Luxury Real Estate

December, 2010.

Ah...end of year "market thoughts" time....

My "thoughts" are not meant to be a stats report or a hard market analysis.

That kind of statistical analysis can be found elsewhere, such as with mls statistics or other such "numbers reporting" venues.

My thoughts are exactly that...impressions, and based on 20 + years in the real estate business, all on Salt Spring Island and on the Southern Gulf Islands, and on Southern Vancouver Island.

My impressions/thoughts, then:

** Salt Spring and the Southern Gulf Islands have evolved into secondary home/discretionary marketplaces, perhaps since 1999. No one "has to" purchase on a Gulf Island; it's always by choice. Thus, regardless of market trend in play, at any given moment, it takes time to sell an Island property. It often takes 2 and probably 3 visits, before a buyer will "act".

The internet erased time and geography. Between 2000 and 2006, a low Canadian Dollar against the U.S. Dollar and the Euro, also made us very attractive to an investor/buyer from afar.

The first visit is usually the "discovery time" of the specific island itself. The second visit, the buyer has "chosen for" that particular island, and is now looking seriously at specific properties. If they don't see what they "imagine", they will come back a third time, and might even end up buying vacant land/building.

Since the buyers are not "local", in the main, there are significant time lags between visits. It can take one to three years to sell a property, on any Gulf Island, and this kind of time pause is also a marker of all discretionary areas, and globally so.

Time lags, then, are involved in every sale, no matter the market trend. This is the marker of all discretionary marketplaces, and in such a marketplace the buyer is always in charge of the process.

** The impact of the internet revolution has changed forever the way all business is conducted, and this is the case in sales oriented businesses, especially.

I think real estate was late to the table of change. The car industry and the stock market side of investing were totally changed by the internet's delivery, to consumers, of easy access to information, and their shift happened five or so years before real estate noted this. The real estate industry thought it was still business as usual, for some substantial timeframe.

Now, the shift from a company or agent-centric business model, to a consumer-centric style, has profoundly affected real estate marketing choices, too.

Approximately 98 percent of property searching apparently now begins on the internet, and a good 14 months before a buyer is ready to "act". All pertinent information can be found, on regions of interest to a buyer, via the internet, and so the role of a real estate agent has profoundly changed.

The way of introducing oneself as an agent, and of marketing listings, has made an internet presence totally necessary. Specialty print media might still have a place, marginally, but less and less so...print apparently only delivers one percent of buyers, today.

If there was a transition period in marketing between 2000 and 2009, which allowed a blend of responses, it is now over. Print media no longer delivers the buyer. To use it as one's premier means of trying to attract a buyer means that one's efforts are doomed. The buyer isn't "there".

** The post-internet world is now with us. What does this mean?

Technology, created to meet the demands of the wired wireless world continues to expand...traditional emails and websites are already being transplanted by social media options.

It's important to have a website, but the template model that has been the norm since 1999 era is seen as the box in the basement or the attic...one can go rummage around in it for deeper information, but it isn't the "initial attractor" that it once was. Same with emails.

Twitter is not a fad, nor is texting. They are "immediacy" formats, in my opinion.

In our time famine world (no time/always time/only now time), we are always looking for shortcuts to essential information. That's how I see Twitter.

And Facebook? Ah...that is interesting.

The "real" 21st Century, which has created the global village foreseen by Marshall McLuhan, way back in the 1970s, is also busy deleting our 20th Century idea that there was a separation between our personal and our "corporate" worlds.

Facebook, I think, is about that erasure of separation...think about those three words: "social", "media", "marketing". They really do mean something, and the shift is profound for all those hybrid BG (before google) beings still out there. The AG (after google) beings know nothing else, and swim gracefully in the new global data sea.

What else did McLuhan forecast? Oh, yes..."the medium is the message" was his mantra. The technology created to answer the shift of the internet world has changed us as a species, I believe.

Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and their kin are early responders to the shift moment of the post-internet world. More apps and options will be spawning daily to fill the craving for information.

The separation between the creator of information and the consumer of same is also continuing to blur and to mesh. Concepts such as "privacy", "time", "personal", "expert" are undergoing change, too. Exciting times, indeed!

Will we end up with virtual real estate offices, and a paperless transaction process, with all information totally available on mobile devices? Yes, I think so.

In change lies opportunity!

** And what of our local island market? In Fall 2009, I did project that it would take until Fall 2010 to see uptick in activity, in our secondary home marketplace.

This has indeed been the case. The activity seen in Vancouver and in Victoria, primary residence/city marketplaces, in 2009 and first half of 2010, has now arrived in rural areas. Properties listed between one and four years are now selling.

The difference? The "reluctant buyer" is starting to become active! Why? Perhaps in recognition of significant price reductions coupled with historically low interest rates? Or, might also be fear of inflation and currency instability that is driving buyers back to secondary home/discretionary purchases, in order to preserve capital? Wish we could find that lost crystal ball!

Seeking information on Salt Spring Island and on Southern Gulf Islands and on Southern Vancouver Island? Call me!

How may I help you to discover your special Island dream property?

Looking forward to your call!

liread33@gmail.com

http://www.liread.com/market.htm

Courtesy of: Shawn Elliott of Shawn Elliott Luxury Homes and Estates in Long Island, NY

At the Shawn Elliott Open House of the Year Party, the evening was ALL ABOUT LUXURY. The Villa at Chestnut Hill's entry displayed an exquisite array of Maseratis, Ferraris and Rolls Royces as guests arrived.

Attendees had an opportunity to experience the passion, luxury and performance of these legendary automobiles.

By John Hodnett of Lila Delman Real Estate

Coastal Life, Volume 5 Issue 9, 2009, by Nicole Bouchard, Exclusive to Coastal Life

With their captivating water views, temperate seasons and proximity to Boston and New York, the areas of Newport, Narragansett, Jamestown and Watch Hill have been coveted vacation spots since the mid-1800's.

The Gilded Age settled comfortably in Rhode Island as the well-traveled elite sought opulent summer homes along the water, away from their demanding high profile city lives. Bringing with them the styles and trappings of Europe, the prominent families sought to create their own petit-Versaillle in the midst of a quiet waterfront oasis. With great emphasis on skilled preservation, these whimsical, palace-like structures remain as the areas grow and change, incorporating modern architecture, imaginative fine cuisine, artistic shops and elite galleries, all with reverence to both the past and the future.

In the playroom of their Narragansett home in 1964, Lila Delman founded what would become a family legacy and a Rhode Island trademark of luxuriant real estate. Lila's affinity for upscale properties, beautiful art and antiques with stories behind them combined with her business zeal to found a firm that educated itself about the e historical architectural treasures that Rhode Island had to offer. When asked how her mother came by these interests and talents, her daughter Melanie, who is now the President of the firm, explained that it all came purely as though by instinct. "She harbored a natural curiosity towards those areas of interest. She was naturally artistic, naturally inclined toward historic homes and she had a very special, unique eye for beauty with a sincere appreciation of it." The firm has grown substantially to include four offices and takes part in helping international clients transition here or local clients move abroad.

In understanding the draw of the Rhode Island coastline and following the trends from the Gilded Age to the current market, there are the classic elements to consider as well as the regional growth and development in more recent years. For the genteel society of the late 1800's and early 1900's America's "royalty," this region had a quiet charm, a sense of being away without truly being away so that husbands could stay on top of business in Boston and New York, varied social character, prestige, and offered more for their money. The Beaux-arts architecture brought to the region in the nineteenth century defined a nation. Italinate, Neo-Renaissance and French Baroque styles lent an artistry to the landscape which had yet to be seen before this period. Lavish details with little expense spared adorned the magnificent structures embodying the feelings of the time. When asked which of the historic properties she has represented was her favorite, Ms. Delman responded, "I have seen some truly magnificent properties over the years. Just as with your own children, you can't really pick a favorite when considering these homes. Each has a unique personality."

It is very true that each historic residence possess an individual charm; they each have a unique quality that features and discerns them like characters in a novel. Though many famous architects worked to design the various masterpieces that immortalize the history surrounding them, Richard Morris Hunt stands out amongst them. The Beaux-arts architecture was brought to the region by Hunt, the first American student of the Ecole des Beaux-arts. While mentoring in France, he was allowed to supervise work on the Louvre Museum which was being renovated for Napoleon III at that time, as well as design the Pavilion de la Bibliotheque located in proximity to the Palais-Royal. Once in Newport his vibrant personality and humor drew him many elite friendships. One myth surrounding his career stated that as he was finishing a Vanderbilt mansion, he found a tall, covered figure in a ballroom. Pulling away the material, he saw that it was a handsome statue of himself, made by the stonecutters working on the property to honor him. Ralph Waldo Emerson delighted in Hunt's unpretentious, engaging manner which was paired with an extremely intelligent, artistic mind. Hunt's work extended not only throughout Newport, (Marble House, Wrentham House, Beechwood, Ochre Court, Belcourt Castle, The Breakers) but also to North Carolina in the form of the Biltmore Estate, the biggest private mansion in the country, and to New York (the base of The Statue of Liberty and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.) In his obituary which appeared in The New York Times, August 1st, 1895, he was hailed for having rendered the most influence on domestic design, having been as excellent mentor to his pupils in America and abroad, having been unselfish as an individual and certainly one of the most prodigious, successful mine of his profession. His style was thought to be "elegant" and "free" which is a fair indication of the creativity he used in his designs.

On the famous Bellevue Avenue, rests an ideal example, Beechwood was originally built for a merchant named Daniel Parrish. The house was later purchased by the Astor's who hired Hunt to revitalize the property which they bought in 1881. The two million spent on the revival of the home culminated in memorable elegance as displayed in the nautical ball room,. It was made to have the glittering affect of light on the water with its eight hundred panes of glass, mirrored walls, crystal chandeliers and the flowing patterned waves of French flooring. Caroline Astor was proclaimed to be the "Queen of American Society." Her summer balls were the social event of the season . She retired from public life in 1906 with a whirling collection o twenty-five summer seasons filled with lively memories behind her,. It was her son, John Jacob Astor IV, who rode aboard the luxurious, yet ill-fated ocean liner Titantic. The property continues to inspire with a rich history, having inspired musicians and Hollywood directors alike.

Another of the historic gems is The Wrentham House. Also an artistic tribute to Hunt with his unique aesthetic sense and craftsmanship, this home was built in 1891 for J. R. Busk who, along with his swift boat, Mischief, defended America's Cup with his skills as world-class sailor. At the highest point on Ocean Avenue, it features water views from every room. With turrets, a prominent cathedral ceiling, arches and exposed woodwork, this property has impressions of Northern France, particularly the lines found in the architecture of Normandy. Here, the impressive modern amenities begin the transition from the past to the present. A multi-level home theater and central air entice another page of time to be filled with new experiences.

The modern landscape intricately intertwines both historical and contemporary architecture. Therein lies a diversity that also plays a factor in attracting buyers to Southern New England. Discussing this unique diversity, Ms. Delman states: "In many of the older homes, the artwork and furniture are not the original pieces. Each owner of the home has different personality, style and decor. The exteriors are preserved, however, so that they have a charming authenticity to them. These homes are timeless. In terms of the emergence of the modern architecture, I think it gives an individual so much to choose from amongst these complimentary designs of new and old along the coastline. There are no cookie cutter layouts and people can mix styles, choosing various stimuli. Historic home might display modern art while modern homes might showcase antiques."

As the area is again drawing the elite, offering fine schools, art communities, culinary pearls, and the beauty of sea-side locale without over-abundant traffic, more and more prominent names are settling into the Rhode Island coastal region, seeing it as an endearing option. Property values still allow buyers to get more for their money as opposed to property values in the Hampton's. Easy access to the major cities and the smooth breezes off the water are causing many to not only view the region as a summering spot, but also a promising opportunity for a year-round residence.

In the instance of Hollywood actress, Anne Archer, (featured in major motion films such as Fatal Attraction, Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger) she and husband Terry Jastrow, an executive producer of six Olympic games, chose a new townhouse located in Carnegie Abbey Club in 2003. The Carnegie Abbey Club is one of the finest golf and sporting clubs in the country. In the Clubhouse is the couple's 1,592 sq. foot townhouse whose design is meant to capture both west facing views of Narragansett Bay and the two east facing views of the extensive golf course. The interior suggests the theme of the a super-luxury yacht. As a result of frequent famous visitor/residents, individuals choosing primary residences, year-round entrepreneurs 'setting up shop,.' cultural and recreational amenities, the atmosphere of the region doesn't change seasonally to the extent that some summer locations do. There remains a sophisticated continuity. Additionally, education plays an important factor. Salve Regina University in Newport, RI not only has impressive collegiate programs, but features speakers such as His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who hold vastly important world roles. Portsmouth Abbey, in near proximity to Narragansett Bay, is a prestigious learning facility which has a day school and serves also as a boarding school. St. George's school in Newport has been five star rated by parents of attending students.

In terms of culinary delights, Newport has many, yet Ocean Cliff Resort, which was designed by the Boston firm Peabody & Sterns who also designed the original Breakers Mansion and Doris Duke's Rough Point has entrancing Safari Restaurant and Lounge. Fine cuisine, breath-taking views and excellent live music on Sundays with dancing make this restaurant an unforgettable experience. For Jamestown, the Victorian Bay Voyage Inn has stained glass windows looking out onto the bay and the gourmet fare features international dishes. One of the things that is most coveted by those who frequent Bay Voyage Inn is the famous Sunday brunch. In Narragansett, the Coast Guard House, which is listed on the national register of historic landmarks, serves up history, exemplary cuisine, oceanfront views and entertainment.

Art galleries and museums are prominent along the Rhode Island coastline and the expansion of the performing arts adds to the eclectic atmosphere. The Opera house, the jazz, folk and classical music festivals join visual beauty in the picturesque waterfront settings with engaging sound and often powerful words sewn into lyrics. Words as an art form have many roots along the Rhode Island coast through inspired musicians and providing backdrops for written works translated to film such as the adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby which was partially filmed at Rosecliff and Marble House. It would be fitting then that the nineteenth century architects who worked to shape the face of the area aspired to not only elements of the Renaissance styles, but also the expression of humanism which was to speak well and write well.

A modern extension of thatt15th century principle made local is perhaps evident in what is referred to on the Lila Delman Real Estate website as Lila's Blog, containing intriguing entries about synchronicity such as "Lost and Found", "Only in RI", the entry with Emily Dickenson's poetry as nearly an ode to one of the estates, and the thought-provoking entries posted by Liz Marchi which evoke the most serendipitous feel concerning Hunt and Wrentham House. With her artistic passions, its very conceivable that Lila would enjoy her aptly named blog. Aside from their associations with Christie's and prestigious brokerage firms internationally, it is interesting to find that the firm features the creative aspects of their agents which is in keeping with many of the inspiring properties they represent. Asked what she loves most about her profession, Ms. Delman replied, "I get tremendous satisfaction from what I do because this is where I live-I'm not promoting something I don't believe in and when we serve in an advisory or consulting role, we are comfortable in our skin, pointing out attributes that we experience on a day-to-day basis."

New England, as a whole, features numerous incredible waterfront communities and short travel distance to nearly everything one could desire. It has inspired many generations past and will continue to inspire the future. Carving out a distinguished spot for itself is the coastline of Rhode Island which highlights a space in time and continues to grow with the Gilded Age mindset framed in the pursuit of excellence.

By Heidi Warth of Warth & Properties

Region: Pollensa - Formentor

Construction Year: 2009

Plot: 8,564 m²

Living Area: 800 m²

Number of Bedrooms: 7

Price: on request

Exclusive charming estate with a prime location South facing. The living area is distributed over 3 floors. Ground floor: attractive entry foyer, beautiful living/dining room, impressive modern kitchen, winter lounge, 1 en suite bedroom, guest toilet. First floor: library, 3 large bedrooms with bathroom and dressing room and 2 additional bedrooms each with a bathroom. Basement: kitchen, TV lounge, spa and gym, 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, laundry.

Extraordinary construction quality and top technical equipment, comfortable layout, spacious light-flooded rooms, modern interior design, underfloor heating, reversible air conditioning, large double-glazed windows, natural stone flooring in all the house, beautiful finish materials and works (stone, steel, iron, glass and wood), high ceiling, Bulthaup kitchen, wine-cooler, Dornbracht y Kaldewei fittings, Floss and Fontana Arte lighting-system. Alarm.

Spacious inviting terraces with summer kitchen and barbecue, big kitchen. Marvellous Mediterranean garden and green areas with old tree-population. This fabolous estate has been buil 1960 and totally renovated in 2008/2009. Idyllic quiet location, privacy and good access. Large parking area for several cars.

By Robyn Flick of John's Island Real Estate Company

VERO BEACH, Fl. – April 7, 2009 – John’s Island Real Estate Company is pleased to announce that Bob Gibb, President, was honored by the Cultural Council of Indian River County on March 25^th, 2009 at the 14^th Annual Laurel Awards Dinner at Grand Harbor Club. The Laurel Awards recognize leaders that contribute to the quality of the cultural community of Vero Beach in the areas of business, philanthropy, professionalism and volunteerism.

The particular award Mr. Gibb received is the Carolyn K. Eggert Award. This award is given to individuals who have made long-term, noteworthy contributions of both money and time to the wider cultural community. It is not awarded every year, and only at the discretion of the selection committee.

Cultural Council board member Mary Schenkel, who submitted Bob’s name as a candidate for this award said, “You’d be hard-pressed to find a non-profit organization that Bob has not supported or touched in some positive manner in Vero Beach and he throws himself whole-heartedly into everything he does for this community.”

John’s Island Real Estate Company sells exclusively John’s Island properties and has been since 1969. John’s Island is a private residential, oceanfront community of approximately 1,300 families. It offers a fine selection of elegant homes and gracious condominium residences encompassing 1,650 acres between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercoastal Waterway.

The exclusive John’s Island Club offers fine dining in several clubhouses, including a new Beach Club with exquisite ocean views, three championship 18-hole golf courses designed by Pete Dye and Tom Fazio, tennis and squash facilities, state-of-the-art fitness center and three miles of private beach access.
 

Pete Dye (http://www.dyedesigns.com/)

Tom Fazio (http://www.faziogolf.com/)

By Ann Adenius of Signature Residences Worldwide

Today’s Phuket is one of the premier destinations for the discerning holiday traveller and second home owners. With a property market that is strong, especially in the exclusive, high-end sector, it continues to draw discriminating property investors seeking extraordinary opportunities. Real estate prices on Phuket are still relatively low when compared with comparable tropical destinations.

Jumeirah Private Island Phuket will offer levels of luxury, privacy and security as yet unseen in the Phuket area. This exclusive resort development is situated less than 500 metres off Phuket Island, at the southern gateway of Phang-Nga Bay, one of the world's most fantastic seascapes. The island is a scenic 5-minute helicopter journey or 20-minute drive and short speedboat ride from the Phuket International Airport. An on-demand 24-hour ferry service connects the island to Phuket’s full portfolio of leisure and lifestyle amenities including world renowned golf courses, fine dining and shopping outlets.

Ownership of property on a completely private island in an idyllic setting has always been perceived to be the ultimate in real estate. There is a certain romanticism about being cut off from everyday modern life and being surrounded by water. It is a symbol of prestige, wealth, and has enormous investment value, largely because islands are limited, the supply can only diminish.

Opulent Jumeirah residences are currently for sale within the development. Revel within your own palatial Jumeirah private residence and enjoy full access to a luxury Jumeirah Resort & Spa together with a super yacht marina and the private members only Jumeirah Private Island Yacht Club. The super yacht marina will have 101 berths and will offer true “super yacht” facilities with 24 hour deep water access. The benefits of berthing in Phuket include fuel, crew and dockage costs up to 80 percent less than Europe and there are no luxury yacht import taxes.

The majority of the Estates rest along the northern coast with stellar views of Phang-Nga Bay; while a few select Estates are positioned on the southern coast and offer direct beachfront access and views spanning the island-dotted seascape. The custom-designed villas present a great range of options incorporated into a single-storey, low-density home that induces the superlative tropical lifestyle.

Prices from THB 120 million. Private homes will be completed from Q2 2009 with the soft opening of the resort Q2 2010 and the official opening set for October 2010.

Homeowners can look forward to enjoying the great stress-free, luxury lifestyle that Jumeirah has to offer.

For further information, contact Signature Residences Worldwide, www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com, email info@signatureresidencesworldwide.com or call +44 20 7095 8703

By Ann Adenius of Signature Residences Worldwide

Offering an unbeatable lifestyle of sophistication, tropical charm, splendid white sand beaches and gracious Thai culture - Phuket is luxury island living at its best

Phuket Island is one of Asia's most desirable dream home destinations, with magnificent scenery, stunning beaches, diving reefs, as well as some of the world's most exclusive recreational facilities including spas, world class golf courses, marinas and a wealth of fine restaurants and shops. Phuket boasts six international golf courses making it Asia's number 1 golfing destination. Moreover, the island offers an attractive infrastructure such as world-class hospitals and medical care as well as international schools.

Malaiwana is one of the greatest top-end luxury property developments, a superb addition to the most exclusive real estate belt on Phuket’s beautiful north west coast’s strip of pristine beaches.

Malaiwana is a mixed development comprising 19 sensational Estate villas, a secondary phase of pool residences, and a stylish oceanfront beach club.

Sea views and sunset views are truly breathtaking. Naithon Beach is truly pristine. Perhaps Phuket’s most beautiful unspoiled beach. Naithon Beach is classic fine white sand, turquoise water…..a true oasis.

Malaiwana Estate Villas are set on land plots from 1-2 rai, so the estate will maintain its tranquil feeling. The villas are large at almost 1,000 square meters of construction area. Villas are distinctly separated into owners, guests and social areas. The magnificent social area is arranged under two Thai style pavilions, where living , dining, sundeck and sala connect to form one exclusive and very elegant entertainment area. Separated only by water, and bounded by a double edge infinity pool, the entire area looks over the Andaman Sea.

To complete the scene, private estate management and concierge services will be available.

Prices from: THB 89 million

For further information, contact Signature Residences Worldwide, www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com ,email info@signatureresidencesworldwide.com or call +44 20 7095 8703

By Jim Walberg of Caribbean Islands Realty

Two charter vacation yacht owners who are also the crews on their gorgeous yachts, checked in with Jim Walberg regarding some experiences from their current 2009 season in the Virgin Islands.

S/Y Three Moons: Randy and Shelly Tucker - Owners/Crew

The instability of the economy is only making us work harder at perfecting our positive image of being a high level professionally crewed yacht. Yes, we are all networking more and reaching out in new ways to contact prospective clients. We are emphasizing that no corners are being cut for our guests, no matter the cost or the economy. ALL INCLUSIVE still means “all inclusive” for our guests. We are a premium yacht with three professional crew members that continue to serve each of our guests in a royal style. This seems so much smarter than making “desperation deals”. If it results in a quieter season overall, then the results will reflect positively with the great changes that have been made to our yacht. All of us have our 2009 “to do” list and are happily getting it “done” with an extra week of time here and there between charters!

Also, visit us at the Spring Show in St. Thomas at Yacht Haven Grande. It will be another opportunity to show off our “stuff” to the various charter vacation brokers. And…our 1^st Mate - Becca Lee, has been working as a Tour Guide for Princess Cruise Lines here in St. Thomas for a couple of years between charters. Last month she was awarded with the prestigious “Tour Guide of the Year” award. We topped off her excitement with a nice tiara to wear while washing dishes in the Three Moons Galley! Being a crew member always keeps us grounded in a state of reality. Becca has created quit an impression with our guests this year because of her non-stop fun-loving style. And, Jim, the weather is sunny, 85 degrees, and the water has 100 foot clarity and is 80+ degrees. Hope to see you at the VICL Spring Boat Show! We may even stop by and visit you again during the off-season as we explore more of the San Francisco Area.

S/V Felicia: Chris and Julie Bennett - Owners/Crew

Good to hear from you, Jim! We enjoyed your article on Tuscany two weeks ago. It was very reminiscent of where we live in France during the off-season - but on a much grander scale of course. Just beautiful - would love to see the hotel some day, when we’re done with our house and able to actually do some more serious exploring in Italy and France.

2009 has been our transition year as we stepped up in size and scale with our new catamaran Felicia. We had such a successful run on Blu Moon that has really served us with clients following us to our new charter vacation sailing vessel. We’re actually doing great given it is our first year with a new yacht. We have the reputation in the industry as one of the top crew and charter experiences for our guests, however our catamaran is somewhat unknown in the industry because it wasn’t actively chartered for the past several years.

With any business “stuff happens” that causes you to need to be light on your feet and make adjustments. We are having one of those moments. We are in the midst of an insurance claim with a boat that sailed into us with six cruise ship passengers on board. S/Y Felicia was actually on her mooring, we gone into town for supplies, and the other boat got itself wedged between our starboard hull and our mooring ball. Don’t ask me how they came to be sailing between the boats in 20+ knot winds (they picked the most two expensive boats in the anchorage to sail between that day)….I don’t know. So…we’re in a lift at the moment having the lifelines, stanchion and bowsprit repaired. We had to already turn away a charter last week because we couldn’t go out in that condition. Just hope we can get some relief from the insurance company. We “splashed” back in the water last Friday so we are very excited to get back into the action of the business we love so much - creating an extraordinary sailing vacation for cherished customers. Until next time…fair winds. Please keep in touch. We love your articles!

So, if you would like more information about one of the most unforgettable vacation experiences you will ever have in Paradise, contact me and I will be glad to send you the information you will need. I look forward to hearing from you.

By Ann Adenius of Signature Residences Worldwide

Emerald Monkey Eco Luxe Resort & Residences is one of the newest developments to be announced in the Caribbean. This one-of-a- kind development is located in the Archipelago region of Bocas del Toro, in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Panama. The development has been designed to be the first luxury “Zero Carbon Footprint Project” in the world.

You can’t help but to fall in love with the warm people and beautiful islands of the Archipelagos of Bocas del Toro. It’s one of the finest locations in the Caribbean. The islands offer a great diversity of breathtaking attractions including the amazing white sand beaches, magnificent coral reefs in crystal clear water, and magical mountainous rainforests.

Emerald Monkey sits on 80 acres of lush green foliage in tropical setting. Phase one includes 76 unique Balinese villas with indoor outdoor living. The villas are built in Bali by native craftsmen, and then disassembled and shipped to the island. Each villa boasts custom designed Balinese décor.



 

The residences are accompanied with five-star amenities. These include the “Banjar” Village which is filled with antique Balinese shops, two saltwater pools, spectacular coral reef diving, a world class anti-ageing rejuvenation Spa, two beaches, a sunken Bali village for snorkelling, two miles of walking trails, family activities center, on site restaurants, and even a meditation temple to watch the sun rise and set.

The developer is committed to build a luxury eco friendly community. Their inspiration came from the Balinese way of life that people should live at one with nature. Through use

of sustainable and renewable resources along with hydro-electric power, the team of Emerald Monkey will take its first step towards creating the first luxury “Zero Carbon Footprint Project”.

Construction has already started on Emerald Monkey, and the resort is scheduled for opening in summer 2010.

Villas start at mid $500’s to over $2.5 million.

For further information, contact Signature Residences Worldwide, www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com ,email info@signatureresidencesworldwide.com or call +44 20 7095 8703

By Renaud Rippert

Before the current season began, there was some concern as to how the real-estate market in Saint Barts would fare, given the number of uncertainties which presently affect global markets.

This concern is clearly justified by factors such as the sub-prime financial crisis, the weakness of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the Euro, and the economic hardship felt in parts of Europe and, most notably, across the United States.

In reality, for Saint Barts, the analysis is very positive.

The island’s position as a particularly unique market has only been reaffirmed. It remains limited in size and thus in development opportunities and its patrons have proven to be less affected by the factors cited above.

North American clients, who continue to show emotional attachment to the island and who find themselves so conveniently located geographically, are able to invest in a strong and secure market and to diversify their investments in a dominant currency.

Europeans, who are less troubled by our currency, are more and more present in our high-end market, which remains reasonable in comparison to other affluent markets, where such clients are frequent investors, as well.

This being said, one can safely affirm that our market is experiencing neither a rise nor a fall, but rather a consolidation of justified pricing. Because, on the contrary, the overestimation of certain properties, which has been observed in the past two years, no longer allows for finding a buyer. Regarding the high-end spectrum of the market, there is considerable demand for such products, with significant prices being offered on exceptional properties. In this respect, the situation in Saint Barts is comparable to those markets that attract a similar clientele, such as The Hamptons, Aspen and the more desirable neighborhoods of London.

As an agency historically and intimately linked to the creation and development of the real-estate market in Saint Barts, Sibarth Real Estate has consistently positioned itself as a “market regulator,” advocating the preservation of the market’s stability over time. We have never participated in the thoughtless inflation of prices or sought to simply market the “Saint-Barth Effect.” It is our mission to sell properties in Saint Barts for their intrinsic quality, and certainly not to sell them to the detriment of the island, capitalizing solely on its popularity, with no respect for appropriate counter values. Our conservative appraisals support a long-term vision, anticipating the present consolidation of our market.


Editor’s Note:
Renaud Rippert is a real-estate agent with Sibarth Real Estate, a LuxuryRealEstate.com member in Saint Barthélemy, Guadeloupe. This is absolutely wonderful. It is so nice to hear from decent, respectful people who will stand up for good and not sell themselves short for a quick sale. Good work being such a responsible brokerage, Sibarth Real Estate. You set a great example for others to follow and I applaud your efforts.