Luxury Real Estate

By Simon Turner
From his blog: How Google Maps can be used to make solar power decisions for your home

As energy prices continue to climb, the idea of utilizing solar energy is common sense. The process of getting solar panels installed, however, is quite the opposite.

RoofRay, a new Californian business, aims to give homeowners better information to enable them to make more-informed environmental decisions for their luxury home. Using the site’s modeling tools, consumers can estimate how much solar energy a home could capture and how that would affect their monthly bills.

The data provided is based upon historical weather conditions, current power usage charges, the gradient of the property, and the maximum amount of solar paneling the roof can hold. One tool uses Google Maps to let users calculate the size of their roof and build virtual panels. RoofRay then estimates the output potential of the solar panels as well as financial considerations like costs of installation, upkeep and return on investment.

Whilst not yet available in Australia, such a tool would be a welcome addition to our growing eco-conscience and our excessive reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, it would be useful for would-be real-estate buyers in making purchase decisions, something that the Marquette Turner team is increasingly finding is a factor in how and where buyers buy.

To find out the latest information available in Australia, a good start is the federal government’s portal www.climatechange.gov.au and Marquette Turner’s Clear the Air site


Editor’s Note:
Simon Turner is the co-Founder and Director of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes, a member of Luxury Real Estate in East Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Founded on Australia Day 2007 by Turner and Michael Marquette, Marquette Turner is a property consultancy company covering the Australian states of New South Wales and Victoria. Born in England, Turner traveled much as a child, finally settling in Australia. He joined the Australian Defence Force Academy and graduated with a degree in Politics and History as an Intelligence Officer in the Royal Australian Air Force. This is a very fascinating topic. Jean-Yves Piton actually wrote a blog entry on “green” luxury real estate a little while ago, too. I just finished writing an article on “green” luxury properties for the winter 2009 issue of LuxuryRealEstate.com Magazine.

By Jim Walberg
From his blog: Palmetto Bay Resort in Belize Continues To Feature “Green Development”

This boutique luxury resort on the Placentia Peninsula is a trendsetter when it comes to its “Green Features”!

Palmetto Bay Resort is one of the leaders of “green” Caribbean developments in Belize. This luxury resort has integrated into its design certain features that other developers are watching closely. Palmetto Bay Resort has carefully considered its impact on the environment from the earliest planning stages of its development. Some of the features they have implemented are:

- Geothermal cooling and heating technology.

- Solar power for outside illumination – pathways, water features, landscaping and the beach.

- Grey-water systems to recycle water.

- LED lighting that will reduce energy costs by as much as 80 percent.

- Indigenous species of plants, including fruit trees, in the landscaping.

- Cisterns to catch and store rain water and act as a renewable water supply for the saline pool, water features and landscaping.

- Strategically implemented wind power.

This gated project has plans for around 120 full-ownership condominiums. The initial phase that has just been released has 36 whole-ownership Caribbean beachfront condos starting in the low $300,000s US and they are currently the most sought-after resort luxury real estate for sale in Belize. It is just a short two-hour flight from Houston or Miami to Belize where there are no restrictions on foreign ownership of property or capital gains tax. This is a project you may want to put on your list for your piece of paradise! They even just announced a fly-in package for people who want to seriously consider this as their next tropical home.

OK… so how is this for a description of what Palmetto Bay Resort has created? As you walk into your Caribbean condo you first notice a wraparound veranda overlooking the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea. What I immediately do is dump my watch and find my bathing suit. The temperature is around 85 degrees Fahrenheit with a delightful warm breeze, and I then head to mashed-potato coral sand. Then the stress really starts because a decision needs to made: sunbathe; snorkel, SCUBA dive; drink… because thirst is a dangerous thing; read; nap; eat; schedule a jungle tour checking out how many Toucans I can spot, and many more choices to consider. Here is the fun part – I get to do it ALL! My first task is to take out the cold beer in the fridge and head to a lounge waiting for me on the beach. All the rest of the remaining choices will show up in their proper order… actually, there is no proper order. This mindset is the way I get to “Caribbean Time” as fast as possible.

Here is more good news for those you intrigued about buying luxury property in Belize. Belize has made owning real estate very simple and easy with some of the most advantageous offshore investment legislation in the world. The official language in Belize is English, and the legal system is based on English common law. Belize has no capital gains tax, no inheritance, estate or probate taxes and no restrictions on foreign ownership of property. The ease of air travel to Belize from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. is effortless compared to many of your choices for other tropical destinations.

Finally… you will discover a country of diversity! It has a very wide variety of ethnic backgrounds that live together in a marvelous melting pot, each adding to the cultural color of the next. Belizeans are some of the friendliest people in the world. They are a cross-pollination of cultures – ancient Mayan people, Spanish, British, African roots, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Lebanese and Indian influences, AND the official language is still English. This is one of the special Caribbean destinations that you will want to put on your “must-see” list. Let me know if you want more information about my favorite spots. Until next time… fair winds!


Editor’s Note:
Jim Walberg is the co-Broker/Owner of The Bay Area Team, the most-successful team at Keller Williams Realty-Danville. He is also a member of the global LuxuryRealEstate.com network. Jim is an exceptional blogger, as you can see by visiting his blogs, East Bay Real Estate and Caribbean Islands Realty, and reading his great blog entries like the one above. He is the master of fractionals and other luxury homes in the Bay Area and the Caribbean, and he always has a lot of great opportunities to share. Jim always has many awesome opportunities to share. He’s a great blogger, and I always learn a lot when I read his work. I just finished writing an editorial for the winter 2009 issue of LuxuryRealEstate.com Magazine on “green” luxury homes. It was a very educational experience, and I’m glad to see these properties becoming popular as energy prices increase dramatically.

By Michael Marquette
From his blog: Donald Trump Provides the Future for Sydney!

Donald Trump is moving his focus to Australia with Sydney as the city set to benefit.

Having just released his Palm Beach property from his book, he is planning to move by the end of the year and real estate throughout the Harbour city is set to be changed forever. Sydney is set to lead the world in innovative luxury property, and those looking to rent or buy will benefit.

Trump Tower Sydney will be the most luxurious real estate in the country with 24-hour Luxury Concierge and apartments that resemble luxury penthouses. With the recent examples of the world’s tallest buildings in the world produced from forward-thinking economies such as Dubai and Qatar, could Sydney truly reach such levels?

The serious question, however, is whether Trump will really leave New York and help turn Sydney into the next Capital of the World?

Is this a dream or is this true?

The answer, unfortunately, is no.

All the hype and all the excitement spoken about above is all just that – HYPE!

If only Sydney was heading toward construction of the tallest or most luxurious property in the world. If only we were looking at world leading eco-friendly buildings which are self sufficient and utilizing both the sun and wind to power the building. The development at Frasers Broadway in Sydney is certainly progress in the right direction.

A city, however, with so much belief in itself has the opportunity to prove so much more.

Why is Sydney not developing this thought process or anything similar? The state government of New South Wales, so caught up in its own misery, in-fighting and lack of focus, is ultimately full of talk and very little action

A wise friend once told me that opportunity is like a $100 note – very few people reach out and grab it when it floats in front of them.

Sydney has every opportunity to be a global city – it would be such a shame to see such a chance float by.


Editor’s Note:
Michael Marquette is the co-Founder and Director of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes, a member of Luxury Real Estate in East Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Founded on Australia Day 2007 by Marquette and Simon Turner, Marquette Turner is a property consultancy company covering the Australian states of New South Wales and Victoria. Marquette has a background in medicine and a large retail and wholesale business. So, so true. Seize the day! The photo above is from www.flickr.com/photos/gradin/138770077 and it is the copyright of Olaf.

By Jim Walberg
From his blog: Los Altos - Dominican Republic’s Ultra Luxury Fractional Resort!

Casa de Campo Resort is one of best resorts in the Caribbean!

If you have read any of my past postings about what is happening in the luxury real estate opportunities in the Dominican Republic, you know I am a raving fan! The DR is not a secret anymore to the world travelers who want an amazing experience of Caribbean culture, luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and GREAT cigars. The Dominican Republic is now known for its beautiful beaches and some of the friendliest people welcoming you to their tropical paradise.


“Los Altos” is a 116-unit ultra-luxury one, two and three bedroom villas and lofts development within Casa de Campo Resort. They even have a concierge service that takes care of EVERY detail of your Caribbean experience – from booking travel, hotels, transportation, and even grocery shopping so your kitchen is stocked when you arrive (Wouldn’t be great if they could rent out this service at our full time homes?).

Here is an example of what is included in the two-bedroom / three-bath / 2,533-square-foot lofts: swimming pool, complete furnishings, and even a garage-door opener! This limited-edition luxury property is right in the middle of the DR’s best golfing, spa and resort amenities in the Caribbean, and features some over-the-top gardens, and even an optional private pool. All of the Los Altos villas have breathtaking views of the Dye Fore golf course. I have heard from many golfers coming off the links that there is not a more beautiful sight in golf than to finish a round and watch a Caribbean sunset at the 18th hole of this course, which is actually perched at the top of the resort’s highest point! You will be blown away by this finishing hole. OK, so what is the price? How about a fractional ownership price of $200,000, to $795,000 for a full ownership! WOW! What an opportunity for a primary home or a part-time getaway!

AND, Los Altos is located right next to Altos de Chavon, a gorgeous replica of a 16^th-century Italian village, with shops, restaurants and many cultural attractions. In fact, in the village there is even a 5,000-seat open-air theater! The concert schedule they are planning is world-class! Casa de Campo Resort has already won the Travel & Leisure Magazine’s #1 “Family Friendly Resort in the Caribbean,” plus, the #1 “Golf Course in the Caribbean”! Casa de Campo Resort is one of the very special Caribbean paradises! What a place to have your “home away from home”! Los Altos’ villas and lofts are just a few of over 1,200 private villas at the 7,000-acre resort with outstanding amenities to satisfy clients with the most discerning tastes.

Owners of Los Altos villas and lofts enjoy ALL of Casa de Campo resort’s amenities and services. And, there are even MORE!

- Equestrian center!
- Tennis courts!
- Sailing facility!
- Full-service spa!
- Poolside lounges!
- Three championship golf courses: Teeth of the Dog, the Links and Dye Fore!

And even MORE! So, what are you waiting for? Contact me today for more information! The DR has become one of my Top Five favorite Caribbean destinations! Until next time… your Caribbean lifestyle detective is exhausted from the work required to bring these great opportunities to your favorite Caribbean website. OK, so I am just kidding! This “old dog” is having the time of his life!


Editor’s Note:
Jim Walberg is the co-Broker/Owner of The Bay Area Team, the most-successful team at Keller Williams Realty-Danville. He is also a member of the global LuxuryRealEstate.com network. Jim is an exceptional blogger, as you can see by visiting his blogs, East Bay Real Estate and Caribbean Islands Realty, and reading his great blog entries like the one above. He is the master of fractionals and other luxury homes in the Bay Area and the Caribbean, and he always has a lot of great opportunities to share. Don’t you love Jim’s blog entries? I sure do. They’re always so long and cheerful. Jim also has wonderful desires to serve others. By the way, there are a lot of exclamation points in this blog entry!

By Barbara Waugh

Cuernavaca’s perfect climate and proximity to Mexico City make it a favorite weekend retreat and the destination of choice for a large expatriate community.

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning (foreigners can own luxury property in their own name) or renting your own Mexican villa, this is the place, whether you’re looking for a winter retreat, summer vacation home, weekend getaway or year-round residence.

A strong buyer’s market exists for luxury homes in all styles, sizes and price ranges, usually including a pool and garden. But as prices rise, many of the real bargains are being snapped up, from the cool, tree-shaded heights of Rancho Cortes and Vista Hermosa to the warm, tropical gardens of Palmira and Acapantzingo, all fashionable Cuernavaca neighborhoods.

Both Travel & Leisure and The Robb Report, two popular U.S. luxury lifestyle publications, have ranked Cuernavaca as among the best communities in the world in which to live. Forbes magazine has on several occasions featured a luxury Cuernavaca property on its website as its Property of the Week.

Mexico City is an hour’s drive via a modern six-lane highway, and its international airport is a half-hour farther. The Cuernavaca airport, located on the outskirts of the city, offers limited commercial service within Mexico, charter flights and service for private planes.

At a lower cost than they would be charged at other world-class resorts, residents and visitors can enjoy golf, tennis and horseback riding, as well as holistic spas, fine international restaurants, cultural events, U.S. and international television programming, recreational parks and much more.

Many foreigners prefer Cuernavaca proper over life in the suburbs or countryside, citing privacy, security, convenience and cultural diversity.

Other resort destinations in the region, such as Tepoztlan, a charming village with a lively crafts market, and Cocoyoc, home to a popular golf course and equestrian events, have their admirers, but no outlying destination offers those four important qualities to the extent that Cuernavaca does.

Rental prices are higher during the high season, Thanksgiving to Easter, when it’s freezing up north. A house with all services, garden, pool and staff, rents from $250 a day, or about $7,500 a month, depending on size. Yearly rentals cost less proportionately, but offer fewer services.

Good neighborhoods in all areas offer a choice of property locations. Unlike other Mexican towns popular with expatriates, Cuernavaca’s international community is not concentrated in one place. You can choose to be in the Historic Center, near the impressive 16th-century Cathedral and the Cortes Palace, or in a quiet gated community, on a golf course or near equestrian facilities, at the Racquet Club, on a broad avenue or a cobblestone street – the choices are numerous.

Many residents live in a privada, a private street a block or two long with controlled access, security and no through traffic. A house built by a well-known architect in a privada with a lovely terrace, pool and garden is priced from about $475,000.

One key factor in deciding where to buy or rent is temperature: southern Cuernavaca is 1,000 feet lower than its northern counterpart, and can be as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit warmer.

Building in a foreign country, and therefore in a foreign language, shouldn’t be an obstacle: English-speaking architects can help. It is cheaper and easier, however, to buy a property than build, and prices are negotiable. Besides, most of the best sites have already been built on.

As an owner, you may rent your property during the seasonal months for enough to cover the yearly maintenance. Absentee ownership will require a good administrator, which is easy to find. Time-shares are almost nonexistent, except among groups of friends or relatives who make their own arrangements; there are more condominiums every day.

Title insurance for Mexican real estate (TIMR) protects against risks involved in the transfer of property rights. The price of the policy may vary between 0.5 percent and 1 percent of the property value, according to an attorney familiar with the insurance. But most buyers do not need title insurance because Mexican notaries are civil servants responsible for ensuring that titles are clear and there are no liens or debts on the properties.


Editor’s Note:
Barbara Waugh is the Broker/Owner of Barbara Waugh Properties Cuernavaca. A real estate broker in Mexico for more than 35 years, Waugh has for the past 10 years been an affiliate of Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate. For more information, visit www.barbarawaugh.com or www.cuernavacaproperties.com, or e-mail bw (at) barbarawaugh.com. These sound like some wonderful opportunities in Mexico. By the way, "Cuernavaca" means cow's horn in English. The photo above is from www.flickr.com/photos/kafka4prez/82996937 and it is the copyright of kafka4prez.

By Michael Marquette
From his blog: Where to Buy in Newcastle (Australia)?

Are you considering a sea change or thinking about which suburbs are in most demand in Newcastle? If you are, this information is essential reading. Earlier this month, I wrote about the massive 85 percent drop in sales in July this year compared to the same month last year for properties in the City of Newcastle.

If the trend continues many real estate agencies will close their doors and many agents will be forced to flee the industry. This staggering decrease in demand has put enormous pressure on pricing in the area and is causing many vendors considerable grief. So the question of where to buy to best protect your investment is more important than ever.

In Sydney, we have seen suburbs close to beaches and the Harbour hold their price the best. The outer suburbs, especially in the West have struggled and have significantly dropped in value. It really shows that as demand drops in an area price follows in the same direction.

In Newcastle, the Blue Ribbon suburbs of Merewether, Bar Beach, Cooks Hill and The Hill have all suffered from interest-rate increases and decreased buyer demand but nowhere near to the extent of rest of the City. Year-to-date sales in those suburbs are down 32 percent on the same period last year – not the massive reduction seen in the City as a whole.

These suburbs enjoy close proximity to beaches, Newcastle Harbour, cafes, restaurants and many enjoy spectacular coastal views. Purchasing a luxury home is all about location and the choice of suburb is crucial in protecting your valuable asset. This formula is true for all coastal cities and will help put you in the safest position.


Editor’s Note:
Michael Marquette is the co-Founder and Director of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes, a member of Luxury Real Estate in East Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Founded on Australia Day 2007 by Marquette and Simon Turner, Marquette Turner is a property consultancy company covering the Australian states of New South Wales and Victoria. Marquette has a background in medicine and a large retail and wholesale business. Very good information! Buyers definitely need an expert to help guide them through the pitfalls scattered across the current luxury market. The photo above is from www.flickr.com/photos/linksmanjd/2723754204 and it is the copyright of LinksmanJD.

By Michael Marquette
From his blog: Luxury Homes Fail to Sell at Auction

It has always astonished me how many real estate agents advise everyone they meet to auction their home home. In Regional cities like Newcastle this happens all too often with the inevitable result of the property passing in, and in most cases not even receiving one bid from a potential buyer.

The process is horrendous for vendors who quite often have their hopes set high only to have them come crashing down on auction day. Potential purchasers use the fact that the property passed in to show that there is little if any interest in the home and accordingly offer much less for the property or just wait for the price to continue falling in the hope of snapping it up for a bargain price.

This is even truer when looking at luxury homes in sort after suburbs in Newcastle like The Hill, Bar Beach and Merewether. Twenty-seven homes were put to auction in the Hunter yesterday with only eight selling, for a clearance rate of just 30 percent. Even more interesting is that the highest price paid for a property sold at auction yesterday was just $452,000!

It is more important than ever to choose an agent with the experience, qualifications and knowledge of the luxury market when selling your home. The one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work when selling luxury properties and is even more important when selling property in Regional cities.


Editor’s Note:
Michael Marquette is the co-Founder and Director of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes in East Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Founded on Australia Day 2007 by Marquette and Simon Turner, Marquette Turner is a property consultancy company covering the Australian states of New South Wales and Victoria. Marquette has a background in medicine and a large retail and wholesale business. Very interesting. An inexperienced real-estate agent might not know the best way to sell a home in the current market, so it’s important to choose wisely. Otherwise, buyers might not bother to pay attention to sellers’ efforts. The photo above is from www.flickr.com/photos/rickmccharles/2269842297 and it is the copyright of Rick McCharles.

By Michael Marquette
From his blog: View from the Bridge: Michael Marquette’s comments to the Australian Financial Review

Homeowners and investors have welcomed suggestions that the Reserve Bank of Australia will cut interest rates this year, but will the banks pass the rate cuts onto borrowers?

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has told Australians to change banks if they fail to pass on rate reductions. The banks have had no problem increasing rates to levels higher than official rate increases and have even increased rates despite the Reserve Bank keeping them on hold.

In an interview with The Australian Financial Review last week I was asked what it would take to restore confidence in the market. I expect buyers to remain cautious until the banks show that any rate reductions will be passed on. I believe a rate cut of around 1 percent is needed to restore buyer confidence as I’m hearing increasingly that buyers and vendors are skeptical that banks will pass on the rate cuts. A reduction of 100 basis points will result in the market reacting in a positive way, even half a percent will be looked on cautiously.

So the question is buy now or wait? The answer is simple. There are some fantastic buys in the luxury market at the moment and this will continue for the foreseeable future. As the stock market wobbles, dividends decrease and share prices drop bricks and mortar will become a major focus for many investors.

If you find the right luxury property at the right price and choose the right lender, your decision is an easy one to make. My only advice is to ensure sure that you keep your lender honest, and if “changing banks,” as PM Rudd suggests, make sure you are aware of all fees and costs that may apply.


Editor’s Note:
Michael Marquette is the co-Founder and Director of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes in East Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Founded on Australia Day 2007 by Marquette and Simon Turner, Marquette Turner is a property consultancy company covering the Australian states of New South Wales and Victoria. Marquette has a background in medicine and a large retail and wholesale business. When banks charge unfair fees for their services, they are not building good relationships of trust with potential clients. I prefer kindness and openness when working with people. Thanks for the insightful blog entry, Michael! The photo of the Australian dollar coins is from www.flickr.com/photos/astro-dudes/913087028 and it is the copyright of Claire L. Evans.

By Dr. Carl Peralta

Giorgio Armani, together with his super yacht “Main”, spent a lovely holiday in Malta. For more information on his visit, read the article in the Times of Malta.



Although Malta is not like the Greek islands, St. Tropez, Sardinia & Monte Carlo, it is a unique, picturesque place set right bang in the middle of the clean Mediterranean Sea.

Other famous personalities come along together with their super yachts, such as Roman Abramovich (Chelsea FC owner) with his 114-metre “Pelorus” and Tom Perkins (Danielle Steele’s ex-husband) with his 88-metre “Maltese Falcon” built by Perini Navi!


Editor’s Note:
Dr. Carl Peralta founded 77 Great Estates in 2003. He is a member of the global Luxury Real Estate network. Business being his chief interest, Dr. Peralta has successfully co-organized many large-scale entertainment events since 1995. It sounds like Giorgio Armani couldn’t stay away from Malta. Actually, I wrote an editorial on luxury yachting communities in the spring 2008 issue of LuxuryRealEstate.com Magazine. Very cool! The size of these yachts Carl mentions in this blog entry is incredible. You’d need a huge dock at your luxury home or a nice luxury marina to park them.

By Jim Walberg
From his blog: Cayman Islands Fractionals Are Some Of The BEST In The World!

“The Waterford” on Grand Cayman is setting a new standard of excellence with Caribbean fractional ownership!

You know that I am not only a fan of fractional ownership in the Caribbean, it has been the hottest real estate purchase options for the past year. I have let you know about the opportunities in the Cayman Islands in the past, but what is unfolding at The Waterford on Grand Cayman continues to evolve into one of the top luxury properties in paradise. Grand Cayman is the ultra-chic island in the Caymans. It has the international shopping, high-end nightlife, along with the traditional Cayman-style homes and a rich Caribbean history. George Town is the on Grand Cayman and it is the capital of the Cayman Islands. George Town is also the fifth largest financial center in the world!
 

Grand Cayman luxury real estate is some of the most valuable and prestigious you can find in the tropics. The Waterford Private Residence Club is Grand Cayman’s newest oceanfront luxury resort at Safe Haven overlooking the islands North Sound with breathtaking views of Rum Point. The Waterford is offering purchasers of an oceanfront villa for $1,700,000 US – pre-construction! They are also offering 1/8 fractional ownerships starting at $329,000 US – re-construction! The end result will be one of the most amazing turnkey, fully furnished, luxury properties in the Caribbean!

You will not believe all the luxurious amenities that are available for you and your guests. Here are a few of them so your imagination can run wild for a moment or two:
- Use of a car during your stay – Land Rover, Mercedes, Audi or BMW
- Boat privileges - a Boston Whaler complete with your very own captain!
- Private jet services are available for booking a direct flight to Grand Cayman!
- Golf and tennis club membership!
- The Waterford Spa – a 5,000 square-foot, full-service spa and fitness center!
- Two sprawling crystal blue pools right along the sandy beachfront!
- The Waterford Cigar Room – one of my favorites!
- An unmatched 24-hour concierge, maid and valet services.
- How about a pre-arrival grocery shopping service? Your kitchen will be stocked!

Are you getting the picture? The Waterford is creating an unforgettable experience for each of their owners. From the moment you arrive until the moment you depart, you will experience the most pampered lifestyle I have ever seen, right in the heart of paradise - the Caribbean! Your staff of professionals is on call every day to make sure that ALL of your needs are met! An added feature is that The Waterford staff speaks English, Spanish, French and Italian.

With its prime location on Grand Cayman, The Waterford provides its owners the ultimate Cayman Islands real estate opportunity by combining the advantages of ownership with five-star amenities and luxury resort services. All of the residences have breathtaking oceanfront views, elegant furnishings, and luxury amenities and services beyond any of your expectations! If you have ever dreamed of owning your own luxurious vacation villa in the Caribbean then you may want to seriously consider The Waterford Private Residence Club on Grand Cayman. Contact me TODAY for the next steps to take in order to find out how easy it is to secure your spot in paradise. Until next time… your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty!


Editor’s Note:
Jim Walberg is the co-Broker/Owner of The Bay Area Team, the most-successful team at Keller Williams Realty-Danville. He is also a member of the global LuxuryRealEstate.com network. Jim is an exceptional blogger, as you can see by visiting his blog, Caribbean Islands Realty and reading great blog entries like the one above. He is the master of fractionals and other luxury homes in the Caribbean, and he always has a lot of great opportunities to share. Excellent!