I Help Make Dreams Come True

A Tale of Two Coasts Half a World Apart

2008-10-04T18:32:16Z

I've just finished a visit to my daughter, in Australia, and offer some reflections about our two islands and lifestyles. I live in St Croix, in the US Virgin islands. My little island is 27 miles long and 8 miles wide. It is home to lovely white sand beaches, a sub-tropical rainforest, verdant hills and valleys, and colorful flora and fauna.

My daughter lives on the Gold Coast in Australia. Her island is a bit bigger than mine! In fact, everything there is bigger! The beaches are extremely wide. The ocean is very cold and the waves are huge! The trees - even the same ones that we have in St Croix - are taller. The rainforest is much older, and the vistas from the Australian rainforest (the Hinterlands) are just huge and gorgeous. The bugs and critters are bigger there, too, and more deadly! I had the chills at the Brisbane museum looking at the creatures that live among the Aussies! About all we have to worry about in St Croix are centipedes - and they look pretty tame compared to the Australian centipedes!

Housing

My daugther lives in one of those neighborhoods with rows and rows of houses that all look pretty much the same. I can't leave the house for fear I will never find it again! And these row houses are not inexpensive, either. The average cost of a home there is mid 300's to mid 400's (and right now the dollar is about .8 of the Australian dollar). That's just a basic home - nothing fancy. In fact, the architecture and design features here are very plain, and the lots very small. There are subdivisions springing up all over the place - which are, in my opinion, very unattractive and unappealing.

On my little island, St. Croix, there are not very many subdivisions, and there are no new ones! The house prices are fairly comparable, but for the same price in St Croix, you're going to get an old place that needs quite a bit of work. One big difference is that in St Croix you are never more than 30 minutes away from anything. But in Australia, the suburbs are miles away from shopping, beaches, and other amenities. Gas prices are about 4 times as high as in St Croix.

Costs

They are taking lots of steps to "go green" in Australia. Hotels and homes are constructed with energy efficiency in mind. Already their power bills are much lower than ours in St. Croix.

Food and drinks are much more expensive there. A beer (and by the way, the beer in Australia is just outstanding) will cost you about $7 a pint. In St Croix, happy hour prices are anywhere from $1 - $3 for a beer (but nowhere near as good). A mixed drink or glass of wine there will set you back about $10 - in St. Croix, about half of that. Meals, with the difference in the dollar, are about the same, although we did go to a steak place and the hamburgers were $25. Ouch. Grocery store prices are probably comparable as well.

Weather

The weather in St Croix is always warm. September is typically the hottest with the least amount of breeze (unless there's a hurricane), and winters are just perfect. On the Gold Coast, the seasons are, of course, opposite from ours. It's pretty hot there in "our" winter - but fairly chilly in their winter (our summer). I visited in October and the weather was interesting. Some days were very hot, and other days quite chilly.

Lifestyle

My conclusion is that life is harder on the Gold Coast of Australia. It's expensive; there is a lot of driving; jobs are hard to come by and you typically have to travel long distances to get to them; and there are lots of critters on land and sea to be wary of.

The pace, lifestyle, and ease of my little island of St Croix suits me much better. Although Australia does have something that St Croix does not have - and that's my beautiful daughter and her wonderful man, Andy. For that reason, I will certainly be leaving a little piece of my heart "down under" - and am already thinking of my next trip to visit the Gold Coast.

Meanwhile, contact me with all your questions and concerns about living and buying real estate in St. Croix. Be sure and sign up to receive your free Relocation Package and learn about our island.

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
www.retireinstcroix.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
340-626-3758
kim@coldwellbankervi.com

St. Croix, Virgin Islands: 7 & 7C Teagues Bay, Gorgeous Vacation Rental $840,000

2008-09-20T19:20:43Z

Frederiksted, VI: Private Lot in Mid-Island on St. Croix

2008-09-15T19:05:16Z

PRIVATE LOT! Fantastic Mid Island Location! Easy commute to Frederiksted or Christiansted or South Shore. Be one of the first homeowners in this great location! Property is behind plots 453 and 452 with an easement on south side of 453 for access.
Directions: Queen Mary Highway headed west towards Frederiksted from Sunny Isle. Pass Barren Spot Mall, go straight at curve.Take first Right, then take first left. Property is behind plots 453 & 452

Frederiksted, VI: Homesite in West End on St. Croix

2008-09-15T19:03:02Z

Great Corner Lot! Great location on West End, easy access to Frederiksted and Highway! Great flat building site for your new home.
Directions: Queen Mary Highway headed towards Frederiksted. Left at 7013. Left at Whim-Pine Intersection. Drive to Salmon colored house on right and take next paved right, drive to end.

Frederiksted, VI: Corner Lot Homesite on St. Croix

2008-09-15T19:00:54Z

Great homesite! Beautiful Corner lot! Flat and buildable. Great location in Whim. Easy access to Frederiksted and Melvin Evans Highway.
Directions: Queen Mary Highway to Road 7013. Turn left and go to Intersection of Whim - Pine, take a left. See Salmon Colored house on Right, go past this house and take next paved right, go to end.

Frederiksted, VI: Flat Buildable Lot on St. Croix

2008-09-15T18:57:22Z

Great building site on flat land! Good location with easy access off Queen Mary and Melvin Evans Highway.
Directions: Queen Mary Highway westbound toward Frederiksted, to Road 1031. Turn Left go to Whim-Pine Intersection, turn left. Go to salmon colored house on R; go past to next paved rd, turn right.

St. Croix Real Estate Market Statistics Sept. 2008

2008-09-09T21:31:16Z

For those of you wondering what's been happening in the St. Croix real estate market in the last 6 months, here are some stats you might find interesting:

HOMES:
62 home sales (closings) in last six months. Average sales price $472,702; median sales price $365,000. Average difference sales price to list price - $68,452. Average DOM = 238.

About a quarter of these homes were under $200,000. About a third were between $200,000 - $400,000. Nearly 10% were in the $400,000 - $500,000 range. Twenty percent were between half a million and a million, and nearly 10% were over one million.

Currently, there are 224 houses on the market. Only 10 % are under $200,000 - and many of these are just "slabs" or partial constructions. About a third are between $200,000 and half a million, and another third are between half a million and a million. That leaves about one-fourth of the homes listed at a million or more. There is a real need for nice, decent "low end" homes here, but if you're in the market for a high end home - there's plenty to choose from!

CONDOS:
56 condos closed in the last six months. Average sales price $222,691; median sales price $176,250. Average difference sales price to list price - $21,539. Average DOM = 217.

Most of the condos sold (nearly two thirds) were under $200,000. About 30 percent were between $200,000 - $400,000.

Currently, there are 162 condos on the market. about 42% of those are under $200,000. There are no new condo complexes on the market, and the least expensive condo here i

LAND:
241 land sales in last YEAR. Average sales price $154,295; median sales price $53,000. Average difference sales price to list price - $25,569. Average DOM = 307.

Nearly 75% of the sales were parcels under $100,000, and about 70% were an acre or less. Slightly over 20% of the sales were between one hundred and five hundred thousand. Four percent of the sales were over half a million, and over 15 acres.

There are some great buying opportunities now in St. Croix. Our economy is strong and improving, and there will always be demand for housing in Paradise. Contact me for details, my Relocation or Retirement Packages. And Developers - we need you! Email me for my Developer's Package too.

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
340-626-3758
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com

Frederiksted, VI: Affordable Buildable Lot in St. Croix Rainforest Only $95,000

2008-09-08T19:50:23Z

Lovely large affordable plot in the rainforest with easy access, gentle slope, and fruit trees already planted for you! Nice spot to build, and you'd be high enough to never see or hear any cars on Mahogany Road.

St. Croix, Virgin Islands: an Island with a Rich and Interesting History, Part III

2008-09-05T18:08:37Z

Alexander Hamilton began his career on St Croix in a shipping firm owned by a New Yorker. The wealth and social status achieved by the prominent families on the island appealed to colonial families in Philadelphia, NY and Charleston. During the American Revolution, the products of the islands and close family connections produced natural support for America, and the neutrality and free port status of the Danish Virgins were important financial assets to the colonies.

In the early 1800's, our economic picture began to dim, as the newly invented processing of the beet sugar crop began to cut into the market for cane sugar. In 1848, the slaves of St Croix marched in Frederiksted and demanded emancipation. Governor General Peter von Scholten made a proclamation from the walls of fort Frederik that freed all the slaves on July 3, 1848 (way ahead of the continental US!), but his actions were considered illegal by the Danish government. In 1848 labor was regulated by a colonial labor law that was deemed oppressive; thirty years later, it culminated in a violent riot that led to the burning and destruction of homes and plantations - which we refer to as "de Fire Burn."

Emancipation did not solve the island's underlying economic problems, and our population fell significantly. Then, in 1871, the US attempted to buy the islands, but were not successful until 1917, when the islands were purchased for $25 million from Denmark. The free port status of our islands was retained in the sale treaty and are still in effect today.

The islands were first administered by the US Navy, with the Dept. of the Interior assuming jurisdiction in 1931. The Organic Act provided local government in 1936, and a revision to that act in 1954 provided a three-branch territorial government. Our first elected governor was Melvin Evans, in 1970, and our only "highway" here on the island was named in his honor.

St. Croix is a fascinating and exciting place to live. Visit my web site for Things to Do in St. Croix, contact me for a free copy of my extensive Relocation Package, or general real estate information.

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
340-626-3758
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com

Christiansted, VI: 280 Degree View Lot

2008-09-05T15:05:26Z

You can see Buck Island, coastline of Judith's Fancy, 280 degrees of water and even the lights of C-sted from this gorgeous gently sloping lot. This is water front, but up high enough to avoid the salt spray. Taxes are for all three parcels - adjacent parcel could be purchased as well, if interested. Some owner financing would be considered.

Directions: Enter Judith's Fancy and take first right. Road curves to left, take first right. There's a chain across road; lot starts on right just after chain to water. Cleared for easy viewing.

Contact me for details.

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde Realty
340-626-3758
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com

St. Croix Web Sites

2008-09-01T17:56:35Z

Interested in keeping up with what's happening in St Croix?

Well, in addition to subscribing to my newsletter (thanks if you're already subscribed), you can also get the feed to a couple of local papers: www.onepaper.com/stcroixvi and www.virginislandsdailynews.com

If you're thinking of relocating to St. Croix, you might want to subscribe to www.vimovingcenter.com.

Other good sites to keep up with what's going on throughout our beautiful island: www.gotostcroix.com and www.stcroixtourism.com. These sites are loaded with information to help you learn about the St. Croix and connect with folks here.

Not sure where St. Croix is? Visit the map page on my web site.

And, I'm just an email away to answer any questions you might have about St. Croix real estate!

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
340-626-3758

St. Croix, Virgin Islands: an Island with a Rich and Interesting History, Part II

2008-08-27T18:18:56Z

In our last installment, we left off with Chris Columbus meeting the Indians at Salt River Bay in 1493. Skipping forward a bit -

In the early 1640s, England and Holland were sparring over St Croix, and a bit later, the French and Spanish got into the mix. From 1655 - 1665, the French leased the islands to the French chapter of the Knights of Malta, and the island produced cotton, indigo, tobacco, sugar and tropical foods. In the late 17th century, the French were forced to abandon the island, and eventually English woodcutters from Tortola moved in and engaged in lumbering.

France sold St Croix to the Danish West India and Guinea Company in 1733. Denmark took over as a Crown Colony in 1755 and began to expand the sugar plantations and control the African slave trade. The Danes established the towns of Christiansted (named for King Christian VI of Denmark) in 1735, and Frederiksted (named for King Frederik V) in 1752. Friederich Moth, governor of the West India Company, designed the town layout for Christiansted and had the island surveyed into 150 acre estates, the names of which we still use today! Moth encouraged settlers by offering tax benefits and reasonable prices on the land (sound familiar? We're still doing it!!). The tolerance of the Danes regarding ethnicity and religion made our island a cultural melting pot, which it still is. English eventually became the common language, but most people spoke a Dutch Creole, a blend of Dutch and African languages, and later a dialect of English - which I believe still influences the native language here. Our locals speak their own brand of "English," which is charming and lovely, although a bit difficult for us "mainlanders" to understand, at least initially. "All ah we tink dis is ah good ting, to ah talk Crucian...."

The sugar-based prosperity of St Croix reached its peak in the mid 1700's with exports of sugar, molasses, rum, hardwoods, and cotton. At one point, our island was called the "garden of the West Indies," which I think even captures our culture, although our new "branding" is labeling St Croix as "the Port of Solace." Today, you can see the ruins of over 80 sugar mills here on our beautiful island. They stand as a reminder to embrace our diversity and cherish our freedom, for it was on the backs of the African slaves that these mills were built and the sugar was produced - and our island prospered.

Members of our community still sit on the steps of our government house in protest of our government's lack of attention to the issue of reparation. They seek more and better education of our youth about the savage history of slavery, and seek to engage those nations who benefitted from the institution in helping to mitigate its devastating consequences. ACRRA (the African Caribbean Reparations and Resettlement Alliance) seeks to bring to the table all avenues of the topic of slavery and its repercussions so that healing - on both sides of the issue - can happen. But I digress.....

Join me next week for the final installment of my series on the history of St. Croix. Better yet, sign up to receive my blog posts through the RSS feed shown on the right.

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
340-626-3758

Can You Work in the Paradise of St. Croix? Yes!

2008-08-26T12:58:18Z

If you are like me, and just can't wait till you're 65 to "retire" to the virgin islands, but are SO READY to quit your current job and start a new life, then this post is designed specifically for you! I started a new career here, and many other folks have done the same. Some have turned former "hobbies" into paying jobs. It's quite possible that you'll be served a fine meal by a former CEO of a large company!

Moving here or "retiring" here does not mean that you can't be productive or have a full or part time job to bring in some extra money and/or contribute in a meaningful way. There are numerous places to do volunteer work as well, and also plenty of job opportunities.

Your job research should start before your arrival on the island. Checking local job websites and newspapers will give you an idea of what the job market on St. Croix has to offer. It is also a good idea to check the job opening/career pages of local and federal agency web sites, especially if your experience and training are in the areas of social work, business administration or project management. It is not likely that you will secure more than the prospect of an interview before your arrival, unless your area of expertise is in a specific industry, such as many of the positions utilized in the island's resident oil refinery. Check the links below for more information on local employment opportunities.

www.vidol.gov/Units/JobService/Job_Seekers.html: Virgin Islands Department of Labor, Division of Job Services. Registration with the Department of Labor is recommended shortly after you arrive, especially if you plan to work full time. It must be done in person, and you must submit identification (birth certificate, driver's license or state ID for copying) and an up-to- date resume with your application. You are given a copy of most recent job listings to review while you wait to see a representative. St. Croix locations: Frederiksted - 302 King St., (340) 772-2312; Christiansted - Sunny Isle Store #7, (340) 773-1440.

http://www.dlca.gov.vi/boardcertifications.htm : Department of Licensing & Consumer Affairs. The Department of Licensing & Consumer Affairs is a necessary stop if you are interested in one of the fields that require passing an examination for board certification to be employed in the territory. Social worker, architect, and electrician are among the job titles for which this is a must.

http://www.dopusvi.org/careers.aspx : Division of Personnel.

http://www.viirb.com/: Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue.

http://www.vivote.gov/index.htm: Election Systems of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Poll workers are needed for primaries and general elections. Call (340) 773-1021 for information or applications are accepted in-person, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., across from the K Mart annex at the Sunny Isle Annex #4, 93A.

http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/about/jobs.htm: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs.

This agency lists job openings through USAJOBS, the official job site of the U.S. Federal Government, www.usajobs.gov .

http://www.vipd.gov.vi/work_with_us/work_with_us.aspx: U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department.

http://www.viport.com/employment.html: Virgin Islands Port Authority. To file an application for employment at the Port Authority, contact VIPA's Personnel Department at (340) 774-1629, ext. 677; please mail your applications to: Virgin Islands Port Authority Attention: Personnel Department P. O. Box 301707 St. Thomas, VI 00803-1707

www.dpnr.gov.vi: Department of Planning & Natural Resources. Job openings are listed on the Division of Personnel's site, http://www.dopusvi.org/careers.aspx.

www.vid.uscourts.gov/pages/Body_employment/htm: U.S District Court of the Virgin Islands.

http://www.viig.org/careers.html: The Office of the Virgin Islands Inspector General.

http://www.viwapa.vi/jobs_ext_list.asp: U.S. Virgin Islands Water & Power Authority.

http://hrweb.uvi.edu: University of the Virgin Islands, St. Croix Campus (jobs on St. Croix are denoted with STX.

http://stx.onepaper.com/: St. Croix Source, online newspaper. Check the Classifieds page for employment opportunities.

http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/: Virgin Islands Daily News, online version. Check the Classifieds under the Employment link for job openings.

http://www.career.vi: website dedicated to job openings in St. Croix.

http://www.caribbeanmonster.com - Caribbean-focused version of the popular job website.

I'm a Realtor now, sold my business and moved here a few years ago and have no regrets! Our economy is very strong, and real estate prices are poised to do nothing but go up.

Contact me with any questions about relocation or retirement in St. Croix, and for real estate market information. I'm livin' my dream - are you?

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
340-626-3758

St. Croix, Virgin Islands: an Island with a Rich and Interesting History, Part I

2008-08-20T18:01:57Z

St. Croix has a rich and interesting history. I've provided a very encapsulated version here - taken mostly from a wonderful resource that those of you who are considering moving here MUST have - and that's the Settler's Handbook for the US Virgin Islands (you can order your copy from www.gotostcroix.com).

This book covers many topics of interest to anyone interested in St. Croix, and is also a great resource, guide, and source of valuable information about the island. I've excerpted some of the key historical events from the overview of this book to give you a thumbnail sketch of our history.

For a good map of St. Croix and points of interest, visit the map page on my web site, www.retireinthevi.com.

Evidence suggests that the lovely island of St Croix has been inhabited since around 2500 BC. There have been three known pottery-making tribes who inhabited the island, starting with the Igneri (or Ancient Ones) , the Taino or Arawak, and the Caribs, who were here until the late 16th century. Christopher Columbus and his crew were the first Europeans to visit us in 1493, and anchored near Salt RIver bay. They were met by some of these Indians and as a result, 'Ol Chris named the site "Cape of Arrows," which is a testimony to the less than warm welcome he received!

Check in next week for Part II of our history or sign up to subscribe to this blog.

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
340-626-3758

Christiansted, VI: Affordable Buildable Lot Near Christiansted, $30,000

2008-08-20T17:11:32Z

This flat, easy to build on, affordable lot is very convenient to Christiansted and the North Shore.

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

This flat, easy to build on, affordable lot is very convenient to Christiansted and the North Shore.

Features

Acreage:	0.25
Zoning:	R-1
Sewerage:	No
Water:	No
Subdivision:	Concordia
Agent Name:	Kim Lucas
Broker:	Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde
MLS #:	08-1289
Views:	Pastoral
Topography:	Flat
Vegetation:	Overgrown
Building site potential:	Excellent
Surrounds:	Corner lot

Location

2PA-F Concordia QU Christiansted QU 00320

vFlyerId: 1853120

St. Croix Real Estate - How to Choose a Realtor

2008-08-16T11:14:15Z

I'm living my dream here in St. Croix - sold my business a few years back, chose St. Croix from all the Caribbean islands for relocation, bought real estate, and couldn't be happier!

I'm very bullish about our economy and all the positive changes coming to our island.

But if you have to sell, or want to take advantage of our drop in prices and invest in property, carefully consider who you want as your guide and advisor to sell your property.

You'll want someone who will deliver the following:

Great internet marketing. According to the National Association of Realtors, over 84% of home buyers begin their search on the internet. Choose an agent who actively advertises on the internet. Google St Croix real estate and explore who is most actively marketing on line.
Up to date, local market knowledge and information. That doesn't necessarily mean they've lived here for 30+ years - but it does mean that they do their homework and make educating their customers a top priority. I do this through blogging and I keep in constant contact with people who have expressed interest in living in St. Croix.
Comprehensive and compelling advertising. Photos and creatively written ads DO make a difference. Look at how many photos your potential agents put on their listings- and what they say about their listings. If they are not interesting to you- they won't be to others, either. I use a TON of photos and try to write compelling text about my listings!
The truth. And sometimes, it hurts! You want an agent who will not just tell you what you what to hear. You want someone who will tell it like it is, and will give you honest advice about staging your home for sale.

All of the real estate gurus out there will tell you to interview at least three agents before making a choice. That's good advice. But you can also do quite a bit of homework on your own, to narrow down your selection of agents to interview.

Visit my web sites, request free market information or my monthly newsletter, and sign up for my Retire to the VI package. I'm here to answer your questions!

Kim Lucas REALTOR
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
340-626-3758

(photo courtesy of John Ballard)

Summertime and the Livin' is Easy in St. Croix

2008-08-12T18:37:10Z

As we enter the dog days of summer, I am falling even more in love with this beautiful island. The days are hot, but the water feels oh so good! Nothing better than slipping into the pool or ocean on a hot summer day! And the evenings are so pleasant! I couldn't sleep last night and just stood on my gallery feeling the warm tropical tradewinds blow and smelling the lovely jasmine that is just starting to bloom in my yard.

If that's not enough, more announcements about new developments coming that were in today's paper got me all excited and made me want to rush out and buy buy buy more real estate here!

Contact me for a copy of my monthly newsletter - the August issue has info about the return of cruise ships to Frederiksted, more Delta flights scheduled to our island, and a new initiative to bury the power lines in Christiansted, which will make our town even more lovely and facilitate the restoration of power should we have a hurricane. You can also read the continuing saga of our water and power authority woes, and learn about our amazing athletes currently competing in the Olympics.

St. Croix is a busy place, bustling with economic vitality, growth, and a real sense that we are going somewhere! Let me help you invest in St. Croix, and live your dream in our paradise - I'm living mine!

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
340-626-3758
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com

Is the Housing Crisis really a "Crisis"

2008-08-08T13:23:35Z

Here's a good short video by Dennis Kneale on CNBC, recorded June 27, 2008, with a fresh and positive approach to the mortgage challenges faced by the real estate industry.

Watch the Housing Video

In St. Croix, we have not had the rate of foreclosures seen in some of the states Dennis mentions, like California, Florida, and Nevada. But our market has softened, as a result of the "mainland" problems.

This means buyers have more choices and better negotiating power. Our economy is very strong, and growng.

Contact me to receive my monthly newsletter about the real estate market in St. Croix, or for a free copy of my report, Retiring in the Virgin Islands.

Ready to Help You Live Your Dream in St. Croix,

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
340-626-3758

Christiansted, St. Croix Moving Power Lines Underground

2008-07-31T18:01:54Z

Friday, August 1, will see the commencement of a multi-year project to move the power lines in Christiansted underground. The Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency will break ground Friday on the lawn of Fort Christian.

The project, funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through its pre-disaster mitigation grant program, will speed the return of power to St. Croix in the event of a major hurricane. The work will be completed in 3 phases, running concurrently, and could take up to five years.

Following the devastating hurricane Hugo in 1989, it took about six months to fully restore power to the island. When this work is complete, FEMA expects a three-month timeframe for total revitalization after a major disaster.

A side benefit of the work, for our St. Croix economy and real estate values, will be the visual effects of underground cables. Poles and transformers will be buried, Christiansted will look more aesthetically pleasing, the tourists will snap photos without power lines, and real estate values should increase as a result. (Note power lines in the photo above of a building in Christiansted.)

Contact me to receive my monthly newsletter about the real estate market in St. Croix, or for a free copy of my report, Retiring in the Virgin Islands.

Livin' the Dream in St. Croix,

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
340-626-3758

Christiansted, VI: Beautifully Remodeled Home with Guest House, $725,000

2008-07-31T14:00:50Z

You won't believe this tropical gem! COMPLETELY remodeled from top to bottom with custom high-end cabinetry and finishes everywhere! This home is a delight! Has such a great 'island' feel to it. Main house has 2 large bedrooms and baths; large guest apt. has 1/1 with tons of storage and very large kitchen/living area. Across the street from 'honeymoon cove' and in a gated, secure neighborhood.

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	3
Parking:	Garage
Year Built:	1969
Subdivision:	Judith's Fancy
Lot Size:	1.01 AC
Garage Size:	2-car
Square Footage:	2500
Agent Name:	Kim Lucas
Broker:	Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde Realty
MLS #:	08-1201
Guest House:	Kitchen, bedroom, bath, living/dining, laundry

Location

53 Judith's Fancy QU Christiansted VI 00820

vFlyerId: 1790231

Want to Purchase a Home in St. Croix? Important Questions to Ask

2008-07-28T12:34:30Z

One of the big decisions you will need to make if you are considering relocation to St. Croix is whether to build a new home, buy an existing home, purchase a condo, or rent. There are pros and cons associated with each choice. Here are basic questions to consider that will help you in this decision process:

1. How soon do you want to be "in" your own space in St. Croix?

2. Would you be able to personally oversee a construction project in this tropical climate? Have you ever done this before? If you won't be here, do you feel comfortable hiring a "general contractor" to be responsible?

3. How much "square footage" do you want/need, beds/baths?

4. What about stairs? Any limitations now or expected in the future?

5. Do you want / need a view?

6. How important is a pool?

7. How close do you want to be to the water? Do you want to be able to see it from afar, have it lapping at your feet, or does it really matter? Remember, in St. Croix, you are never more than a 10 - 20 minute drive away from the Caribbean.

8. What is the maximum amount of money you want to spend on the purchase?

9. What is the maximum amount of money you want to spend each month on fees and services for your home or condo?

10.What is the maximum amount of money you can spend on a mortgage or rent payment?

11.Will you live in your home full time, or will you rent it out part time?

12.Do you want additional income from your property (i.e., a home with a guest house can provide additional income as well as security when you are away)?

13.How close do you want to be to shopping or other community amenities?

Thinking through your answers to these questions about buying property in St. Croix, even if you want to invest in property and hold until retirement, will help you narrow your choices and prioritize the available properties. Contact me with any questions, and to receive my monthly newsletter on the real estate market in St. Croix.

Livin' the dream in St. Croix,

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
340-626-3758

(photo courtesy of John Ballard)

Great Snorkeling Spots in St. Croix

2008-07-15T16:11:02Z

Snorkeling is one of my favorite hobbies. I addition to watching the sea life, I love to look for shells and chaney (small pieces of broken Danish pottery) in the shallows. There are good snorkeling spots ALL OVER this lovely island. Visit the maps page on my web site, to become familiar with the island of St. Croix.

I guess I enjoy the snorkeling on the west end best of all. Right in front of our condo at Harbour Beach Village (just south of Sandcastles on the Beach) are perfect coral formations and overhangs - great spots for fish and lobsters to hang out! If you go in either direction away from the condos, the snorkeling is still wonderful, but the bottom changes. There are some grassy areas to the south,ideal for spotting turtles! Last week we saw an ENORMOUS ray. Wing span of probably 5 - 6 feet!

There's actually an underwater snorkeling trail on the west end just off of the beach in front of N2 the Blue (best dive shop in St Croix) and Coconuts (best beach bar in St Croix!!!). And snorkeling off the Frederiksted pier, you may get lucky and see seahorses! That's a definite "seahorse hangout!"

Going north, other good snorkeling spots include the beach off of Butler Bay (you'll see a sign and some old stone gates - just after that is a nice beach- park there to snorkel - but don't leave valuables in your car!). Further north along the west end beach road, stay to the left and you'll be rewarded with great snorkeling at Ham's bay. You'll see several spots to pull off and park - just make sure to mind your valuables. Take along one of those waterproof containers for your keys and wallet - if you don't have one - you can pick one up at N2 the Blue. Nothing worse than having a perfect beach and snorkeling day ruined by a few punks who get their jollies by breaking into vehicles and stealing your stuff.

Along the North Shore, of course the famous Cane Bay is a great spot for snorkeling and diving. Continue on to La Valle and I understand the snorkeling is pretty good in that stretch just after you go left at the Corner Store. Haven't checked it out yet - but it's supposed to be nice. And so is the snorkeling right in front of Lobster Reef (restaurant across from Corner Store). I hear that's a lobster hangout - and the restaurant is a hangout for those of us who like to eat them! Salt River park (the beach side) has some interesting coral formations and is supposed to have wonderful snorkeling. I haven't tried that yet, either. To get there, continue down north shore road and turn left at the marina. That road dead-ends at the beach - take security precautions here as well.

On the east end of the island there's also some great snorkeling. Tamarind Reef is really nice. Past the Buccaneer, turn left into Green Cay. Follow signs for the Deep End Bar and go to the beach to the right of the bar. They have an attendant and you can rent chairs, umbrellas, the whole works. Fewer worries about thievery here, and truly world class snorkeling. It's a bit difficult to get into the water here - but worth it.

Out east, the water in front of Duggan's Reef restaurant is supposedly good for snorkeling. Or, keep heading east and follow signs for the Divi, then turn left on one of the roads and find your way to the beach at Grapetree bay. There are several spots where you'll see trails to the beach and some parking. Great snorkeling here, too. The Divi hotel beach is also nice - with all the amenitie of a fine hotel (chairs, bar, etc.).

Jack & Issac's Bay is supposed to be fabulous for snorkeling (also off of Grapetree Bay- but you have to hike to it). I'm going to test that one out this week. I understand it requires a significant hike - but it's supposed to be well worth it. I'll report back!

And of COURSE - there's Buck Island! But for that - you need a boat!

Please feel free to post your comments about other snorkel spots YOU'VE found here on St. Croix!

Sound too good to be true? Visit my web site on retiring in the Virgin Islands, contact me for a Relocation Package or Answers to Your Questions on Retirement. We live our dream here in St. Croix - come down and visit!

Kim Lucas, REALTOR
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
340-626-3758

Christiansted, VI: Oceanfront Condo Priced to Sell!

2008-07-11T22:14:48Z

Links

Photo Gallery

Pool	Restaurant	Lagoon
Mill Harbour		Closet space
Living area	toward bedrooms	Kitchen
King in MB

Description

Unit priced for quick sale. This condo is in good shape, ready to rent or to make your home, or 'home away from home.' With some personality - it could be really adorable. Just needs your personal touch! Rents for $1600/mo.! On site restaurant, beach, pool! Close to Christiansted. Secure, gated entrance.

Leaving Christiansted, turn right at 5 Corners. Mill Harbour is first condo complex on the left. Enter security gates and park near the office. Unit 117 is two units to the right of the office.

Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	2
Subdivision:	Mill Harbour
Floors in Bldg:	2
Square Footage:	1100
Agent Name:	Kim Lucas
Broker:	Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde Realty
MLS #:	08-1011
Location:	Oceanfront
Floor:	Ground floor
Restaurant:	On premises

Location

117 Golden Rock CO Christiansted VI 00820

vFlyerId: 1758208

Unusual Landmark in St. Croix: Sugar Mill House

2008-07-08T11:58:04Z

St Croix, in the US VIrgin Islands, has a rich heritage and is the proud home to the remains of over 80 sugar mills, which were used in the production of sugar and rum here.

About 50 years ago, one enterprising man built a replica of a sugar mill as his guest house. Then about five years ago, another ambitious couple turned this guest house into part of a larger home that is a wildly successful vacation rental (www.stcroixvilla.com).

Learn more about the property by visiting Kim Lucas' web site, or reading her blog Unusual Landmarks in St. Croix.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
www.retireinthevi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com

Will a Condo "Pay for Itself" in St. Croix?

2008-07-07T17:52:59Z

"Can you buy a condo here that will pay for itself?" is a question I am frequently asked. Here are the questions you need to answer for ME so that I can answer that question for YOU and your unique circumstances:

1. Do you want a beach front condo?
2. How much are you willing to spend (initial capital outlay)?
3.  What monthly outgo can you live with for a property here?
4. Will you procure the renters (i.e., thru VRBO or other advertising you do on your own) or will you need a rental manager?
5. How often, and WHEN do you plan to use the condo for yourselves or your family?
6. Are you willing to do any "fix up" or do you want a "turn-key" condo?

A LONG-TERM RENTAL

The long-term market here is fairly good, with rates running around $800 / month for a one bedroom; $1500 - $2000 for a two bedroom; and $2000 - $2800 for a three bedroom.

Of course, if you rent out long term, your personal use here is going to be limited to times between renters - which may or may not be when you want to come.  Renting out to long-term tenants is much less headache and hassle - and can be a good way to go if your purpose in investing is to get a place that YOU want to live in several years from now - but want to secure it at TODAY's prices. Visit my Retire in the Virgin Islands web site for information on retirement.

A SHORT-TERM RENTAL

Condos without a sea view and/or pool generally do NOT rent well on the short-term market. The short-term market is pretty seasonal. With good marketing, you can generally rent out your place for 12 - 18 weeks a year - and most of the rentals will occur in the winter months (Dec. - April). So if YOU are planning to "winter" here - then you are going to have limited rentals.

Rates for short-term rentals range from $600 - $1200 a week for a one bedroom; $800 - $2500 a week for a two bedroom; $1500 - $3000 for a three bedroom. Of course, the range in the rates takes into consideration the location and desirability of the condo.

EXPENSES

Condo fees here are very high, ranging from $450 - $1200 A MONTH.

When people ask me if a condo will "pay for itself" - it really does depend on WHICH condo! If your fees are $1200 a month - then you'll be very lucky to break even - and that's NOT considering debt service - just "expenses."

WILL YOU WANT A PROPERTY MANAGER?

There are a number of condos here that have on-site property management and rental agents. These are the most "hassle free" condos to own if you plan to rent your unit out most of the time. I didn't say they were the "cheapest" or "most desirable" - but certainly the easiest.

These include Club St. Croix, Sugar Beach, Mill Harbour, and Colony Cove. Most of these complexes have websites - so google them to see the rates. Their occupancy calendars are typically not up to date - but they do well in season.

Most people who own these units at least break even (not including debt service). Note that some of these condos are self-insured, which means that if you must get a mortgage, the bank will REQUIRE you to have windstorm insurance. That will add another $350 - $500 per month to your monthly fees. Better to pay cash, if you can.

I have wonderful tools at my disposal to help you figure your return on investment. Once I know more about you and what you want, I can run the numbers and give you a really good picture of whether or not owning a condo here would be a good investment decision for you. First, you can Search the St. Croix MLS from my web site.

Then, in order for me to help you, YOU really need to get clear about your plans. Thinking through the questions above will help both of us! See you at the beach?

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
kim@coldwellbankervi.com