Open-Realty Blog AddOn Taste Of Grand Bahama Blog Visit the new Taste Of Grand Bahama Blog by clicking the link. Taste Of Grand Bahama is a blog written by both Lyndah Wells (Editor), James Sarles and other Guest bloggers. We write about events and simple pleasures of living life here in the idylic island of Grand Bahama. We try to provide honest and informative information on things to do here,unbiased reviews about restaurants to visit- we blog about events taking place here and really about how to make Grand Bahama a home away from home. We look forward to your feedback.]]> 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.]]> ksanchez@bnt.bs."]]> TheBahamasWeekly.com.]]> Four 1 bedroom 1 bath units with washroom and spacious paking at the front and green space at the rear. Highlights 1. All Apartment Units Completely Tiled Out. 2. Located 5 minutes from Downtown. 3. Very short distance to nearest public transportation stop. 4. All apartments have AC units in bedrooms. In Caravel Beach, Freeport. Lot size 12,500 SF. Asking $190,000. Visit our Coldwell Banker Listing page for more photos. ]]> 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.]]> Tribune242.com, "James grew up on Grand Bahama and after graduating with an International Baccalaureate from Lucaya International School, he was accepted into the Mechanical Engineering's masters degree programme at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. "James will be returning to the UK shortly for an internship with the Renault Formula 1 racing team before continuing his third year of studies in Scotland." He has been busy this summer, serving a 2-month apprenticeship with McGibons Auto, under the tutelage of Avelaino McGibbon, a professional auto mechanical engineer trained at GM. The car uses 12volt electrical energy in its battery, to separate the water into hydrogen and oxygen, which then boost the internal combustion process. He hopes eventually to make the car run solely on water. ]]> theBahamasWeekly.com)]]> The BahamasWeekly.com) ]]> Global Property Guide recently published an article explaining why investment in the Bahamas is attractive in today's market. Here is the section on Grand Bahama. "Grand Bahama is the closest Bahamian island to the United States by way of Florida. In the past years, promoting the island as a tourist destination has been a little problematic because it has an Americanized appeal, compared to Nassau, the country's capital, which has retained much of its traditional charm. "Grand Bahama is receiving a considerable amount of attention from the government and private sectors. The island is four times bigger than Nassau, and like the capital, its income relies on tourist arrivals by sea. "With the expanded cruise operations in the island, it is anticipated that more visitors will come beginning this year. "The construction of the large-scale Ginn Sur Mer multi-purpose development not only creates much-needed jobs in Grand Bahama (unemployment in the first quarter of 2009 was 9.2%), but will significantly increase the number of rooms in the island. Cottages in Ginn Sur Mer have an average price of $1.5 million. "Ginn Sur Mer is expected to help boost the local economy by attracting more long-stay visitors to the island and by encouraging more foreign investments in tourism and real estate development." Read the entire article on NuWireInvestor.com.]]> www.sweetpatootee.co.uk]]> Grand Bahama. Greg Watchorn, president and CEO of AML Foods Limited, said: "We have decided to invite our many loyal customers to participate by asking them to donate $1. It is our goal to collect $25,000 and AML Foods will match up to this amount in gift cards, for the total contribution of $50,000." The programme will be offered through its brands Cost Right, Solomon's and Domino's. Participating charities include: the Ranfurly Home for Children and the Special Olympics in New Providence, and the Cancer Association and the Red Cross in Grand Bahama. The company's philanthropic efforts won't end in August. This year, AML has committed to donating a minimum of one per cent of it's net profits to charity. Let's support this worthwhile drive to help the needy on Grand Bahama. (resource: Tribune242.com) ]]> The High Rock beer, which only launched in November of last year, received the prestigious Monde Selection Gold Quality Award in May 2010. The 49th World Selections, which tests consumer goods throughout the world, awarded High Rock this rare honour on its first submission. The Monde Selections have been testing quality products since 1961 and their criteria for testing have been compared to Michelin stars for restaurants worldwide. The stamp of approval from Monde means you are producing internationally recognized quality products measured for quality, taste and successful branding. This year 2,400 products were submitted for testing from over 80 countries and 850 different companies. "I'm elated," said James 'Jimmy' Sands, CEO of Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Co. "I knew we could do this! I'm so proud today that Bahamians won a gold. This is quite an achievement for a small country. To achieve a gold on our first submission, it's fantastic." With High Rock's first gold award, the brewery team has decided to change the beer's label to incorporate the honor. "We have just approved the new label with the gold award on it," noted Sands. "These new labels will start going on our product in short order and we will use them in our advertising straight away." The High Rock brand is the 4th beer produced by the Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company in Grand Bahama. Sands said, "This award shows that what we are brewing here in Grand Bahama is a consistent product that meets the standard of international beers around the world." The brewery opened in 2007 with the 1st beer, called Sands. It is 100% locally owned. (resource - BahamaIslandsInfo.com)]]> 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.]]> RisMedia.com)]]> 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)]]> gb-cyclist@hotmail.com for information.]]> 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. ]]> NassauGuardian.net)]]> DiscoveryCruiseline.com ]]> Bradford Marine Bahamas (Bradford Grand Bahama, Ltd.), one of the Bradford Marine family of companies, has announced the firm has opened a new division, Bradford Marine Bahamas Fabric Structures, which will produce and install fabric structures, including containment booms. As reported by BahamasIslandsInfo.com, "Their fabric structures are specially designed and engineered for a variety of uses, both permanent and temporary, and their containment booms are designed for waterborne deployment to contain petroleum and petroleum products spills and floating debris." About the company: With its easy port access, a 35-foot depth, a state-of-the-art 1,200-tonne floating drydock, and a 150-tonne Travelift™, Bradford Marine Bahamas' shipyard in Freeport, Grand Bahama is able to attract boats of all types to utilize its highly-regarded, quality services. In addition, they provide towing, salvage, and vessel brokerage services in the Bahamas. Founded in 1997, the company has since been successful with numerous aspects of the marine industry. ]]> BahamasWeekly.com, "The Day will kick off at 9:00am sharp with a Basketball Tournament with teams participating from the Eastern and Western ends of the island. Winners of the tournament will receive trophies. "At around 2:00pm, this time will then be dedicated to the children attending the event as all children attending will be able to get their face painted for free and some will receive toys. Senior citizens will also have the opportunity to have their blood pressure checked for free. "At about 4:30pm the attendees will get a full show from various choirs, groups, soloist, dance ministries and marching bands. Among the list of artist slated are the Pathfinders Marching Band, Mrs. Marlane Knowles, Church of God Hawksbill, Lil G Ministry, Unity Movement,Gethsemane Trio, the Boyz, Ms Patrice Moore, the East End Mass Choir and the Interdenominational Mass Choir just to name a few. An invitation was also given to Pastors in the Hawksbill area to attend this event." ]]> Gulfstream Airlines, announced it will re-establish its daily Freeport - West Palm Beach route. The Fort Lauderdale ^ Freeport route will remain in the schedule with up to five flights a day. The popular Ft. Lauderdale-Freeport service will remain consistent with four flights on weekdays, five on Saturdays and three on Sundays. Gulfstream serves more islands in the Bahamas from the US than any other international carrier. The decision was based on market demand. Gulfstream operates more than 140 scheduled, daily, non-stop flights to 24 destinations, serving approximately one million passengers annually. ]]> www.nhc.noaa.gov Information provided courtesy of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos]]> Freeport News)]]> The Bahamas Baseball Federation will host international competition for the first time this year, presenting two tournaments. The Latin American Caribbean Zone Tournament, July 6-12, will be at the Junior Baseball League of Nassau Complex. The BBF Senior Challenge wlll be held August 6-8 at the Grand Bahama Park in Freeport, Grand Bahama. The event will feature a four team Round Robin format featuring the Freedom Farm Baseball League, Junior Baseball League of Nassau, Grand Bahama Amateur Baseball League and Legacy Baseball League. Each team will field 18 team members, a single manager and a pair of coaches. With no restrictions on age limits, each league is expected to field their best team of senior teams, irrespective of professional or non professional status. Join us for some good competition! ]]> June 26, 2010 is the date for the Annual Grand Bahama Road Cycling Championships, hosted by the Grand Bahama Cyclist Club. The route begins on the Grand Bahama highway near the airport round-a-bout and covers two 12-mile laps of the Grand Bahama Highway, and two 25-mile laps over the bridge, through the Barbary Beach area and back onto the GB Highway. The race will be 74 miles for men, novice and women cyclists will race a shorter distance. Training Rides will be held every Sunday at 3:00pm beginning Sunday May 23rd 2010. For information, contaact gb-cyclist@hotmail.com.]]> Freeport.NassauGuardian.net. ]]> Pelican Bay at Lucaya has been voted one of the best hotels in the world for quality and value by Expedia.com's 2010 Insider's Select rating. The resort achieved a score of 99.3, making its fourth year on the list. The hotel is one of five Bahamas hotels that made the list, and is ranked 9th in the Caribbean. Expedia's list is created by the experiences of their customers, and based on moe than a million hotel reviews submitted by travelers. The ranking uses a system of opinions, expert input, and value, and represents the top 1% of all hotels and resorts worldwide. One of Grand Bahama Island's newest boutique hotels, the Pelican Bay at Lucaya hotel is where visitors find the finest combination of Caribbean and unique architecture and service. Awarded the prestigious "Small Treasures of the Bahamas" designation by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, the Pelican Bay at Lucaya hotel is both charming and intimate. Located within steps of the resort are over 30 restaurants, bars, including Sabor Restaurant and Bar in the garden overlooking the marina/bay at Pelican Bay, shops, live entertainment, the Dolphin Experience, scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing. Immediately across the street are two miles of white sand beach, a full service spa, all four "Grand Slam" surface tennis courts and a casino. ]]> The Bahamian Brewery & Beverage Co in Freeport was featured in the May issue of Southern Boating, an international magazine with more than 150,000 readers and 47,000 subscribers. The publication is the largest on boating in the SE United States, and caters to a readership interested in long-distance cruising, water sports, and recreational fishing. The brewery and its CEO Jimmy Sands got a 4-page spread in the May issue, which focuses on Bahamian cruising grounds, culture, events, and cuisine. Southern Boating's editor, Marilyn Mower, said, "I found myself talking to a passionate brewer who is so very proud to be Bahamian. Jimmy and his team were so welcoming to me, I was able to see the entire brewing process and they made sure I sipped a Sands as well as the wonderful High Rock." In the feature article, the history of the brewery is told, and of Sands and his family in the wine and spirits business. "For four years I sat on the beach turning ideas over in my head, planning the details of how I would build a brewery when my non-compete clause expired" says Sands in the Southern Boating issue. Read the full article in Tapping an Idea in Southern Boating. The brewery opened in 2007 with the launch of its first beer SANDS. Located at the intersection of Queen's Highway and Grand Bahama Way, the 20-acre brewery is a 100% Bahamian-owned business. The brewery also produces Triple B, a natural malt drink, sold via Asa H Pritchard Distributors, as well as STRONG BACK, SANDS LIGHT. The company team of 60 staff and expanded its operation into Nassau in 2008. All Bahamian Brewery & Beverage products are available at Bristol Wines & Spirits locations, Simms Brothers, Jimmy's Liquor Store and truly Bahamian restaurants and bar locations. ]]> The newly-renovated Junkanoo Beach Club, on Taino Beach, Freeport, will reopen May 9. Spend a few hours or make the Club your beach home for the day. Try a wide variety of menu items including many conch dishes, salads, wraps and delicious entrees. Cap off lunch with Tina's guava duff or Wesley's coconut duff. The Junkanoo Beach Club is the finest non-hotel facility of its kind on Grand Bahama Island. Only five minutes away from the hub of activity at Port Lucaya Marketplace, the beach club is located on a beautiful beach with ample parking right at the door. A few steps from your car or bus and you're on the beach. And here's the best news of all-admission is free and beach chairs are only $5 for the day. We also offer free pickup and return from all hotels and guest houses. Please call (373-8017) about pickup arrangements and about our free ferry boat service from Port Lucaya Market Place.]]> While the Bumpin' Big Show Circus pulls arrives May 5, the official circus events have already begun. Yesterday, there was a motorcade and parade ending at the Port Lucaya Marketplace. The Pilot Club of Freeport is a big sponsor, and will be recipients of part of the proceeds from a designated night at the circus, when they will hold a raffle to raise much-needed funds for the service organization. Casual Cal's Bumpin' Big Show Circus was conceived by a group of experienced entertainment professionals. This team, with decades of creating, producing and managing entertainment properties, including circuses, plays, concerts, realized a wide open gap in the marketplace for an updated 21st Century African-American circus. While the UniverSoul Circus has been around for years, this circus does not intend to compete with a traditional African-American inspired show, animals and time honored circus acts. They see a greater opportunity for a show that combines the current intensity of urban driven influence on music, Hi tech and celebrity cameo's with the outstanding success of Cirque Du Soleil, a modern circus. Visit CircusBahamas.com for details, a video, and event times.]]> InvestGrandBahama.com by the Grand Bahama Port Authority. Visit their page and learn about Success, Growth, and Why Grand Bahama.)]]> This is a 2 bedroom/2 bath condo in the Silver Point, of Lucayan Beach West, in Freeport, Grand Bahama. It has beach access, gated security, and pool, and is - of course - an oceanfront community. Asking price $375,000. Consider Grand Bahama for a 2nd home and if you won't spend that many weeks enjoying our paradise, gather a group of friends and buy it together. Stop by our office and talk to one of our Coldwell Banker agents about the opportunities now available to make your dreams of living in the Caribbean come true. We can probably find something for almost any budget. Visit our Coldwell Banker Grand Bahama listing page for more details on this beautiful home.]]> 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.]]> 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.]]> BahamasWeekly.com. "Let's say that you just listed your beautiful home in Bahama for sale, and you withheld a few 'little' problems from your real estate agent ^ the roof leaks, but only when it rains; the outlet in the back bedroom won't spark unless something is plugged in; and there is a stain on the hardwood floors in the living room that is covered up by a rug. Will it be all right if you simply don't mention these defects? Definitely not! "It is a mistake to think that your home will sell more quickly by concealing its little (or not so little) imperfections. We have seen these seemingly insignificant items escalate into major issues that have ruined a sale that would have closed, if only the seller had disclosed the problems upfront. A good agent should encourage all sellers to disclose these little problems before they become deal breakers and nobody wins. "Buyers have a right and must be informed not only about any structural problems, but also about any limitations imposed by a homeowner's association, if you are buying a condo or in a gated community. These could range from hurricane assessments, to a restriction on number of parking spaces, to Board regulations about renting your condo, or regulations on pets. You can see why failure to disclose could have disastrous consequences and even end up in court. "Keep in mind that all homes have their quirks. If something in your home is not working properly or needs to be repaired, fix it or make sure that your agent discloses it to the prospective buyers. Be absolutely candid with your agent and buyers about the condition of the property. It is unlikely that such defects will go undetected because a) more and more buyers are getting home inspections and b) after the past hurricanes, are paying more attention themselves to the structural and mechanical aspects of your home. If they don't see what you are trying to hide on the first visit, they may pick it up on the second. When buyers remorse sets in, that spells trouble with a capital T. "So instead of having sleepless nights before or after the sale, it's better to disclose the major and minor problems upfront and save problems later. when you list your home for sale and your real estate agent asks you a question, make sure your answer is the truth and you won't go wrong! Your goal is to sell your house and a real estate agent's goal is to sell your house. So, both parties should work together to accomplish that mutual goal. Be honest, disclose to your agent everything about your house, and you will benefit at the end of the day by selling your house." ]]> Freeport.NassauGuardian.net) ]]> 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]]> Roxy Perry will be in Grand Bahama to perform in concert on May 29th at Joker's Wild. Perry will be performing original blues, classic blues, swing, jazz and more. As reported by the BahamasWeekly.com, "Perry started her professional singing career at age 9. By her teens, she was fronting rock and soul bands that appeared in legendary NYC major venues. In her late teens and early 20s, she toured with a chart-topping Rock group Dawn, which appeared in major arenas throughout North America and Canada, and shared the concert bill with Kenny Rogers, The Carpenters, Rare Earth, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Iron Butterfly, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Mike Nesmith, Mark Lindsay and many others. Throughout her early recording career, Roxy had record deals in several genres which landed on Billboard charts. Roxy launched her Blues career in the 80s, and she quickly became known as the "New York Blues Queen." Visit Bahamas Weekly for ticket information.]]> The Grand Bahama Coconut Festival will celebrate its 12th year on Easter Monday, April 5. The day will be filled with coconut food, culture, food, and fun on the beautiful beachside of Pelican Point. Featured will be coconut delicacies such as coconut shrimp, coconut ribs, coconut rice, and coconut pastries. Entertainment will include New Wave Dancers, Wilfred Solomon & The Magnetics, and K.B. While at the festival, you can enter contests like coconut barking, coconut eating, coconut bowling and the baby bottle sucking contest featuring gully wash (gin & coconut water for the unfamiliar). Pelican Point, near the east end of Grand Bahama, is a quiet settlement, unlike most of the island. The festival was first organized by Cathy Laing, a descendant of Pelican Point, and intended to be a homecoming event. It's great family fun so mark your calendar. (photo courtesy of FilmBahamas.com)]]> RealEstateChannel.com)]]> NassauGuardian.net.]]> The Red Rose Ball Committee and Partner Paradise Jewels will host a "Black & White Affair," featuring the band "The Matrix" and held Saturday, May 15, 2010 beginning at 7:30 p.m. This partnership not only aids in the revitalization of the International Bazaar, as the Arcade will serve as host venue, but our continued efforts as we encourage the community to take a stand in helping us in the fight against HIV/AIDS on the island of Grand Bahama. The event is a fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting AIDS Education through the Grand Bahama AIDS Awareness Committee. Our platform for the past two years has been to construct a building in Grand Bahama to assist the committee with this venture of AIDS Education. Community : Service Organizations Last Updated: Mar 26, 2010 - 2:14:21 PM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Red Rose Ball Committee to host Black and White Affair in Paradise - May 15th By Oswald Ellis, RRB Committee Mar 26, 2010 - 1:52:13 PM Email this article Printer friendly page Freeport, Bahamas - The Red Rose Ball Committee and Partner Paradise Jewels will host a BLACK & WHITE AFFAIR, featuring the house band for the evening "The Matrix" which will be held on Saturday, May 15th, 2010 beginning at 7:30 p.m. This partnership not only aids in the revitalization of the International Bazaar as the Arcade will serve as host venue, but our continued efforts as we encourage the community to take a stand in helping us in the fight against HIV/AIDS on the island of Grand Bahama. This disease challenges all of us and every country in the world has had to address the issue of HIV/AIDS and finding sufficient human and financial resources to combat this problem. To combat HIV/AIDS requires the forging of partnership locally, regionally and internationally. We have now come to recognize that HIV/AIDS is more than a medical or scientific problem, but one that has consequences. This event is recognition of this and it would not be possible without the partnership of the private, non-governmental and governmental sectors. As the call goes out globally the need for partners becomes more important. The event is a fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting AIDS Education through the Grand Bahama AIDS Awareness Committee. Our platform for the past two years has been to construct a building in Grand Bahama to assist the committee with this venture of AIDS Education. There will be lots of raffle prizes and door prizes to win during our In-House raffle at a cost of $5.00 per ticket, but you must be at the event to win. Tickets for the event are $50.00 and can be purchased at 1.9.6 The Experience, International Bazaar Arcade or any Red Rose Ball Committee member. Mark your calendars for this worthy cause! Tickets for the event are $50.00 and can be purchased at 1.9.6 The Experience, International Bazaar Arcade or any Red Rose Ball Committee member. ]]> BahamaIslandsInfo.com. ]]> The prestigious gated community of Shoreline is nearly complete, with just eight homes left available for purchase of the 76 originally constructed. Shoreline on Grand Bahama Island offers 5 different floor plans for 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes, ranging from 2610 sq ft to 4560 sq ft. The community provides three tennis courts, a community infinity edge swimming pool with hot tub, lap pool, ocean views and a clubhouse with fitness center that is near completion. Residents are afforded easy access to local restaurants, an upscale marketplace, shopping, the Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort, casinos, quality hospitals, schools, golfing and the marina. Shoreline at Fortune Beach is Grand Bahama real estate's newest master-planned community with single-family homes under $2 million. Homebuyers choose from ten different floor plans of Bahamian-style layouts ranging from 2,610 to 4,560-square-feet that are constructed in less than nine months. Homebuyers also have the option of purchasing one of Shoreline's "turn-key" homes that are ready to move in to today. Each Shoreline home is constructed with architectural delights such as volume ceilings and balustrade balconies, using a variety of marble, stone and granite. Modern luxuries are available such as high-speed Internet, seven swimming pools, including an infinity-edge pool with adjacent hot tub, waterfall, and barbecue, as well as tennis, and basketball courts. Contact one of our Grand Bahama Coldwell Banker agents for details on these homes, and act quickly if you have an interest. ]]> Bahamas Celebration will be sailing to Grand Bahama Island every other day. This new cruising venue has a tremendous impact on the economy of Grand Bahama Island. Celebration Cruise Line will be bringing 3,500-4,000 passengers to the island every week. Unlike the large cruise ships that may have passengers visit for the day, Celebration is aggressively marketing to have people stay on the island from two to six nights, resulting in money being spent for hotels, restaurants, stores, taxis and recreational activities. What this means for the residents of Grand Bahama is they can sail on a modern cruise ship to Florida for all of their business or personal travel. Celebration Cruise Line has a liberal free luggage program and bins will be available for a fee if transporting more than just luggage. All cruise passengers will receive a comfortable cabin on the cruise. There are several types of accommodations available, including economical coach cabins, oceanview staterooms and luxurious suites. The price for one way cruises from Grand Bahama Island will start from $74. While a new toll free number is being installed, the cruise line can be reached by calling 954-414-1320. Read more about the cruise at TheBahamasWeekly.com. ]]> NassauGuardian.net. ]]> 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]]> BahamasWeekly.com Promotions page published by Catherine MacLeay to enjoy photos and descriptions of some of the exciting real estate investment opportunities available now on Grand Bahama. Suffolk Court lies within the Freeport area, a 230 square mile tax free zone within Grand Bahama. Only 96 miles long by 17 miles at its widest point; the island of Grand Bahama offers staggering ocean views, miles of deserted beaches and five golf courses. The Suffolk Court Bahamas property development is also adjacent to the famous Xanadu Beach Resort and Xanadu Hotel. Ocean View Condos overlook the dazzling turquoise Bahamian waters in a sweeping panorama with seemingly surreal views that are unforgettable. Catherine presents a 2 bed 2 1/2 bath condo built by a European architect, and defined by comfort and luxury. The floors are marble and countertops granite. The condo epitomizes the elegant lifestyle. Allamanda Court townhomes are situated in an ideal location, within a short distance to the Marketplace at Port Lucaya and the beach. Large balconies overlook the pleasantly landscaped pool and inner courtyard. The bedrooms are all spacious and enjoy great cross breezes. Contact our Coldwell Banker Grand Bahama office for more information on these properties, and other investments ripe for the buying in this economy.]]> The new $4Million Western Air Terminal, currently under construction, will spur the local economy and air transport business. Planned completion is the end of Summer, 2010. The new multi-million dollar air terminal is being built at the Grand Bahama International Airport, just west of the airport's current domestic terminal. Upon completion it will house Western Air's terminal, corporate office and maintenance facility. According to Mr. Rex Rolle, President & CEO of the Company, once construction is completed on the airline's Freeport terminal, the new site will become its Northern Hub. He stated, "With increased facilities, fleet, and our efficient staff, it is our intent to begin direct flights to Haiti, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, and eventually Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, Florida." Western Air presently offers 12 flights daily between Freeport and Nassau, six flights daily between Nassau and Marsh Harbour and 4 flights daily between Nassau, Bimini, Exuma, Congo Town and San Andros. They also offer charter flights throughout the Bahamas, Caribbean including Cuba, South and Central America. The airline currently has a fleet of 11 aircrafts which includes 5 Saab (33 seaters), 4 Metro III (19 seaters) and 2 Raytheon Beech 1900C (19seaters). The Company is 100% Bahamian owned and operated and is committed to providing safe, reliable and affordable air transport service to the general public. (resource: BahamaIslandsInfo.com)]]> The New York City Comedy Club will return to Freeport, Grand Bahama March 12-13. The Grand Bahama Performing Arts Society will present 3 stand-up comics from the celebrated clubs of New York, who will perform 2 shows at the Club Cove, Treasure Bay Casino. Returning from last year is Mexican-American Ricardo Aleman who has appeared at the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland as well as being a regular on the Sirius Radio show "Four Quotas" and a performer in NBC TV's "America's Got Talent". Ricardo is also the webmaster for DailyComedy.com, the first and only comedy specific social networking website, as well as the home of the hit interactive comedy/variety show "LateNet with Ray Ellin." Honoured as one of the "Ten Standout Stand-Ups Worth Watching" by Back Stage magazine, Ray Ellin is comedy's renaissance man: comic, television host, actor, writer and filmmaker and the host of "LateNet with Ray Ellin," the first comedy/variety show to combine both in-studio and online audiences, live. The show features A-List celebrities, top comedians, and musical guests, and has included Hank Azaria, Chevy Chase, Fran Drescher, Leonard Nimoy, and many others. Russ Meneve, a New Jersey native has been performing comedy in and around New York City for the past eight years where he has honed his skills to an edge as sharp as his material. Russ made his debut on The Tonight Show with rave reviews from host, Jay Leno. Russ is a regular performer at "Comedy Cellar", the "Comic Strip" and "Caroline's". He is a founder of the "New York Comedians Coalition" with over 300 other New York based comedians as their members in order to represent the comedians of the city and to negotiate better payment for comedians performing in the clubs. Get your tickets at Seventeen and Italian Specialty Imports. $25 in advance, and $30 at the door. (resource: TheBahamasWeekly.com)]]> Tribune242.com) ]]> Nassau Guardian, "Real estate in Grand Bahama appears to be bouncing back before any of the other islands, with that island's Chamber of Commerce chief noting a shift in particular in interest from second-home buyers. "'Real estate is coming back,' said Chamber President Peter Turnquest. 'Things have been slow in 2009, but they're beginning to see the return of the second home buyers. "'They're [also] beginning to see a bit of property value increase...There are great opportunities and deals in Grand Bahama,' he added. 'It's still one of the best buys in The Bahamas and maybe in the southern U.S.'" ]]> 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. ]]> NassauGuardian)]]> 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. ]]> The International Maritime Conference and Trade Show in Grand Bahama kicks off Tuesday, Feb. 9. The meeting will be held at Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort, in Freeport, under the theme "The Maritime Sector and the Environment." Environmental considerations will continue to impact tremendously on the development of marine technology and ship operations. The BIMCATS 2010 promises to be filled with opportunities for dialogue, debate and meaningful interaction among all who participate. The plenary agenda will showcase world-class speakers and conclude with a keynote address from the International Maritime Organisation's Secretary General, Admiral Efthimios E. Mitropoulos. The agenda is not all work ^ many opportunities will be afforded for networking in a social environment. Here is the Schedule of Events And register here. ]]> Help the Humane Society of Grand Bahama win a $10,000 grant. Visit the Animal Rescue Site and vote for our local humane society, and if they get enough clicks, they could win the grant. The Animal Rescue Site is hosting a special challenge for eligible Petfinder.com member shelter and rescue groups. The grand prize is a $10,000 grant, and they will be awarding many other grants to rescue groups with the most votes - a total of $100,000 in grants for animal welfare organizations. All you have to do is click to help rescued animals, and then vote in The Animal Rescue Site $100,000 Shelter+ Challenge. Both of these actions are absolutely free! You can vote once a day, every day, from January 18th through April 18th, 2010. Every time you vote, or tell a friend to vote, you are making a huge difference for the Grand Bahama Humane Society. ]]> The Bahamas National Trust and the members of the Grand Bahama Artists Association invite the Grand Bahama community and visitors to enjoy and participate in their annual "VALENTINE ART EXHIBITION" from February 4-26 at the Glory Banks Art Gallery. The artists will present their latest collections of still life, abstracts, island life, sea and landscape works in a variety of mediums that will entice the art collector and art novice alike. There are over 200 pieces in the Glory Banks Collection in the Art Gallery, some of which are included in the Valentine Exhibition. Many of the members of the GBAA are professional art teachers and provide instruction in a variety of art forms. Glory Banks, herself an artist, was anxious to give Grand Bahama, her adopted home, a centre for art. The Glory Banks Art Gallery was officially opened in February 2008 at the 100-acre nature preserve on East Settler's way and has become the Centre for many cultural, educational and artistic exhibits. For more information call 242-353-4333. (resource: BahamaIslandsInfo)]]> Nassau Guardian)]]> Bahamas Weekly. ]]> 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 Grand Bahama, 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!]]> The 10th Annual Christmas Bird Count on Grand Bahama Island was held Dec. 18, and local birders recorded 117 species, the highest number ever seen. The number is a good indication that birding populations have rebounded on Grand Bahama Island after the devastation of three major hurricanes in 2004 and 2005 when some species had been decimated by 75 %. (Photo is of Painted Bunting, that winters on Grand Bahama.) By participating in the count, Grand Bahama birders contributed valuable information gathered for the longest-running database in ornithology. More than 59000 observers in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, South and Central America conducted an all-day census of bird populations on that day. An entirely new region was included for the first time in the 109th count - Antarctica - that recorded five bird species, including 270885 Adelie Penguins! The information is vital for conservation and habitat planning. (resource: BahamasWeekly)]]> RisMedia)]]> The 2010 World Championships for the 49er and 29er Classes is underway in Grand Bahama, to finish January 9. The event is hosted by the Grand Bahama Sailing Club. Races will be sailed off the Viva Fortuna beaches within the reef. Skiff races are fast with the average race lasting 30 minutes. Typically 3-4 races are scheduled per class per day. Viewing will be easy from the Viva Fortuna beach. BahamasWeekly (via My242) explains, "Since 2000 in Sydney, the 49er racing skiff has been an Olympic Class sailing class. They are light, fast, maneuverable and demand great skill from the two-man crew who must control large spinnakers while trapezing outboard - these are the snowboarders of the sailing world. Exciting, dramatic and colorful. "These boats are the latest in skiff sailing and epitomize the coordination of skill and boat handling to showcase world class athletes. It is an extraordinary occasion to be able to witness these races up close right from our own beaches. "In addition to seeing these races, some of the participants of the world championships are giving the sailing youth on Grand Bahama the chance to sail some of these incredible boats." Good luck to all competitors! Over 186 world class sailors will be here from around the world, from 29 countries, plus their supporters, coaches and officials. Skiff races are fast with the average race lasting 30 minutes. Typically 3-4 races are scheduled per class per day. Viewing will be easy from the Taino or Viva Fortuna Beach, or from Taino Beach. ]]> 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.]]> Bahamas Weekly this week. "As 2010 is just around the corner and if one of your New Year's resolutions includes selling your home to change your living conditions you probably want to know "How can I get potential buyers to notice my home next year with many similar homes on the market and the current Grand Bahama Real Estate market conditions. That is of course a very good question for 2010. "There are many factors to be aware of when you sell your home particularly with market conditions changing. You must decide on a price, which involves an analysis of properties that have recently sold and homes that are currently on the market. It is useful to get an objective opinion of value from your realtor. Do not list your property at an unrealistic price based on what you want or you think it's worth. Your opinion and wishful thinking is not what the real market value is in our market. I think you will all agree many homes are over priced in Freeport and properties just sit on the market for years. "Placing your property on the market at the right price is perhaps the single most important requirement for making your home stand out among local listings next year. Potential buyers will ask the price of your home first and then decide whether it measures up to their requirements. Homes that are priced competitively appeal to qualified buyers and draw a larger response from ads and word of mouth. Avoid overpricing your property! A fair list price will encourage offers that are closer to the asking price, and can even initiate a bidding war if buyers feel the price is right! An attractive listing price will keep your home fresh on the market and safeguard against "seller's stagnation". "Once you establish the right price you have to prepare your home before you list it. Get your home into prime showing condition by investing in fresh paint and yard work. If you decide to repaint the interior, choose a neutral palette that will provide a generic background against which homebuyers can visualize their own furniture. Remove all clutter, excess furniture, dust and grime. Repair or replace whatever makes the home look shabby-cracked windows or walkways, sagging porch steps, chipped plaster, missing roof shingles or drawer pulls. Refinish your deck if the wood looks worn or faded. Ask for staging advice from your real estate agent. What most home shoppers want to see are well-groomed landscaping and an immaculate, clutter-free interior. These simple and relatively inexpensive improvements will go a long way in a potential buyer's eyes. "Homes that are energy-efficient also have a market advantage ^ they promise attractive savings on monthly utility costs "Next year please be willing to discuss any and all offers with your agent, and be as flexible as possible relative to the terms of the sale. To all the Let's Talk Real Estate readers I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year where all your real estate dreams become a reality. Until next year." ]]> 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.]]> 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.]]> The Grand Bahama Team brought home the gold from Special Olympics Bahamas' Basketball Tournament held in New Providence last weekend. Grand Bahama, coached by Terry Wildgoose, clinched the Division One title by beating New Providence. The visiting Guadeloupe team had to settle for the bronze. Grand Bahama also secured the Division II title after they defeated the visiting Cayman Islands. New Providence ended up with the bronze. Coach Terry Wildgoose said Grand Bahama didn't have much of a fight this year. They literally ran way with the competition. But he noted that next year, they hope to get more Caribbean teams involved like Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago, who all have excellent basketball teams. (resource: BahamasWeekly)]]> 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)]]> The new Club Grand Bahama is designed to be an island-wide vacation, with the advantages of an all-inclusive package without limiting you to one resort. This is the first vacation to offer this kind of freedom, anywhere. Proving once again It's Better In The Bahamas. Club Grand Bahama features five hotels, 18 restaurants, 50 destination activities, three championship golf courses, beach parties, gaming and more. There are three packages to choose from. Silver is a nice taste of what the island has to offer. Gold is a deeper look at all there is to see and do. Platinum includes every possible restaurant and activity. Participating Hotels Sunrise Resort & Marina Flamingo Bay Pelican Bay Our Lucaya Reef Village Radisson Our Lucaya Resort Details: Bahamas.com. Plan your trip while the rates are low and it's cold up north. Be sure and stop by our Coldwell Banker office while you're here, to talk about real estate opportunities.]]> The Salvation Army's New Providence branch has raised its annual Christmas fundraiser to $150,000, meanwhile in Grand Bahama, the organisation is unable to secure donations or volunteers. In New Providence, it is estimated that so far more than $5,000 has been collected in kettle donations. But in Grand Bahama, Captain Cheryl Compton explained the drive's late start and limited volunteer resources have contributed to their poor reception so far. "We don't have enough volunteers," said Capt Compton. "So we can't get enough kettles out there and keep them at the stores consistently." Capt Compton said that though donations have been slow, they have received more than 400 applications for food assistance. To donate time or money, contact the Salvation Army, Grand Bahama: The Salvation Army Freeport Corps Lynnda Speer Family Services & Thrift Store West Atlantic Drive P.O. Box F-44287 Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas Office Telephone: 242.352-4863 Fax: 242.351-5148 email: sallyann@batelnet.bs ]]> Bahama Islands Info) ]]> IMTJ, "The world recession is damaging the tourism business in many Caribbean islands. They are all looking at ways to replace lost tourist income. Medical tourism shines like a beacon offering hope and income. That few have any medical facilities for medical tourism does not seem to dim their enthusiasm. They have advantages for Americans, in being quick and easy to reach, and speaking English. The timescale involved in getting investors to build hospitals and then attract medical tourists may be longer than they realise. Despite this, Barbados and the Bahamas are both keen on becoming major health tourism destinations." ]]> BahamaIslandInfo.]]> Freeport.NassauGuardian) ]]> BahamasWeekly.]]> The AOPA Aviation Summit is beig held this week in Tampa, FL. The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation will give away 30 special hand-painted chocks designed by students from the Out Islands of the Bahamas to pilots attending Summit. In addition, the host FBOs at Tampa Executive and Peter O. Knight airports will distribute hundreds of Bahamas-themed chocks to pilots who fly in for the event. The tourism ministry's civil aviation department teamed up with its tourist offices in Exuma, Abaco, Eleuthera, and Grand Bahama to produce the chocks, which highlight the diversity of the islands. Various Out Island high schools participated in a creative design contest through the Junior Achievers Program, and four winners were awarded a trip to Tampa to attend Summit. The program was intended to expose Bahamians to aviation business opportunities, and should increase awareness of pilots in this area of visiting Grand Bahama. (resource: Aopa)]]> 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. ]]> Nov 6 - 7 will be the presentation of Animal Tales, by Elden-McGlone Productions, at the Regency Theatre, as a benefit for the Grand Bahama Humane Society. The entertainment shows life at the animal shelter through the eyes of the animals using the Lois Seiler dancers, thespians, song and dance. There will even some real, live dogs onstage. The show opens on Friday, November 6th with a cocktail reception at 7 pm and continues Saturday, November 7th with the show only at 8 pm. Tickets are $30.00 for the Friday performance and $20.00 for Saturday's. Children under 12 years of age are $10.00 for the Saturday performance only. Tickets may be obtained at Island Java in Port Lucaya, The Garden of the Groves or the Humane Society on Coral Road All proceeds from this show go directly to the support of the animals at the Humane Society's Animal Shelter. (resource: BahamasWeekly) ]]> Tribune242) ]]> The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) and Group of Companies, recently donated $12,000 to the Grand Bahama Sailing Club, becoming official gold sponsors of the upcoming 29er and 49er World Championships. For the first time, the International 49er and 29er Classes are bringing their World Championships to The Bahamas. The 2010 international sailing championships will be held in Grand Bahama, out of the Viva Wyndam Fortuna Resort, January 2-9. The world-class event will be sailed under the auspices of The Bahamas Sailing Association and hosted by the Grand Bahama Sailing Club. About 150 boats are expected to participate with some 350 sailors. The sailors, their families, support crews and race officials will be guests of the Viva Wyndam Fortuna Resort during the week of the races. According to Grand Bahama Sailing Club officials, The Bahamas expects to field entrants in the 2010 29er World Championship, including International Sailing Federation Youth World participant, Donico Brown. It is hoped that through sponsorship donations, a number of boats will be able to remain in The Bahamas after the regatta to become part of a strong sailing tradition in the country and to train future Olympic sailing athletes. (resource: Freeport.NassauGuardian) ]]> Saturday, Oct. 24, is International Migratory Bird Day. Garden of the Groves in Grand Bahama will celebrate with a birdwalk from 8 - 10 AM. Visit GardenoftheGroves for information. The official month to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day in the Bahamas and throughout the Caribbean is October, and many island nations have special events to raise awareness of birds and the protection of their winter habitat. International Migratory Bird Day is sponsored by the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds (SCSCB) of which the Garden of the Groves is a member. The main types of natural bird habitat in the Bahamas include pineforest, hardwood forest, xeric (dry) scrub, wetlands and coastal habitats. The Bahamian pineforest only occurs on the four northern island of the Bahamas - Grand Bahama, Andros, Abaco and New Providence. According to a study by the World Bank the pineforest is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the Caribbean, threatened by clearing for development and agriculture, by hurricanes, fires and invasive species. Hardwood forests and scrub habitat face the same threats. Mangrove wetlands and coastal areas that provide habitat for many species of resident and migratory wading birds, ducks, seabirds and shorebirds are severely threatened throughout the Bahamas by construction of hotels and resorts, marinas, golf courses and ports. The Garden of the Groves represents a wonderful example of what we can do to increase the quality of bird habitat for migratory and resident bird species. Good management practices like preserving and planting native trees such as Horseflesh, Gumelemi, Cinnecord, Tamarind, Inkwood, Poisonwood and Seagrape will provide hungry birds with insects and berries as well as shelter. For the nectar-feeding birds there is ample supply of Hibiscus, Firebush, Firecracker, Lantana, Golden Dewdrop and Ruellia. Garden of the Groves uses no herbicides and pesticides but rather lets the hungry migrants that descend on the Garden do their job. One may encounter leaves that might not look perfect to the human eye but they are heaven for the caterpillars who munch away only to be devoured by a famished woodpecker. A large compost enclosure sits at the back of the Garden where daily rakings of leaves, twigs, grasses and organic kitchen remnants are deposited. After a while this rich compost heap will provide nourishment for plants and trees of the Garden.This procedure eliminates heavy applications of chemical fertilizers to the soil. Come visit the Garden, participate in the bird walk, and read more about our birds and how we can protect them on TheBahamasWeekly. ]]> Freeport News) ]]> 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. ]]> The 23rd Annual Conchman Triathlon (8.00am) and the 12th Ironkids (12.00pm) will be held on Taino Beach on 7th November,2009. The first Conchman Triathlons were held at Xanadu, a couple at Our Lucaya, but Taino Beach has been the location to be on the first Saturday in November for the past 18 years. The original idea was threefold: to offer an event that would encourage swimmers, cyclists and runners to crosstrain; to attract visitors to the Bahamas to participate; and to add variety to the sports calendar in Freeport. Now there are individual and relay races: 800 meters swimming, 15 miles cycling, 5K run, with several age groups and divisions. The Ironkids race has 5 age groups ranging from 6 and under to 13 and over and consists of an individual race with a swim of 200 meters, a 3 mile ride and a ½ mile run. The race is open to all primary and secondary students (local and from off shore); there are no entry fees (courtesy of the sponsors Sun Alliance Insurance and Fred Smith) and all competitors receive a finishing medal and T shirt. Visit the Conchman web site or contact bertbell@coralwave.comand join the fun. (resource: BahamaIslandsInfo)]]> Mighty Oak Foundation will sponsor a Halloween fundraiser, The Grand Masquerade and Treasure Hunt, at the Grand Bahama Yacht Club October 31, 2009 at 6 pm. Participants will be given treasure maps to hunt for prizes in four categories, Platinum, Bronze, Gold and Silver. Masks for the hunt will be given to the participants once they enter the gate. Along with prizes from the Treasure Hunt, there will be a silent auction and numerous consolation prizes. Complimentary cocktails until 7:30pm and hors d'oeuvres, accompanied by steel pan drums, will set the stage for an evening of grand entertainment. The Mighty Oak Foundation was formed through the concept that we are our brother's keeper. After locating a need, the Foundation intends to assist children in one area of the Eight Mile Rock community by providing food for their school lunches, as early as November 2009. Their goal is to have a functional breakfast program up and running thereafter, similar to what the Black Panther Movement implemented into the public school system in America. One long term goal of the Foundation is to have a cafeteria built in this community, and another to have a clothing and feeding centre for young and old. Enjoy a different Halloween this year, and make a difference by helping feed our children. Tickets are only $55 and are available at The Awards & Signs Centre. Contact the Mighty Oak Foundation for more information at MightyOakTree@gmail.com, or call for ticket s at 242- 225-9748. (resource: theBahamasWeekly) ]]> Music, song and dance will open the Labyrinth season at the Garden of the Groves, with the Elden-McGlone production of "Under the Harvest Moon" on Saturday, October 3 at 8pm. Enjoy Lois Seiler's dancers, songbirds Dalia Feldman and Susan Jensen-Sweeting along with other talented local performers, followed by music for your dancing pleasure on the Labyrinth. Tickets are available at the Garden or the Groves and are only $15. The Garden of the Groves is a sprawling, 12-acre botanical garden brimming with orchids, ferns, duck ponds and waterfalls. Native birds such as Cuban Emeralds and Greater Antillean Bullfinches can be spotted among the lush foliage. According to the management, the garden has over ten thousand plants, which make it among the most photographed locations in the Bahamas. ]]> Colina Imperial Insurance is sponsoring the 1st annual Fun Run/Walk from their office on East Mall, at Poinciana Drive, this Saturday, Sept. 26, 7 AM. Proceeds will benefit the Special Olympics. Call 352-3223 for further information. Click here to download your application.]]> theBahamasWeekly)]]> Ocean Conservancy International Coastal Cleanup. This year it will be held Saturday, September 19th, 8:00 a.m. ^ 12:00 p.m. Over 500 students, teachers, civic clubs' and churches' members are expected to participate in this year's cleanup. Sponsors are the Ministry of Tourism, Local Government East and West, Caribbean Bottling Company, Pure Springs Drinking Water Co., Solomon's, and Sunny Isle Water & Juice. Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup is the world's largest volunteer event of its kind. Last year, 390,000 volunteers from 76 countries and 45 states cleared six million pounds of trash from oceans and waterways and recorded every piece of trash collected. As reported by the Bahamas Weekly, "This year's International Coastal Cleanup proves that cleanup efforts such as this is a year-round movement. The ocean is essential to the health of everything on our planet, but harmful impacts like climate change and overfishing are taking its toll. The International Coastal Cleanup provides a direct tangible way to make a difference. Trash in the ocean kills countless seabirds, marine mammals and sea turtles each year through ingestion and entanglement. The International Coastal Cleanup brings awareness and action to one of the largest problems we face in our environment. The 2009 International Coastal Cleanup Data Report is a global snapshot of the hazardous effects of trash in the ocean. "Venues of Cleanup will be found within the following settlements: East Grand Bahama: Sweeting's Cay, McLean's Town, High Rock and Freetown shorelines. Freeport Grand Bahama: Xanadu, Williams Town, Barbary, Fortune and Gold Rock Beaches. West Grand Bahama: Lover's Beach, Crystal Beach/Deadman's Reef, Bootle Bay and West End shoreline. "The work of ICC inspires to empower people everywhere to take responsibility for a clean ocean, not just on a single September day, rather everyday throughout the year." (resource: TheBahamasWeekly) ]]> BahamaIslandsInfo to watch videos about College of the Bahamas and the Ginn Project in West End.]]> 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. ]]> private plane market, recently rolled out the red carpet to lavishly pamper key aviation executives - mostly in the Florida market. The venue was a Grand style Familiarization tour of some of the most picturesque portions of the beautiful archipelago, and included travel to Grand Bahama, Long Island, Cat Island and Abaco. With more than 640,000 private pilots in the U.S. and some 48,244 in the state of Florida alone, the Bahamas is making every effort to capture its share of this lucrative market. Statistical 2008 data indicates that during that year, the visit of some 82,949 Private Pilots accounted for 476,593 room nights for the Bahamas, with the overwhelming majority going to the Family Islands. Already the Bahamas, over the years, have made an impact in the general aviation market through several marketing strategies, including the Preferred Gateway FBO program and Bahamas Flying Ambassadors (pilots with extensive experience in flying the Islands of The Bahamas). Private planes are welcome to fly down to see why the saying goes, "It's Better In The Bahamas." ]]> BahamaIslandsInfo, "GBTV delivers video online in three main ways: 1. 24x7 video streaming - Just like tuning in to any 'normal' station, GBTV runs programmes all the time. Viewers can tune in through any web browser to see what's playing at that time. 2. ON DEMAND programmes - Viewers can browse a list of shows available to play instantly and at any time, with the ability to pause, rewind and fast forward. 3. LIVE shows - GBTV will feature live shows from all over Grand Bahama. Concerts, conferences, church services, sports programmes and breaking news ^ all of these and more can be streamed live from any location with broadband Internet access." Nassau has 2 private TV stations, Abaco has its own, and Turks and Caicos has one. The new TV channel is currently available online via its web site www.GrandBahamaTV.com. Erik Russell, president of Keen I Media Ltd, Grand Bahama's only licensed full-service media production and marketing agency, said, "Putting GBTV online was a choice based on economics and impact. Making GBTV available online was not just less expensive than starting on cable or broadcast, but we also realised that many people in the Bahamas spend more time sitting in front of their computer screens than they do in front of their TV screens." Plans are underway to develop new live shows and other original TV shows that will feature the talent and ideas of many other Grand Bahamians. Read more at BahamaIslandsInfo. ]]> Conchman.com for this year's event on November 7. (resource: BahamasWeekly) ]]> The the general manager of the Port Lucaya Resort and Yacht Club announced that it was shutting its doors on August 31 after nearly 16 years. The announcement came just days after the Wyndam Nassau Resort & Crystal Palace Casino said it will be closed until October 5, and Sandals International made public its purchase of the Four Seasons. There is no doubt the economy is bringing changes to our islands.]]> 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.]]> JacksonJOnline, from Jackson, NJ, comes suggestions of 5 Must-Do Activities on your next Grand Bahama vacation. 1. Dive - Grand Bahama offers reefs, clear waters, and many dive enthusiasts and experts to help you. The Andros Islands, framed by the world's third largest reef, the Biminis, is extremely popular both with expert and novice divers. Marine life throughout the Bahamas allows visitors to see stingrays, angelfish, turtles and barracudas. 2. Sail - Explore the secluded islands accessible only by boat. If you'd rather be a passenger, you can charter a boat or yacht for that sunset sail. 3. Go on Safari - available only on Grand Bahama, the Bahamas Jeep Safari Tours let you take in all the museums, scenic spots, historical monuments, beaches and other places of interest. This is an excellent way to see Grand Bahama island by travelling through the region in an open jeep with a guide to assist you and show you around. 4. Swim with Dolphins - The Blue Lagoon Island is a natural dolphin habitat and provides the perfect platform for you to interact with dolphins, based on how comfortable you are around them. You could swim alongside them if you wanted, or even hug or kiss a dolphin or two. 5. Try a Casino - the Bahamas have a worldwide reputation for its casinos. The Isle of Capri Casino on Grand Bahama Island is one of three top spots with tourists and residents alike. Enjoy our attractions, and be sure to stop by our Coldwell Banker Grand Bahama office to discuss the real estate opportunities available now. ]]> InvestGrandBahama)]]> 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. ]]> Freeport News. ]]> In 1992, Hurricane Andrew smashed an aquarium tank in Florida. About a half-dozen spiny, venomous lionfish washed into the Atlantic Ocean, spawning an invasion that could kill off local industry along with the native fish. Lionfish are native to the Indian and Pacific oceans. But in the past few years, they've spread up the Eastern seaboard and throughout the Caribbean. The Bahamas have been hit the hardest. "In 2005, the first lionfish showed up, and we didn't pay much attention to it," says Oregon State University zoology professor Mark Hixon, who has studied reef fish here for almost two decades. "The next year, we saw a few more. Then in 2007 there was a population explosion. There were so many lionfish around that they were eating the fish we were studying, and we had to start studying the lionfish. There was nothing else to do." With their red and white stripes and a tall row of venomous spines down their backs, the size of a football, fan-like fins that look like a lion's mane, they are hard to ignore. Like lions, they are ferocious predators. Last year, Hixon co-authored a study with Mark Albins that showed a lionfish can kill three-quarters of a reef's fish population in just five weeks. The only thing unusual about spotting a lionfish in the Bahamas is seeing just one of them. Hixon and others are studying native lionfish in the Pacific Ocean to understand what keeps their populations in check. Until marine predators or parasites learn to feed on lionfish, the best hope for slowing the spread may be humans. The fish are a delicacy in Asia, but not in the Bahamas, given the painful sting their spines can inflict. A few restaurants serve lionfish now, and there's an effort to teach Bahamians how to catch and cook them. Lakeshia Anderson with the Bahamas Department of Fisheries says the livelihoods of many islanders depend on slowing the invasion. "With the quantities of lionfish that we've found in our waters and the amount of food they consume, it has the potential of really collapsing our commercially important species - our fishing industry in general," Anderson says. (resource: NPR.org) ]]> Freeport News. The Centre will provide a facility for Bahamian artists to display their work, and attract tourist dollars. The government has contributed a total of $300,000 to the project, while the GBPA (Grand Bahama Port Authority) will provide the remaining $350,000 to fund it. Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Larry Cartwright noted that the event signals the continuing and renewal of an industry that has been integral to our economic and social development. "This centre will provide a suitable venue for the arts and crafts persons and a site which would be indelibly imprinted in the minds of our visitors, who will leave this place with the fondest of memories," he said. "We hope that this event will be the spark that ignites the flames of success for the handicraft industry, a testimony to our partnership and a spur for growth and expression in Grand Bahama." Read more at the Freeport News.]]> 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.]]> Grand Bahama Nature Tours has pledged a monthly contribution to the operating expenses of the Freeport animal shelter, currently overwhelmed with animals. Economic problems have hit the animal shelter hard, as owners give up their pets to save expenses. Unlike the shelter in Nassau that is funded by the Bahamas Government the Freeport shelter is dependent on private donations. The Port Authority contributes substantially but there is still a major shortfall in revenue to cover operating expenses particularly for animal care Most employees of Grand Bahama Nature Tours are dog and pet owners, and the company management encourages them to help the shelter, as well as other pet lovers on the island. The company has been one of the leading eco-tour operators on Grand Bahama for 15 years. They operate kayaking, snorkeling, biking, hiking, jeep and bird watching tours. All tours involve light to moderate activity and are fully guided by friendly, highly trained, professional personnel. Visit their web site for prices and tours.]]> NassauGuardian. ]]> 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. With fares just $29 between Fort Lauderdale and Nassau, Bahamas, travelers can save big on fall travel. Customers must book travel online at www.jetblue.com by Wednesday, August 5, 2009. For instance, New York JFK to/from Nassau - ONLY $99 Boston, MA to/from Nassau - ONLY $99 Orlando, FL to/from Nassau - ONLY $49 There are many specials to other Caribbean destinations you could visit and include the Bahamas 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 the Bahamas! (resource: PrNewsWire) ]]> The Bahama Journal, "Graham Torode, President and CEO of the Grand Bahama Development Company noted that this key piece of infrastructure on the island would give Grand Bahama a tremendous advantage in terms of attracting investment to the island. "'This bridge is going to be a substantial piece in that jigsaw," he said. "Not only will it connect the two sides of the island...but it will also open up further investment on the eastern side of the Grand Lucayan Waterway, where over the next twenty or thirty years, we believe that this is where the majority of investment is going to be," Mr. Torode said.'" ]]> 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. ]]> Freeport.NassauGuardian.net. ]]> 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. ]]> http://www.caribbean.com). The 2009 brochure in PDF format is titled 'The Bahamas Hotel Guide' and is available for free download. The online brochure for Bahamas hotels presents an elaborate overview of hotels featured at Caribbean.com for visitors planning a Bahamas vacation. Visit http://www.caribbean.com/pdf/bahamas-hotels-2009.pdf to browse and download the Bahamas Hotels 2009 Brochure. Caribbean.com features an extensive list of Bahamas hotels, resorts and accommodations available at New Providence Island (Nassau and Paradise Island), Grand Bahama, Abaco and the Bahamas Out Islands. Apart from hotels, the online Caribbean travel and destination guide also provides information about the activities presented in The Bahamas such as eco-adventures, marine encounters and under the sea escapades. Bahamas vacation packages are also offered. The 2009 Bahamas Hotels guide brochure presents a brief outline of top hotels and resorts such as The Westin at Grand Bahama and The Atlantis resort at Paradise Island. Information in the Bahamas hotels brochure is supported by colored pictures and includes a detailed description of the infrastructure and the facilities available. ]]> 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. ]]> NassauGuardian.net. "Please note that the Westin will be rebranded to the Radisson at Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort and the Sheraton will be rebranded to Our Lucaya Reef Village on July 1, 2009," the website said. ]]> BahamaIslandsInfo)]]> Freeport.NassauGuardian.net. ]]> BahamaIslandsInfo (use Firefox as the browser).]]> 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 Grand Bahama Coldwell Banker site and watch for the latest in technology to be available for your use.]]> Visitors choose the Caribbean as a destination in large part because of its beaches and water sports, and Grand Bahama has its share of gorgeous waterfront. Not only are there several public beaches, such as William's Town Beach, Gold Rock Beach, Lucayan Beach, and more, but many resorts have their own private beaches where vacationers can get away from the crowds. The beaches in Grand Bahama are known for their white sands and the crystal-clear water is part of the experience. Read more about the Beaches of Grand Bahama at YourBeachVacation.net. ]]> 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. ]]> MyHotelVideo.com has produced a video on the Port Lucaya Resort and Yacht Club in Grand Bahama. If this type of multimedia is helpful for you to decide on a destination, take a look at www.myhotelvideo.com. It's a fun way to see the inside of a room and an aerial of the resort. Grand Bahama Island's most relaxing resort is situated on a five-acre peninsula surrounded by a multimillion dollar marina. The resort is ideally located next to the festive Port Lucaya Marketplace, which offers 80 colourful shops, restaurants and active nightlife, and within walking distance of all the island's main attractions, such as the popular Dolphin Experience. (resource: Yacht Charters in Bahamas) ]]> Where to Stay - "If you don't want to spend more than $100 per day, then you can stay at places like Bell Channel Inn, Dundee Bay Villas, Island Palm Resort, Port Lucaya Resort, or Flamingo Bay Hotel & Marina...There are currently more than 30 big hotels and resorts in the Grand Bahama Island." Things to Do - "You can visit the beautiful beaches like Paradise Cove Beach, Barbary Beach, Mather Town Beach, Xanadu Beach, Taino Beach, Gold Rock Beach, William's Town Beach and Lucayan Beach. If you like water sports and adventures then you can go snorkeling, diving, boating, sailing and fishing." Read the full article at EngagedNow, and make your reservations to spend your honeymoon on Grand Bahama. Set aside some time to talk to a Coldwell Banker agent about property here - we guarantee you'll want to come back! ]]> The Rocky Coppice is a transitional zone between the Mangrove Swamp and the Pine Forest and is frequently flooded at high tide. It is distinguished by limestone outcrops and an abundance of Ming trees, which the locals call "prickly trees." Their tiered branches are reminiscent of Asian bonsai trees. Also common in this zone are mahogany and red cedar trees. One the most fascinating ecological zones in The Bahamas, the Mangrove swamp is an environment where land and sea systems interweave. The huge, gnarly-rooted Red Mangrove trees grow in brackish water, secreting salt through their leaves. There are three kinds of mangrove species in the Bahamas: Red Mangroves, Black Mangroves and White Mangroves. The Red Mangroves collect sediment, a process that actually extends the land over time. This zone also has orchids and ferns. Check back for a later post on the last 2 systems. You'll agree Grand Bahama has tremendous diversity and appeal. Hope to see you soon! (resource: Geographica.com) ]]> Flattening of Caribbean coral reefs: region-wide declines in architectural complexity. Dr. Isabelle Côté 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)]]> Diplopundit)]]> RisMedia. ]]> 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 ]]> 55 miles south of Florida, the Westin Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort sits on 7.5 acres of sandy beach. Our 740 guest rooms and suites are fashioned with our signature Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath and hug the pristine beaches and turquoise ocean. Bask throughout the day in the sun, and revive your senses in the evening's cool Caribbean air while dining in our ocean-view restaurants. 749 beautiful guest rooms and suites - most with ocean views-feature the Westin Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath; 14 restaurants and cafés serve numerous delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Create the ultimate romantic atmosphere, ideal for honeymooners or couples who just want to feel like it's their honeymoon. With three pools, two golf courses, tennis, sandy beach, and the Isle of Capri Casino, The Westin Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort offers a complete vacation package. If all the play wears you out, reinvigorate yourself in the Senses Spa and Fitness Center. Our Kids Club offers a variety of fun and exciting activities to keep our younger guests entertained, too! The hotel is currently offering 3 nights starting at $579 when departing from St. Louis. Other departure cities are available. Valid for travel July 8 - August 25, during mid-week travel. Blackout dates during holidays. Please call at 888-269-1777. Prices are per person, double occupancy. Prices are capacity controlled and are subject to availability at the time of booking. Some dates the prices will be slightly higher. Government and security fees of approximately $255 and PFC of $25 are not included. ]]> 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. ]]> 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. ]]> Pine Forest: According to the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board, "Though people envision palm trees when they think of the Bahamas, the Caribbean pine is actually the most common tree on the island, covering 50% of the land mass. This unique tree (bahamensis var.) is endemic to only four of The Islands of The Bahamas. It is fire resistant, containing resins just under its bark that set off small explosions when hit by fire, there by suffocating the nearby flames. In the past, they were heavily harvested for lumber. Common in this ecological zone are also the Agave, or Century plant, and Palmetto." Blackland Coppice: "Decomposing leaf matter inside the Pine forest creates the Blackland Coppice, which nurtures indigenous fig trees, Dogwood, Lancewood, and Gumbo-Limbo trees. Also growing here is the Satin Leaf tree, which produces a dark red edible fruit that migratory North American birds feast on in late winter. The shade created by all these trees makes a perfect habitat for various ferns, bromeliads, and orchids." Visit a later blog to learn about Rocky Coppice and the Mangrove Swamp. Grand Bahama is a varied and interesting island - come visit!]]> 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.]]> Freeport News for information on the event, barbara@nasguard.com. ]]> Bahamas Islands Info)]]> 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.]]> 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)]]> LA Times and MSNBC) ]]> Freeport News on the state of the current real estate market in Freeport. He feels the market is neither good nor bad, but a mix of both. "There is good news and bad news; it's just a matter of perspective. There are buyers and sellers and the buyers are buying and the sellers are selling. That is GOOD news and BAD news. The GOOD news is that property is selling. The BAD news is that there is not a lot of property selling, but over the last 15 years there has never been a lot of property selling in Freeport... "Compared to the current U.S. market, the modest appreciation is actually a very good return on investment. The BAD news is that you can wait a long time to sell your property. Based on many factors - including poor airlift, lack of tourists, a soft economy and a small local population - the market is and always has been relatively slow with a small number of real estate transactions every year... "The GOOD news is that Freeport - with its close proximity to the U.S., no property tax, low crime, beautiful beaches, gin clear turquoise waters and tremendous infrastructure - has HUGE potential. The BAD news is that Freeport is the best kept secret in the Caribbean and has always been the bridesmaid and never the bride." Read the full article on Freeport.NassauGuardian. ]]> Freeport Nassau Guardian. ]]> FresnoBee.com) ]]>