loan. Talk to a lender and get prequalified - better pre-approved - for a mortgage before you start looking. 5. Don't ask too many people for opinions. It will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion. 6. Decide when you could move. When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? How tight is the rental market in your area? 7. Think long-term. Are you looking for a starter house with the idea of moving up in a few years or do you hope to stay in this home longer? This decision may dictate what type of home you'll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that suit you best. 8. Don't let yourself be "house poor". If you max yourself out to buy the biggest home you can afford, you'll have no money left for maintenance or decoration or to save money for other financial goals. 9. Don't be na�ve. Insist on a home inspection and, if possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects within one year. 10. Get help. Consider hiring a Coldwell Banker Realtor as a buyer's representative. Unlike a listing agent, whose first duty is to the seller, a buyer's representative is working only for you. And often, buyer's reps are paid out of the seller's commission payment. Contact our Coldwell Banker office to talk about buying opportunities.

St.Maarten-St.Martin Classic Yacht Regatta Coming Soon

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:23:28 -0500

January 21- 24, 2010 are the dates for the St.Maarten-St.Martin Classic Yacht Regatta. Several classic and vintage yachts have again announced their participation, including the winner of last year's race. In addition, previous unknown yachts to this classic regatta will also be entrants. The upcoming regatta will include with the typical WorkBoats and, for the first time, the traditional wooden sloops from the Grenadines build mainly in Cariacou. A 'Spirit of Classic' class will be included to give yacht owners a chance to participate with boats that are do not technically qualified in Classic, Vintage, Spirit of Tradition or other existing classes, but are still old and have classic lines or other capacities. In addition to the Classic Yacht Regatta, on Saturday January 23rd, 2010, the 12M Challenge America's Cup boats will be racing in Great Bay. Famous St.Maarten/St.Martin VIP's and stars from other countries will participate together with people from the general public in this "regatta in a regatta" to raise funds for the Nature Foundation and the Sint Maarten Diabetes Foundation. The 12 M Challenge have donated the use of their race yachts for the event and tickets will be offered starting at US $100. Holland House Beach Hotel on the boardwalk and Frontstreet in Philipsburg is the new main venue for the regatta. (resource: CaribbeanRacing)

St Maarten gets More Air Service

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:14:38 -0500

WestJet has launched new seasonal nonstop service from Toronto to St Maarten. "WestJet is flying to so many exciting new destinations this winter," said Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet Executive Vice-President of Strategy and Planning. "One of the most exciting is the culture-rich island of St. Maarten. It's like getting two trips in one; land into the Princess Juliana International Airport in the Netherlands Antilles section of the island, but have the French part of St. Maarten to visit, too!" WestJet will service the route until April 29, 2010. One-way fares, available in both directions on non-stop flights only, are available from $159, plus applicable taxes and fees. WestJet Vacations offers customized vacation packages for most of WestJet's scheduled destinations, including packages to St. Maarten starting at $799, plus applicable fees and taxes, for a seven-night stay. For more information, visit westjetvacations.com.

Setting the Right Price to Sell your St Maarten Property

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:53:23 -0500

When determining the sale price of any real estate, several factors, including market conditions and interest rates, will determine how much you can get for your home. The idea is to get the maximum price and the best terms during the window of time when your home is being marketed. When selling a home, there's the price owners would like to get, the value buyers would like to offer, and a point of agreement which can result in a sale. The value of your home relates to local sale prices. The same home, located somewhere else, would likely have a different value. Sale prices result from real estate supply and demand. If the community or island where you live is booming, with an expanding job base and a growing population, the prices for houses will most likely be on the rise. The question to ask yourself when you are ready to sell is not how much you want for your house, but how much will a buyer pay for your home. Buyers don't care how much you paid for the home, how many memorable moments you and your family shared in the home, how much cash you need for the down payment on your next home, or how much time and money you've invested in your home's hardwood floors, fresh paint, lush landscaping or other improvements. The following are things you should consider when setting the price for your home: CMA: Our Coldwell Banker realtors will be willing to prepare a comparable market analysis (CMA) for you as a free marketing service, with the goal of getting your business whenever you decide to move. A "comparative market analysis" (CMA), shows the prices of comparable recently sold homes, on-the-market homes and homes that were on the market, but weren't sold. A market-savvy Coldwell Banker realtor will give you a rough idea of what your home would be worth, given its size and condition and local market conditions. Some agents will tell you to under-price your home in hope of sparking a bidding war. Others will suggest a flatteringly high price to "buy" your listing only to demand a price reduction a few weeks later. Price recommendations based on CMAs aren't gospel. The decision about how much to ask, though, is always yours. APPRAISAL: An appraisal is different from a CMA in many ways. One difference is that an appraisal is only based on past sales. Also, unlike a CMA, a professional appraisal usually costs a few hundred dollars. A formal written appraisal can be useful if you have unique property, if there hasn't been much activity in your area recently, if co-owners disagree about price, or if there is any other circumstance that makes it difficult to put a value on your home. In a normal home sale, a CMA is probably enough to let you set a proper price. Appraisers rely on an on-site inspection of your home, recent sales of comparable homes, and replacement costs to arrive at an opinion of value. The appraiser's report is a full-blown description of your home and the criteria used to formulate the valuation. NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN HOUSES: Visiting open houses is a good way to compare your house to other homes that are for sale in your neighborhood. While you're there, try to make an impartial assessment of how those homes compare to yours in terms of location, size, amenities and condition. If both homes were selling for the same price, would you buy your home or someone else's? Chatting with real estate professionals about your local market will also help you get a good grasp on what a reasonable price range for your house would be. Keep in mind that these homes are For Sale, they haven't sold, so the prices are only Asking Prices. OFFERING INCENTIVES: Sometimes a little something extra is needed to attract buyers. Here are a few examples on what you can offer to sweeten the deal: - Closing escrow quickly will attract buyers who want to move in right away. - Offering seller-financing will appeal to buyers who need to stretch their financial resources. - A lease-option can help first-timers who need down payment assistance. - The more creative and flexible you can be in meeting the buyer's needs, the more success you'll have in pricing your home to sell. - House improvements such as repairing the roof, or repainting the house, or leaving behind the washer and dryer may also offset setting a higher sale price. - Offering to pay some or all of a buyer's closing costs and discount points required by the buyer's lending institution is a way to offer a cash incentive, instead of just lowering the price. - Offering a bonus to the selling broker, in addition to their commission. Even after all the above has been done, the selling price is ultimately decided by you, the owner. Some owners may choose to set their selling price at the absolute lowest they are willing to sell because they hate to haggle. Others are willing to "see what happens", and may set the price a bit higher. Set the price for your home at a level you feel is fair and reasonable and listen to the advice of your Coldwell Banker agent, the professional in your community.

Domaine de Lonvilliers on St Martin to Reopen

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:05:53 -0500

Following a five month renovation, the Domaine de Lonvilliers will reopen under new management Dec. 1. Christophe Leroy, the St.-Tropez-based chef, will run the 145-room hotel. The establishment, on the secluded beach cove of Anse Marcel, will feature a branch of Leroy's restaurant in Marrakesh, Morocco, La Table du March�. To mark the opening, the hotel is offering an introductory rate of 169 euros a night (about $254 at $1.50 to the euro) until March 31. Standard rooms normally start at 235 euros. From Dec. 19 to Jan. 8, rates start at 203 euros (normally 350 euros). To book, call 888-334-7609. (resource: Intransit)

Investors - Consider a Condo on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:58:43 -0400

Owning a condo on St. Maarten has never been easier. Through The Condos at Great Bay Beach Resort's new "Great Guarantee" purchaser incentive program, savvy buyers can now receive an unheard-of five percent minimum return on investment guaranteed per year for three years + free maintenance during that time period. With sale prices starting at just $335,000 USD for a two-bedroom, turnkey condo unit, this means owners can recover more than 20 percent of their total investment in just three years with minimal carrying costs. After the initial period, owners who wish to continue to participate in the Great Bay Beach Resort rental pool--a valuable incentive--will receive 70 percent of their rental income (with 30 percent going to the resort) after hotel costs. The "Great Guarantee" is valid on units purchased by December 31, 2009 and is based on availability of released inventory. "This is the opportunity of a lifetime to own property in one of the Caribbean's most picture-perfect destinations," said Managing Director Keith Graham. "We've put together an extraordinarily low-risk program aimed at buyers who know and want a quality product--in times like these it's important to know your money is safe and working for you. It's a win-win situation for investors any way they look at it." Located on a mile of pristine white sand in the capital of Philipsburg, the island's best duty-free shopping, restaurants and entertainment are just a short distance away. Residents can also enjoy access to the services of the entire Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino, a four-star, full-service resort. Owners and their guests can take full advantage of its three swimming pools, two whirlpools, three restaurants, four bars, casino, boutique and fitness center--an exceptional, value-added component to their investment. The fully furnished condos are presented in three different floor plans and are located in the resort's tranquil Miramar wing of the resort, with a swimming pool, sun decks and outdoor whirlpool. Each condo has a full kitchen and stunning beach views. Two of the floor plans offer a two-entrance design with lockout options--one entrance through the living area; one through one the bedrooms--giving owners multiple alternatives to renting their property. In other words, these units can be rented out as a two-bedroom condo or a one-bedroom condo or a deluxe hotel room. Once the connecting door between the one-bedroom and the hotel room is closed, these become two separate rental areas and owners can choose to rent one area and enjoy the other themselves. For information, contact our St Maarten Coldwell Banker agents to discuss this opportunity. Watch the video below on Sonesta to see the locale. (resource: PR Web)

Buying the Right Home in St Maarten at a Price that's Right for You

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:19:14 -0400

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.

Pointe Blanche Villa in St Maarten For Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:02:36 -0400

Well maintained 5 bedroom 5 1/2 bathroom beautifully furnished villa with additional 1 bedroom apartment and studio currently generating rental income. The property is fully fenced with well tendered gardens and private pool. Good investment property. Asking $825,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for details.

St Maarten to Build Cricket Stadium

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:34:53 -0400

St. Maarten's sports commissioner, Frans Richardson, announced on Sunday that his government will be building a cricket stadium. In the Nagico Cricket Tournament, the St. Maarten team reached the finals for the first time, and so reinforced Richardson's desire to have a stadium. Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards, who was present at the one-day tournament, endorsed Richardson's announcemen, noting that for the development of the sport, the players need the tools and right facilities to prepare themselves to be winners. For those of you unfamiliar with the sport of cricket, here is some information from Wikipedia: Cricket is a bat-and-ball team sport that is first documented as being played in southern England in the 16th century. By the end of the 18th century, cricket had developed to the point where it had become the national sport of England. The expansion of the British Empire led to cricket being played overseas and by the mid-19th century the first international matches were being held. Today, the game's governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC), has 104 member countries.[1] The rules of the game are known as the Laws of Cricket.[2] These are maintained by the ICC and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which holds the copyright. A cricket match is played on a cricket field at the centre of which is a pitch. The match is contested between two teams of eleven players each.[3] One team bats, trying to score as many runs as possible without being dismissed ("out") while the other team bowls and fields, trying to dismiss the other team's batsmen and limit the runs being scored. When the batting team has used all its available overs or has no remaining batsmen, the roles become reversed and it is now the fielding team's turn to bat and try to outscore the opposition. There are several variations in the length of a game of cricket. In professional cricket this ranges from a limit of 20 overs per side (Twenty20) to a game played over 5 days (Test cricket). Depending on the form of the match being played, there are different rules that govern how a game is won, lost, drawn or tied.

50th Anniversary of St Maarten Day on Nov. 11

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:45:20 -0400

The theme for this year's St Maarten Day is "Express Gratitude to Our Forefathers." The festival day will be filled with tradition, activities, parades, and events to unite the country as one island, as one people. Nov. 11 is the date Christopher Columbus supposedly first saw the island, and named it after the patron saint of the day, St Martin. Participants will gather in the morning to kick off several sporting activities, such as relay races, fishing, and kite-flying at dawn. Later in the morning will be the church service and wreath-laying. In the afternoon, there will be 2 parades, the first with dignitaries and an official address and luncheon, and then a cultural parade with ethnic associations in cultural dress and about 750 children wearing local costumes. The Festival Village will host vendors and entertainment throughout the day, and children can enjoy an inflatable castle, trampolines, and slides. For more information, visit the St Maarten Tourist Bureau.

St Maarten Westin Dawn Beach Resort Installs Solar

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:49:17 -0400

Working toward a greener footprint, the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa on St Maarten has installed a state-of-the art solar water system. The fact that the island of St. Maarten is unable to plant enough crops to produce an adequate amount of bio-fuels makes this achievement particularly important. The solar hot water system began operating in January 2009. Its forty-five panels and 1,350 evacuated tubes produce a constant flow of hot water to the 4,000 gallon water storage tank. Columbia Sussex Corporation, owners of The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, contracted Zager Plumbing & Solar Inc. to get the solar project up and running. The solar water system is designed to facilitate 317 guest rooms, restaurants, laundry facilities, spa, and hotel restrooms. The 4,000 gallon solar hot water system will cut a significant amount of carbon dioxide emissions and reduce the costs and consumption of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LP). "This form of solar energy utilization seems to be the most cost effective for business owners," said Scott Yung, Columbia Sussex project manager. "The return on investment was very attractive as well as the simplicity of the system and concept. We are exploring installing a similar system at several other properties." If you stay at the Westin on St Maarten, say a quiet word of thanks for their efforts to become greener.

Make Small Improvements for Big Results when you Sell Property in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:14:47 -0400

* Buyers usually seek the least expensive home in the best neighborhood they can afford, which means they want a home that fits in the neighborhood but is not over-improved. * Improvements should be made so that the property looks good, but at the same time, is consistent with the neighborhood. * The cost of these improvements should not exceed what can be made up from the sale. * A well-cared for property is more desirable to buyers because if what they see is maintained and repaired, what they can't see has probably also shows pride of ownership. Basic, simple and inexpensive improvements can provide an enhanced emotional response in a potential buyer. An example could be something as small as a crack in the paint on a wall. Simply by applying some plaster and touch up paint, you eliminate what may be an unstated concern that your home was poorly maintained. If you are working with a small budget, these simple techniques will do absolute wonders: 1. The Magic of Mirrors: Mirrors can provide a greater sense of space and elegance when properly placed. Be careful not to overdo it, but when located throughout a home, each area will seem larger to the potential buyer. You may want to visit a local garage sale; you can almost always find an old mirror or two. Putting one-foot square mirrors on a closet door in the master bedroom is also an attractive touch. 2. Adding Additional Closet Space: One of the biggest complaints heard from potential buyers is that there just isn't enough closet space. Simply purchasing an inexpensive closet organizer and installing it in any or all of your closets can make a big difference. You can also try putting a rod across one corner of a bedroom for hanging clothes, or put up a screen made from a variety of materials. The screen could match the material of the bedspread, drapes etc. The idea here is to be creative so that the "fake closet" looks as though it was a part of the room. 3. Make a Bare Wall Beautiful: Wallpaper is inexpensive, quick and easy to do! The right wallpaper can brighten a room or hallway and bring it back to life. Be careful to choose something with a neutral design or pattern. Or, paint one wall a neutral but different color than the rest of the room. 4. Bring Old Floors Back to Life: Except for dirt, nothing turns off a potential buyer quicker than dull, dingy, disgusting-looking floors. Whether you have wax, wooden or tile floors, do whatever you can to make them shine again. For wax floors, either rent a floor machine and do it yourself, or if it's in your budget, hire a professional. If you have carpet, you should either steam clean or install new carpeting. This may sound expensive, but new carpeting can add thousands of dollars to the value of your home. 5. Adding a Room Without Calling in the Contractor: This simple but seldom used technique can give a buyer the feeling there are more actual rooms in your house. Floor to ceiling room dividers are inexpensive and simple to install. When a buyer walks through your house, they will generally count the rooms in a subconscious manner. Each room will evoke an emotional response. By dividing and designing each side of your room, you create a "separate room" feeling in the potential buyer. It may sound crazy, but it works! A Staging Professional and add invaluable help with this technique. 6. Clean Up the Bathroom: We've probably all heard that phrase a hundred times. Well, guess what? It's still valid. Give your bathroom a face-lift if needed; fresh paint, decorative moldings, good tile grout, new designer faucets are all attractive eye catchers. And repair leaky faucets, broken fixtures, and cracked tiles. Clean, clean, clean. 7. Curb Appeal: Putting a few dollars into a new outdoor fixture, mailbox, house numbers, or decorative plants can make the house look more appealing. Painting the outside will make buyers want to see the inside, and say volumes about your Pride of Ownership. Be sure and clean up the landscaping and put away the tools and toys. 8. Light and Bright Inside Too: Check every room to see if it's time for a new coat of paint. Make sure you use light, bright colors inside the home. You want to appeal to the largest group of people, and sticking with neutral colors will be your best bet. If you stick with off-white and beige colors indoors, the rooms will look bigger and brighter. You may also want to replace some of the light fixtures. You can get really inexpensive fixtures at many places that will put more of a shine on your house. Be sure and clean all the windows and mirrors and keep them clean. Contact your Coldwell Banker Agent for more ideas on how to make your home sell fast for the best price.

Air Service to Paris from St Maarten Planned

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:38 -0400

Guadeloupe-based Air Cara�bes will operate a direct flight from Orly Airport in Paris to St. Maarten twice weekly as of December, Tourism Commissioner Frans Richardson announced. The flight, with a seat capacity of about 300, will be operated by the French airline on Thursdays and Saturdays. This will add more seats coming out of Europe, an emerging tourism market for St. Maarten. Despite the economic crisis, the euro remains buoyant and travellers from Europe continue to take vacations. Air France and KLM also serve St Maarten-Europe. Other airlines adding flights include: *JetBlue will soon begin a third direct flight between New York and St. Maarten. *Starting service to St. Maarten in November as well is WestJet out of Canada InselAir of Curacao is considering a direct flight to Venezuela.

QLFA of St Maarten Receives Gift from Antillean Liquors

islandsit@gmail.com (Brett Mucklow) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 23:18:42 -0400

Quality Living for All, a volunteer organization spearheaded by Coldwell Banker St Maarten, helps elederly and disabled people who need to upgrade or adapt their homes. The group recently received a large donation from Antillean Liquors. QLFA, working closely with the St Maarten White and Yellow Cross, has identified more than 50 people in serious need of assistance. Their goal is to take care of 20 of these folks by Christmas. Local contractors have offered free labor, and the QLFA Beach Hop fundraiser Nov. 1 will hopefully raise an additional $3,000 to purchase materials. Dominque de Tullio, managing director of Antillean Liquors,has pledged $1,000. Asha Chugani, QLFA's administrator, said, "Mr. de Tullio has recognized that, even in these economically challenging times, there are people who are in urgent need of help." The QLFA Beach Hop starts at 12 noon, Sunday, Nov. 1, at Maho via Simpson Bay Beach to Simpson Bay. 9 participating restaurants and bars are offering 50 cent refreshments, soda, beer, wine, and ice cream. Come join the fun!

Real Estate Market Update for Several Caribbean Countries

islandsit@gmail.com (Chris Smith, Brett Mucklow, et al) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:27:40 -0400

Followers of BVI real estate and those looking to buy or sell will have noticed that the number of properties listed for sale this year has certainly risen. Hardly suprising, given the pickle the world economy has gotten itself into, but what they will also have noticed is that asking prices have not dropped. Yes, the odd one or two may have gone down a dollar or two, but most have not - and some have actually gone up. That's not to say that accepted offers might be lower than they might otherwise have been, but to be frank, we're not seeing a lot of that either. Locally, all the indicators would suggest that the BVI economy in general is down a bit but is certainly not as bad as elsewhere in the world. With caution being the better part of valour, the number of real estate transactions locally is down but certainly nobody is giving anything away and prices are therefore holding. In the ex-pat or "Non-Belonger" market, the same is true. Perhaps the nature of the overseas buyer in the British Virgin Islands has something to do with that. Most of our Non-Belonger clients tend to be reasonably successful, middle-aged folks, who enjoy the peaceful, calm way of life here. They had the patience to survive the process of purchasing property in the BVI so they certainly passed the first test! Lets not call them dull, but on the whole they certainly aren't the nightclub and casino-loving, gambling, risk takers who are likely to be found purchasing property on South Beach or in Nassau, Bahamas. So, being somewhat more conservative, perhaps they haven't lost their shirts in the downturn, and therefore don't have to give anything away at a bargain basement price. Just a thought. There is, of course, one far more obvious reason why prices of BVI real estate have held up. There's not much of it ^ there is a limited supply - and lots of people would still like to own some, given how beautiful the islands are. Now, as we all know, there are lots of scenic places in the Caribbean, so we wondered if the same thing was happening on other islands. Coldwell Banker has over 3700 offices in over 47 countries around the world, including offices on 16 islands throughout the Caribbean (we'll include Bermuda since they are really one of us, even if that's not quite geographically accurate). So we thought we'd call around and find out if other islands are experiencing similar things in their markets. Here is some of the feedback... Brett Mucklow, St Maarten Our local market is very strong and quite resilient. Islands have limited land and no possibilities to expand. We compare our market to some of the exclusive areas in the US such as the Hamptons, where prices hold quite well. Most island populations are growing, so property is in demand. Our island is serviced by direct air flights from 10 or so countries on 3 continents. Outside of PR, we are the largest Caribbean hub. We have a diverse client base. Our economy is only tourism but it is very diversified. Cruise ship business, timeshare, villa rental and the marina/mega yacht industry are all parts of our tourism foundation. This diversity has insulated us and given some stability. In addition, we have the French side ^ St Martin ^ that uses the Euro, so with two of the world's largest currencies, we are protected as one offsets the other. French currently shop on our side as the Euro is strong and visa versa when weak to the dollar. Amy DeWilde, St. Croix St Croix has been prominently featured recently in US national publications like Coastal Living as #2 [in their article] of the top ten spots to snorkel in the Caribbean, and in USA Today's Destination section. Recognition like this and the discovery of our extremely attractive real estate values are keeping our market active. There is good inventory for buyers. Sellers who recognize the need to be flexible with both price and financing options can successfully find a buyer. Our market is also helped by the lowest interest rates we've seen in a long time. St. Croix's very diverse topography, many attractions that appeal to nature-lovers and history buffs, some of the best diving in the Caribbean, and great dining are but a few of the reasons that buyers from afar decide to make St. Croix either their primary or second-home destination. Susan Thompson, Bermuda As the leading real estate company in Bermuda, we are constantly called upon by consumers, attorneys, bankers, architects, developers, and other businesses for our in-depth industry knowledge. That is why Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty takes great pride in recording real estate sales details, to ensure we are armed with factual and supportive data that assists companies and individuals to make informed financial decisions. Our database ('Realty Plus') extends back 20 years, has in excess of 7,500 entries recording over $5.5 billion in island-wide real estate transactions. We have incorporated over 30 search criteria, thereby permitting queries by name of property, date of sale, acreage, price bracket, property type and much more. We can carry out research assisting our local and international clientele to make very important decisions relating to property acquisition. A year ago in June, we reported that during the first half of 2008, the average price of all real estate transactions was slightly more than $1,000,000 with single family homes approximately $1,400,000. Compare that to figures recorded to date for 2009 (bearing in mind that 2009 records have not been finalised) of $950,000 for all records and $1,460,000 for single family homes. Conversely, the average price for condos was $823,000 in the first half of 2008 verses $733,000 thus far for 2009, signifying an approximate 11% decrease in condo prices, but very little variance in other areas of the market. It is interesting to note that this figure is reminiscent of 2004 when the average price of condominiums was $742,000. On the inventory side of the equation, we currently have 295 active listings. The yearly average number of sales transactions island wide over the past five years is 553, hence the current inventory represents just over 6 months supply. Condominiums still represent 60% of the inventory, which is good news for first time buyers looking for 95- 100% financing. The banks are still lending up to $1,000,000 to qualified purchasers and 36% of the inventory is presently in this price bracket. In conclusion, consumers continue to purchase real estate in Bermuda, but at perhaps a slower pace as there are more choices. Prices have come down in various sectors of the market which is encouraging for those looking to own a piece of the rock. Overpricing your property is not an option if you wish to sell in this market, as buyers are well educated, banks are being conservative with appraisals, and there is lots of competition for most properties. However, ultimately, everything will sell at the correct price. Louise Peterson, Turks & Caicos Due to the large number of condo projects that completed in 2008 and 2009, and the slow down in the North American economy, current inventory levels in the TCI are up around 20%. We've experienced price softening somewhat especially in the condo and in-land housing markets. As the new kid on the block, TCI found over the last 12 - 15 years demand strongly outweighed supply. This meant few prime properties were available for sale and year-over-year prices continued to rise. Record pricing levels were achieved along the Grace Bay hotel and resort area, as well as waterfront homes and estates. The basic fundamentals have not changed though, and TCI offers a fantastic lifestyle investment opportunity- particularly for Canadians, where the market has stabilized in the major cities since late spring and their dollar is strong. Owners in the TCI wishing to sell their properties over the next season have priced it accordingly, and have begun to see activity pick up with multiple and back up offers being presented. Savvy investors are returning to take a second look at TCI. Value is key and this new or returning investor is looking to hold the real estate for the long term. Inventory levels remain high but this means that purchasers have an opportunity to select from properties not previously offered for sale and at levels not seen in the last 3-4 years.

Dutch St Maarten to Become Independent Country

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:17:58 -0400

As reported by RNW (Radio Netherlands Worldwide), the big news this last week from a meeting on Curacao, was: "The joint Dutch and Antillean governments have decided that the Netherlands Antilles will cease to exist as a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands by 10 October 2010. The islands of Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba agreed to become Dutch municipalities. On the same date, 10-10-10, Cura�ao and the Dutch half of St Maarten will become independent countries within the Kingdom, on an equal footing with the European Netherlands and with Aruba, which gained its 'status aparte' in 1986." The previous arrangement of semi-independence between the Dutch government and its former colonies dated from 1954 and was up for renewal. The article continues, "The Netherlands' Deputy Interior Minister Ank Bijleveld warned that a lot of work remains to be done following Wednesday's Cura�ao agreement. The parliaments in The Hague and Willemstad, Cura�ao, need to pass a number of laws, and administrative bodies for Cura�ao and St Maarten need to be founded. "The Dutch government also wants assurances that rampant crime on Cura�ao and St Maarten will be fought harder. Dutch police detectives will continue to be active in the kingdom's new countries." While there is much work to be done, this is both a great responsibility and opportunity for St Maarten.

12 Tips when Applying for a Mortgage to Purchase St Maarten Property

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:04:10 -0400

The right or wrong decision when signing your home mortgage can mean thousands of dollars' difference in interest paid. There are very important considerations to evaluate before you commit to a 15 or 30 year note. For many of us, our mortgage payment is the most important financial decision we'll ever make. Doesn't it make sense to know as much as possible about the financing of our home? Take the time to thoroughly investigate all of your options. 1. Use professionals. Unbelievably, many of us sign the first mortgage placed in front of us. Typically the excitement of the new home purchase reduces the mortgage to not much more than an afterthought. By aligning yourself with a professional Coldwell Banker realtor and experienced lender you ensure all the financial steps are taken care of properly and economically. 2. Utilize a lender with established ties to an Coldwell Banker agent. Lenders are much more flexible with the real estate agents who have done business with them previously. Their relationship establishes them as a team member. The lender and agent work effectively together. That's why a good agent can make substantial difference in setting up the most economical financing. And the right financing can, literally, save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. 3. Don't attempt to do the paperwork alone. All the paperwork required to complete the purchase of a home can be quite intimidating and frustrating for a home buyer. Make sure you have your lender explain and help you with all the paperwork. Ask questions of your team, your lender and Coldwell Banker agent. Their expertise will help alleviate your stress and prove to be invaluable before you sign your mortgage. 4. Look at all your options. Make sure you see at least 3 loan programs for your mortgage. Lenders have 5-7 programs and should work with you and your Coldwell Banker agent on deciding what is best for your circumstances. Evaluate all your options. After all, it's your money you're spending - not theirs. 5. Demand service. There is little difference between a bank, savings and loan, or a mortgage broker when it comes to the competitiveness of their loan rates. The difference is in the service they provide. It is their job to serve you. You want to get the loan approved and move into your new home as quickly as possible, but don't overlook the fact that you are the one spending the money and they are the ones who should accommodate your needs. Don't let the process become so intimidating that you lose that understanding. 6. Stay in complete touch. You should receive a written report from your lender at every step. This will ensure that no details are overlooked and there will be no surprises. 7. Be careful with flexible loans. Don't just accept the terms they lay down in front of you. Lenders are in the business of loaning money and they want your business. Make sure you examine every option available to you. If you negotiate a variable rate loan, many lenders have the ability to move you into a fixed loan if rates start going up. Make sure that you understand whether or not that is an option in the package you are looking at. Be sure and check prepayment penalties. 8. Don't give up on the first "No." Initial decisions are not always final decisions. Going to a higher authority can sometimes get you the loan, but do so with the assistance and compliance of your lender and Coldwell Banker agent. Many times, special circumstances, when explained properly to the person in charge, will win you the loan. Beware, though, of overextending your finances. 9. Don't wait for the bottom of the market. The odds of your hitting the bottom of your market are about like the odds of you hitting a state lotto. You will almost never hit the bottom of a market. And trying to time it exactly right is often costly. It usually causes a person or family to miss out on the opportunity to purchase a very nice property. You're better off simply negotiating the best rate and terms you can at the time you find a property. If interest rates go down, you can refinance. 10. Be honest With your lender. Your lender wants to help you with your loan. The only time he/she gets paid is when you get approved and the loan is funded. The more information (good or bad) you provide your lender, the easier it will be for him/her to get an approval. It helps to present the loan in the best light and get the highest approval rating. 11. Become educated. Pick your lender's brain. Lenders will teach you all about your various options, even if you haven't found the right property yet. They will be very patient with you while you are looking, because he/she understands all the up-front work will pay off in future business. 12. Don'g just get Pre-qualified, get pre-approved. Lenders will provide you with a certificate of pre-qualification. By getting pre-qualified, you know exactly what financial parameters to stay within. Your agent and lender will consult with you and help you get qualified for the loan that best fits your needs. Many times, they are able to get you a larger loan than you may have thought possible. Getting Pre-Approved is even better, then all you need to find is your property. Use your Coldwell Banker agent as a resource through the entire process of applying for and getting a mortgage. He or she is the best place for answers and guidance when you decide to invest in real estate.

What to Do in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:53:44 -0400

St Maarten has turquoise waters and white sand beaches and beautiful resorts for releaxing, but our island also offers more than sand and sun. Those who would like to get back to nature can hike the numerous trails scattered throughout the island, ride through sun-swept beaches on horseback, or snorkel from a 60-foot catamaran. For the true adventure seekers, try your hand at parasailing and skydiving, or tour the island by motorcycle, ATV or scooter. Strap yourself into the captain's chair for some deep-sea fishing or descend the depths and explore historic wrecks and lost cannons from times past. Other activities include golf, tennis, walking tours and beach combing on any of the 37 beaches island-wide. Nightlife is plentiful too, with St. Maarten's many clubs, bars and casinos. Hot spots abound in Maho, Simpson Bay, Cupecoy and Philipsburg. If your late night turns into an early morning, try Dawn Beach and watch the sunrise over the Atlantic. TravelVideo.TV lists these as popular local favorities to enjoy during your stay: 1. Pic du Paradis - the island's highest point, 1,492', with two observation areas. 2. Loterie Farm - a 150-acre working farm with eco-trails and canopy trees for swinging 3. Butterfly Farm - featuring hundreds of rare and exotic butterfies in a landscaped garden 4. St Maarten Zoological & Botanical Garden - with more than 80 species of exotic mammals, birds, and reptiles, including the largest display of exotic parrots in the Caribbean 5. Plantation Mont Vernon - shows the historical and economical development of local plants 6. Mount Concordia - on the border in the center of the island, where the treaty dividing the land between Dutch and French was signed 7. Horseback riding and bicycle touring 8. 14 casinos on the island 9. Diving and snorkeling 10. Surfing 11. Shopping For more information on activities in St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

Luxury Villa | Cay Hill | St Maarten | Home for Sale

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:32:01 -0400

Beautiful 3 bedroom/3.5 bathroom villa with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea and Philipsburg Harbour. Fully Furnished, Private Swimming Pool, and well maintained gardens. Other features include fenced yard, terrace, AC, fans, and work room. Asking $995,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos and details.

Good Turnout for Coastal CleanUp on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:14:16 -0400

Hundreds of volunteers dame to the International Coastal CleanUp, organized by St Maarten Pride Foundation. Held in 100 countries on six continents around the world on the same day, Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup is the largest volunteer event of its kind. Local cleanup sites were Mullet Bay Beach, Mullet Pond, Pointe Blanche Beach and an underwater diving cleanup around two reef sites. Preliminary figures show that more than 563 volunteers came out to Mullet Bay Beach and Mullet Pond combined. At Mullet Bay Beach 144 trash bags were filled, compared to last year's 205 trash bags. Many volunteers commented that the beach had less trash than previous years. Pride noted that the International Coastal Cleanup had successfully become an example of true community spirit in St. Maarten, which was demonstrated by the various groups and companies on the island that took part in the largest volunteer event for the environment. Volunteer groups included the Filipino community group, the St. Maarten Police Force, VKS members, the Air Traffic Control staff, Windward Islands Bank employees, The Daily Herald employees, and several local schools such as Sister Borgia Elementary, St. Dominic High, Learning Unlimited, Caribbean International Academy and St. Maarten Academy that sent out their Team Green members to represent the campuses. (resource: DailyHerald)

Tips to Sell your St Maarten or St Martin Home Fast and for Top Dollar

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:24:51 -0400

1. Price it just below the current market. 2. Create demand for your home, a bidding environment, so Buyers will compete for the purchase. 3. Avoid the sale environment, where Buyers will offer below market value. 4. Study the recent sales in the neighborhood ^ NOT what the list/offer price was, but the sale price (your Coldwell Banker realtor can provide this detailed analysis). 5. Spend the time to visit homes for sale, go to Open Houses, talk to the owners and find out how many Buyers have visited their property and what comments they heard. 6. Put your paperwork in order: copies of your trust and deed, survey, inspection when you purchased, then complete the seller's disclosure ^ having these available will save you time and effort when you go into escrow and need to meet deadlines. 7. Know your Home Facts: type of roof, warranty, termite inspections, warranty, square footage, size of lanai and garage, is the property wheelchair accessible, plus any details necessary to successfully answer Buyer questions. 8. Consider a pre-offer inspection so you can knowledgeably discuss what possible concerns Buyers may have. 9. Prepare your home for sale ^ this is crucial! Presentation ^ or Staging, as it is called now, is key to making Buyers feel comfortable and ready to make an offer. 10. You will be moving anyway, so now is the time to get rid of extra furniture, have the garage sale, and pack up enough stuff to make the home appear spacious, clean, and ready for a new owner. 11. Look at your property through the eyes of a Buyer ^ be critical, then fix the negatives. 12. What will they see? Dirt? A house that needs to be painted? Clutter? Yard tools? Laundry? Clean it up! 13. What will they smell? Pets? Diapers? Last night's dinner? Mold? Stale tobacco? Deodorize and sanitize! (More Buyers are repelled by odors than feedback through the other senses.) 14. What will they hear? Dogs barking? Loud music? Kids fighting? Turn it down! 15. Remember: the way you live in your home is not the way to sell your home! 16. Depersonalize your property. Buyers want to imagine themselves in the home, not you. 17. Clear high-traffic areas of excess furniture. This will maximize space and make it easier for Buyers to view your home. 18. Highlight key features in each room, accessorize with color and light. 19. Get lost during showings, that means you and your pets and children. Let your Coldwell Banker Realtor show the home. 20. Get rid of the emotional attachment you have to the property. You won't be an effective negotiator if you can't set aside your emotions. 21. Fix the little things, leaking faucets, loose toilets, squeaking hinges, burned out bulbs. If you present too many deferred maintenance items, Buyers will wonder what else is wrong they don't see or hear. 22. Make your house or condo livable. Unless Buyers are looking for a "fixer" they don't want to spend the first month repairing and cleaning their "new" home. 23. Be realistic. If you don't have a million-dollar view and location, you home won't sell for a million dollars. 24. Be ready to negotiate and compromise. Give the buyers something they want, and they may give you a better price. 25. Consider the offer as a whole, not just price ^ terms, time to close, financial strength of Buyers, inclusions like appliances ^ these all affect the net value to you in the sale of your property. 26. Listen to your Coldwell Banker Realtor. You hired her or him for their professional experience. Use it.

New Gated Community of Prima Vista Started on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 22:16:35 -0400

As reported by the Daily Herald, "Preparation work on the infrastructure for Prima Vista,' a mid- to high-end gated community housing project, is underway in the hills of South Reward (Waymouth Hill) and Upper Prince's Quarter. "With an initial investment of US $3 million and spanning some 67,703 square metres of hillside, the Prima Vista property comprises 48 lots of approximately 1,200 to 2,500 square metres in area. The project offers three model homes, to which potential buyers can make some non-structural changes. "Owned and managed by real estate developer Gregory Berry, the lots will accommodate luxury villas for which Prima Vista N.V. has already secured a planning permit. The Prima Vista Estate Subdivision plan has been approved by the Island Territory of St. Maarten via the Spatial Development and Management Department (VROM)." Still under negotiation is the property where the road is planned, and the government is working with some of the landowners. The Herald continues, "So far, a few families have given their property (the specific piece for the road) to government at no cost, recognising the value the road will bring to their remaining properties. Once negotiations are completed with the families that are holding out, government is hoping to get Link 6 moving at the start of 2010." 4 lots have been sold, and the guard house is almost complete. Once the lots have been purchased, construction of the houses must begin within 3 years and completed within 12 months of the start of building. There are penalties for missing these deadlines. Prima Vista will be developed for residential use only, and no business or rentals will be allowed. While Prima Vista has a Website complete with blueprints of the homes, descriptions of the St. Maarten real estate market, planning permit, development standards and statutes of the N.V., with any new project you would be well served to visit with a local real estate agent. Contact any realtor in our Coldwell Banker office to discuss the opportunities and details of the Prima Vista development.

Witt's End Home for Sale on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:43:50 -0400

Charming family house with great ocean view located in the quiet residential area of Belair, only minutes from Philipsburg and Cole Bay. The main level of this home features a comfortable open floorplan (kitchen, day toilet, dinning area, living area). The covered terrace can be closed with electric shutters, the wooden deck is perfectly suited for barbecues or relaxed jacuzzi time. The lower floor is divided into a master bedroom with ensuite bath, 2 bedrooms which share a bath and a small office with separate entrance and an additional bathroom. A mature garden and parking further add to the appeal of this property. Fully furnished and ready to move in! 3.5 bedrooms/3.5 baths. Asking $465,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more details and photos of this spectacular home.

9 Steps to Buying a Home on St Maarten or St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:27:26 -0400

The homebuying process can seem complicated, but if you take things step-by-step, you will soon be holding the keys to your own home. Nine steps to buying a home 1. Figure out how much you can afford 2. Know your rights 3. Shop for a loan 4. Learn about homebuying programs 5. Shop for a home 6. Make an offer 7. Get a home inspection 8. Shop for homeowners insurance 9. Sign papers Step 1: Figure out how much you can afford What you can afford depends on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, downpayment and the interest rate. Online calculators can help, but it is best to visit a lender to find out for sure. A housing counselor or your Coldwell Banker agent can help you figure out how to manage and pay off your debt, and start saving for a downpayment. Step 2: Know your rights Check with your Coldwell Banker agent for the laws applicable to buying real estate. Be informed about the total cost of your loan including the interest rate, points and other fees. Ask questions about charges and loan terms that you do not understand. Step 3: Shop for a loan Save money by doing your homework. Talk to several lenders, compare costs and interest rates, negotiate to get a better deal. Consider getting pre-approved for a loan. Step 4: Learn about homebuying programs Ask your Coldwell Banker agent about special programs to help you into home ownership. Step 5: Shop for a home Know your needs and wants. Check on extra fees, like homeowner association dues or assessments. Step 6: Make an offer Discuss the process with your Coldwell Banker real estate agent. If the seller counters your offer, you may need to negotiate until you both agree to the terms of the sale. Step 7: Get a home inspection Make your offer contingent on a home inspection. An inspection will tell you about the condition of the home, and can help you avoid buying a home that needs major repairs. Step 8: Shop for homeowners insurance Lenders require that you have homeowners insurance. Be sure to shop around. Step 9: Sign papers You're finally ready to go to "settlement" or "closing." Be sure to read everything before you sign, and ask questions of your Coldwell Banker Realtor or the real estate attorney if you don't understand.

Villa Terres Basses Estate in St Martin Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:16:04 -0400

Villa Terres Basses is a spacious villa with panoramic lagoon, sea, Marigot, hills, Cupecoy, Maho, and Simpson Bay views. Size of estate is land : 1.5 ha (15000 m�). 320 M� to live, and 300 M� of covered terraces. 3 master bedrooms, 3 baths, under complete renovation. Asking $4,950,000. Visit our St Maarten Listing Page for more details and photos.

Plan your Business Meeting in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 23:52:02 -0400

A tax initiative now allows U.S. companies to receive the same tax benefits for meetings that take place in St. Maarten as if they were held in the U.S. This makes St Maarten a very attractive destination for meetings and conventions. Meeting planners can choose from a variety of properties including, but not limited to, the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino, The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa and Divi Little Bay Beach Resort. Travel Daily News provides this thumbnail view of each resort: "The Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino offers more than 25,000 square feet of meeting space accommodating up to 1,000 people. The resort offers ten indoor meeting and event options as well as six outdoor event spaces. Event coordinators and the onsite Conference Services Team can arrange corporate meetings, receptions, themed parties, dinners and various activities for large groups. "Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino offers a more intimate setting for smaller meetings offering more than 4,000 square feet of meeting space. The largest room measures 2,583 square feet, while banquet capacity at the resort can accommodate 275 - 300 guests. "With seven meeting spaces ideal for larger meetings and conferences, The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa can host up to 1,000 people in their 10,000 square feet of banquet and meeting spaces. The larger ballroom breaks down into five sections, allowing more flexibility, with freestanding meeting rooms that can accommodate anywhere from 10 - 120 people. "Divi Little Bay Beach Resort located eight miles from Princess Juliana International Airport can accommodate smaller gatherings of up to 36 people. Divi Little Bay Beach Resort offers those booking the event a free room when booking 20 rooms in high season, or 15 rooms in low season." Be sure to consider St Maarten for your next business meeting or convention. We have the facilities and the amenities to make your stay memorable.

Message from Jim Gillespie, Pres & CEO, Coldwell Banker

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:17:42 -0400

As the summer of 2009 comes to a close, Im proud to say Coldwell Banker Real Estate has had an amazingly successful year-to-date, filled with awards and accolades from the likes of J.D. Power and Associates and the Wall Street Journal. With the Fall season approaching, I thought this would be an excellent opportunity to take stock of what weve been able to accomplish so far this year. While other real estate companies have retreated during the recession, Coldwell Banker has continued to deliver game-changing moves that put the brand out front, attract consumers for the long run and, in turn, change the way business is done both in the U.S. and internationally. Coldwell Banker initially broke new ground this year in March with its use of Microsoft Surface as a new way of engaging homebuyers. Microsoft Surface turns an ordinary tabletop into a vibrant, interactive touch screen that stops consumers in their tracks when they see it. Through the touch of a hand, consumers can expand or contract the search area and locate listings, Coldwell Banker offices, and area amenities. Coldwell Banker affiliates are planning to utilize Microsoft Surface in malls, airports, hotel kiosks, high traffic offices, etc. to augment their local marketing efforts. After our debut of Microsoft Surface, Coldwell Banker really began to stake a claim as the most innovative real estate company in the world today with the launch of On Location, the Coldwell Banker YouTube channel, in early May. Previously an untapped real estate resource, YouTube and its parent company Google eagerly collaborated with Coldwell Banker to debut On Location. Utilizing the ultra-local insight Coldwell Banker affiliated sales professionals offer, consumers can now fully engage in real estate search and discovery, and drill deeper into the home buying and selling process. On Location takes Coldwell Banker agent profiles out of words and static images and into the vibrancy of video. Our sales associates now go to market with a differentiator that allows their personality and professionalism to shine through and instantly connect with consumers. Likewise, properties can gain a greater first impression than a series of photos can ever provide. To date, more than 300,000 have viewed the video content and agents have already posted more than 3,000 videos, to make On Location one of the most robust channels on YouTube. Coldwell Banker On Location complements the brand's flagship Web site (www.coldwellbanker.com) and extends the company's robust social media platform, which includes Facebook pages for the brand and its two founders, Colbert Coldwell and Arthur Banker, a Twitter feed, and profiles on Flickr and FriendFeed. And the excitement of our recent Iphone application announcement underscores even more how Coldwell Banker continues to raise the bar with interactive real estate technology. We are on TV, on the Web, on mobile phones. Our "get listings anytime, anywhere" mantra is working. We flexed our muscles during Coldwell Banker Legislative Week in late spring. Just days after so many Coldwell Banker broker/owners and managers met with U.S. Congressional leaders, I ventured to Capitol Hill and met with key members of the House and Senate, as well as the media, to have a dialogue on the critical issues still facing the real estate industry. The leadership role we have in the industry is because of our agents, the heart and soul of the Coldwell Banker organization. This summer, a respected third party has also recognized how good you are. Coldwell Banker was named the winner of the 2009 JD Power Seller Satisfaction Award in August, validating the fact that we have the best and most dedicated sales force in real estate. And a recent Wall Street Journal survey of its subscribers found Coldwell Banker would be the most considered brand for future transactions. Clearly, our sales efforts are being recognized by consumers. I couldn't be prouder of this outstanding brand. Wherever the consumer has come across Coldwell Banker over the past year, they have seen us redefine how the brand, the industry, and the entire real estate process is viewed. As we finish up 2009 with - hopefully - a renewed real estate vibrancy, I'm confident we will look back on this year as the time when Coldwell Banker took technology by the horns and created a new era in real estate innovation. Visit any of our Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates in the Caribbean to discuss our products, innovation, and commitment to customer service.

Is St Maarten Ready for Oasis of the Seas

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 19:01:52 -0400

The world's largest cruise ship will debut in December, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas. Statistics: Cabins/suites - 2700 2-story loft suites - 28 Passenger capacity - 6,300 Employees - 2,100 Restaurants/snack bars - 24 Pools - 4 Cost to build - $1.4 billion Base cost for a 7-night Caribbean cruise in March - $1,250 Royal Caribbean has named the vessel Oasis of the Seas, but the ship is so big -- and so full of bells and whistles -- that it seems less of an oasis and more like a floating amusement park. Among the attractions: 1. A zipline cable ride, which will carry guests across the top of the ship, with views of nine decks below. 2. A merry-go-round, with 21 animal figures, made by Carousel Works of Mansfield. 3. A Broadway-style rendition of "Hairspray," an ice show, and a diving and swimming show at the AquaTheater in the back of the ship. 4. A lush green space in the middle of the ship, called Central Park, with outdoor cafes, a sculpture garden and thousands of plants. Its sister ship, Allure of the Seas, equally large, will debut in late 2010. Also next year, Norwegian Cruise Line will introduce the 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic, the largest in its fleet. Even in the down economy, there seems to be a waterborne building spree. But it's not just Royal Caribbean that stands to benefit from the ship's success. The entire cruise industry may gain from the increased attention and publicity to this floating metropolis. Then again, this trend may deter many travelers who want a more personal travel venue. There are rumblings that these huge ships a) may not offer a travel experience at all, just a cruise, and b)that they will overwhelm the facilities at ports of call, St. Maarten among them. Oasis, whose first sailing is set for Saturday, Dec. 5, will start with weeklong eastern Caribbean itineraries, stopping at St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands; St. Maarten; and Nassau, in the Bahamas. In the spring, it will add a western Caribbean itinerary to the mix, with stops in Mexico and Labadee, Royal Caribbean's resort on the north coast of Haiti (and eventually Jamaica, where officials are building a new pier to accommodate the ship). The mega-cruise ship is not for everyone, but a multi-generational family should find something to please all ages - virtually one-stop cruising on board. And, of course, we welcome the travelers to our island.

St Maarten Great Hub for Island Hopping

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 20:14:48 -0400

"Thanks to our convenient and reliable airlift from every major U.S. gateway - and ideal location at the center of a small group of culturally significant islands in the Northeastern Caribbean - most island hoppers begin in St. Maarten, from where they can access countries such as Anguilla, St. Barths, Saba and St. Eustatius via fast, affordably-priced ferry or air transportation," said Regina Labega, Director of Tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. You can actually see Anguilla from the north side of our island - it almost seems close enough to swim." Labega continued, "Island hopping within a closely-knit circuit of island paradises such as those surrounding St. Maarten gives one the opportunity to fully experience the unique charm of each destination from cuisine to nightlife - both of which are among St. Maarten's strongest qualities." Anguilla is 7 miles north of St Maarten, offers great scuba diving because of its ecologically important coral formations such as Crystal Reef and Grouper's Bowl. Also, you can see a living limestone wall on Anguilla, home to 33 beaches covering 12 miles. St Barthelemy, or St Barths, is SE of St Maarten, known for its boutique hotels frequented by the rich and famous. Purchased by Sweden in the late 1700's, the island was sold back to France in the late 1800's. This history provides a blend of French and Swedish influence found nowhere else in the Caribbean. Saba, the smallest island in the Netherlands Antilles, is beautiful from lush vegetation rather than large beaches. Mt. Scenery, a dormant volcano of 2,877', takes up much of the island land mass. The island is known for its mango trees, and Elfin Forest Reserve, aptly named because of its misty and mossy atmosphere. St Eustatius, or Statia, is named after the Catholic Saint Eustace, and also a volcanic island featuring The Quill, now dormant. The island is a popular eco-tourism destination, where hikers can visit the caldera and see diverse vegetation and rare and endangered animal species. Be sure and spend some time in St Maarten on your way out or back from island hopping. Located at the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, the island has 37 breathtaking beaches and is home to many historical and family-oriented attractions. Visit the St Maarten Tourist Bureau site for ideas and information. (resource: TravelVideo)

Tips for Preparing Your St Maarten Home for an Open House

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:35:54 -0400

Every seller wants his or her home to sell quickly and bring top dollar. While there are some factors you can't control, like neighborhood popularity and market fluctuations, you can help your house put on its best face for showings and open houses. If you want to sell your home, here are some tips to prepare your house and turn it into an irresistible home. Before any physical preparations, you first need to prepare yourself emotionally. Begin to dissociate yourself, and decide to let go of your attachments to the home. From now on, this is a house you really want to sell, not your own beloved home. It's important that potential buyers can imagine calling your house "home," too. Make it easier for them by de-personalizing the space. Remove personal photos and family heirlooms. Buyers should be allowed to connect with the space, and to imagine displaying their own photos and artifacts. You want buyers to think, "I could see myself living here." It's no surprise that you'll want a tidy house for a showing, but what about those hidden areas of the home? Buyers need to look everywhere; they will open cupboards and peer into closets. So, make sure storage areas are organized, and that clothes hang neatly in the closets. Stack dishes and re-arrange kitchen drawers. Tidy other stored items, like books, games or CD's. Bathrooms and kitchens should be especially clean, with counters clear of miscellaneous personal items and knick-knacks. Don't forget the outside of the home. Give your house curb appeal by trimming the lawn, sweeping the front walk, and artfully arranging outdoor furniture. Now is the time to take care of those bothersome little repairs you've been putting off for years. Buyers will notice the flaws that you've grown accustomed to. From replacing light bulbs, to cleaning scuff marks off walls, to replacing missing tiles in the bathroom, or fixing the broken screen door, take care to repair all the minor problems with the house before the open house. While you may know which aspects of your home you love, having a fresh set of eyes to scrutinize its best features is a smart idea. If you want to sell your home, take the time to walk through it methodically with your Coldwell Banker real estate agent. Together you can point out which features of the home should be accentuated - and which elements should be downplayed. Does your home have a wonderful view? Draw attention to it by sprucing up window treatments and arranging furniture to draw the eye toward the windows. Is the kitchen small and cramped? Make the most of it by lighting the space well, clearing counters of debris and displaying a vase of fresh flowers. If you want to take window coverings, built-in appliances or fixtures with you when you sell your home, remove them now. If the chandelier in the dining room once belonged to your great grandmother, take it down. If a buyer never sees it, he won't want it. Once you tell a buyer he can't have an item, he will covet it, and it could blow your deal. Pack those items and replace them, if necessary. Finally, when it comes time for the open house, try to avoid being home. Not only does it make buyers uncomfortable, but it can interfere with your Coldwell Banker real estate agent's sales process. Whether you head to the office or just out for a walk with the dog, you can rest assured that in your absence, your house will look enticing to its new owners! Contact our Coldwell Banker office for more tips on getting ready to sell your property.

St Maarten Appoints New Commissioner of Tourism

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:24:28 -0400

Frans George Richardson has been appointed the new Commissioner of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Aviation and Sports. Prior to this he served for three years as a Senator representing St. Maarten in the Netherlands Antilles Parliament. Richardson said, "Tourism is St. Maarten's most important industry and the pillar of our economy, but it's also what we do best with 37 immaculate beaches and the most restaurants found on any Caribbean island." He is optimistic even with the worldwide economic downturn that tourism can be developed and make a more positive impact. He emphasized that St Maarten is strategically positioned with convenient airlift from most major US markets. "Airlift will continue to be a major focus for our government so that we are well positioned to reap the benefits of a massive influx of tourism as soon as the global economy begins to recover," he added. (resource: CayCompass)

St Maarten-St Martin Classic Yacht Regatta planned for January, 2010

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 23:49:07 -0400

The Fifth Invitational St.Maarten-St.Martin Classic Yacht Regatta will again take place during the third week-end of January, from Thursday the 21st until Sunday the 24th. The regatta organization has teamed up with Holland House Beach Hotel on the boardwalk in Philipsburg where they will have their headquarters. The first race day starts out of Great Bay to Marigot, the second one is from Marigot to Philipsburg and the final day will see the yachts leaving again out of Great Bay to return there in the afternoon. Organizers expect 20=30 yachts to participate. Visit CaribbeanRacing.com for the preliminary program.

Coldwell Banker St Maarten Leads Again with Technology You Want

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:11:47 -0400

As reported by RISMedia, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC announced the launch of the first-ever international home search application for iPhoneTM and AndroidTM-powered devices. The Coldwell Banker Real Estate mobile application enables users to easily search for property listings and recent home sales in 28 countries in North America, Europe, Central America, Caribbean, Australia and South America. The results of these searches as well as the search itself can be saved in a personalized 'My Coldwell Banker' account newly created from the user's smartphone or added to an existing account with coldwellbanker.com by logging into the site directly from the handheld device. Unique to the Coldwell Banker application, searches that are saved to an app-created 'My Coldwell Banker' account will automatically generate notifications of new properties and open houses, alerting the user to updated results right on the device's homepage. "While the desktop computer remains a proven screen, Coldwell Banker recognizes that today's technologically-savvy consumers are also using smartphones to access information on-the-go," said Michael Fischer, senior vice president of marketing for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "We are committed to improving the consumer experience and will continue to introduce innovative technology such as this mobile application to provide our customers with up-to-date home data the moment they want it and to wherever they may be." Contact any of our Coldwell Banker affiliate offices in the Caribbean for your real estate needs.

Invest in St Maarten Real Estate

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 22:28:46 -0400

Imagine waking to this view every day, or at least when you go on vacation from the ice and snow. This spectacular view is available in a 1 bedroom/1 bath home in Saunders, of Dutch St Maarten. The condo has central A/C, ceiling fans, wireless internet, exterior hurricane shutters, a refrigerator, updated kitchen, and private parking. Make this your starter 2nd home or buy as a rental investment. Priced at only $110,000 US. Contact our Coldwell Banker St Maarten office for more details.

Visit St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:25:40 -0400

It's hard to choose a Caribbean Island for your vacation because they are all beautiful, offer relaxation and blue water and sunshine. But some are more diverse, and some just are more special. St Martin stands out because of having two cultures and two governments on one island. The sides of the island are two very distinct destinations formed through separate histories, one Dutch, and the other a French colony. The result is a vibrant mix of Dutch, French and Afro-Caribbean cultures that separates this little piece of paradise from other Caribbean islands. Even though the Caribbean is so close to the continental United States, very few of the islands have airports capable of landing large passenger jets. St Martin is an exception, and many non-stop flights arrive every day from US airports across the country. For those flying from the eastern states, this location also offers the advantage of being in the same time zone. St. Martin is a genuine shopper's paradise provides all the very latest in Paris fashions, available at around 40% less than you would pay in Paris or New York. St. Martin is the undisputed fashion center of the islands. Weather is another plus for visiting St Martin. Not as hot as some islands, for instance Aruba, nor as frequent in the hurricane pathway, St. Martin enjoys four seasons. Wintertime offers long sunny warm days and cool evenings, making it the most popular time to visit. The summer months can be hot, but are always tempered by cooling trade winds. You can nearly always be guaranteed weather that will be comfortable for your visit. If you choose to visit our island, be sure and stop by the Coldwell Banker office to talk about real estate opportunities here. (photo is Sangri-La in exclusive Terres Basses, St Martin, one accommodation offered by St Maarten Villas/St Martin Villas for Rent, Blue Ocean Villas.)

Units Available in Mont Vernon Hotel of St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:44:38 -0400

2 exclusive residences available in the Mont Vernon Hotel, oceanfront homes on French St Martin. These are furnished, have a common pool, are close to stores and Orient Bay. Built in 1990, the 2 homes are studios with private bath. Each listed at $162,000. Contact our St Maarten Coldwell Banker office for details, or visit our listing page.

Coldwell Banker Gender Survey

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:56:30 -0400

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC recently surveyed 1,000 individuals to discover how much men and women differ in the home-buying process. Using a third-party research firm, International Communications Research (ICR), they used questions such as "How long did it take for you to know that the last home you purchased was right for you?" and "If you found the home of your dreams but had concerns about its security, would you still be interested?" "The results were surprising," said Diann Patton, the Coldwell Banker consumer real estate expert. "Not only did we uncover some of the inherent differences between men and women, but we also pinpointed a number of ways that the two genders are actually the same. For example, both men and women are increasingly concerned with having a space to work in their homes- something we would not have seen 40 years ago." Patton continued, "We also found that feeling insecure about a home's safety is a deal-breaker for most people, regardless of gender." As reported by RISMedia, "Below are some key highlights from the Coldwell Banker Real Estate study: Women may be inclined to make up their mind more quickly than men. -When asked how long it took before they knew their home was "right" for them, almost 70% of women had made up their mind the day they walked into the house, vs. 62% of men. Conversely, significantly more men needed two or more visits: (32% of men vs. 23% of women). Women would rather live closer to their extended family than to their job.-55 percent of women find it more important to be closer to their extended family (those that do not live in their household) than to their job, compared to only 37% of men. A home's security is a deal-breaker for both men and women. -64 percent of women said that if they found the home of their dreams but had concerns about its security, they would no longer be interested. More than half of men agreed (51%). Couples say that no one "wears the pants in the relationship" in terms of major financial decisions.-When asked who wears the pants in the relationship (when it comes to major financial decisions, such as purchasing a home), almost 70% of respondents living with their significant other said it's actually mutual. -However, 23% think that they, themselves, wear the pants in the relationship, not their partner. More men than women said this (26% vs. 20%, respectively). Men and women agree on how they would use a spare room, for the most part. When the respondents were asked how they would use an extra 12 x 12 room if it could be anything they wanted, men and women agreed on the top three most popular, and very practical, responses: -Bedroom: 25% -Office/Study: 15% -Family Room / Den: 11% However, men really do want a "Man Cave."-Interestingly, out of the 8% who indicated they would turn that spare room into an entertainment center, it was a preponderance of men leading the charge. In fact, four times as many men as women said they would use the extra space for recreation / entertainment." According to Patton, "These results further validate how critical it is for couples to recognize each other's differences and work together, from picking a neighborhood to how to use a spare room," she said. "Online tools and the expertise of a real estate professional can be particularly helpful for couples, especially if they work together step-by-step along the way." Contact your local Coldwell Banker agent or office for expert real estate information.

St Maarten Real Estate and Hurricanes

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:36:50 -0400

With the first tropical system of the season threatening the Caribbean Islands, this is a good time to start thinking about smart real estate choices. Our advice is simple; when purchasing St Maarten real estate, check to see if the property is low lying. Ideally, if you are buying a seafront home, you'll want the property to be elevated or, at least above sea level. Be careful of homes built close to the water on a sand beach. Hurricane force waves are very destructive and you may find your real estate has shifted. However, having said that, there are smart ways to build on the coast. We know of a homeowner who suffered serious house damage during a hurricane in the 1990s. Her home was one block from the sea. She noted that nearby residents directly on the coast weathered the storm without damage. So she rebuilt on a piece of real estate she owned on the beach. The new home is built on concrete pilings and, when put to the test a few years ago, it came through with flying colours. A word of warning: insurance on seaside homes can be high. Another piece of advice; we love planting shade and fruit bearing trees on our property in the Caribbean. The trees provide large green umbrellas to picnic under, food, shelter for our native birds and they are environmentally appealing. Do not plant trees within falling distance of your home; they can lead to severe roof damage. Your insurance may not cover roof damage. A lot of us inherited large trees growing close to our homes, so we make sure any large branches are trimmed during hurricane season. It's also important to trim coconuts as they can turn into cannon balls during a bad storm. Although several storms typically threaten our islands every year, the vast majority skirt St Maarten-St Martin. If a bad storm does come our way, our homes become our refuge. Many of us have generators in case of power cuts. Some of us will make a batch of conch fritter batter or some other comfort food, invite family and friends over and have a 'hurricane party.'

The Tourist Side of St Maarten/St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 20:54:05 -0400

WorldNow Travel site, and the author did a credible job of portraying the beauty and attractions of our island (with help from Frommer's). By way of introduction, they explain, "For an island with a big reputation for restaurants, hotels, and energetic nightlife, St. Maarten is small -- only 96 sq. km (37 sq. miles), about half the area of Washington, D.C, the smallest territory in the world shared by 2 sovereign states. Legend has it that a gin-drinking Dutchman and a wine-guzzling Frenchman walked around the island to see how much territory each could earmark for his country in a day; the Frenchman walked farther, but the canny Dutchman got the more valuable piece of property." Now, though, "Returning visitors who haven't been to the island for a while are often shocked when they see today's St. Maarten. No longer a sleepy Caribbean backwater, now it's a boomtown. Duty-free shopping has turned the island into a virtual mall, and the Dutch capital, Philipsburg, is often bustling with cruise-ship hordes. Although the island's 39 white-sand beaches remain unspoiled, much has been lost to the bulldozer on St. Maarten. This is not a place for people who don't like crowds, so if you want to get away from it all, head for other islands or at least the French side..." "The French side of the island has a slightly different character. It's been undergoing a building boom of late, with lots of new hotels opening, but for now at least, it's still sleepier than the Dutch side. Most hotels tend to be quieter and more secluded than their Dutch counterparts, and you won't be overwhelmed with cruise-ship crowds. There are no dazzling sights, and there's no spectacular nightlife. Even the sports scene on St. Martin isn't as well organized as on many Caribbean islands (though the Dutch side has golf and other diversions). Most people come to St. Martin to relax on its many white-sand beaches and to experience 'France in the Tropics.'" French St Martin is distinctly French, with direct representation in the government in Paris. So when you plan your trip to our island, plan to visit both the Dutch and French "sides" and enjoy both. Stop by our Coldwell Banker office while you are here to discuss our real estate opportunities too.

7 Steps to Prepare for the Closing of your St Maarten real estate purchase

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 21:42:06 -0400

After making the decision to purchase a home, many buyers are surprised by the amount of work required for a successful closing. To ensure that you are prepared to close on the home, you should develop a checklist of necessary steps with your Coldwell Banker real estate agent. As you prepare to complete the sale and move into your new home, consider the tips offered here concerning the most important tasks facing homebuyers. 1. After you have filed your loan application and placed a deposit on the home, your mortgage lender will provide you with an estimate of closing costs. As the amount provided by the mortgage lender is merely an estimate and can change prior to closing, you are allowed to inspect all the loan documents the day before closing. Once you have confirmed the amount, including the remainder of the down payment, you will need to obtain a certified or cashier's check. In most cases, personal checks are not acceptable for payment of closing costs, so work with your Coldwell Banker agent if you have concerns about the proper methods of payment. 2. Most real estate professionals recommend performing a final walk-through inspection of the home before finalizing the sale. In most cases, the contract between both parties will include a clause allowing the buyer to inspect the property within the 24 hours prior to closing. At this time, the buyer should make sure the home is vacated, all appliances that the seller agreed to leave in the home are intact, and any repairs included in the terms of the sale have been completed. If needed, you can also request that the seller perform a walkthrough with you to explain all of the home's details. 3. For the most part, this final walkthrough is the buyer's last opportunity to ensure the terms of the contract are met. If any problems are uncovered during the inspection, you can work with your agent to obtain funds from the seller for repairs or postpone the closing until all repairs are made. 4. Another requirement of the closing process is the purchase of homeowner's insurance. Required by nearly all mortgage lenders, this insurance protects both homeowner and lender against loss in case of damage to the home. Most homeowner's insurance policies will include personal liability for the buyer ^ protecting the homeowner in the event of accident or injury on the property ^ and a combination of coverage against theft, fire, flood and region-specific weather concerns. By working with your Coldwell Banker real estate agent and mortgage lender, you should be able to find an acceptable policy that meets the requirements of the loan. At the time of closing, you will need to provide proof of insurance to the mortgage lender before finalizing the sale. 5. In some cases, title insurance may also be required by your mortgage lender. This simple policy protects both the buyer and lender in the event that problems with the title are uncovered after the sale is finalized. If required, both the lender and homeowner need individual title insurance policies, yet these are usually combined into a joint policy to be financed by the buyer. 6. Prior to the closing date, the buyer should also transfer all utility accounts from the seller. Besides being a required part of many closing proceedings, this small step will ensure that your new home is ready for move-in after the sale is completed. 7. On closing day, you can expect to sit down with the seller, your Coldwell Banker agent, your lender and the real estate legal representative to finalize the sale. If you have completed the steps outlined here and arrive with proper documentation, you can expect a smooth closing. In fact, if you follow your checklist prior to closing day, you can begin focusing on life in your new home as soon as you like.

Sun Country Airlines to Serve St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:52:46 -0400

As part of its expanded winter service, Sun Country will offer customers nonstop flights from Minneapolis/St. Paul to the following destinations: Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, Cozumel, Ft Myers, Harlingen, Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, Mazatlan, Miami, Montego Bay, Orlando, Puerto Vallarta, Punta Cana, and St. Maarten. The flights, which will begin between fall of 2009 and spring of 2010, will be operated with a combination of fuel-efficient Boeing 737 aircraft. MN Airlines, LLC, d.b.a. Sun Country Airlines, is based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Sun Country, which has earned a reputation for offering world class service at an affordable price, was recently named in the "Top Ten Domestic Airlines" by Travel+Leisure for the fourth year in a row and Cond� Nast Traveler for the third year in a row.

Commercial Real Estate Opportunity on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 21:23:47 -0400

On Walter Nisbeth Rd, this commercial property is 363 lot size, asking $525,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page to request more information.

Coldwell Banker Best in Seller Service

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 17:18:52 -0400

Coldwell Banker scored highest on the customer-service rankings among home sellers in the annual J.D Power and Associates 2009 Home Buyer/Seller study. The study measured customer satisfaction with the largest national real estate companies. The most significant factor was the buyer/seller experience with the practitioner (47%). Other factors included overall experience with the office (28%) and satisfaction with special services offered, like referrals to inspectors and lawyers (25%). Home sellers also rated marketing. Among the related findings: * Home sellers report that, on average, 3.2 open houses were conducted for their property in 2009, compared with 4.5 in 2008. * Approximately 64 percent of home sellers used a Web site listing to market their home in 2009, up from 61 percent in 2008. For both buyers and sellers, the agent was still the most important driver of overall satisfaction. However, the importance of agents declined substantially from 2008, while the importance of additional services increased considerably -- by 12 percentage points among buyers and 8 percentage points among sellers. In addition, actual usage of many of these services decreased from 2008. Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates will meet and exceed your expections of real estate service. Stop by and see what we do so well.

Visit St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 17:16:10 -0400

The cultural diversity of St. Maarten springs from its historical role as a crossroads for visitors to the New World. Dutch, French and British traders brought European traditions, while Afro-Caribbean people brought the language and culture of West Africa. Today the range of influences is reflected in the number of languages spoken. Dutch is the official language, but English is taught in schools and spoken everywhere, while other common languages are Spanish and Papiamento, the dialect of the Netherlands Antilles. St. Maarten's premier cultural event is its annual Carnival, which includes parades, calypso competitions, reggae shows, and an endless array of stands serving traditional island food. St. Maarten's modern amenities cater to every interest, from watersports to horseback riding. Among the water activities are boating, sailing, diving, watersports, snorkeling, and dolphin swimming. There are golf courses, biking trails, horseback trails, a Road Runners Club, and skydiving. Hotels and air fares are on special right now - come visit us, and look at the real estate buys available now! For more information on things to do, visit Geographica.com.

Investment Property Available in Parrot of St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:51:44 -0400

Investment property with 5 residential apartments, 50 m2 Shop, 2-car garage, 2 green houses and private pool. Sea views, gated community. Asking $1,500,000. Read more details on our Coldwell Banker Listing page.

Planning to Buy on St Maarten? Ask the Seller These Questions

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:50:34 -0400

The process leading up to making an offer on a home can be a daunting. After you've found the right property, you will still need to assess various factors that can impact both the details of your offer and the seller's willingness to work with you. After you have been prequalified for a loan, and are ready to make an offer on a home, start by getting some information about the seller and their motivation. Ask these directly when you tour the home, or make sure your Coldwell Banker agent gets you the answers. Here are some probing questions: 1. Why are you selling? In some sense, what you are really asking is, "How motivated are you to sell your home?" Assessing the type of answer you receive to this question will help you and your Realtor structure a potential offer. For instance, if the homeowner has already purchased another property or the family is trying to relocate, you might be dealing with a flexible seller. 2. How much did you pay for your home? If you don't want to ask this directly, have your Coldwell Banker agent find out through the tax records. This might seem like privileged information, such statistics are actually public record. Generally speaking, the seller who purchased their home for a low price and built up equity in the property over several years may be more flexible when approached with offers. On the other hand, homeowners who haven't seen such an increase in their home's value might be more reluctant to lower their asking price. After gaining an understanding of how the seller might treat a potential offer, you may want to ask questions about the upkeep of the home and the amenities of the surrounding neighborhood. 3. What types of repairs have been done recently? If you have specific concerns, like pest treatment or a new roof, be sure and convey these to your Realtor. Homeowners will always be happy to tell you about upgrades that have been made to the home, but you may want to pay attention to what isn't mentioned. It is important to ask because you will be able to tell if a kitchen or bathroom was remodeled after viewing the home or consulting the disclosure document, but you might miss some smaller issues that could impact the details of your offer. To further protect yourself against surprise renovation costs in a new home, you may want to verify the age and working condition of all major appliances. If possible, check the service records of important appliances (furnaces, water heaters, etc.) as these often serve as markers of a home's overall upkeep. You can also try securing a monthly estimate of utility costs; these statistics will not only help you estimate future costs but could potentially highlight unhealthy energy consumption within the home's infrastructure. 4. What can you tell me about the neighborhood? Allow the seller to tell you the good and the bad. By asking the seller for their overall impressions of the neighborhood, you will probably learn things about the area that a more specific question might not have yielded. Follow up the seller's initial response with questions that are important to you and your family. Based on your needs, you could ask questions like the following: Is there any new construction planned in the neighborhood? What are your thoughts about the nearest schools? Are any businesses or schools scheduled to close? How would you describe the neighbors? The research you conduct with your Coldwell Banker agent prior to making an offer is one of the best ways to ensure that your family finds the right home for the right price. As you approach the offer stage, remember that you are not alone and can work closely with your Coldwell Banker Realtor to learn as much as possible about the property and the details of the buying process. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you have questions or concerns about a potential offer. Though the process of making an offer on a property may seem stressful, your diligence will pay off when you finally find a house to call home.

Bleu Rivage Home on St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:38:44 -0400

Condo in Monte Vista with spectacular view of Great Bay listed at $425,000. 1/1, gated, pool For more details and photos, visit our Coldwell Banker listing page.

Jet Blue Special Fares to St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:43:49 -0400

JetBlue Airways is pleased to announce "The But Wait, There's More!" ten day sale for fall travel to more than 56 destinations in the carrier's network, with fares starting as low as $29. Customers must book travel online at www.jetblue.com by Wednesday, August 5, 2009. For instance, New York JFK to/from St Maarten - ONLY $149 There are many specials to other Caribbean destinations you could visit and include St Maarten in the itinerary. Fares require up to a 14-day advance purchase. Fare sales are one way. Certain restrictions and blackout dates apply (a). Travel must take place between September 8, 2009 and December 16, 2009. Travel must be completed by December 16, 2009. About Jet Blue Airways(from their press release) New York-based JetBlue Airways has created a new airline category based on value, service and style. Known for its award-winning service and free TV as much as its low fares, JetBlue is now pleased to offer customers Lots of Legroom and super-spacious Even More Legroom seats. JetBlue introduced complimentary in-flight e-mail and instant messaging services on aircraft "BetaBlue," a first among U.S. domestic airlines. JetBlue is also America's first and only airline to offer its own Customer Bill of Rights, with meaningful and specific compensation for customers inconvenienced by service disruptions within JetBlue's control. JetBlue currently serves 56 cities with 650 daily flights. New service to Baltimore begins on September 9. The airline also intends to commence service to Barbados (October 1); Saint Lucia (October 26); and Kingston, Jamaica (October 30). See you in St Maarten! (resource: PrNewsWire)

Another Chance at the Atlantica Beach Club in St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 20:45:30 -0400

Condo available in the Dawn Beach Estate, Atlantica Beach Club, St Maarten, in stunning oceanfront location. 3 bedrooms/2.5 baths, gated, terrace, appliances, and AC. Asking $575,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page for more details and photos.

Using Curb Appeal to Help Sell your St Maarten Property

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:29:26 -0400

As more homebuyers and real estate agents use the internet to research properties, first impressions are more important than ever. Before scheduling appointments or visiting open houses, homebuyers and their agents will often drive by homes for sale and make assessments based on the exterior. More often than not, if a homebuyer doesn't like the outside of a home, they won't care to see the inside. Yet, it is possible to dramatically alter the appearance of your home with a few simple tasks. As you prepare to list your home, consider implementing some of the tips mentioned here to maximize your property's curb appeal. Before you begin making repairs to the exterior of your home, you may want to analyze your home from a distance. Look at your home from the outside and try to pinpoint the best and worst qualities of the property. As you walk towards your home, try to make note of both your first impressions and any elements that stand out. When looking at your home from the exterior, you may also want to compare its appearance to other homes in the neighborhood. This holds true for both single family and condos. While you may feel as if you know the details of your home intimately, this step can help you think like a potential buyer and assist you in maximizing the curb appeal. When it is time to get to work, you should approach the exterior of your home in the same way you would a bedroom or kitchen. Just as you wouldn't want a prospective home buyer to see dirty dishes in your sink, you want to make sure the front of your home is as attractive as possible. While the chores associated with maximizing curb appeal will differ from home to home, the following are the most common and effective methods of enticing potential buyers indoors for a closer look: ^Paint ^ Perhaps the most effective of all pre-sale repairs, a simple coat of paint to the exterior, doors, windows, and trim can make your home appear well cared for and in good condition. When painting the exterior of the home, you may also want to consider if new door knobs and other hardware could boost the appearance of your home. If you don't replace any of the metal on the exterior of your home, polishing brass hardware and cleaning or painting iron fences can also give your home a fresh look. ^Lawn ^ There are a number of landscaping tricks that may improve the curb appeal of your home. First, the lawn should be mowed, raked and edged. Next, try to thoroughly weed all planter boxes, trim larger plants and include some extra flowers near the front of the house. If any large trees hang over your home or obscure the view from the street, you may want to cut away some large branches. You may also want to consider investing some extra money into landscaping by hiring professionals to make your front yard as attractive as possible. ^Windows and Gutters ^ Much like the fresh paint applied to the exterior, taking time to clean the windows can certainly change the appearance of your home. Likewise, try to keep your rain gutters free of leaves and debris as you never know where a potential homebuyer might look. ^Driveway ^ If you have an old, cracked driveway, hiring a professional to reseal the surface can add to your home's curb appeal. If the driveway rests in direct sight in front of the home, this step can become even more important. If you have off-street parking without a carport or garage, make sure the area is clean and tidy (see Lawn above). ^Lighting ^ As potential homebuyers could drive by your property at any time, you want to make sure your home is inviting at night. By installing outside lighting - even a front porch light ^ you will dramatically boost your home's 24/7 curb appeal. If you anticipate potential homebuyers coming onto the property after dark, calm lighting that lines the driveway and path to the front door can put your visitors at ease. ^Pressure Clean ^ This process can be applied to both the exterior of the home and the driveway. Just one treatment can eliminate years of dirt, mold and mildew from your property. If you need to improve the curb appeal of your home before putting it up for sale, the best tool could be your ability to think like a buyer. By repairing or minimizing your property's flaws and drawing attention to key selling points, you may be surprised by the responses you receive from potential homebuyers. Contact your local Coldwell Banker agent for specific suggestions on how to Improve Curb Appeal to Sell Your Home.

Atlantica Beach Club in St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:40:07 -0400

Nice apartment fully renovated, with panoramic ocean view. The unit have 2 bedrooms, 2 and a half bathrooms, dressings, open furnished kitchen, living and dining rooms, terrace, sale fully furnished. Parking, infinity common pool,secured residence. Around 160 m� fit to live. Asking $650,000. View details on our Coldwell Banker listing page.

Let's Talk about Buying Real Estate in St Martin/St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (James Sarles) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:48:04 -0400

When is the best time to buy a house? With so many homes on the market and a sluggish market, now might be one of the best times in recent memory to buy a home. While buyers have the advantage in today's real estate market, they still need to be savvy in order to get the best deal. Throughout history there have always been business cycles of recession and recovery which correlate to great real estate markets and soft markets. In other words, the direction of economic activity eventually changes so now that the market is down you have to be prepared for the market to recover. Many times in these past cycles, the world economy started to recover well before anyone really realized that the recession was ending. If you keep a watchful eye on the news even when the statistics show high unemployment and it looks like a vicious downward cycle that will never end, the economy could actually be on its way to recovery. In the Caribbean, we are directly influenced by the world economy and as things get better in the world investors will return to the island and we will get back on track. So here are some things I urge homebuyers to keep in mind while the market is soft and it is a buyer's market with a lot of property on the market and good deals all around: * Don't try to time the market: when home prices are low, it is very tempting for buyers to wait as long as possible in the hopes that prices will decline even further. This strategy can be detrimental. Once a home is priced to what the current market will bear, buyers will make offers. It is best to make an offer based upon the prices at which similar homes in the market are selling for. In a buyer's market, there are more opportunities for negotiations, but making an offer is the right step. If you find a great deal on a house that has great future potential if you wait too long you might miss the opportunity and the market may climb and the owner may raise the price. So now is the time. * Take your time ^ to a degree: the increased supply of homes on the market gives homebuyers a great opportunity to evaluate a variety of properties. However, this does not mean that homebuyers can procrastinate. Don't be a "wouldof couldof shouldof." Be a proud owner of a great house at a great price. If you find a great deal go for it. * Homes are selling: properly priced homes are selling. There is property selling for realistic market prices and buyers are getting great deals that they will be proud of in years to come. * Watch the mortgage rates: while it is true that mortgage rates have risen over the past few years, the increase has not been so dramatic as to significantly impact a monthly mortgage payment. Be sure to watch the rates and do the math carefully, because changes in mortgage rates are not necessarily cost prohibitive. * Negotiate on the incentives: Sellers eager to move their homes may offer a variety of incentives such as cars, boats furniture, and other deal sweeteners. Before accepting an incentive, make sure it makes sense. This is one of those moments in history where a savvy investor has the opportunity to do very well in real estate. I wish you all great success in your real estate hunting. There are many skilled Coldwell Banker agents throughout our affiliates in the Caribbean, who can help you make your dreams a reality. So call them and get your piece of Paradise!

Dawn Beach Estate Lot in St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:01:54 -0400

Multi-family lot with ocean view. Asking $450,000. See more photos on our Coldwell Banker listing page.

10 Important Tips to Successful Real Estate Investing in St Martin or St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:58:22 -0400

Be a Real Estate Investor - 10 Important Secrets When it comes to investing, everybody has certain goals and aspirations. However, we have found that there are certain guidelines every aspiring real estate investor needs to know: 1. Compare Property Values and Rents Financial statistics only go so far; the best measure of a property's market value is often the sale prices of nearby properties. The same holds true for area rents. A low price can often be justified by a reasonable rent; renters who can afford a high rent can afford to buy instead, so reasonably priced rent is a need. 2. Be Careful - Tax Laws May Change Don't base your tax investment on current tax laws. The tax code is constantly changing, and a good investment is a good investment regardless of the tax code. The right property with the right financing is what you should look for as an investor. 3. Specialize In Something You Know Start in a market segment you know. Whether you focus on fixer-uppers, foreclosures, starter homes, low-down payment properties, condominiums, or small apartment buildings, you'll benefit from experience by specializing in one aspect of investment real estate properties. 4. Know The Costs Going In Know the financial statements inside out. What are operating expenses? What are loan payments? Vacancy costs? Taxes? What does the cash flow statement look like? These are key issues that must be addressed before making a solid investment. 5. Know Where Your Tenants Are Coming From If the last rent increase was recent, your tenants may be considering a move. If tenants have a short-term lease, they may be living there simply to attract unsuspecting buyers. It is also important to collect the tenants' security deposits at closing. 6. Assess The Tax Situation Taxes are an integral part of successful real estate investing, and they often make the difference between a positive cash flow and a negative one. Know the tax situation, and see how it can be manipulated to your advantage. It may be a good idea to consult a tax advisor. 7. Investigate Insurance Coverage If seller's coverage is based on lower-than-current replacement value, your insurance cost may increase when you pay a higher purchase price. 8. Confirm Utility Costs Ask the local utilities to verify recent utility expenses, especially if any of these costs are included in your tenant's rent. 9. Consult Your Accountant Taxation is a key element of successful real estate investing, so be sure to find an accountant who is well-versed with the constantly evolving tax code. 10. Inspect Make sure that you always perform a thorough inspection of the property before buying it. Never, ever buy any property without at least examining the site. In some cases, hiring professional inspectors to examine the structural mechanical system may be a sound investment.

Taste of St Maarten Great Success

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:35:40 -0400

Topper's Restaurant was the host for this years Taste of St Maarten, and the St Maarten AIDS Foundation the year's charity. Toppers encouraged restaurants and other businesses that were part of the culinary event to give at least ten per cent of their day's earning to the foundation. 16 restaurants participated in the 2nd annual event, offering conch soup, BBQ ribs and chicken, and many local entrees. Jolly Boys, an old fashioned string band with some modern twists, filled the air with music. TheDailyHerald wrote, "Taste of St. Maarten/St. Martin stands alone, according to some attendees, because it is possibly the only event held in the off season. 'Sometimes we forget that visitors are also here in the off season and they also need to be entertained,' one patron said, as he congratulated the Topper's family for a wonderful Sunday afternoon."

WestJet to Serve St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:15:33 -0400

WestJet Airlines Ltd. announced what it calls its largest seasonal non-stop flight schedule. The Calgary-based airline will this fall start flying to a record eight new international destinations and three additional U. S. destinations for the winter of 2009-2010. WestJet and WestJet Vacations will launch seasonal non-stop service to Varadero, Holguin and Cayo Coco, Cuba; Ixtapa and Cozumel, Mexico; St. Martin;Providenciales, Turks and Caicos; Freeport, Bahamas; Lihue (Kauai), Hawaii; Miami,;and Atlantic City, N. J. Chris Avery, WestJet's VP of revenue and planning, said, ""We're still in the early growth stages of our expansion into the Caribbean and into Mexico," where WestJet has less than 10 per cent market share. He continued, "We feel there's good growth opportunities for us to increase our share profitably into the Caribbean and Mexico." Service to St Martin starts Nov. 1, 2009. Read more at VancouverSun.

What is Home Staging and How Might it Help Sell My House in St Maarten or St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:53:45 -0400

In the last few years, home staging has become an increasingly popular method of preparing a home for sale. However, home staging involves far more than the cleaning and minor repairs required to put your home on the market. The process of staging a home is actually an in-depth dressing of a home to make the property seem as appealing as possible to prospective buyers. Home staging professionals use a variety of methods to help homeowners sell their properties, incorporating both amenities already inside the home and a number of special products. When preparing to sell your home, you may want to think about some of the home staging methods outlined here to help you find the right buyer. Props At its most simple, home staging is about setting the right mood for prospective buyers. By decorating and arranging a home's interior to present an ideal way of life, buyers are assisted in visualizing themselves in your home. Whether you undertake the process of staging your own home or decide to consult a professional, there are a number of different "props" that may be used around the home. For example, to add a vibrant sense of life to the home, many home staging professionals recommend using different types of potted plants and arrangements of flowers and fruit. Throughout the home, they tend to utilize soft, luxurious fabrics ^ such as satin, lamb's wool and silk ^ to create an atmosphere of comfort. This process can also extend to the exterior of the property, where patio furniture can be added in the backyard and colorful flowers or unique accessories outside the front door. Visual Suggestions Many home staging professionals come from interior design or art-related backgrounds. Hence, when working on staging a home for sale, these professionals utilize a number of visual tricks to capture the attention of potential buyers. For instance, furniture is always arranged very carefully to simulate the ideal living space. In living rooms, home staging professionals often use loveseats and ottomans in lieu of large couches to create the illusion of added space. Likewise, mirrors are often placed throughout a staged home to make the living area seem larger to potential buyers. In areas where you hope to focus a buyer's attention ^ like a remodeled kitchen ^ staging professionals can place unique artwork or accessories to catch the eye. Don't get Personal One of the most important steps in home staging is the exchange of your personal decorations with more neutral furnishings. Beyond replacing family pictures with more design-friendly items, a successful home staging will attempt to eliminate any idiosyncratic tastes and represent a living space that has broad appeal. Though this process may feel like a slight on your family's home, you should hardly take offense. This commonly used tactic simply helps potential buyers view the property not as someone else's home, but as something they can call their own. Most real estate experts claim that home staging is especially important when the home is empty. Without any furniture or amenities, even a home for sale in the most attractive area can make potential buyers feel uncomfortable. If you are trying to sell your home and have already moved out, you may want to consider working with your Coldwell Banker agent to stage the home's interior. With the assistance of your agent and a home staging professional, you could quickly transform a lifeless house into dream home. Put it All Together In the end, home staging is about making the most of your home's potential. If the staging of your home is completed effectively, it is also possible that your home may receive better offers from potential buyers and spend less time on the market. By minimizing the flaws of your home and making the living area seem larger, brighter and more appealing, home staging may be one of the most important steps in selling your home quickly and at the right price.

Oceanfront Villa on St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:50:14 -0400

Beautiful oceanfront villa, 2 bed/2 bath. Living room overlooks terrace with ocean view. Asking $649,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page for details.

Market Stimulus Program for St Maarten Moving Forward

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:57:45 -0400

Commissioner of Economic Affairs Frans Richardson recently said that the Executive Council approved the project proposal "Marketing Stimulus Program" for St. Maarten. The Executive Council also approved to send the project proposal to USONA for financing. The Marketing Stimulus Program Stimulus is an island wide action plan of both the private and public sector in St. Maarten and includes additional marketing and promotional activities. The program will be managed by STB (St. Maarten Tourist Bureau) and will run for a period of 2 years with the focus on the first 6 months. According to SMN-News, "The Marketing Stimulus Program will focus on the following results/activities: Public sector - Increase the amount of stay-over visitors from Venezuela with 425 a year (total 25%) - Increase the amount of stay-over visitors from Brazil with 442 a year (total 25%) - Re-design, up-date and maintenance of the website - One extra yearly Mega Yacht show - Four events in the festival village and two conferences a year Private sector - Extra advertisement in magazines and increase accessibility website - Start an extra local promotion program - Install a call center for bookings on Sint Maarten - Extra investments in travel agents and media promotion program Read more at SMN-News.com.

Tips for Moving to St Martin or St Maarten with Kids

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:22:16 -0400

Moving can be a life-altering experience for a child. If you are moving out of the area and your children will be attending a new school, the difficulties for children may only be magnified. However, there are plenty of things you can do for your children during the moving process that can turn a stressful event into a time of excitement. Here are some suggestions. 1. Share the news early Once you have made the decision to move, let your children know and listen to their opinions. While some kids may be disappointed ^ especially if you are moving out of the area ^ they may find some solace in providing input. Furthermore, the more time your children have to prepare themselves for the move, the better. 2. Show some excitement Rather than expressing regret about the decision to move, let your kids know that a new home will be an exciting opportunity for everyone. Talk about the activities your family can do after moving and the benefits of their new school. As moving day approaches, you may find that your children are looking forward to everything from decorating their bedrooms to making new friends. 3. Get the kids involved As you make the preparations to move, try to get your kids involved in the process. To help your kids remain focused and happy, work with them to schedule some fun activities before moving out. Find some local guide books or websites that your children can read and let them serve as tour guides after moving into the new neighborhood. When packing, it can also be helpful to let children box up and label their own belongings allowing them to feel more in control of the process. 4. Incorporate some creativity To help your kids take their minds off the stresses of moving, encourage them to be creative. Younger children might enjoy painting pictures of your old house to display after you've moved. Older children can keep a journal or scrapbook during moving and have a story to share later. During the moving process, you could also give your kids jobs ^ complete with badges and uniforms ^ to help them stay involved. 5. Have a party Prior to leaving your home, throw a party for yourself and your kids. Invite the friends of everyone in the family and plan some fun, all-ages activities. Afterwards, make sure your kids receive contact information for everyone they want to stay in contact with. 6. Get acquainted with your new surroundings Once you have unloaded, try to make the first night in your new home as exciting as possible. Have fun playing hide-and-seek or a board game before worrying about unpacking and organizing. After you have settled in, start taking walks or bike rides around the neighborhood. You can introduce yourselves to the neighbors and the kids might find some new friends. 7. Get back to normal For the sake of the entire family's happiness, try not to take too long to resume doing what your family enjoys. You may want to drive through the area and acquaint yourself with the locations of businesses like grocery stores and restaurants. When Saturday rolls around, try out the local restaurant you found. Though moving can be difficult on children of all ages, it can also provide something to look forward to. By keeping your kids involved during every step of the moving process, you will help them feel in control of the situation. After moving into your new home, help them understand that life will be as fun as it always was; it will just take place in a different location. Most importantly, do your best as a family to stay together and have fun along the way.

Villa in Terres Basses St Martin Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:11:47 -0400

NICE VILLA IN TERRES BASSES. Located in a haven of peace and a green. Very well organized, pool, caretaker's house. Dock, fenced yard, partially furnished. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page for details.

St Maarten to Improve Position as Transportation Hub in Caribbean

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 20:47:38 -0400

The Daily Herald reports that "a new Gottwald crane has been purchased by St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies as part of the expansion and upgrading of port services. This second crane will allow faster offloading and loading of cargo vessels, vastly improving St. Maarten's position as a transhipment hub in the Northeastern Caribbean. "The multimillion-dollar Gottwald Mobile Harbour Crane was purchased and is fully owned by the Harbour Group, government-owned companies. "Harbour CEO Mark Mingo said purchasing a second crane was an integral part of the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities expansion that includes the doubling of the cargo section to accommodate more containers for local use and transhipment, and lengthening of the quay wall. "'With both cranes owned 100 per cent by the harbour we control fully our quay wall and can monitor and improve services to vessels,' he said. "Cultivating local expertise in the field of crane operations and providing jobs for young St. Maarteners were goals the harbour set when the second crane was purchased. 'Like the first crane, we wanted to have local operators trained and certified, to deal with the crane,' Mingo said. Read more at the Daily Herald.

Coldwell Banker St Maarten Offers State-of-the-Art Technology

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:43:53 -0400

Customer Service and Lead Generation were the focus of the annual Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates Broker's and Manager's conference held June 17-21 in St. Martin, FWI. Coldwell Banker business owners and their management staff attended and shared ideas both on generating new business and better ways to service customers who find us online. The highlight of the conference, held at La Samanna on the French side of the Island, were the technological initiatives presented by Larry Burke, Director of IT for the company. Among the many new concepts on the horizon are individual company Facebook and Twitter pages, complete with listing data and links back to their own websites. Individual agent pages and individual listing pages were also displayed. Using cutting-edge proprietary technology, Burke demonstrated many new applications that will ultimately lead to a dominant web presence and an industry presence second to none. When a web visitor finds us online, we want their experience to be fulfilling and give the information they want. We will be using all these new tools to achieve this goal. Heather Goodman, Marketing Director for the company, introduced new marketing concepts for the year ahead, including website directory links and on-line advertising at some of world's leading newspapers such as the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Attending the conference were 22 Brokers and Managers from many of the island countries of the Atlantic and Caribbean. Also in attendance was Jim Gillespie, President & CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation and Beth Makatura, VP & Director of International Services. The meeting was hosted by Coldwell Banker Real Estate St. Maarten & Coldwell Banker Caraibe. Check back often to our St Martin-St Maarten Coldwell Banker site and watch for the latest in technology to be available for your use.

Waterfront Living in St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:53:04 -0400

Overlooking the Marina on Oyster Pond are 3 new residences, Spinnaker, Mainsail and Lighthouse. Residents enjoy exclusive access to private pool, and large terraces. In Oyster Pond, from $499,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page for details.

Blue Mall to Bring Jobs to St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 23:36:14 -0400

As reported in the Daily Herald of St Maarten, "Blue Mall and Residences will bring more than just high end brands and luxury living to St. Maarten. The still-under-construction property will generate some 500 operations and service industry jobs when the commercial side of the business gets into full swing in June 2010. "Filling as many of these jobs locally as possible is a goal set by Blue Mall developers Cupecoy Development N.V. and Venezuela-based Fondo Valores. Already the search has begun for possible employees, although most are not needed until next year." Read more about this project at the Daily Herald, and contact any Coldwell Banker agent about the residences, which should be ready by year-end.

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Move to St Maarten or St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:55:26 -0400

For many families, moving can be a very stressful event. Besides coming to terms with your new life in a new home, you and your family will also need to think about moving day. Too often, families get caught up in various activities before moving day and fail to make the proper preparations. If you and your family are preparing to move, try to stay calm and organized throughout the process. For a few extra pointers on how to make your moving day a success, consider the simple advice outlined here. Make a detailed checklist It can be difficult to keep track of all the tasks associated with moving. Try to organize your days leading up to and beyond moving day. If you have a reminder of what needs to be done and where you need to be, you are more likely to have a smooth moving day. Prepare for day 1 Prior to packing all of your boxes, you may want to assemble one box of necessities for the whole family. As most families finish unpacking their trucks late in the evening, there is often little desire to open several boxes to find pillows and toothbrushes. To prevent a stressful first night in your new home, try to place anything your family might need in the first 24 hours in a separate box, mark it clearly and keep it accessible during moving. Also, if you have any valuable or irreplaceable items ^ such as jewelry and personal keepsakes ^ you should try to wrap the items well and keep them with you while moving. To help with your checklist, you should try to include all of the following items in your day 1 box: ^ Personal toiletries ^ Soap ^ Toilet paper ^ Snacks and drinks ^ Flashlight ^ Screwdriver ^ Pliers ^ Set of plastic plates and cutlery ^ Paper towels or tissue Pack manageable boxes Unless you have lots of large, lightweight items ^ such as down comforters and blankets ^ you shouldn't need too many oversized boxes. Oversized moving materials often force homeowners into packing boxes that are too heavy and unmanageable. Instead, try to find plenty of midsized boxes and distribute weight evenly. Furthermore, if you are moving yourself, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand before packing, including bubble wrap or packing peanuts for fragile items. Label every box When packing your boxes, try not to place items for different rooms in the same box. After sealing up each box, simply mark which room the items belong in. When you arrive at your new home, you will be able to take each box to its rightful place and each family member can spend time organizing their own space. De-clutter as you go As you prepare to move out of your home, try to organize your belongings and set aside unwanted items. After unpacking in your new home, you will be happy having more space and fewer items to arrange. Before moving out, you can hold a yard sale or make a charitable donation to get rid of your unwanted belongings. Get the family involved If you have children, help them get excited about moving. With something to look forward to ^ like the chance to decorate a new bedroom ^ children often get more involved in the moving process. Also, you may want to ask your friends and family for help on moving day. Even if no one is able to move furniture with you, a family member could watch your pet for the day or take care of errands. Though moving day can be a very overwhelming time for families, proper organization can make help turn that stress into excitement. If you follow your timeline leading up to moving day, you and your family will have no problem approaching the big move with confidence.

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort in St Maarten Offers Wedding Special

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 20:33:10 -0400

The Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino in St Maarten ia offering couples who book 10 rooms, for at least seven nights, a free wedding ceremony and reception. According to the resort's website, brides and grooms-to-be who take advantage of the offer will get access to a wedding coordinator and marriage licensing services, as well as a choice of venue for the ceremony. They will also receive a free reception with an open bar, catered dinner and wedding cake. The offer is valid for weddings in 2009 and 2010. Set on 10 acres of lush, beachfront property, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is a "destination within a destination" offering a variety of accommodations and a dazzling array of activities. Situated on the Dutch side of the island, the St Maarten hotel is the island's largest, with 537 rooms, and offers everything from sailing to shopping and stage shows to sybaritic spa treatments. For nightlife, there's a world-class casino, a Las Vegas-style theater and clubs where you can dance until dawn. The St Maarten hotel also features three restaurants, a promenade with 40 shops and stand-alone restaurants from intimate to convivial in style, as well as tennis, the Good Life Spa and a beautiful white-sand beachfront. Visit Sonesta Maho Beach Resort on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0g0e4UPiR7o. Make reservations for your wedding soon to take advantage of this great promotion. Spend some time while you are here with a Coldwell Banker agent to discuss real estate - we know you will want to come back! (resource: OneWed)

Condo in Aqua Marina of St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 21:16:18 -0400

This home in a stunning location is nice and spacious flat with a private garden. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, dressing, open fully furnished kitchen. The home is fully furnished ready for move in. Amenities include gym room, jacuzzi, parking, and security guard. Asking $385,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page for more details.

Coral Reefs in Danger Throughout the Caribbean

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:54:55 -0400

Five international biologists of Simon Fraser University just released a study with the following conclusion, "Climate change is eating coral-reef fish out of house and home in the Caribbean. Its role in flattening coral reefs is reducing the region's biodiversity and increasing its susceptibility to coastal erosion and flooding" in the paper, Flattening of Caribbean coral reefs: region-wide declines in architectural complexity. Dr. Isabelle C�t� explains, "What we call structurally complex reefs are a bit like Swiss cheese: they are full of holes." She says climate change has completely flattened the Caribbean's most complex coral reefs over the last 40 years. "These nooks and crannies, both on the surface and inside the reef framework, are used by a great variety of reef fish and invertebrates, for shelter, to hide breeding nests, and for foraging." The researchers have discovered that increased coral bleaching, as a result of human-induced climate change, has wiped out complex coral reefs. The lead on the project noted, "We thought bleached corals' dead skeletons continue to shelter reef inhabitants and shield coastlines from storms and hurricanes. Our team has shown that the dead skeletons are collapsing as fast as the reefs are dying... "This disturbing trend, combined with ongoing exploitation of various marine species, will speed up the decline of coral reef-dependent marine life and threaten the existence of nearby marine-life-eating coastal communities. These communities will also be more vulnerable to flooding." The authors have also reported a decline in coral reef fish in the same Caribbean regions, linking the 2 trends: declining complexity and reef fish abundance. Links to learn more about our Caribbean coral reefs and their protection: http://insciences.org/articles.php?tag=Coral%20Reefs http://insciences.org/articles.php?tag=Climate http://insciences.org/articles.php?tag=Marine%20Biology (source: InSciences Organization)

Prima Vista Estate Lots in St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 00:52:14 -0400

The Prima Vista Estate Project is a new residential area presently under construction located in the area of Upper Prince's Quarter. This exclusive development offers a choice of forty-eight comfortably sized lots averaging 1300 m2 to contruct high quality, comfortable villas. Asking $145,000. For more information, visit our Coldwell Banker listing page.

Global Demographics 2009 - Shaping Real Estate's Future in St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 00:40:29 -0400

The long-term land use implications posed by population growth, urbanization, aging, and migration are examined in Global Demographics 2009: Shaping Real Estate's Future, a new publication from the Urban Land Institute. This year's edition of the report, which will be published annually, discusses trends in the United States and the rest of the Americas; and it places a special emphasis on Europe and Africa (including the Middle East). Themes for this year include labor force, education, and productivity; personal income, purchasing power, and poverty; and retailing. Rachelle Levitt, Executive Vice President for ULI's Global Information Group and publisher of ULI's publications, states, "This book reaffirms that population and demographic shifts will continue to place enormous pressure on urban areas around the globe. How cities are developed, how they welcome new residents, how they accommodate all income groups, and how they use energy and natural resources are all crucial elements of urban sustainability." The report's conclusion is that demographics are the foundation of real estate decision-making. For more information on the report, and highlights from Global Demographics 2009, read the full article at RisMedia.

Hurricane Season in St Martin-St Maarten lasts June 1 thru Nov 30 - Are you Prepared?

islandsit@gmail.com (Louise Peterson) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 21:25:55 -0400

Hurricane season starts June 1st and lasts through to the end of November. In 2009 the National Hurricane Center has predicted an "average" storm season, 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes, two of which may be a category 3 or higher. Have a survival kit and disaster plan ready, here are some suggestions and tips: Bottled Water - one gallon per person for 72 hours Flashlights with extra Batteries - candles can pose a serious fire hazard should there be propane or gas leaks in the area Supply of Nonperishable Food Items - protein bars, canned goods (don't forget a can opener!), dried or prepackaged energy food Medicine - 30 day supply stored in plastic waterproof containers, clearly marked and kept in a zip-lock bag Eyeglasses Proper Footwear and Protective Clothing for post-hurricane Portable Radio and extra Batteries Important Documents - drivers license, passport, notes of allergies, important contact numbers, insurance documents, extra cash, ATM and bank/credit cards Generator - ensure filled with propane/gas and in good working order Insurance Coverage for yourself and family, home, boat and vehicles - ensure it's current and up to date plus note contact information should you need to make a claim or contact your provider in case of injury Know how to shut off electricity, gas and water if so advised by authorities Action or Evacuation Plan - hotel, friend's home or shelter, evacuation plan if residing on an island or coastal areas that are remote or vulnerable to storm surge Let Friends and Family Know how to contact you and where you plan to be, forward land lines to cell phones Text Message rather than voice mail, uses less battery time and communication is faster Cell Phone and charger, car charger, extra batteries Care and Plan for your Pets Safety- food, water, medicine, bowls, plastic bags, collar with your name and contact info, extra leash, pet crate for transporting, name and number of vet and copies of vaccinations, photo, favorite toy or blanket Secure Hurricane Shutters or board your home securely, move all outside items to basement or inside storage, flying debris and items can cause tremendous damage to your home, vehicles and neighbourhood Car, keep gas tank full - especially important if you live in a remote place or on an island where supplies may be limited or cut-off after a storm Know Where to get Information on Storm Conditions - local radio station, tv station, website or through the internet on your cell phone Secure Your Boat - consider turning off the EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) if your boat is docked, secured and unoccupied. When boats with this system start to sink or capsize a signal via a satellite is sent to the nearest emergency satellite call center. These centers need to maintain clear and unjammed communication lines for satellite phones and emergency personnel during a hurricane The National Hurricane Center released the following names for 2009 hurricanes... Ana Bill Claudette Danny Erika Fred Grace Henri Ida Joaquin Kate Larry Mindy Nicholas Odette Peter Rose Sam Teresa Victor Wanda What is a storm surge? For those residents living on the coast or in the islands a storm surge is something we are always concerned about. Storm surge is water that's pushed toward the shore by winds swirling around the storm. Recent hurricanes have produced storm surges in the neighbourhood of 15 feet, combined with winds in excess of 75 miles per hour this can be very dangerous. Water weighs approximately 1700 pounds per cubic yard - extended pounding by frequent waves can demolish structures not specifically designed to withstand these forces. Please be prepared and have a plan, review it on a yearly basis. If you are an absentee homeowner arrange for someone to secure the premises in your absence, neighbour, friend, property management company. For more information on how to prepare for a hurricane please visit the National Hurricane Centers website: www.nhc.noaa.gov

Fishing Event in Full Cast on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 23:59:28 -0400

Scheduled for May 27 - June 6, the Fishing Event 2009, billed by organizers as the biggest sport fishing tournament in the West Indies, is underway. It was held for the first time in 2006 in Antigua. This month, the fourth outing will be fished from the Yacht Club at Isle de Sol, St. Maarten. Bertrand Lacotte, CEO of The Fishing Event Foundation, said, "We are the first to offer such a large amount of cash prizes ($100,000 US total) and this tournament is opened on invitation to the best teams in the area." The Fishing Event is now a qualifying event for the IGFA Offshore World Championship, Lacotte reported in March. Lacotte said he expects between 25 and 30 boats this year. "The location of the tournament is very important because Marlin Boulevard in the east of St. Maarten has the reputation to be a great spot to fight the Big Blue, thus placing it as one of the most attractive fishing spots in the Caribbean. St. Maarten also provides beautiful turn key-ready marinas fully equipped for this calibre of event." Autos Islands and BMW are sponsoring a BMW X6 for a special prize for the vessel with more than 15 releases," Lacotte said. For more information: www.the-fishing-event.com (resource: AllAtSea.net)

Maho Unit in St Maarten Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 30 May 2009 00:16:37 -0400

Superb apartment with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, open furnished kitchen, living, large terrace, fully furnished. Panoramic sea view ! Close to shops, casino, restaurants, Hotel services.parking. Asking $233,200. Visit our Coldwell Banker listing page for details and more photos.

Common Issues When Buying a Home to Remodel in ST Martin

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 27 May 2009 21:19:15 -0400

Remodeling a home starts with a dream. A gourmet kitchen! Skylights! A gigantic walk-in closet! But, the dream may turn into a nightmare if you don't plan ahead. Buying a home will arguably become your most important financial investment, as well as a major emotional investment. And, remodeling that home can make it better suited to your lifestyle and increase the house value. However, the remodeling process can seem overwhelming at times. If you're buying a home that you plan to remodel, here are some issues to consider. 1) It's always important to make home improvements to satisfy your needs and desires, not just to raise the house value. After all, you're the one who will be living in the home and enjoying the improvements. However, if you're making improvements in order to increase the resale value of the house, be careful not to overdo it. It is possible to add too much house value in relation to the other homes in your area, and can be difficult to recover these improvement costs when you sell the home. Also, some expensive choices, like particular fixtures or flooring, may actually make your home more difficult to sell. Talk with your Coldwell Banker� real estate professional about your remodel plans before putting on your work gloves. 2) While the specifics of the home you are buying will determine your remodel plans, certain improvement projects have historically provided high ROI's, or Return On Investments. According to Remodeling Magazine, improving the quality of a kitchen - whether upgrading appliances, changing the layout, counters and cabinetry, or simply painting and swapping out drawer pulls - provides the highest ROI of any remodel project. Also, remodeling or adding a bathroom is a proven way to increase house value. 3) Before you purchase a house with the intention of remodeling and raising the home value, be sure to investigate the zoning restrictions and environmental regulations. Many older homes come with zoning restrictions, including pre-determined setbacks from property lines, limits on roof height, etc. If the home is on a municipal historic register, regulations will likely be even more stringent in order to preserve the house's historic character. If the home you are buying is in an environmentally sensitive area - adjacent to wetlands or protected open space, for example - or contains a significant natural resource, additional regulations may limit your remodel plans. Such regulations can impede on house size, paving, grading soil, cutting down trees and removing native plants. 4) Your real estate agent can help you determine zoning and environmental regulations and determine if you have the correct permits to begin any home improvement project. In most parts of the world, a legal permit is required before you make structural changes to your home. The building permit and associated inspections and approvals can provide assurance that the remodeling project meets local building codes and safety regulations. If you live in a historic district this process may also provide assurance that exterior changes to your home are in keeping with neighborhood guidelines. 5) Lastly, before buying a home that requires a remodel, be aware that some problems simply can't be fixed. Whether the desired improvement is prohibited by local regulations, or can't be undertaken with your budget or timeframe, it's important to recognize the limitations of your home's potential. Contact our experienced Coldwell Banker agents to discuss your plans.

St Maarten - St Martin Summer Travel Bargains

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 26 May 2009 21:20:38 -0400

Mid-April marked the start of the Caribbean's low season, when value comes out to play, even on the most expensive islands. Through mid-December, when high-season rates kick in again, you'll find hotel deals regionwide. And in a nod to the global economic slump, special offers are extending to new frontiers, such as dining and activities. The Dallas News wrote up 5 of the Caribbean's most expensive destinations and for each a sensible hotel option priced at $120 a night or less this summer and a splurge at $230. One was St Martin - St Maarten. Strategies: A mountain of infrastructure has emerged for the half-million overnight visitors the island receives annually, but since most arrive during high season, much of it goes underused in summer. The island adapts by slashing rates. In winter, for example, expect to pay $50 a day and up for a car rental, and only if you reserve well in advance. In low season, I routinely negotiate rates below $25 a day. Island dining guides are flush with restaurant coupons, and some French-side venues match euro pricing in dollars (saving about 25 percent). Assemble a picnic from Supermarche Match, a grocery store outside Marigot. And in Grand Case, the Caribbean's ultimate restaurant row, you'll find barbecue stands with chicken, ribs and more for less than $10 a plate. Read Sensible Options and Splurge Options at the Dallas News Life/Travel page. They suggest, "No matter how one divvies up St. Maarten and St. Martin, the smallest territory in the world shared by two sovereign states, anyone can take the best of both to create one memorable vacation." If you decide to take advantage of our low summer rates, give Coldwell Banker a call. We'll fill you in on real estate in St Martin.

Staying in Touch during your Caribbean Vacation or Honeymoon in St Martin or St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 26 May 2009 20:59:42 -0400

Have a busy successful career? Wondering how to balance your job commitments with taking a week or two off to relax in the Caribbean? Here's a tale of a newly-married couple who had some challenges leaving the working world behind, even in the quintessential vacation environment of the Caribbean. Both husband and wife had successful careers. They decided to honeymoon at Little Dix Bay Resort in the British Virgin Islands. Ten lazy days in Caribbean Paradise, just being together, what could go wrong? The couple was eager to swim, snorkel, sail, hike, dine quietly under bright stars, dance, and relax in the double hammock. As told to their travel agent, Bonnie Kogos: "When we came back home, Jenna told me she wanted a divorce! We cannot be married to each other," said the new groom. "I couldn't stop texting," he confessed. "My work at the financial firm requires me to be responsible and involved. Last month, I had 17,000 text conversations. My life is so digital; I forgot how to read a clock. When my two global-international-travel-wireless cell-phones rang on the beach, I had to answer." "You sat on a Caribbean beach, under an expensive palm tree, looking at whispering surf and you answered your phones?" Bonnie took a deep breath. "Jason, in your marriage ceremony, you vowed and committed to leave all your wireless appliances at home. You promised to set cyber limits. Pardon this joke, but you'd only be plugged into each other." "Couldn't do it," Jason said, stifling a sob. "At least, in the evenings, romantic time, did you turn those appliances off?" "I turned mine off. As we showered for dinner, hers started ringing in the bathroom." Bonnie writes, "At my desk, I stuffed my Irish linen hanky into my mouth. You promised each other, and me, your buddy and travel agent, you'd go cold turkey. That you'd exist in a cyberless world for 10 days and rediscover each other in the world of nature in the sultry Caribbean. You declared you'd read real books, listen to music and relax. What happened to old-fashioned time and relaxation?" "Neither of us could stay away from the Internet," Jason said, sighing. "And we lied to each other. Jenna said she was going for a walk. I found her at the Internet Caf�." Find out how this couple dealt with unplugging while on their honeymoon and read Bonnie's blog in the Sudbury Starabout Plugging Into Relationships. When you visit, plan to set aside some time not just to enjoy the ambience, but to consider a real estate investment. Contact a Coldwell Banker agent to discuss opportunities.

St Martin-St Maarten a Great Place to Visit

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 23 May 2009 22:00:26 -0400

St. Martin-St Maarten was recently written up by the International Business Times as a stunningly beautiful Caribbean island, an island paradise. Here's the thumbnail description: Population: 85,000 Capital City: Phillipsburg/Marigot Currency: Netherlands Antillean Gulden Official Language: Dutch, French, English Location: 180 Miles east of Puerto Rico St. Maarten/St. Martin has a very interesting history. It is the smallest inhabited sea island that is divided between two nations. The two sides were first divided into Dutch and French sides in 1648. For most of the 18th century it was handed off between the Dutch, French and English as were many of the Caribbean islands. In 1816 the French and Dutch zones resumed as they are today. Local economy: predominantly based on tourism and retail shopping. We think our island is gorgeous too. Come visit and discuss real estate with a Coldwell Banker agent.

Tips for Passing Home Inspection on St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 21 May 2009 17:02:06 -0400

If you are thinking about selling your home, you may want to consider the home inspections. As most inspections thoroughly check the home's infrastructure, foundation and roof, most real estate experts recommend that you look for problems before putting your home on the market. Though older homes might have more concerns, homes of all ages and types should be given a checkup by homeowners prior to entering the market. This article describes the most common problems found by home inspectors and offers some tips on how your home can pass its eventual inspection. Plumbing If you know that you will be selling your home, you should try to repair all plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Besides checking for leaks throughout the home's plumbing system, a home inspector will also check the water pressure by running multiple faucets and flushing toilets. In some cases, an inspection may also include a check of the septic system. If you have experienced drainage problems in your home, you may want to consider contacting a professional to check the septic system prior to the home inspection. Cooling Systems As there are many types of cooling systems, there is no standard test for home inspectors. However, regardless of what type of cooling system your home utilizes, even if just ceiling fans, you should try to ensure that everything is working properly prior to the home inspection. You may also want to consider having your cooling units serviced prior to selling your home. Electrical System A typical home inspection will check the electrical panel and circuit breakers that power your property for problems and test outlets throughout the home. The inspector will also check for ground fault interrupt outlets (GFIs) in the kitchen and bathrooms. Designed to automatically shut off power during a short circuit, these special outlets are an important safety feature for every home. If you live in an older home, you may want to have GFIs installed and have your electrical system checked before an inspection. Roof A home inspection will check for weak or missing shingles and make an assessment regarding the quality of the roof. If any poor shingles are spotted, an inspector might check underneath to see if the building materials are damaged or rotten. To prevent a poor report, you should consider replacing bad shingles and having an expert check the overall quality of the roof. Gutters Prior to the inspection, try to make sure your gutters are clean and rainwater is able to flow without spilling over the sides. Also, downspouts should be pointed away from the house, as poor drainage is often the cause of mold and mildew problems. Mold and Mildew If you have seen mold or mildew anywhere in your home, you should consider contacting a cleanup professional prior to the inspection. Regardless of where mold and mildew are found in the home, it is important to both kill the fungus and fix the cause of the problem. As homebuyers are becoming increasingly aware of the effects mold and mildew can have on a home, you might experience difficulty selling your home if you don't take care of the issue. After the initial inspection, try not to be discouraged if the inspector finds a few flaws; very few homes are perfect and inspectors are trained to take note of every possible concern. Home inspections are designed to assess the working order of the home's infrastructure and assure the buyer that home's condition matches the details of the contract. In short, if you take care of the most important repair concerns before you try to sell, you will grant yourself a better chance of passing your home inspection.

8th Annual Regional Tradeshow Coming to St Marten-St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Tue, 19 May 2009 01:11:41 -0400

The 8th SMART tradeshow will take place from Wednesday May 20th through Friday May 22nd, 2009 at the Radisson St. Martin Resort Marina & Spa. The SMART conference has become the first congress to showcase the hotels and general tourism services of the Northeastern Caribbean Region which include Anguilla, Antigua, Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Saba, St. Barthelemy, St. Eustatius, St. Kitts & Nevis, Barbados and St. Maarten - St. Martin. (SMART=The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, L'Office du Tourisme de St. Martin, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association and L'Association des Hoteliers de St. Martin presents its 2009 St. Maarten - St. Martin Annual Regional Tradeshow) The SMART 2009 conference offers the perfect setting and business atmosphere for international buyers to meet one-on-one with suppliers of the Northeastern Caribbean Region's tourism industry. Over 50 supplier companies will be presenting their product to more than 30 buyers. Read the schedule of events at PRWeb.

St Martin Coldwell Banker Handles Rentals Too

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 15 May 2009 21:42:51 -0400

Wishing you could spend the summer on a Caribbean Island? Now available in Point Blanche is a 2 bedroom/1 bathroom semi - furnished home, available immediately for $1500 per month (1st & last months rent and 1 month security deposit required). Hillside and Ocean views. Address: Sandpiper Drive # 9A in Dutch St. Maarten. Contact our St Martin Coldwell Banker office for details.

Tips for Marketing Your House to Potential Buyers

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 14 May 2009 00:24:44 -0400

As you prepare to sell your home, you may want to devote some time to thinking about your buyers. With new homes listed everyday, homebuyers have plenty of options. However, if you market your house properly, prospective buyers won't have any trouble finding your home. If you have already found an agent that understands your needs as a seller, you can utilize their knowledge and resources to make your home as attractive as possible. While you may choose to work very closely with your agent during the marketing process, here are a number of marketing tactics that you can try out on your own. 1. One of the most important steps in marketing your home may be taking photographs. As many home buyers and real estate agents conduct their initial research online, a flattering collection of photos is helpful to include with your listing. Begin your photo shoot outside the home and try to snap pictures that highlight your home's best features. As you want your home to be focus of all the photos, remove cars from the driveway and try to clear plants that block a view of your front door. Begin with photos of the entire property ^ cropping out the sidewalk and street ^ and move in to take close-up pictures of exterior features. Inside the home, you should take at least one photograph of every room. Though you may choose not to display every room in your listing, you may find some great images where you least expect. As you prepare to photograph the interior of your home, you should open all of the blinds or curtains and turn on lights in each room. You may also want to remove certain items ^ such as personal photos and undesirables like garbage cans ^ before taking photos. In the kitchen and dining room, consider placing floral arrangements on the table to add a peaceful atmosphere to the space. As you move room to room, focus on the most interesting aspects of each room ^ be it a large closet in a guest bedroom or a fireplace in the living room. When you are finished, the photos you have taken should represent all the best elements of your home. 2. After you have taken your photos, work with your agent to place adequate signage on the property. A useful sign should list the agent's name and contact information and, if necessary, additional contact information for the nearest real estate office. If you reside on a quiet street, you may want to place a small, directional sign on the nearest busy corner. Lastly, one or more of the photos used in your listing should also be included on the fact sheet available outside your home. This takeaway brochure will typically list the details of your home ^ number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage and lot size ^ and can also be used during open houses as a reminder to prospective buyers. 3. Depending on how you want to market your home, there are a number of advertising options available to you and your agent. Many homeowners choose to list their properties in local newspapers, typically in special weekend real estate sections. You may also want to look at local real estate publications and check printing dates to see if your home is a good fit. However, even more than print advertisements, the internet features a world of opportunity for home sellers. There are numerous classified sites and databases that prospective homebuyers check daily, many of which offer free listings. You and your agent can also use the internet to publicize your open house and offer additional details that may not have been featured in your print ads. 4. After you have completed your first round of marketing, you and your agent may want to schedule an open house. Granting prospective buyers an opportunity to view your home in person is often one of the most important steps in selling a home. Prior to the open house, your agent can actively seek for prospective buyers. If an interested buyer or agent is unable to visit your open house, your agent can also arrange private tours to make sure all prospective buyers have a chance to see your home. While there is certainly no guarantee that any specific marketing tactics will sell your home, utilizing some of these strategies will help increase the odds of prospective buyers finding your home ^ and getting them to your front door is the first step in making the sale.

What International Investors Should Know about Investing in St Martin

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 11 May 2009 21:02:27 -0400

Although the article was written in May, 2008, the advice given is no less relevant today. An Introduction to Investing in International Real Estate, by Melana Yanos, published on NuWireInvestor, summarizes the basics of investing in the 193 countries of the world into 6 topics. We only introduce them here, and suggest you read the entire article, if you are considering a real estate investment in the Caribbean. 1. International real estate investment can offer excellent diversification of assets: Diversification effectively distributes risk among multiple markets and can optimize potential for return. 2. Currency exchange rates can enhance or impede profit margins:International real estate investment essentially combines property two types of assets: property and foreign currency. The value of a foreign currency can profoundly affect the amount of return made on an investment, as it increases or decreases relative to the U.S. dollar. 3. Legal technicalities (or lack thereof) may increase risk: Navigating the legal landscape of a foreign real estate market can be daunting, especially in developing countries that have only recently opened their property markets to limited foreign investment. 4. Foreign investment opportunities abound in Latin America: Latin American real estate markets can be especially favorable, offering affordable property prices, government initiatives meant to attract foreign capital and exotic, beautiful landscapes. 5. Working with international real estate professionals is an important first step: Embarking on one's own in unfamiliar territory can be a dangerous move. Contact our local Coldwell Banker agents - they know the market and real estate trends. 6. The US real estate market is not necessarily a "bad" place to invest: The state of the U.S. housing market might be unnerving for many investors, but those who follow the traditional "buy low, sell high" mantra might see opportunity where others see cause for concern. International real estate investing carries risk but we have professionals at Coldwell Banker who can help you understand the risk and minimize it for your situation. Give us a call.

Princess Cruises to Visit St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 09 May 2009 00:39:33 -0400

During Summer, 2010, Princess Cruises will sail the Caribbean Princess to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Grand Turk and San Juan. In addition, the ship will sail on a special seven-day Eastern Caribbean & Bermuda sailing from San Juan to New York featuring calls in Bermuda, St. Thomas and Antigua. The boat offers a variety of passenger-favorite features perfect for cruising the balmy waters of the Caribbean, such as the dramatic poolside "Movies Under the Stars" outdoor theater and the line's signature Sanctuary, an adults-only pocket of tranquility featuring plush lounge chairs and massage cabanas. Passengers will also enjoy hallmark Princess features such as the piazza-style atrium with its International Caf� and Vines wine and seafood bar. For details, visit the Princess web site, or call 1-800-PRINCESS. We welcome visitors to St Maarten and invite them to return and invest in real estate on our island.

St Maarten Coldwell Banker "On Location" now on You Tube

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 06 May 2009 19:11:59 -0400

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has launched an innovative branded YouTubeTM channel designed to offer consumers a new way to search for and interact with real estate information and listings. Named Coldwell Banker On Location , the channel was created to more fully tap into the power of video for real estate search and discovery, and to drill deeper into the local insights that consumers want. According to the company, two areas of strategic focus set Coldwell Banker On Location apart from other real estate websites. First, it showcases the power of video to bring real estate more vividly to life - offering behind-the-scenes looks at towns and neighborhoods, smart tips and timely news on real estate topics, and video listings of homes for sale. Second, content posted to On Location has a strong emphasis on local information and insights, so consumers can dig deeper into the areas of the country that interest them most. "Video is a critical part of how today's consumers want to explore real estate, and we intend to use it to an extent never before seen in our industry," said Jim Gillespie, president and chief executive officer, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "Coldwell Banker On Location provides an exciting new platform for our vast network of thousands of sales associates to directly share the kind of local insights and knowledge that is invaluable to consumers hoping to learn about a new area." (source: RisMedia)

Pres. Obama Announces Plan to Find Tax Evaders that use Offshore Tax Shelters

islandsit@gmail.com () — Wed, 06 May 2009 12:35:43 -0400

Monday, Pres. Barack Obama said he would find and pursue US tax evaders and go after their offshore tax shelters. He announced a series of steps to overhaul the US tax code and to hire hundreds of new federal tax agents. Specifically, Obama wants to prevent US companies from deferring or eliminating tax payments to the US by keeping profits in foreign countries. He wants more transparency in bank accounts and said, "If financial institutions won't cooperate with us, we will assume that they are sheltering money in tax havens and act accordingly." His goal is not to make trouble for US corporations doing business abroad, but to generate $210 billion in new taxes over the next 10 years and make it easier for companies to create jobs within the US. Under his plan, companies would not be able to write off domestic expenses for generating profits abroad. He made clear that he does not want to repeal all overseas tax benefits but to create a start, or downpayment "on the larger tax reform we need to make our tax system simpler and fairer and more efficient for individuals and corporations." The current code, he feels, makes it too easy for companies to abuse overseas tax havens and avoid paying any taxes. Under existing laws, companies with operations overseas pay U.S. taxes only if they bring the profits back to the United States. If they keep the profits offshore, they can defer paying taxes indefinitely. Obama's plan, which would take effect in 2011, would change that. Obama's plan would: * Eliminate some tax deductions for companies that earn profits in countries with low tax rates. * Make permanent a research and experimentation tax credit, which is offered for creating domestic jobs. * End a loophole that allows corporations to avoid taxes by reporting to the U.S. government that they're paying taxes in foreign countries and then telling the foreign countries that they're paying here. (resources: LA Times and MSNBC)

St Maarten Mary Fancy Home Now Available

islandsit@gmail.com () — Fri, 01 May 2009 21:28:04 -0400

Magnificent house with great view. 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The home is in Mary Fancy and in excellent condition. Pool, fenced yard, carport. Read more details on our Coldwell Banker St Maarten listing page. Asking $495,000.

Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:49:38 -0400

Like any other life changing experience, buying a home for the first time can seem like an incredible challenge. However, once first-time homebuyers are able to organize their priorities, conduct some useful research and interact with a trusted real estate agent, confusion can quickly turn into excitement. Keeping in mind some of the basic tips outlined below can help pave the way to a successful first-time home buying experience. 1. Prior to researching the real estate market and hunting for mortgages, you will need to analyze your family's goals and priorities. Take some time to reflect and determine if it is the right time to purchase your first home. You may also want to ask yourself where you want to be in the next few years and consider how purchasing a home for the first time fits into your family's long-term goals. 2. Once you determine you are ready to purchase your first home, you may want to research the details of the home buying process. Though you may not understand everything you read, any insight you gain will help you avoid unwanted headaches further along in the process. 3. The next important step in the home buying process may seem obvious but is often overlooked during the excitement of purchasing a first home. Very simply, as a first-time home buyer, you need to determine what you can afford. Too often, first-time home buyers underestimate or simply miscalculate the costs of owning a home. Before searching for your first home, ask yourself if your income is both adequate and reliable enough to afford mortgage payments. 4. There are also upfront costs to consider when buying a home. Though the amount required to cover a down payment and possible closing costs will vary, there are usually some out of pocket expenses to incur when closing on your first home. Being prepared for these expenses, as well as any unexpected costs that occur after you have moved in will help your transition into home ownership. 5. After determining what your family can comfortably afford, you should start shopping around ^ for both homes and mortgages. By this time, you should have a good idea of what types of amenities you are looking for in a first home and what neighborhoods best match your family's needs. As your search advances, you may want to attend some open houses in your neighborhoods of interest. Even if you don't find the perfect home right away, being active in the market will give you a better chance of finding the best fit for your family. 6. While looking at homes, you may also want to see what types of mortgages are available to your family. If you are able to determine what rates you qualify for and estimate your mortgage payment before actively bidding on a home, you can narrow down your price range and make a confident offer when the time comes.

Porto Cupecoy in St Maarten Nearing Completion

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 01:13:08 -0400

The luxury residential marina and resort of Porto Cupecoy on St. Maarten is nearing completion, and the developers are running a special discount on new units through the end of April. This cosmopolitan harbor village has 180 residences from 1-4 bedrooms set among a promenade of shops and restaurants on the western end of Simpson Bay Lagoon. The village is being constructed around the premier harbor in the Netherlands Antilles, which will also be home to the Cupecoy Yacht Club. The residential village will have a resort pool, fitness centre, tennis courts and a gated entrance, as well as plenty of amenities for guests and residents. The village is just a short walk from the white sands of Cupecoy beach, one of 37 pristine beaches on the island. It is convenient to both Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) and the popular town of Marigot, on the French part of the island. (resource: HomesGoFast)

St Maarten Youth Extravaganza of Carnival 2009

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 01:08:51 -0400

This Carnival season has seen attendance fall from previous years, but the Youth Extravaganza filled the seats at Festival Village. Hundreds of teens and young adults watched their peers display musical, modelling and dancing skills at the annual extravaganza, the biggest, non-competitive talent show on island. Performance highlights included Dance Mania 2009 first and second place contenders Krump Souljahs and Ekkentrik, showing off trademark flips and synchronised tricks. Youth Extravaganza also featured all-girl dance groups X-Clamation and Killer Queen, both of which had fans cheering them on. (resource: Daily Herald)

Protecting Your Privacy While Your Home is on The Market Part 2

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 20:58:05 -0400

Here are more tips, to continue our previous blog, on protecting your privacy if your home is on the market. The first two were Hide your Mail, and Take Down Photos & Diplomas. 3. Clean the closets and drawers If you have ever been to an open house or toured a home for sale, you can probably understand the desire to dig around. In most cases, prospective homebuyers simply open closets and cabinets to inspect the space or make judgments about the construction of the home. While most people who view your home will not try to snoop in your personal belongings, try to pack away anything that could tell an unwanted story about your life. You may want to clear out all drawers and closets entirely before the home is shown to buyers. After your personal belongings have been removed from the home or carefully packed away, work with your agent to stage closets and large cabinets. By replacing your own belongings with examples of how the home can be utilized, you will take the focus off yourself and help prospective buyers visualize themselves in your home. Bathroom cabinets have to be included here - hide or remove ALL drugs of any kind. Don't leave the temptation. 4. Turn down the answering machine This final step is probably the most overlooked by home sellers. Just as you can not anticipate what arrives in the mail each day, you cannot predict when you might receive an unwanted phone call. If you are engaged in an open house or private viewing, you certainly don't want a prospective buyer to overhear a message from a collection agency or credit card company. Furthermore, as you are in the process of selling a home (and possibly buying another), you don't want buyers to know anything about your personal business. So, before any prospective buyers enter your home, mute your answering machine to prevent any uncomfortable exchanges. In conclusion, when you are ready to show your home to prospective buyers, try to remove anything that might drive a buyer away or create an unwanted bias. Whether it's as simple as removing your personal mail or staging the closets of your home's bedrooms, a bit of work can not only protect your privacy but can potentially help sell your home.

Spirit of Cooperation Offered at OAS Summit

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 23:48:29 -0400

President Barack Obama offered a spirit of cooperation to America's hemispheric neighbors, listening to complaints about past U.S. meddling and pointedly reaching out to Venezuela's leader, Hugo Chavez, Cuban leader Raul Castro, and Nicaragua's Daniel Ortega. "I have a lot to learn and I very much look forward to listening and figuring out how we can work together more effectively," Obama said. To Latin American nations reeling from a sudden plunge in exports, Obama promised a new hemispheric growth fund, an initiative to increase Caribbean security, and a partnership to develop alternative energy sources and fight global warming. Obama extended a hand to Nicaragua's Daniel Ortega, whom President Ronald Reagan spent years trying to drive from power. At a luncheon speech to fellow leaders, Chavez said the spirit of respect is encouraging and he proposed that Havana host the next summit. Obama said he was ready to accept Cuban President Raul Castro's proposal of talks on issues once off-limits for Cuba, including political prisoners held by the communist government. The summit ended very positively, with high hopes by all countries that they will be able to work together more effectively in the future toward shared goals. (resource: FresnoBee.com)

St Maarten Carnival in Full Swing

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 00:43:53 -0400

The Daily Herald reports that, "Marking the 40th annual opening jump-up, seven bands will lead revellers from the John Cooper Jose Lake Ball Park along L.B. Scott Road, down Bush Road onto the Prins Bernard Bridge, further on to Walter Nisbeth Road rounding off at the Festival Village on Pond Island around 10:30pm. Lieutenant Governor Franklyn Richards will open the gates with the symbolic master key officially declaring the season open. "Two weeks of Carnival madness kicks off tonight, when Carnival revellers take to the streets from 8:00 pm to jam behind their favourite bands leading them to the Festival Village." Culture Commissioner Maria Buncamper-Molanus commented, "An explosion of colour, music, revelry, and creativity, St. Maarten's Carnival is a beautiful example of how Carnival can unite a people. On our small island paradise, the traditions of many cultures come together for an incredible two-week period each year to use Carnival as a dynamic tool of self-expression to celebrate life." Watch for more news about Carnival on the Daily Herald.

Protecting Your Privacy While Your St Maarten Home is on The Market Part 1

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 21:31:56 -0400

If your home is on the market, you have probably already taken great care in cleaning the interior and making necessary renovations that could help attract prospective buyers. However, before your home is shown to any buyers or agents, you should consider performing a few tasks to help protect your privacy. Not only should you try to remove personal items from tabletops or counters, but it is also wise to remember that potential buyers will open closets, cabinets and built-in drawers as they assess the property. To protect your privacy and prevent prospective buyers from forming any biases against you, you may want to follow these simple steps before showing your home. 1. Hide your mail When dealing with your mail, you should either remove it from your home or place it where it cannot be found. If prospective homebuyers spot collection notices or excessive credit card bills in plain sight, they might immediately assume that you are in debt and need to sell your home quickly. Furthermore, as no one wants strangers to read any of their personal materials, you should try to conceal all of your mail ^ down to the last furniture catalog. 2. Take down photos and diplomas While some home sellers feel that such personal documents could add an atmosphere of coziness to their property, you may want to consider clearing the walls. Following this simple step could help prevent any type of bias from prospective homebuyers. For instance, home sellers with recent diplomas might be perceived as deep in debt and willing to sell at any price. Likewise, wedding photos can reveal the homeowner's religion, which could influence certain buyers. Remember, you'll be moving anyway so it's time to start backing. Read more tips for your privacy next week.

Visit the Cultures of St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 21:21:56 -0400

According to USA Today, 50% to 70% of residences on St. Maarten/St Martin are second homes. Only about 20% of residents are born on the island. Split between two nations, French Saint Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten have enjoyed an unprotected border and peace treaty for more than 350 years. The island, 37 square miles, has 37 beaches and is known as the gourmet capital of the Caribbean. There are 400 restaurants for a population of about 76,000. 90 nationalities are represented in that wide range of restaurants. Most American buyers favor St Maarten because of the airport, and favorable tax policies including no capital gains or real estate taxes. Real estate transactions are fairly simple: the government of St. Maarten is required to provide clear title and due diligence; there's also no citizenship requirement, no attorney needed, and minimal closing costs (as reported by USA Today). St Maarten also has a more developed approach to tourism, including large resorts and casinos. According to USA Today, there are 3 St Maarten neighborhoods. "The first is Philipsburg, the capital city. One of the Caribbean's busiest cruise ports, it is known for its extensive duty-free shopping. There are casinos, marinas and a mile-long beach. A new beachfront boardwalk is lined with bars and restaurants, and buyers are attracted by the lively atmosphere and pedestrian access to services. Offerings are mostly condos, from the mid-$300,000s to $2 million. Furnished two-bedroom units at the new Great Bay condominiums, part of the Sonesta resort on the beach, run $335-450,000 (greatbaycondos.com). In our next post, we'll describe Cupe Coy and the Eastern Coast. For now, start planning your trip to visit St. Maarten.

Making the Best Decisions When Purchasing an Older Home

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:19:44 -0400

There is much information that points to the benefits to buying an older home. Older homes generally have lower purchase prices relative to newer houses. They tend to be located in established neighborhoods with an existing history of schools, transportation and commercial center offerings. Older houses have mature landscaping and period-style architecture and craftsmanship. If this type of home-buying information is important to you, you may want to consider an older house. Still, older homes come with their own set of issues. In order to make the best home-buying decision, here are five information topics you may want to discuss with your real estate agent. 1) Structural Issues The structural condition of older homes can vary greatly. It if has been maintained, the structure of an older house will likely reflect the quality craftsmanship of earlier times and will only need minor repairs, reinforcement or maintenance. More recent additions may have been built to a lower standard than the original home, and can need major repairs or renovations. If the original building has not been well maintained, you may be in for a serious structural overhaul. Neglected crawlspaces can have foundation and floor structure defects. Continuous water intrusion or past fires could have damaged structural areas that are now concealed. Be sure your home inspector investigates the structure of an older house thoroughly. 2) What is Involved with Remodeling Many people purchase an older home with the intention of remodeling it in order to make the house more comfortable and raise the home value. Like many equations in life, the decision to remodel an older home boils down to time or money. If you decide to spend more of your time and less of your money, you'll need to be handy and have your weekends free of other commitments for several months. If you prefer to save your time, but spend more money, your real estate agent can refer you to a contractor who specializes in raising house value by remodeling older homes. 3) Zoning and Use Issues Before you purchase an older house with the intention of remodeling and raising the home value, be sure to investigate the zoning and use regulations. Many older homes come with restrictions, including pre-determined setbacks from property lines, limits on roof height, etc. If the home is on a municipal historic register, regulations will likely be even more stringent in order to preserve the house's historic character. If you're considering alternative uses for your older house, like turning it into a commercial office, building an in-law apartment, etc., be sure to ask your real estate agent about zoning specifics. 4) Cost of Operations Higher repair and maintenance expenses should be factored into the budget when calculating the total cost for purchasing an older home. Renovations, repairs and even pre-purchase inspection costs can be considerably higher than if purchasing a newer house. Also, the lack of modern insulation materials means bigger gas and electric bills in order to heat and power the house. And, major appliances, plumbing and heating systems will likely need maintenance within the first few years of your ownership. 5) Pests In an older home, it's possible that termites and other wood destroying insects could have damaged timbers and structural supports for years before they were detected. It would be highly unusual for a house to survive for 100 years in the tropics without any kind of termite/ant/beetle infestation. It's important to determine whether there are any signs of current infestation, and the extent of the damage of past infestations. If a wood destroying insect has eaten away at the structural support of a house for a significant amount of time before being discovered, you may need to add some reinforcement to the beams and posts in the basement. It is also very important to protect against future infestations. You may want to consider having a pest control company do preventative treatments as well as periodic visual inspections. Older homes have character and great potential, but be sure and use the services of an experienced local Realtor to thoroughly investigate the property.

New Youth Program for Sea Life Available on St Maarten

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 21:35:33 -0400

Beyond Writing Foundation, Nature Foundation and Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) will be conducting a joint environmental education programme titled "Sea life and Wetlands Excursions" from the end of this month until June. 10 primary schools had signed up by mid-March. The first of the 17 Excursions took place March 24. After viewing a presentation on St. Maarten's Westlands, the kids were bussed to Little Bay Pond where they saw, heard, and experienced the values of nature. They visited EPIC's bird watching hut, the mangrove swamp, identified birds, butterflies, spiders, crabs, and learned about man's threats to the ponds. The foundations intend to provide St. Maarten's schoolchildren with a better understanding and appreciation of the island's flora, fauna, wetlands (ponds, lagoons) and the marine environment through these presentations and excursions, which complement the foundations' existing educational programmes. These efforts at educating the next generation into the challenges of protecting our home are exciting and deserve our support. Read the full article at theDailyHerald.

St Maarten Featured in US Today

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 14:16:22 -0400

According to a short article in OffPlan Property Exchange, "Investment in homes in the Caribbean is seeing a shift towards second residence buying and is also springing up in new markets, according to reports. "USA Today points to the island of St Maarten where more than 50 per cent of the property in some areas are second homes for foreign buyers. "New property projects are also drawing an increasing number of buyers to St Maarten, according to the paper, who are attracted by the island's history of French and Dutch influences." They state that there is there is a beach for every square mile of land in St Maarten. Come find out for yourself!

St Maarten Team Rescues Cargo Ship

islandsit@gmail.com () — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 14:12:30 -0400

A St. Maarten Sea Rescue Foundation (SMSRF) team rescued Country Boy II, a small cargo vessel, some 10 miles out at sea and towed it safely in to Great Bay Harbour Tuesday. The foundation explained that it had been alerted by the Coast Guard and requested to assist Country Boy II which had been experiencing technical problems at sea. It said Rescue 02 had left Philipsburg at 7:15am with a crew of four volunteers and had been able to locate the vessel about 10 miles off St. Maarten. Rescue 02 is a 58-foot rescue vessel owned and operated by SMSRF. It has the ability to tow vessels such as Country Boy II and is equipped with modern equipment that can be used in any search and rescue emergency. Many thanks to the volunteers of St. Maarten Sea Rescue Foundation. (source: TheDailyHerald)

Coldwell Banker Launches 2009 Marketing Campaign

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:09:30 -0400

According to RISMEDIA, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has rolled out its multimedia 2009 marketing campaign, which highights "the company's experience and innovation, while offering consumers messages of hope about the future of real estate. Elements of the campaign will appear across a wide range of mediums, including television, print, online and mobile devices." The first spot, Iconic Homes, features exceptional properties, from the White House to Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater, highlighting diverse architectural styles which can be called home by many different types of owners. The new ad directs viewers to the Coldwell Banker web site, for information on the $8,000 federal tax credit for first-time home buyers in the U.S. "Consumers are empowered by technology and the wealth of information available online, yet also value collaboration with a knowledgeable real estate professional," said Michael Fischer, senior vice president, marketing, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "Along with reaching consumers on an emotional level, these new commercials highlight how we provide listing information to consumers anytime and anywhere they want it. In addition, we have the flexibility to change the end tag to communicate key information to the consumer about the real estate market - literally as it is happening." To view the new Coldwell Banker commercials, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1cfdUb8BnI and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfQy7kTULVg. (Resource: RisMedia)

St Maartin Westin Hotel Goes Green

islandsit@gmail.com () — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:47:20 -0400

Amongst its luxurious hills of green and white sandy beaches The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa located in St. Maarten N.A, made the decision to help in the worldwide approach to go green. As reported on EINNews, the hotel is installing a 4,000 gallon solar hot water system. Columbia Sussex Corporation, owners of The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, contracted with Zager Plumbing & Solar, Inc. to get the solar project up and running. In July 2008, Dale Zager, President, designed the solar hot water system to facilitate the 317 guest rooms, restaurants, laundry facilities, spa, and hotel restrooms. This 4,000 gallon solar hot water system will cut a significant amount of carbon dioxide emissions and reduce the costs and consumption of liquid petroleum gas (LP). The island of St. Maarten is unable to plant enough crops to produce an adequate amount of bio-fuels, making this solar installation a positive achievement in the greening of the island. Owners of the Westin have taken additional steps towards sustaining eco-friendly and energy technology for their hotels, and hope to become part of the modern traveler's choice for a "Green Hotel." Read the full article at EINNews.

Coldwell Banker President Speaks on St Maarten Real Estate Market

islandsit@gmail.com (Jim Reed) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 21:58:28 -0400

Jim Gillespie, president and CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, participated in CNBC's "Roadmap to Rebound" segment which focused on the state of the housing market, and what real estate professionals believe should happen to get the market moving again. To watch, click on this link to CNBC. Gillespie stated that "the government could do a lot more than they are already doing in order to get the real estate market moving again." He believes that two key changes are needed in order to get the economy moving: 1) to set a fixed-rate mortgage. Gillespie feels that "Lowering the interest rate to 4% to 4.5% for 12 months is one way to get the inventory moving." 2) increasing the tax credit to $15,000. He feels ncluding all buyers of primary residences will help move buyers along and get the market to shift. Gillespie also stated that the demand side needs to be addressed. Once we start to sell the inventory currently available, prices will stabilize and then go up again, which will also help those in distressed situations. "Fifty-five percent of loan modifications have failed after six months because jobs are not being created and homeowners are losing the jobs they have," says Gillespie. "In order to create jobs, we need to create demand, both of which will get the housing market and economy moving." Contact your Coldwell Banker real estate specialist to discuss your options as buyer or seller. (Source: RIS Media)