I Help Make Dreams Come True

St Croix, US VI: What Price Paradise - Can You Afford NOT to Live Here?

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:59:27 -0600

Many people I knew in my "past life" (i.e., when I lived on the mainland), myself included, worked their butts off all year and saved their pennies just to travel to an exotic place for one week out of the year. They spent that week basking in the sun, sipping pina coladas, floating, breathing fresh air, sleeping naked, relaxing and having fun. Then they would go back to the snow, the stress, the flouresent lights, the heat and/or air conditioning and start the treadmill all over again. Some souls, like me, dared to dream about actually LIVING in such a place - but sometimes illness, family, or just plain old fear prevents that from happening.

I'm here to tell you that LIFE IS SHORT and if you are one of those people who needs SUNSHINE, FRESH AIR, NATURAL LIGHT, and an environment that supports STRESS FREE LIVING - then you literally can not afford NOT to live here (or somewhere like here).

Think about this.....

*We don't have "conditioned" air - we breathe the fresh air every day, all day, 365 days a year.
*There is beauty everywhere we look. Flowers bloom all year, hummingbirds flitter about, the sea is a zillion colors of blue, we have 'big sky.'
*It is warm here every day, all day, 365 days a year. We don't need coats or socks or sweaters. And even underwear is optional here!! LOL
*We live amongst people who have come here to escape the stress. We all share a knowing smile when someone is late and laugh it off to being on "Cruzian time." No one gets their panties in a wad over someone being a little late.
*We get to hear the sound of waves crashing, or lapping, depending on which end of the island we happen to be on. Do you know/remember how relaxing and soothing (i.e., HEALTHY) that is???
*We sleep naked here every night - usually with just a sheet across us! We get to feel the tropical breezes and experience the sounds of birds and frogs and waves as we go to sleep and wake up! And we wake up to the SUN - NOT to an alarm clock! It's heaven!

So what is holding you back? Are you afraid you can't find work here? Afraid of never seeing your family? Afraid of not "fitting in?" Afraid of not having good medical care? Let me address your fears.

If you can show up on time and are willing to work - SOMEONE is going to hire you and appreciate the hell out of you! Now, you may not make as much money as you do up there in the hinterlands - but how much money do you REALLY need to live comfortably? Do you really need all those THINGS? Do they really bring you health and happiness? Look at what is important to you - and if you're like most of us - being healthy, stress free, and comfortable probably rank up there higher than having the latest designer watch or dress or shoes......

If you live in paradise, you better bet you will see your family! How fun will it be to have your kids, grandkids, friends come see you in your "new life" in paradise??!! Just make sure you limit their stay - or you may have "permanent" guests!!! Plus - you are going to want to get "off the rock" at least once a year - so you'll see your friends and family.

This is the most friendly place I have ever lived. And right off the bat - you have SO MUCH in common with all the other transplanted mainlanders who have chosen to move here. There are many opportunities to get involved, to volunteer, to contribute, to learn, and to play.

If you're afraid of not being able to receive good medical care here, think again. We have great physicians here, two good companies who offer airlift to the mainland in the event of a tragedy that would necessitate taking you off island, and plenty of alternative healers.

Plus - if you live here - your health is going to improve so much - that your medical bills will plummet anyway. This is a HEALTHY place to live!

And the icing on the cake???? The interest rates are at an all time LOW here - and inventory is good - sellers are motivated - and prices are very reasonable. So.....what are you waiting for???? Sell all your "stuff" (believe me, it's such a good feeling to do that once you make the decision to do it!!) - and come here and downsize and simplify and enjoy your life.....it's the only one you've got!!! Live where and how you want to live! P.S. If you want to talk about this, call 340-626-3758 or email kim@email.vi. You won't find an alignment of rates, prices, and inventory this favorable in many years.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
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St Croix Discovered by Conde Nast

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:29:59 -0600

Our beautiful island of St Croix has been featured in the December, 2009 issue of Conde Nast magazine, the Joy of St Croix. Amy Engeler writes with an engaging style, certainly with enough personal impressions to make the reader feel he or she is enjoying the sights with her, and gives St Croix a very enthusiastic recommendation for travelers, complete with slideshow.

On the beaches, "Since St. Croix doesn't have many long strips of sand but dozens of little inlets-hidden behind mangroves, houses, and even a fairway bluff-everyone has his own favorites...With so many beaches to choose from, it's easy to be picky about a swim."

On development, "On an island the size of Martha's Vineyard, underdeveloped by Caribbean standards and traversed in half an hour...For years, St. Croix residents have bemoaned their position as the overlooked U.S. Virgin Island."

"Investors [have] discovered what the island's passionate regular visitors have known for years-a sleepy tropical American island, full of empty green rolling acres, blooming flamboyant and mango trees, miles of untouched coastline, and a quiet airport with just two baggage carousels."

On Christiansted, "Downtown Christiansted, with stately neoclassical buildings left over from its time under the Danish crown, retains the same scruffy elegance it had fifty years ago."

On Frederiksted: "A neat row of two-story Danish Victorian buildings facing a languid sea."

On our mystery: in 1989, the hurricane center in Miami asked a resident concerned about an approaching storm, "'Tell me, is St. Croix part of the Virgin Islands?'"

On our resources: "From a sailboat off Green Cay, we spotted sea turtles mating in the water...the seawater feels like freedom, a place with no concerns, only the pleasure of the moment."

"Crucians are naturally friendly, traditionally so and proud of it."

Be sure and read the entire article (link above) and watch the slideshow. Ms. Engeler gives an excellent synopsis of the history, charm, and future of our island. Many thanks for the great press!

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
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St Croix, VI: View Homesites in Vista Concordia

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:46:45 -0600

The views from these lots are absolutely spectacular. Overlooking Salt River with a panorama of the twinkling lights of Christiansted at night! HOA fees of $250/year for unimproved land and $500/ year for improved. Architectural approval required, as are cistern and septic tank.

One lot of 0.62 acres is listed at $100,000, the other of 0.71 acres at $115,000.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
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St Croix, VI: View Home + Successful Vacation Rental above Teagues Bay, Now $699,000

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:23:26 -0600

No better views than from EASTWINDS - a successful vacation rental with two bedrooms, two baths, and very spacious living area on the main floor, and an additional bedroom, bath and sitting area downstairs. Deeded rights of use of Beach Plot #6. Gated entry and security system. See docs for plans to upgrade kitchen. $9,600 credit to buyer at closing.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
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St Croix VI: Developer's Opportunity - View Lots

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:19:56 -0600

Scenic Breeze is a collection of lots being developed on St. Croix's north shore. The land sits above St. Croix's historic Salt River, and looks into the Salt River National Park and ecological Preserve, where Columbus sailed into Saint Croix in 1493. It is suspected that Columbus sent expeditions below or onto this property looking for fresh water from one of several watersheds coming from the property. The lots afford beautiful sea and valley views including the wetlands of Salt River. It would be a great place to live.

Scenic Breeze is centrally located on St. Croix's North Shore. These lots are minutes away from Salt River Marina and Columbus Cove Beach, and 10 to 15 minutes away from the fun at Cane Bay. The same amount of time will bring you to the best grocery stores on the island as well as Sunny Isle Shopping Center, and it is just a hop-skip-and a bump to Country Day School. A short drive will also bring you to either of our 2 towns of Christiansted or Fredericksted.

60 Salt River received preliminary subdivision approval for 21 lots in 1988 and the road was cut in at that time. A series of hurricanes destroyed the original drawings and we are in the process of providing the necessary documents and continuing the approval process.

Information from the developer:

"We have had the property re-surveyed and are maintaining the original property lines. The number of lots has been reduced from 21 to 15 by combining adjacent lots. The major assets of this property are the variety of views, slopes and sizes of the individual lots. At first glance, some of the lots look steep, but all the lots have gentle to medium build able areas. There will be an 18' wide asphalt paved road with underground utilities. In order to maintain the park-like setting and reduce the impact on the watershed, we will write into the covenants and restrictions a clause that limits the amount of area that can be clear cut. There are a lot of very nice local trees and shrubs on this property. Our intention is to allow the owner to build their desired property while maintaining as much of the local vegetation as possible.

The existing road slopes to the inside and is in very good condition. Water currently runs down the inside edge of the road and into the gut at the bottom of the hill. We will install a swale at the bottom of the road and divert the water into a permanent silt basin at the bottom of the hill."

Contact me for lot plans, prices, and more maps. This is a super opportunity for a developer to create a unique subdivision or to buy your special dream view lot on St Croix.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
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New Museum Exhibit on St Croix Honors the African Slaves

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:09:13 -0600

A new museum exhibit in the St George Village Museum on St Croix honors the enslaved Africans who were the manpower of the St George sugar plantation. At one time, the plantation had 150 slaves living in 33 cottages. The exhibit is in one of the cottages, shown at left, and restored, on what is now the St George Village Botanical Gardens.

The museum contains artifacts from as far back as the first inhabitants of the area, the Saladoid Indians, who lived on St Croix some 2,000 years ago. Other exhibits feature those Amerindians, with depictions of Taino dwellings as well as pieces of pottery, amulets, and tools.

Very interesting film clips taken between 1903 and 1919 are broadcast on a TV monitor. These show laborers at work planting and harvesting sugar cane and taking it to the mill. The earliest film shows the laborers working with oxen under very difficult circumstances.

Another exhibit is a diorama of the estate. The work is meticulous and gives a feel for how life must have been in the early 1800s. The exhibit includes many photos and a short biography of one long-time enslaved African resident, "Mina."

Susan Ladwig VP of the Board of the museum, said, "This museum is important because when visitors and residents know the history of Estate St. George; they know the history of St. Croix." The garden, located on 16 acres, is owned and operated by its members and receives no government funding. For more information, visit the garden's website at www.sgvbg.org.

We are pleased to honor the lives of the African slaves who helped build St Croix. Be sure and visit the museum when you visit our island.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
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Find Your Pot o' Gold on St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:49:21 -0600

November is typically a fairly wet month here in St. Croix. We have lots of storms passing thru and many showers. Consequently, it is also a month of lots of RAINBOWS!

I saw three yesterday - this one (actually two - see the double?) was shot from my front porch early in the morning. That's Buck Island sitting there - about to get a soaking!

And as spoiled as we are here (we have sunshine nearly every day), seeing a lot of rainbows and so many beautiful white butterflies (Cruzan Snow as I like to call them) - I'm grateful to be here even in the "rainy month!"

Come take a look. I'll help make your dreams come true.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Dreaming of St Croix? Watch the Frederiksted Pier Cam

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:34:52 -0600

The new GoToStCroix.com webcam is now live! The Frederiksted Pier Cam is broadcasting live from Polly's at the Pier, so take a look on those cold winter days and dream of coming to St Croix.

The cruise ships are back (it's that time of year) so you can watch the cruise passengers shop and mill around. Locals can check the weather on the west end of the island with the Cam, and misplaced/displaced Crucians can get a glimpse of home. As I write this and look at the webcam, the sun is shining brilliantly off the water which looks smooth and very blue.

The Christiansted Harbor Cam has been operational for 8 years, and viewed by more than 2 million people. Come join us, if just vicariously, in sunny warm St Croix. When you decide to visit, be sure and contact me for a free Relocation package, or How to Retire in St Croix package. I'll help your dreams come true.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

St Croix Sunday Afternoons

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:29:39 -0600

Sunday afternoons on St Croix....it's tough. We have to watch out for falling nuts. We have to be careful not to get too stressed (hence the Miller Chill). We have to endure amazing sunsets. And this time of year - we have to watch for Cruzan snow. Yep - that's what I call it, anyway. MILLIONS of white butterflies everywhere. I was out showing some beautiful property last Sunday and literally saw millions of these adorable little butterflies! Life is good in St Croix. Everyday - but especially on Sunday!

What are you waiting for? Come join us...I help make dreams come true.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

St Croix. US VI: Finally - Affordable Sea View Homes

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:20:51 -0600

I've been saying for years - if you want a home with a sea view in St Croix, you'll have to pay at least half a million. Well - thankfully - there are now a dozen or more homes on the market here with an Oceanview for under $500,000! Click the link below to view my favorites. They are all in established residential areas, dotted around the island - ranging from west, to south shore, to north shore, to east end - something for everyone!

My favorite is the charming, traditional cottage in Cotton Valley. Great views and such a warm, homey place! These homes are priced to sell and compete with condo properties! So if you are in the market for a condo - have a look at these and consider owning your own home instead! You could afford to put in a pool in a few years with the amount you'd be saving in monthly condo fees!!!

Asking $359,000, 2 bedrooms/2 baths, 0.52 acres.

Follow this link to see the page:

Click to view listing(s) (Link only good until 12.5.09 so take a look now!)

Contact me for relocation information, rental ideas. neighborhood insight, and market statistics. St Croix has the lowest prices in the Virgin Islands - don't miss this opportunity!

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
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Christiansted, St Croix, VI: Price Reduced on Oceanfront Condo to only $90,000

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:38:07 -0500

Price Just Reduced to $90,000!

This lovely, updated one bedroom one bath OCEANFRONT condo is priced to sell. Just bring your toothbrush and move right in! Sit on your patio and watch the waves roll in! Kitchen and bath updated; appliances, fans, screens, furniture, patio door, all updated in last few years. Hurricane panels too! Note: This complex is SELF INSURED.

Directions: From Christiansted, take North Side road thru 5 Corners. Pass Food Town, take right toward The Palms/Hibiscus. Road bends to left, Coral Princess is second complex past H2O. F building in front on left.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
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St Croix Crime Stoppers Effective in Helping Make the Community Safer

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:23:25 -0500

The third quarter of 2009 saw continued success for Crime Stoppers USVI, including an increased rate of tips, arrests and rewards, and the addition of a second law enforcement coordinator within the VI Police Department (VIPD). They continue getting more positive outcomes than anybody would have predicted.

Here are the figures from their launch in January 2009 through September 30, 2009:

	1Q 2009	2Q 2009	3Q 2009	YTD
Tips Received	94	136	162	392
Avg. Tips per Week	7.2	10.5	12.5	10.1
Total Arrests (incl. Fugitive Arrests)	7 (1)	26 (1)	30 (6)	63 (8)
Cases Cleared	14	27	48	89
Weapons Recovered	8	13	16	37
Rewards Approved	$2,850	$16,585	$21,764	$41,199
Rewards Paid	$250	$4,375	$9,307	$13,932
Property Recovered	$0	$2,500	$11,000	$13,500
Drugs Seized	$0	$3,050	$35,850	$38,900

As you can see, there have been impressive increases for each quarter as Crime Stoppers gains traction in the community. The statistics directly reflect all of the efforts of Crime Stoppers USVI and their partners, and show how the community has jumped on board to provide tips, and to trust the program to maintain their anonymity. So far, many rewards have been unclaimed. Crime Stoppers believes a lot of the tipsters don't want the money; they just want to do their part to help reduce crime.

In the third quarter, in addition to the removal of 16 weapons from the streets, there were arrests for the following crimes: 1 Homicide, 4 Burglaries/Robberies, 1 Bail Violation, 8 Drug Offenses, 1 Harboring a Fugitive, 1 Person of Interest, and 4 Weapons Offenses.

As Crime Stoppers gains traction, the investigating officers have become more enthusiastic about the community's tips. In the early months of the program, it was sometimes difficult to get law enforcement to look at the tips, but now the officers are not only acting on them, they are asking for them. Recently, there have even been more tips than law enforcement can handle at times, but they remain committed to investigating each tip thoroughly.

Lieutenant Hannah of VIPD noted that there is a renewed sense of cooperation between VIPD and the community that probably would not have happened as quickly without Crime Stoppers, and further stated, "What has been accomplished in this short period is testimony to the drive of the volunteers, to the community, and to VIPD. Although there have been some bumps, Crime Stoppers is helping to clear the path to a safer, more viable community. Crime Stoppers will remain ever so important to law enforcement as a bridge between the community and policing. We at VIPD appreciate the service provided by Crime Stoppers USVI."

WHAT YOU CAN DO

SUBMIT TIPS:
By phone: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
By web: http://www.crimestoppersusvi.org/
By text message: Text "USVI" plus your message to CRIMES (274637)
All tips are completely anonymous. We don't ask your name, there is no caller ID, no voice recording, and our stateside operators will not recognize your voice.

DONATE: As the reward payments increase, so does our need for funding. Donations are currently our only source of funding, and donating is a quick and easy way to play a part in a program that is working. If you are not already a member or sponsor, please see http://www.crimestoppersusvi.org/supportus.aspx for instructions on how to donate by check or by credit card. Student memberships are $10 per year, individual memberships are $50 per year, business memberships start at $100 per year, and sponsorships start at $1000 per year, or you can donate as little or as much as you want. We also accept in-kind donations and sponsorships for things like advertising, printing, etc. We are a 501(c)(3) organization.

Crime on any Caribbean island is a concern to residents and visitors alike. It's great to know this volunteer effort is having such a positive impact.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
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St Croix VI - Amalago Bay Resort Receives CZM Approval

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:48:21 -0500

The St Croix CZM (Coastal Zone Management Committee) has approved an application from William and Punch Partners to develop a $640 million marina and casino resort. They plan to break ground next year.

The company owns almost 600 acres on St Croix's northwest shore, and will include condominiums, a boutique hotel, spa, restaurants, retail shops, a casino, timeshare units, a championship golf course and a 64-slip marina for the property. They had to agree to "beach restoration" to get the approval, and the plans still must pass the US Corp of Engineers, obtain legislative approval to relocate a section of Emancipation Drive to accommodate the marina, and have the Legislature approve a submerged land lease for the marina.

The CZM permit was approved in January with 36 special conditions. In July, the developers asked the committee to modify three of the conditions - changing the specifications of the entrance channel and flushing channel that lead in and out of the marina and restoring the beach. The modifications for the channels were approved but the beach modification was not. In August, the developers came back to the committee with some more data and environmental studies supporting their request and it was reconsidered at a St. Croix CZM Committee meeting Monday.

In the original CZM application, the developer asked to extend the beach 250 feet, but that request was denied. The new modification will allow William and Punch to extend the beach 46 feet seaward from the mean low tide line. Kevin Rames, VP of William and Punch, said the sand that will be used will come from the dredging channels leading to and from the marina.

The sand will cover the exposed rocks at the shoreline and continue into the water, gradually sloping down to the sea floor. Rames said adding the sand will restore the beach to the way it was prior to Hurricane Lenny in 1999.

Named Amalago Bay (from a common plant of the region as best I can tell, the Spanish-elder), the developers will tie the resort to an international brand. The announcement of which hotel they will use is expected in a month. A deal is almost finalized with a celebrity golfer who will design the resort's golf course. They already have the reservation for a casino license from the Casino Control Commission.

Here's a PodCast on the development. Read local comments about the proposed development at Trip Advisor.

St Croix is building for the future and is still the best buy in the Caribbean. Combine this news with the planned community on the other end of the island called the Clusters - read my blog about the Villages at Orangestaad - and...what are you waiting for? Make your dream of living on an island in the blue Caribbean come true. Contact me today!

(resource: Virgin Islands Daily News, photo courtesy of Trip Advisor)

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
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Virgin Islands Quarter Officially in Circulation

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:36:25 -0500

The commemorative quarter-dollar coin honoring the United States Virgin Islands was officially launched Friday, Oct. 9 by United States Mint Deputy Director Andy Brunhart and United States Virgin Islands Governor John P. deJongh Jr.

"The United States Virgin Islands commemorative quarter-dollar coin reflects a rich culture steeped in the outstanding natural beauty of the three islands," said United States Mint Director Ed Moy.

The United States Virgin Islands quarter was released into circulation on September 28. The coin's reverse (tails side) design features an outline of the territory's three major islands. The design also includes the Yellow Breast or Bananaquit, the official bird of the United States Virgin Islands; the Yellow Cedar or Yellow Elder, its official flower; and a Tyre Palm Tree. Inscriptions on the coin's reverse are U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS and United in Pride and Hope.

The new VI Quarter isn't the only valuable commodity here - come check out our real estate!

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
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Good News for St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:16:52 -0500

Governor deJongh has announced an agreement with Fortune Brands that will keep Cruzan Rum on St. Croix and expand the brand and its importance in the portfolio of Fortune Brands, the largest U.S. spirits company and the fourth largest premium spirits company in the world.

This agreement is a comprehensive solution to the challenges Cruzan has faced, and it is a very good agreement for the Government and people of the Virgin Islands. It means that we will keep Cruzan in St. Croix for at least the next thirty years, which is something that I am especially proud to have accomplished for our Virgin Islands.

The agreement will also provide Cruzan with the resources to promote their environmental sustainability, and it will provide Cruzan the ability to expand their distillery, and to grow new brands on St. Croix, including the Beam Global brand, Ronrico.

This is a real partnership that benefits the company and the people of the Virgin Islands. This partnership is projected over the coming years to allow us to more than double the amount of cover-over revenue to be collected from the sale of Cruzan Rum from their modernized and environmentally compliant distillery in Estate Diamond on St. Croix.

The U.S. Virgin Islands now, and long into the future, will be home to the #2 (Captain Morgan) rum sold in U.S. markets as well as the #4 (Cruzan) and the #5 (Ronrico) rum brands sold today. We will also be working with their owners to help them grow these brands for their benefit -- and for ours.

This is very positive news for the St Croix economy. Contact me to discuss real estate opportunities, and search homes for sale on my web site.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Life and real estate in St Croix vs St John or St Thomas

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 15:28:19 -0500

Living in the US Virgin Islands

I received an email from a prospect who wanted information on how to choose one of the 3 Virgin Islands for investment and retirement. Here's my (somewhat prejudiced) viewpoint.

St John

If you like St John, you will really like St Croix. I had vacationed in St. John many many times before I'd ever even heard of St Croix, and loved it. But, I could never afford it there. Honestly, I really would not want to live there. That said, it is truly one of the most beautiful places on this earth and is a great place to vacation. St John is much more expensive (real estate-wise) than St Thomas or St Croix. It's also less "livable" - not many grocery stores and certainly no large ones. 80% of the island is a national park.

St Thomas

St Thomas is much more crowded and the traffic can be really bad and very congested. I, personally, do not care for this island, and would not consider living there. Yes, it it beautiful, as are all the Virgin Islands - but it is also very touristy. St Thomas is the cruise ship capital of the world! The real estate prices are also higher than they are in St Croix.

St Croix

St Croix has about the same land mass as St Thomas, and many fewer people. St Croix has very diverse topography. It is only 22 miles long and 7 miles wide, but there's desert and rainforest land, and agriculture and residential uses. Cruise ships visit, but nowhere near the number that dock at St Thomas. The cruisers come to port in Frederiksted, which is currently what I consider a sleepy little town with great restaurants and bars and the best beaches on the island. I'm sure that will change someday - and it will be bustling and busy - but now it's quaint and lovely, except when the cruise ships are here.

Crime

We do have crime, but it's no worse than anywhere else, and tends to be petty stuff. Much of it is drug-related. It doesn't slow me down one bit - I feel very safe in my home and going out too.

Real Estate

The real estate prices on St Croix are very good, especially now. It'sdefinitely a buyer's market. There are a couple of gated communities on the island. Judith's Fancy is my personal favorite. It's very centrally located, nicely diverse, and has 24/7 security. Homes in this neighborhood range from $450,000 - millions.

Economy

I also believe that St Croix is poised for some major growth. A new distillery is currently being built, Home Depot will be breaking ground soon, a new resort/casino/marina has been approved - so there are many jobs coming and new developments on the horizon. More cruise ships are scheduled, which creates more opportunities for vendors and shop owners throughout the island.

Jobs

If you show up on time and are reliable, you probably won't have any problems. If you are in the building/ construction trades, you should be able to find work. I wouldn't count on getting rich here - the pay is not great - but boy oh boy are the benefits good!

Lifestyle

Enjoy the 365 days of sunshine and warm weather, gorgeous beaches, friendly people, lots of fun things to do (read my blog for this weekend), and many, many volunteer opportunities. We have all the advantages of being a US citizens in a US territory on an island that has a real "island culture" - laid back, friendly, relaxed. YA MON!! DIS IS GOOD!

Come on down to experience St Croix - a week is about minimum - and I'll be happy to give you a nice island tour! I have an ocean front condo that I rent out at a 20% discount for my customers - check it out at www.sunsetsuitevi.com. Visit US VI gives a good overview of the 3 islands, and search St Croix properties for sale on my web site, to get an idea of prices.

Helping you live the dream,

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Activities on a Typical Weekend on St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:59:59 -0500

I wanted to give some idea of the choices of festivities and events we have almost every weekend/week here in St Croix. A list doesn't really convey the message of what fun we have. Those of us who live on St Croix have such terrible decisions we must make: where to go, what to do. There are so many things to choose from - and it's low season! The list just grows and grows as we approach tourist season.

The worst thing about living on St Croix is remembering that we are not on vacation all the time! Here's just a sampling of this upcoming weekend - compliments of my friend Joe Hazi:

Friday, 10/2:
Mercy Child at Angry Nate's beginning at 5 pm
Oktoberfest Celebration at Cheeseburger's beginning at 6 or 6:30 pm
Jazzy Blue at Smuggler's Cove from 6:30-9:30 pm
Steve Katz at Salud beginning at 7 pm
Michael Justis at Bogey's

Saturday, 10/3:
Breakfast at the Domino Club (Norma's) is being served by Jewels, and she's serving it with a smile, from 7 am - 10'ish (she also serves breakfast on Mondays and Wednesdays). Jewels also sells her famous Artisan Bread on Saturdays!
Kenny Byron at Coconuts from 5-8 pm
Adrian at Off the Wall from 6-9 pm
Lynn Senter at Smuggler's Cove beginning at 7 pm
Mercy Child at Chicken Charlie's Roadhouse from 7-10 pm
Steve Katz at the Galleon beginning at 7 pm
Fran Marnier at Mahi's at Chenay Bay beginning at 7 pm
Adrian at Digby's and Brandon's bonfire at Haypenny Beach beginning at 11 pm

Sunday, 10/4:
The First Reggae Brunch at Eat @ Cane Bay with Fyah Train Reggae Band featuring Katalyss - Brunch is served from 11-4, music from 1-4
Sunday Funday Beach Party featuring Mercy Child at Mahi's at Chenay Bay from 2 pm til sunset
Steve Katz at the Deep End Bar and Grill from noon - 3 pm
St. Croix Blues Society at Coconuts from 4:00 pm until? Tommy will be serving his Texas BBQ all day (Ribs, Brisket, Rib Eye and NY Strip)
Steve Tweddle's Memorial at Off the Wall beginning at 5:30 pm (bar will close to general public at 4 pm). It's pot luck, bring a bottle to share. There will be a limited bar. If you have pictures, please bring them to share.
Steve Katz at the Galleon beginning at 7 pm
Gardens by Monlight at 7 pm, St George Botanical Garden, cocktain party

Then, if you aren't worn out or have to work for a living during the week, the list goes on:

Monday, 10/5:
Crab Races with Tito and Sue at the Ft. Christian Brew Pub
Tuesday, 10/6: Two for Tuesday at the Ft. Christian Brew Pub
Wednesday, 10/7: Jazzy Blue at Mahi's at Chenay Bay beginning at 6 pm, w/ $5 cheeseburgers
Thursday, 10/8: Lynn Senter at the Palms @ Pelican Cove beginning at 6 pm; Mercy Child at the Ft. Christian Brew Pub beginning at 7 pm

OK, so I've made my point. Make your reservations and enjoy the deep discounts offered now by airlines and hotels. Then plan to attend one of these future St Croix events:

Friday, 10/16 - Sunset Jazz in F'sted beginning at 5:30 pm
Sunday, 10/18 - 14^th Annual Coral Reef Swim. Please see http://www.swimrace.com/ for more information.
Friday, 10/30 - Halloween Party at the Ft. Christian Brew Pub featuring Kurt Schindler from 9 pm until?
Saturday, 10/31 - VICare Halloween Party (I'm fairly certain that it's going to be at The Palms again).
Saturday, 10/31 - Halloween Costume Party & Contest at Coconuts w/ music by Michael Justis.
Sunday, 11/1 - Halloween Party at Norma's Domino Club featuring Kurt Schindler from 7-11 pm.
Sunday, 11/8 - Caribbean Classic Triathlon. Please see http://www.stcroixtriathlon.com/CCT/index.html for more information.
Sometime in November (last I heard, it's still gonna happen) - 3rd Annual VI Bartender Olympics at Elizabeth's at H20, Hibiscus Beach Resort (new location this year).

Yes, we have a wonderful lifestyle, great people, and lots of fun. Remember, real estate prices are very low - St Croix is by far the best value now in the Caribbean. Don't pass up this opportunity to join in our community, if even in a vacation home for a few weeks a year.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Yes, You CAN Use your Tax Credit in St Croix but Time is Running Out!

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:06:53 -0500

Here are two great homes for sale in St Croix with the best we realtors have to offer:

1. Motivated Sellers
2. Reduced rock bottom prices
3. Great values for St Croix property
4. Ripe for you to use your $8,000 Tax Credit

Best Buy #1:
OCEANFRONT
YES, an OCEANFRONT HOME
ONLY $750,000

Reasons to Buy:
*Pool
*1.15 acres
*2,500 SF 3/3 home
*Guest apartment
*Gated community
*Judith's Fancy
*2-car garage
*Storm shutters
*16 kw generator
*Concrete construction
*Remodeled 2000
*Appliances included
*2 master suites
*Interior courtyard
*Professional landscaping

Best Buy #2:
Affordable Townhome
only $159,000
Reasons to Buy:
*Close to Beach
*Pets allowed
*Private patio
*Window A/C
*Concrete block
*Off-street parking
*Appliances included
*No monthly fees
*Condo fees $550/year
*Close to Christiansted
*Seller offering $4,500 flooring credit for accepted offer

Don't forget, the Tax Credit expires Nov 30 - you must close by that date. St Croix lenders are a little slower than elsewhere so start the process now. These are both great buys for some lucky St. Croix buyer.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

St Croix, VI: New Planned Community under construction

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:02:50 -0500

The Villages at Orangestaad will be the first fully planned development on St. Croix. Under construction currently is the Clusters, 222 solid concrete residential units, with choices of villas, townhomes, and condos with ocean views.

The Clusters is the first of four residential communities which will center around the future Ann Heegaard's Town Center, planned to include:

Restaurants
Mini markets
Banks
Shops
Office
Recreational Parks
Beautiful plazas
Underground parking spaces
Apartments and lofts focused on the elderly, newlyweds, young couples and executives.

64 homes are now available, priced from $157,500 for a 2 bedroom/1 bath unit of approximately 788 SF, $199,500 for a 2/1.5 of 1,018 SF, $168,000 for a 3/1 of 968 SF, and $230,000 for a 3/2 of 1,192 SF.

Ground breaking is scheduled for October, 2009, with build-out in about 12 months. This is new construction, so please contact me to sign up and reserve your spot. Take a look at the short slideshow below for floor plans and aerial views of the project.

Villages at Orangestaad is a very exciting concept for St Croix real estate. Call or email me for more details about buying a home in the Clusters on St Croix.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Condos in St Croix - an update

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:22:20 -0500

I've been corresponding with a woman who will be retiring soon and wants to move to St. Croix. She has a price range for a condo chosen within her means, and wants to walk to shopping, the beach, events, as much as possible. She'd also like a new complex.

If you would like to move permanently to St Croix, or consider an investment you could rent out for a few years, here is the answer I gave to her questions.

"You are embarking on a journey that I took 5 years ago - the quest for the perfect retirement spot! I traveled extensively looking at LOTS of islands - and believe me - St Croix is about as good as it gets. It is a wonderful place to live and work - all the benefits of being part of the USA - but with an island culture. Doesn't get any better than that. St Thomas is crowded, overpopulated, and dirty. I would not want to live there. St John is prohibitively expensive and not a real "livable" island - although it is the most beautiful of the 3 US Virgins. St Croix does have its share of crime - but we have a great governor who is working diligently to get things under control. Most of the crime here is petty - like in most tourist destinations - but it's a big nuisance and needs to be stopped.

"Currently there are NO new condo complexes on the island, but thankfully some are planned. There's going to be a new development near Christiansted that will include a variety of housing options, a "town center" and of course beautiful sea views. It's called Orangestad and I will send you some listings showing the plans.

"Right now - condos range from $65,000 to about a million. Big range, I know, and what influences the price is LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION. The safest complexes with the most security are also the most expensive. I don't know of any condo complexes that are in walking distance to grocery stores, shopping, etc. Orangestad will be the closest to that concept.

"Condo fees range from $250 - $1200 a month. The fees include insurance, sometimes cable, sometimes pest control, and of course landscaping and pool maintenance."

I could say so much more, about our Buyer's Market, about the low low prices sellers are asking, about how St Croix is poised - because of Gov. deJongh and his efforts - to recover boldly and early from the worldwide economic downturn, about his plans to make our island self-sustaining and protect our resources. But call or email me yourself and I'll tell you all that, and how great it is livin' the dream in our Caribbean paradise.

Be sure to visit my web site if you are planning for retirement, and you will find the answers to a lot of your questions. That's all for now, I'm off to the beach,

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

IDX Comes to St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 18:48:16 -0500

You folks on the mainland think IDX is "old hat" but it's a new toy we just were able to install through our MLS.

To those of you who search for listings, and don't we all - even if just to keep up with the market or dream of someplace warmer when it's snowing - you know an IDX solution is 1000% better than plain vanilla MLS. It gives you options, and ways to see results, and map searches, and personal searches - that we never had the ability to offer you before from St. Croix.

Here's the link to MY LISTINGS, and visit my Coldwell Banker site to search the full MLS, or my Retire in the VI search page.

And, of course, contact me when you find something that interests you. I'm livin' the dream here in St Croix - come join us!

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Coldwell Banker Tops J.D. Power Home Survey (St Croix Too)

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:08:45 -0500

One Picture is Worth 100 Blogs...

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Hurricane Insurance in St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:43:38 -0500

Hurricane season is here, and I just took a listing on a townhome in a complex which is self-insured, so thought a few words regarding hurricane insurance would be timely.

Our property taxes are pretty low (about .004 X purchase price) but we make up for it in the cost of windstorm insurance. If you are getting a mortgage on a single family home, you can expect to pay 2 - 3% of the mortgage in windstorm insurance. Even then, you will be underinsured and likely have huge deductibles, and possibly penalties, should you incur damage. To be fully insured, calculate 2 - 3% of the replacement value.

Now, if you are purchasing a condo, some of the complexes have commercial windstorm insurance. These will likely have higher monthly fees (our condo fees here range from $250 - $1200 a month). Smaller complexes can't afford commercial policies (the monthly condo fees would be prohibitively expensive) so they "self-insure." That means that a portion of the monthly condo fees goes into a "pot" or reserve fund to take care of any damages that might be incurred due to a hurricane.

If there is not at least a million dollars in the reserve fund, then most likely, the banks will not lend on these units. In the past, they would lend, but they would require the buyer to buy their own commercial insurance policy (again - at 2 - 3% of the mortgage). So, on top of the monthly condo fees, you would have had hurricane insurance payments.

In today's stricter lending climate, many are just not lending on self-insured properties. If you can pay cash for a condo or home, you can avoid this issue altogether. If I were buying a home or condo today, I'd do my best to be a cash buyer and I'd make sure I had at least $10,000 in "reserve" for my own hurricane fund, and skip the commercial insurance. Not so easy for most of us, I know.

A few years ago I purchased a self-insured condo here. I took out a home equity loan to do so, and avoided the insurance issue. I'm probably paying a bit more interest than I would with a mortgage loan, but I can pay it down as I'm able.

If you're considering purchasing a home or condo here, be sure you speak with a lender or realtor to get an idea of all the expenses you can expect to incur. Be creative and ask the seller to be creative - it is a Buyer's Market. Just don't expect to come here with no job and get a mortgage on a home.

We have always had a strict lending climate here (which is why we don't have many foreclosures), and it's much more difficult now to get a loan than ever before. Our lenders don't charge to talk with you and pre-qualify you - and believe me - you can save yourself a lot of pain and suffering by doing this BEFORE you start looking for a home or condo!

Contact me for names and numbers of good lenders here. I will help you try and purchase, and work with sellers to find creative - legal - ways for you to buy a home. St Croix is still the best value in the Caribbean and will only be more expensive in the future. Let's work together on making your dream of living in the Caribbean come true!

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

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Frederiksted, VI: Good Hope in Whim (Two Will), $80,000

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:01:11 -0500

This well maintained unit has a lovely large bathroom downstairs (recently added). Located near pool with nice back yard and great breezes. Good Hope townhouses are located on the southwest end of St Croix about 10 minutes from the best beaches on the island. Across the street is Good Hope school, a very prestigious private school on the island. The townhouses are very close to Melvin Evans highway, so shopping and center island are also very easy to get to. The complex is gated for security and there are a pool and tennis courts on the property. This unit has a washer, and plenty of room to hang the laundry to dry in the warm Caribbean sun. There is plenty of off-street parking. The monthly fees are among the lowest on the island and include windstorm insurance, and common area liability. Thinking of a Caribbean investment? This home should rent for about $800/mo.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc

Should you get Pre-Qualified to Buy St Croix Property? YES!

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:07:43 -0500

A word about getting pre-qualified before 'shopping' for homes, land, condos in VI:

With all the new federal guidelines impacting the mortgage industry, it is getting more and more difficult to secure financing for the purchase of property in the VI. Only a few banks here will lend on land, and many of the condo complexes are self-insured and the banks are no longer lending on them.

Plus - if you're one of those brave souls who plans to sell everything and come down to paradise to live - if you need a mortgage - you may not be able to get one until you've worked here for a few years.

So, to save yourself some big disappointments - Please take a few minutes out of your busy day to contact a lender here on the island (your bank will NOT lend
on property here....trust me).

I will be happy to give you a list of names - just email and ask. Once you have that coveted pre-qualification letter - then believe me - sellers will pay MUCH more attention to your offer and seriously consider it.

Sadly, I've seen offers that are not even countered because the buyers were not pre-qualified! Had they been, my feeling is that the deal could be negotiated to everyone's satisfaction.

Contact me for names of reputable, experience St Croix lenders.

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

Kim Lucas, Realtor
340-626-3758
kim@email.vi
www.retireinthevi.com
www.kimlucasvi.com
http://twitter.com/kimlucas/
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/lphxcc