I Help Make Dreams Come True

Christiansted, VI: North Shore View Homesite in East End

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:27:07 -0500

This is a gorgeous lot with wonderful views of the north shore. It is priced well below other lots in the subdivision and is superior to them in terms of buildability and view. You can access this lot from the upper or lower road and the size gives you lots of room and options for building. The roads are paved and access is easy. Power poles at property boundary. Seller is motivated!

Seven Hills is a lovely community nestled in the hills just east of Christiansted. The neighborhood is quiet and has a lovely rural feel, yet it is very convenient to town (about 10 minutes) and to nice restaurants (i.e., Cheeseburger's In America's Paradise, the Pickled Greek, Southshore Cafe, Deep End Bar, The Galleon, Mahi's - to name a few). The views from this area are toward the north shore and Green Cay, and the prevailing east winds keep the area cool. Just a short drive away are great beaches, wonderful snorkeling, and marina. Lots in the neighborhood typically sell for mid to high 80's - well over $100,000. Homes here start in the mid $400,000's and go up up up from there. This lot is a wonderful bargain!

Cost of Living in St Croix - Here's an Update

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:11:57 -0500

Perhaps the most common question I get about St Croix is "Can I afford it?" I have known people who could live on $200 a month - and I have known people who needed $200 a day to be happy/comfortable. So it is really difficult to answer that question.

What I can tell you is what housing costs, and give you an idea of food costs, utility costs, etc. Also - it's pretty easy to move here hassle-free. Most things are sold or rented fully furnished - so all you need to bring is a toothbrush and clothes! And you don't need many clothes. It's a very casual place and the weather is consistent - so shorts and a couple of T-shirts - good pair of flip flops - and you're good to go!

Housing costs:

You can get a condo here for as little as $65,000 (there's a great one bedroom - 2nd floor - sea view - for $65,000 at Long Reef - great deal!). The monthly condo fees will range from $250 - $1200 a month. Most times, that fee does cover your insurance - but not always. If you're going for financing, I suggest you avoid condos that are "self-insured" because the bank will require you to get hurricane insurance, and that will be on top of hefty condo fees. Some banks have even decided to not finance those purchases.

A house will cost more. Generally $200,000 is about the least you can expect to pay and at that you will have some fixing up to do. There are a few exceptions - and that's why you need a Realtor! We know the good deals - different areas - and I for one will be completely honest with you.

If you choose to rent - you can expect to pay at least $800 a month - and that won't get you much. I'd say $1500 is about the least you can expect to pay for a nice home or condo. Again -there are always some exceptions out there. You can peruse the inventory of rentals at www.stcroixvacationhomes.com. One of our big employers just laid off 300 people - so rent may be coming DOWN as a result. That's a big hit in our economy and community.

Food costs:

Food costs are higher here than in the states (maybe 25% more?) - and eating out costs more too. Good news is that you can get what you want (not always the case in the Caribbean) - and there are great restaurants!

Living Costs:

Your electricity is going to cost a lot more here -so it's important to get a home that has good breezes and ventilation so you don't have to use AC.

We collect rain water on our roofs so no water fees (except in some condos).

Other things - like phone, internet - are comparable to the states.

Our gas is cheaper here than in the states - I think about $2.21 a gallon now.

If you have specific needs or questions - please feel free to ask. And if you can give me an idea of what "affordable" means to you - perhaps I can give you a better answer.

Helping you Live Your Dream,

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

1st Time Buyer Credit is Available in Virgin Islands!

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 22:06:36 -0500

If you are a first-time home buyer this year, you may be eligible to take a tax credit of $8,000, making it easier to afford to make the financial leap.

Under the federal stimulus package passed earlier this year, first-time home buyers can deduct 10 percent of the cost of a home purchased as your primary residence -- up to $80,000, for a maximum of $8,000 -- from their income tax. It is a refundable tax credit, so if you owe less than your credit, you can get the difference in your income-tax refund. This year's federal stimulus package explicitly offers the tax credit to state residents, but is silent on the territories.

"There has been some concern that because language in the stimulus legislation states that those eligible for the credit include the 50 states and the District of Colombia that the territories are not eligible," Delegate Donna M. Christensen said in a statement from her office. "However, for the Virgin Islands and Guam, the mirror tax makes changes to the�U.S.code applicable to our territories."

If you already purchased a home you can still use the deduction, so long as the purchase was after Jan. 1. If you are considering buying a home, the tax credit is another factor to consider as you budget and determine what you can afford.

There are so many opportunities for buying in St Croix right now - it's almost unbelievable what prices are being offered for oceanfront or oceanview homes. Contact me for some ideas.

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

Doing Business in St Croix, US Virgin Islands

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 20:46:25 -0500

The U.S. Virgin Islands and the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority (VIEDA) were featured on Delta Airlines' In-flight Video during the month of April 2009. That video is now online for you to see at the USVIEDA web site.

The video focuses on the quality of life offered residents of the Virgin Islands, and the generous tax incentives for businesses. Showing the beautiful beaches and blue water, and the historic quaint towns, it makes a strong case for using the US tax benefits while enjoying a Caribbean Island culture. "This video is a great opportunity to create greater global exposure about the Virgin Islands EDC Program," says Mr. D. Jerry Garcia, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the VIEDA.

Governor John P DeJongh Jr. is very supportive of business in the Virgin Islands. In his Message from the Governor on the USVIEDA site, he explains,

"My Administration is firmly committed to supporting economic development in the United States Virgin Islands. We boast a strong and rapidly growing economy that is evident with an unprecedented influx of business development to our islands on a daily basis...

"Tax benefits and various incentives are only a part of the reason that one should engage in business initiatives on our beautiful shores. We also offer an educated, multi-skilled work force with a unique and superior quality of life. For service businesses and light, non-polluting manufacturers, our people, lifestyle, natural beauty and our pro-growth policies make the U.S.V.I. a wonderful business location."

While helping many folks research relocation to St Croix, most ask about working or starting their own businesses. If you watch the video, I think you will agree the business climate here is very friendly. Two recent developments - the new rum distillery and approval for Robin's Bay - will bring jobs and economic stimulus. Contact me for a free copy of Relocation to the Virgin Islands, and/or Retiring in the Virgin Islands. Also, you'll find loads of information on my web sites.

Hope to see you here soon -

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

Frederiksted, VI: View Home Plus 2 Rental Units Reduced to $449,500

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:05:40 -0500

Find your dream home at the end of the Rainbow! Located at the end of Rainbow Dr., This home not only offers spectacular views of the valley and sea, but can also provide significant rental income to offset your mortgage! Very comfortable and spacious 3/2 main house with 2 one bedroom apts, or 1 2/2 apartment. Priced below appraisal, this is a lot of house for the money.
Directions: N on 63, pass LaGrange pillars, Next R. R at Shakur's sign. L by bus shanty. L at T. Right at Shakurs (blue/white fence with eagles). L over 'troll bridge.' Last house on L at end of Rainbow Dr.

Want to Live on the Caribbean? Here are the Best St Croix Buys for May

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 01 May 2009 15:09:07 -0500

There are some INCREDIBLE deals on homes in St Croix right now! Here are my picks for best value, best view, best of the best.

1. Where in the world can you buy a waterfront home on the beautiful turquoise waters of the Caribbean? Right here in St Croix! Located in the gated community of Judith's Fancy on a sandy beach, this home is a gorgeous 2-master suite property with a courtyard pool and spacious free standing guest house.

See the virtual tour of this home on the listing (MLS #07-881 - link Click to view listing(s) good only until May 31) or the You Tube video at�http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcGcSGhNTI0. $999,000.

2. Or if you prefer the east end of St Croix (many mainlanders do), then how about a spectacular waterfront home on beautiful Grapetree Bay for only $575,000? It's located next to multi-million dollar homes - and yes, it's dated and needs quite a bit of work - but it is a gorgeous piece of waterfront land, with slab, cistern, septic, and a livable home! $575,000. MLS #08-70. Click to view listing(s) (MLS link good only until May 31.)

3. If you're a north shore lover, there's a great two bedroom split-level waterfront there for $795,000, just a few feet from gorgeous Cane Bay! Island materials tastefully used throughout: coral rock and stone, red cedar tongue & groove, mahogany. Private oceanfront pool $795,000. MLS #07-1509 Click to view listing(s) (MLS link good only until May 31.)

4. If you love the beach, and you want a wow view too, then this house is for you! A comfortable 2-bedroom home with large apartment is set on a landscaped 1.18 acre gentle hillside, is a short distance from Cane Bay beach, and has a gorgeous view of Hamms Bluff and the coast. Delightful pool and shaded gazebo are the places to relax and enjoy the sunset. New granite kitchen with Viking stove is a plus. $625,000. MLS #09-708 Click to view listing(s) (MLS link good only until May 31.)

5. If you need a three bedroom, this home is a short distance to the shores of Cane Bay and Off the Wall Restaurant. Enjoy great views of the sea and sunsets at Hamm's Bluff from the large veranda. The property is also on the north side of the island, with a spacious yard. $649,000. MLS #09-387 Click to view listing(s) (MLS link good only until May 31.)

St Croix prices are so much lower than other Virgin Island locations and the rest of the Caribbean Islands. It really is the best time in a generation to buy here - if you have ever wanted to live by the ocean on an island where it's warm with generous happy people - call or email. There are plenty of other homes to choose from, besides the Best Buys described above.

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

It's Hard to Choose the Best View from ST Croix VI

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 01 May 2009 10:26:23 -0500

Last night as I sat sipping a nice glass of wine with my boyfriend - looking a the most beautiful Buck Island view on the island - I realized once again how darn lucky I am to live in this St Croix!

My view from my home in Judith's Fancy is awesome..... I look over a lush valley to see the beautiful blue Caribbean with Buck Island in the distance. Christiansted Harbor sparkles at night - like jewels on velvet.

But Chuck's view from his east end home is a dead-on Buck Island view. It looks as if you could almost touch it. It's an intimate view - whereas the view from my house is expansive.

And then there's my condo on the beach on the west end of St Croix. Talk about up close and personal with the ocean....it's a very intimate relationship with the water there.

Living in St. Croix affords me the opportunity to swim and snorkel a couple of times a day and still get a full 8 hours of work in!

East end, west end, center island. You can't go wrong living in St Croix! It's one of the most beautiful places on earth!

Want to join us? St Croix real estate is a great bargain right now - give me a call/email.

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

Frederiksted, VI: Prices Reduced on Two Ridge Top View Lots on St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:54:13 -0500

72L Clairmont NB, Frederiksted, VI - 2 acres, now $219,000
This is a gorgeous, very gently sloping ridge top lot. Great location, amazing views, excellent breezes. About 400 feet above the north shore of St. Croix. Very private and yet convenient location. Some owner financing would be considered - Make an offer!

72 L-A Clairmont NB, Frederiksted, VI - 2.56 acres, now $199,000
This is a gorgeous, very gently sloping ridge top lot. Great location, amazing views, excellent breezes. About 400 feet above the north shore of St. Croix. Very private and yet convenient location. Some owner financing may be considered. Directions: From C-sted, R on 80. Lft on Scenic E to top. R at Pillar @ Estate Clairmont. Pass Twilla's Mill house, LEFT at base of ruins (grass rd W/ arrow sign). Follow till you see my 2nd sign on boundary.

Don't pass up the Buyer's Market on St Croix, Virgin Islands

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 22:31:43 -0500

Recently, a customer of mine wrote me to tell me that she intended to put off her purchase for several years. She is about 4.5 years away from retirement, and she wants to get her debts paid off and her house sold before she moves here. She's looking at an adorable 2 bedroom 1 bath townhouse I have listed for $174,500 that has no monthly condo fees.

While I certainly respect her decision, I felt I had to point out few things...

1. The market is really good here right now - a BUYER's market. Not sure how long that will last - our gut feel is that it won't last much longer. We (the realtor community) feel the prices are most definitely going to go up as the economy shows some flicker of rebound and as people get tired of seeing their money sit around. Real estate - especially investment property - is still a money maker. And people are ALWAYS going to want to live and vacation in the Caribbean!

2. Interest rates are really good right now. Who knows what they'll be like in a few years.

3. There are very few rental units on St Croix that accept pets. This complex does, which means that it would be relatively easy to find and keep a long term tenant - probably for $1200 - $1500 a month. This would more than cover the mortgage payment.

4. Buying now and using the townhouse as a rental for four years will make it very easy to justify "fixing it up" really spiffy in 4 - 5 years when it's time to take it over to live in.

So - buying now and renting out the unit is a good investment - both financially and for future retirement plans! Visit my St Croix web site for detailed information on the Cost of Living and Investment Considerations. Then contact me to discuss the wealth of opportunities here!

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

Christiansted, VI: Huge Price Reduction on Beautifully Remodeled Island-style Home

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 20:48:54 -0500

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

Great Land Buys on St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:39:53 -0500

Attention all investors...

There are some great pieces of land on the market in St Croix right now - and the prices are the lowest they've been in a long while. If you try to wait till they hit rock bottom, you might miss out. The only way we know the bottom has been reached is when the prices start to go up again, right? And then, it's too late! So come get some ocean view or oceanfront property while the gettin' is good!

Believe me, I would love to personally purchase any of the lots listed below. Here are my picks for Best Land Buys (lot sizes approximate):

1) 1/3 acre (north shore) - great sea view (north shore) near Cane Bay - $55,000. MLS #08-410. VTour

2) 1/2 acre (south shore) - nice sea view on a corner near where the Wyndham is proposed - $55,000. MLS #08-1686. VTour

3) 1 acre (west end) - flat knoll top with panoramic views from Sandy Point to Prosperity - $100,000. MLS# 09-585 VTour

4) 2 acres (west end) - lovely lush rainforest land with A-2 zoning - $95,000. MLS# 08-1391 VTour

5) 2 acres (south shore)- west end (Carlton) - gorgeous beach front lot, with slight elevation that would provide for amazing views in several directions -$349,000. MLS #08-1845 VTour

6) 2 acres (north shore) - amazing panoramic knoll top lots with views to the north - at top of Scenic Drive, which is slated to be repaved soon (and values will likely go up when that happens). $199,000 and $219,000. MLS# 08-1212 VTour and 08-1213 VTour

Don't miss these opportunities to buy land in the Caribbean at these low low prices. St. Croix is the best bargain in the region! Contact me for details.

Kim Lucas, Realtor
Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde Realty
340-626-3758

(VTours courtesy of RealBird)
kim@coldwellbankervi.com

Frederiksted, VI: Forever Views from Hilltop Lot on St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:54:24 -0500

You can see all the way from Sandy Point to Prosperity from this lovely hilltop lot! Seller would consider some owner financing with 50% down - financing at 10% for 5 years - no pre-payment penalty.

Directions: Turn on Mahogany Road from F-sted. Take first paved right. Left at Spring road (first paved left). Go to top of hill. See sign on right after house under construction.

St Patrick's Day Celebration on St Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:45:41 -0500

"Allawe" on the lovely island of St Croix are Irish for a day - and that day is the day of the St Patties day parade - which was last Saturday. Hundreds of locals, transplants, and tourists show up to drink and revel, watch or participate in the parade, and enjoy some wonderful live music. The festivities began around 9:00 a.m. - when throngs of us made our way to our favorite float to decorate it and ourselves.

This year, I was on the "Pickled Greek's" float. Pete is the magician (chef - second from left in photo below) for this new restaurant and he and his lovely and talented daughter Nikki (at end on right in photo below) decked us all out in green togas, headbands, pins and beads and armed us with pickles to throw at the crowd! I believe our float won this year - but no one seemed to care who won what - a good time was had by all.

The parade started around 11 and took several hours to wind its way thru the two main streets of town. The crowds were enthusiastic and eager to receive beads, pickles, pins, candy, or whatever we wanted to toss at them from the float! Afterwards, a phenominal Irish band - Finnegan's Wake - entertained us at a great watering hole (Angry Nate's) where the green beer and jamison were flowing freely. Later that afternoon - Banooba - a band from the states who always comes here for the St Patties' parade - rocked the stage at Club 54. Christiansted was packed and spirits were high - it was a beautiful and fabulous and fun day on the island!

Why don't you join us next year?

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

Christiansted, VI: Breathtaking OceanView Condo UNDER $200,000!

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:30:52 -0500

Spectacular breathtaking oceanfront view from this most-sought-after top floor, top row unit. The top floor of the top row of condos are over 125 feet higher than the sea-level, and are the most sought-after units. In the past 18 months, only two such units have come up for sale and both sold quickly, so HURRY! All furniture included in sale, and 2002 Honda Civic LX for full price offer. Assessment may also be paid by seller.

Christiansted, VI: Panoramic View from this St Croix Condo

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 23:30:19 -0600

This is such a nice one-level three bedroom condo with HUGE views of Buck Island and the beautiful turquoise sea. Each bedroom has AC and fans, the unit boasts a long gallery, open kitchen and ceramic tiled floors. A great place to call home or use as a rental! Currently rented for $2400 a month -1 year lease.

Christiansted, VI: Affordable Townhome on St Croix, $174,900

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 23:03:50 -0600

This adorable townhouse is so cozy and cute - and affordable! Great neighborhood, convenient to Christiansted, and fees of only $550 a YEAR!!! This is a great buy and a lovely unit with lots of charm. Pets allowed, too!

Christiansted, VI: Coral Princess F1, Oceanfront Home, $113,000

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 22:33:46 -0600

Great New Web Site for Visitors to St. Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:59:28 -0600

I received this press release today, checked out the site, and definitely place it on the top of the list for recommended sites for VI visitors. Easy URL: VisitUSVI.com - take a look.

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM UNVEILS NEW TOURISM WEB SITE

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism will unveil its brand new Web site, VisitUSVI.com, at a special event at the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa tonight. "Throughout the 18-month journey from research to site launch, we worked very closely with industry partners and community leaders to gain their insights and feedback about desired features for the new site," says Commissioner of Tourism Beverly Nicholson-Doty. "We are excited to finally unveil the Web site to our local community and introduce these new features, including site navigation which links our prospective visitors directly to our hotel and tourism partners."

A key strategy for the new site has focused on educating potential visitors about USVI offerings, and various navigation and design elements serve to meet this goal. Prospective visitors using the new web site enjoy functionality, allowing them to create trip planners and outline customized itineraries, featuring the Territory's various tourism entities. Additionally, a new interactive map listing points of interest for St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas entices visitors to get a deeper look at what the USVI has to offer.

Easy site navigation allows visitors to "hop" between island pages, exemplifying how easy it is to actually hop between the islands of the USVI. This style of navigation allows side-by-side comparison of each island's distinct personality and offerings.

Today's launch will outline the first of three phases of the new site, representing a $250,000 investment by the DOT. These funds were earmarked within an existing advertising contract with agency-of-record JWT, out of Atlanta, as JWT's sister agency Studiocom executed the site design and programming. Coming in a later phase and a direct response to focus group and other on-island feedback, VisitUSVI.com will feature a landing page devoted solely to the destination's packages and promotions, which will serve as a resource where offers for travel to the destination can be found. The remaining phases are scheduled to be completed by January 2010, when a booking engine will be added to the site.

As part of the site creation and research, a series of on-island focus groups representing niche segments including accommodations, culture and heritage, retail, dive, water sports, romance and meetings/incentive were conducted, and feedback stemming from these meetings has been incorporated into the new site. The unveiling of the new Web site is an integrated segment of the DOT's overall rebranding efforts for the destination, which kicked off in December with the introduction of the new Mocko Jumbie logo.

For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to VisitUSVI.com. When traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens enjoy all the conveniences of domestic travel ? including on-line check-in, making travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands easier than ever. As a United States Territory, travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands does not require a passport from U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, a passport is required for all but U.S. citizens.

Be sure and take a look at this new site - the presentation is of the highest quality and reflects the brilliant colors found here in the Virgin Islands. There is no real estate tab, so when you have finished eyeballing all the things to do and see, contact me for your real estate needs.

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

How Special is St. Croix

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 10:16:31 -0600

I was strolling along the waterfront last Friday night with a friend. The water was gently lapping the shore. Music from a local restaurant was playing. The Royal Palms were towering over us. The weather was a perfect 80 degrees and a breeze was slightly blowing. There was no one but us enjoying this scene. We felt like we were in a movie, and we both agreed that this place is just pure magic. It is heaven. And it is so completely undiscovered. We agreed that part of us is VERY happy about that - but as a realtor, I have to hope others find and enjoy St. Croix as I do.

Here's a good viewpoint from Virgin Islands Tourism Information: "St. Croix's rich culture and history, along with its beautiful beaches and world-class recreational activities, create an experience unlike any other in the Caribbean. Since the day Christopher Columbus first arrived at Salt River on St. Croix more than 500 years ago, sugar and rum have shaped the island's life and land. Fifty-four sugar mills, each with imposing windmill towers and factory chimneys, still rest in the shadows of stately eighteenth-century and nineteenth-century homes. Located on the west end of the island, Estate Whim Plantation is just one example of these 'greathouses.' With acres of rolling green hills, St.Croix's plantation estates also bore crops of okra, cabbage, corn, and other vegetables still prominent in Caribbean cuisine.

As the sugar industry declined after the 1960s, tourism became the most important industry on the island. Christiansted and Frederiksted, the two main towns of St. Croix, flourished as commercial ports during the eighteenth century and nineteenth century. Distinct architecture reflects the seven flags--Spanish, Dutch, British, French, Knights of Malta, Danish, and American -- that have flown over the island."

There is history, diverse geology, a wonderful mix of cultures, all on our small island. And the best part - with the economic downturn worldwide, prices are low and you can find some great values in both land and residential.

Contact me to discuss your opportunities.

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

St Croix - There's no Place Like Home

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 11:22:28 -0600

To start the new year, I decided to accompany a friend to Antigua for a long weekend of R&R&R&R - relaxation, reflection, rejuvination, and revolution-writing (I don't do "resolutions" anymore - I do"revolutions!").

I had never been to this island, which is smaller than St Croix, and close to Monserrat - which is to blame for much of the dust we experience in ST Croix that I sometimes complain (mildly) about.

It is a beautiful island - it has a very different feel than St Croix. It is MUCH more expensive. I about fainted when I got the bill for my caesar salad and water - $22!!!! And a hamburger was $17!!! We were staying at a lovely resort - nice but pretty remote. A perfect place, actually, for all the R's.

My primary "revolution" for 2009 - is to stay in the moment - to fully experience and trust in every moment and to not mind whatever happens. If I can be fully present and live In the moment with NO attachment to ANY outcomes - then everything else will fall elegantly into place. God is so good and my journey is to trust completely that whatever happens is part of his divine plan - and all I have to bring to the table is joy and gratitude! So simple, yet so difficult!!!

Enjoy the photos - it is a lovely place - but there's no place like home - and St Croix is such a wonderful home.

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

ST Croix, VI: 301 Judith's Fancy: a Sugar Mill House reduced to $699,000

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:40:34 -0600

Hamm's Bluff on St Croix - a New Year's Day Hike

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 10:03:29 -0600

The views from the northwest corner of our island are just spectacular. A small group of us hiked up there on New Year's Day and were greeted by a herd of goats! Then we explored the ruins of a rum factory. The grounds are so well maintained and beautiful. Gorgeous "Spirit Trees" grace the property, and the hibiscus, bouganvilla, snow flowers, and poinsettas were in full bloom. The first day of the new year was certainly full of beauty, comraderie, and gorgeous weather! Just another day in paradise! (Can you tell I love living here?!)

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

St Croix New Year's Eve Sunset

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 10:13:37 -0600

Sometimes pictures can be more powerful than words. These show how we rang in the new year.

Good wishes to all - hope to see you in St. Croix in 2009!

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

St Croix Christmas Feast

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 18:07:55 -0600

What a lovely Christmas we had here! The weather was gorgeous and there was a big turnout at Cane Bay for a HUGE Christmas feast! I've never seen so much food! Three turkeys were fried and people brought every imaginable side dish and dessert. By the time lunch was served (around 2:30 - 3:00), I was so hungry from smelling all the good smells that I'm afraid I bordered on being rude!

Later in the afternoon, I enjoyed a meditation and watched the sun set. It was a wonderful day - but I am about to blow up and I may never eat again.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all.

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

Caribbean Soca Music

Kim Lucas (Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:44:00 -0600

In my post about the holiday festitivities, I mentioned Soca music, then did a bit of investigating because music is such an integral part of Caribbean culture and traditions.

Soca is a musical form that mixes the slower beat of American soul music with the upbeat tempos of calypso. Soca began in the 1970s, and by the middle of the 1980s it had become a part of the music scene of Carnival.

Wikipedia states that soca is a form of dance music which originated in Trinidad and Tobago. "It originally combined the melodic lilting sound of calypso with insistent percussion (which is often electronic in recent music) and local chutney music."

Chutney music is indigenous to the southern Caribbean and combines soca and elements of Indian songs created for film.

Calypso rhythms can be traced back to the African slaves imported to the islands in the 1600s. As in the South, music was a form of communication among the slaves, who often were forbidden to talk to each other. Calypso combines story-telling and imaginative use of instrumentation, reflecting contributions by European, North American, and various Caribbean cultures.

Soca is an original style and sound of Caribbean music blending - like the islands themselves - the sounds of many peoples. History aside, soca is great dancing music and central to Carnival, which is coming up soon.

Don't you wish you were here in St. Croix dancing with us?!

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