Turks and Caicos - Caribbean Home Finder - working just for you

HIGH ALERT

2009-10-27T10:57:00.005-04:00

I had an e mail from Simon at Remax yesterday. He has a terrific listing just come in and I wanted to share it with my readers out there.

It is a three bedroom luxurious condominium in the upscale Seven Stars resort right in the heart of Grace Bay.

Easy walking to fine dining, shops or walk the whole length of Grace Bay Beach.

The restaurant at Seven Stars is receiving rave reviews from locals, who recommend it for the excellent service and quality food.

The 2672 sq ft second floor apartment boasts fabulous beach views taking advantage of Westerly

stunning sunsets.

If you are looking for a high quality environment either as an investment or a get away, you will want to add this one to top of your must see list.

At $1,395,000 it is a steal.

Call or e mail me for an appointment today.
Jan Hull 649 244 6127

Sheer Luxury on Grace Bay Beach

2009-10-22T16:07:00.005-04:00

Feel on top of the world as you view it from your penthouse balcony overlooking Grace Bay Beach. Dee, with Horton Realty, had an open house for it last week. It is a fantastic buy at $1.6.

The whole top floor is dedicated to one 2,734 sq ft apartment.

It also has its own private terrace and outdoor jacuzzi.Unusual here.

It is very tastefully furnished to a high standard and immaculately maintained, It is located on a well established and well managed resort right in the heart of the tourist area of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands and directly on the beach.

Walk to all the little shops and restaurants.

Call me or email me for more information. It won't be around for long at this price.

New York, New York

2009-10-22T15:09:00.006-04:00

"New York, New York.So good they had to name it twice". That's how the song goes.
I totally agree. I love the place but now it's getting a bit colder and the nights are drawing in, I have to say I prefer to be in the Caribbean sunshine. I sit on the balcony at midnight (wine bottle by now, empty) overlooking twinkling lights of the marina and am pleased to be clad in shorts and tshirt. I like winter clothes but getting dressed takes so long doesn't it?!
As I go about my business during the day, the warmth of that brilliant sunshine has such a positive effect on my brain. I smile. I feel good. I feel cut off from the woes of the world. In fact it is o relaxing, it's hard to focus on work!
Times might not be as good as before the global downturn but it is hard to be pessimistic living here.
Lovely people, good restaurants and resorts, beautiful homes and all this space.

So are you tempted to get on a plane? If you are in New York, it's only three hours away on a direct flight. The water is turquoise like you have never seen before . It's like a bath at this time of year and the beaches are to die for.

We'd be happy to meet you and share our balcony. You might even want to own your own.
Call me on 649 242 1714 or e mail me.
See www.caribbeanhomefinder.net

2009-04-12T18:20:00.004-04:00

DO YOU FANCY THE IDEA OF SITTING HERE??

It is the Yacht Club swimming pool in Turtle Cove in Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands. It over looks the marina and to the right is the start of the famous Grace Bay Beach.
Turtle Cove is a little haven of of everything you would want including places to go to meet people.

The complex is a luxury resort where many owners do not rent out their units but keep them for themselves. It is quiet, yet within walking distance of dive operators, car hire, restaurants, fishing and a casino. Snorkel off the beach or laze by the pool all day.

The units are one, two and three bedrooms and are some of the largest and best built condominiums on island.
Nowhere else on island can you step out of your home, get onto your boat and be on the open waters in two minutes.

The Yacht Club is well appointed and well managed. There are a few resales at moment including a stunning penthouse which includes a 60ft dock space and all fixtures and fittings.

See more details and pictures of all the Yacht Club has to offer you at www.caribbeanhomefinder.net

Or call me for a chat about any property that may interest you.

As members of the Turks and Caicos Realty Association we are able to sell any listings on the multiple listing service regardless of which company has the listing.

Our job is to find the property which best suits your needs and it's a free service we are happy to give.
Look us up if you are on island. We have two offices, one on the beach at Coral Gardens and another on Princess Drive near Regent Palms. Another office is due to open soon in the heart of Grace Bay.

At Anchor Realty , we are proud to be an independent,local company offering the very best in communication, marketing and service.

Jan Hull on 649 242 1714 or Rowland Hull on 649 244 6127

The Best Condo Buys are here with us.

2009-03-21T16:44:00.000-04:00

Suddenly there is a lot of activity here on Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. Perhaps the visitors have weathered the worst of their cold winters back home and on arrival here, get hooked on the sun, sea and beautiful beaches.

So much so, they are now looking to buy. Although there are some stunningly beautiful individual villas for sale, some prospective buyers want the ease and peace of mind of a condominium.

So we have chosen to feature our favourite FOUR.

Don't forget that stamp duty is reduced to 6% until march 31st so time is running out. You can pay the 10% deposit and the stamp duty at the same time to ensure you take advantage of this special deal from the Turks and Caicos Government.

Call us with any questions or better still, come and see them.

See you soon.

Coral Gardens Penthouse

Yacht Club Penthouse

Wymara

Grace Bay Club Villa

A team meeting to remember

2009-02-19T16:41:00.002-05:00

This is a great photo of our colleague Andrew, on our morning visit to the Northwest Point area of Providenciales, where we have listed some new stunning virgin land.

Opposite clear blue seas, we explored this location and found the boundary markers that identity each plot. The breezes are cooling and the location is really wonderful.

Terrrance and Albert have two 10 acre plots, one on the beach and a second one plot back. Zoned for commercial use, the plots are screaming for hotel and residential development.

Getting to the location was a bit of a trial, as the road was cut out some time ago, and is overgrown in places. Fortunately we had the use of sturdy four wheel drive vehicles to overcome the challenge.

We also found, in the bushes and much to our surprise, a relatively new set of outdoor furniture, but without the cushions! Evidently we had stumbled upon a secret bbq place, a frying pan hanging in the bushes, two crude fire pits. and a dented old oil barrel.....what fun. This was, after all, some 2 miles from the nearest road and right in the bush.

We could not resist the temptation to take a photo of us all on the beach lounging in these chairs, so we "borrowed" them briefly for the photograph. We of course returned them to their original location undamaged, but had a bit of fun in the meantime.

The worries of the world were miles away as we scouted around the location, familiarizing ourselves with the layout and location of the land. Feeling very privileged to be in this place at this time, we wondered about what this opportunity may bring someone.

Keep an eye on our website, where photos and location mapping will soon be published. This was a team meeting to be valued.

New York, New York so good they had to name it twice

2009-01-27T15:47:00.006-05:00

New York really is one of my favourite cities to visit and after thirty years of traveling there and our son recently living there, we still find so much to see and do.We love the shopping, the people, the reasonably priced everything and the ease of getting around on the subway.

This is especially welcomed after the relaxed quiet pace of Turks and Caicos where we live most of the time.I know those living in cities and doing that commute think what is she thinking?

For those of you that are asking that, may I ask why you are not booking to come over here and experience this yourself?

The Turks and Caicos during the winter months are particularly alluring as the sunshine and cooling breezes make you feel good to be alive. Away from the doom and gloom of the real world, you can take time to reevaluate your life and consider changes to make this short life really count.
It is surprising how easy the thinking is when one is away from the pressures of time management and responsibilities associated with every day life.

Turks and Caicos is a good place to invest where property taxes are non existent, foreigners are welcomed, life is simple, fun and where all nationalities come together for happy hour and to share their interesting and varied backgrounds which never cease to amaze.We all ended up here from all different walks of life and via so many convoluted routes.

That aside, those who have chosen to invest in property or land are doing well, especially when they sell and all proceeds after legal fees are straight into the seller's pocket.

The choice of what to buy is mind boggling. Do you buy a condominium on Grace Bay Beach? A little cottage on a canal? A mansion on Floridian style canals? A piece of hilltop land? A villa with its own beach to rent out to vacationers? A brand two storey townhome? A little resort business?

The possibilities are endless and we at Anchor Realty are all about matching your dreams and aspirations to that perfect property . We can access all property for sale across the islands and are only too happy to meet with you and help with your decisions.

The weather is perfect just now..lots of sun, warm evenings and slight breezes with little humidity.

Book the flight and come on down. Its that easy.

A warm welcome awaits you, coupled with a chilled marguerita if you time it right!

Christmas on the Beach

2009-01-05T18:24:00.006-05:00

I know that it is all over but the photos that friends are sending round are fun so thought I would share them.Now, before you get envious of us all on the beach on Christmas Day, I have to confess some of them were saying " It's not Christmas without snow and sitting in front of a log fire!"

I know they are mad but as they say "the grass is always greener".

Our children usually arrive for the holidays from USA and UK and we revert to being like house sparrows,flying around feeding them every couple of hours, trying to please them all knowing their trip is short. Our friends invite us to go and play out and we politely decline and say we have to be Ma and Pa to offspring who expect it.

Well this year they did not come over and I was a lost soul.; no gifts to hurriedly buy and wrap ensuring everyone has same value and same number, no baking,no freezer filled with goodies that I could miraculously and effortlessly pull out after a day out on the boat.

I felt disorientated but friends in a similar position said they would have breakfast with us and then hit the beach with champagne.

I felt better!

The day was fun with so many good friends turning up on Grace bay Beach, to share the sun, sand and fun ( and champers)

The evening was a great success with good friends, inviting us to a wonderful dinner with great company followed by Secret Silly Santa.

Now those who know Turks and Caicos, appreciate how difficult it is to get gifts. I foolishly picked the biggest out of the sack and found myself with a beige,embroidered padded toilet seat!!

I can see readers trying to picture this one...

Anyhow,we had a lot of laughs and at least it's practical!I am not one to be ungrateful!

New Years Eve was a hit, again on the beach with champagne and mince pies., turning up after 10 p.m after we had all been to different eateries. Year after year we do this as a tradition and I am always impressed with hundreds of people, all ages,different nationalities, in all stages of merriment but there is never any bad behaviour, language or drunkeness ( we hide that last bit well).

So now we are back to the grindstone.

As Anchor Realty opened a new satellite office on the beach, you'll appreciate it wasn't difficult coming to work.

Surrounded by people on vacation, relaxing and soaking up the sun, snorkelling around the reef , or sipping a cold drink in the new beach cafe, makes me appreciate my surroundings.

Although I missed my children a lot, there is always next year and in the meantime, sun, sand,warm seas and smiley,happy people will just have to do!

If you are booked to come over, come and say hi at Coral Gardens.

A warm welcome awaits you.

A Fun Day out in Turks and Caicos Islands

2008-12-04T15:07:00.038-05:00

As my broker Terrance and I forge ahead with new listings, we decided to have a day in Middle and North Caicos as clients had asked me to list their land. I needed to get to know the area, sign the lots and take some pictures for my website.

We made a fun day of it and hooked up with friends who were also going over.Terrance arrived on the dock armed with newly made Anchor signs, whilst I had the step ladders, husband and packed lunch.

It was the perfect day with calm waters and slight breezes.Mark was waiting for us on arrival at North Caicos Marina with two hire cars so we all piled in and arranged our first stop at Monkey Hill.

We surveyed the area for possible lots suitable for clients and after a toilet stop at the airport we all headed off for the causeway over to Middle.

There was an incomplete house on a ridge top lot for $169,000 which interested our friends as a possible investment so we explored that and thought it a good buy.

The little bar below was calling and in the heat of the day, beers all round were ordered. Into the cars once again t head off towards Michelle and Malcolm's land which they had listed with me.

This is where the step ladder came in - as the foliage was so dense, I needed pictures from the steps to see the ocean. As Terrance is over six feet, I pushed him up the ladder for optimum vantage point!

We did the ceremonial " sticking the For Sale sign in the concrete earth" - true team effort( I held the ladder steady, husband measuring the width of lots and Terrance, still perched precariously up the steps. Two lots signed, we were off again for picture taking on the beach opposite.
You get a true sense of space, quiet, and sheer freedom over there; just no-one around and just the sound of the sea and endless pristine beach.

We all met up on Bambarra Beach for a picnic lunch. Again we had the whole place to ourselves.

After that it was sightseeing Mudjin Harbour. Its a true spectacle of natural beauty and with the warmth of the sun,it's hard to leave it. We needed to return for the ferry and stop via Kew In North to sign up two lots there.

Finding Kew was easy and such a pleasant surprise; neat gardens, tall trees and pretty homes along newly surfaced roads. It was tricky to identify the land from the map. The police station was close by and as luck would have it,with a policeman in it! He did not know the land so we had we had a guess and stuck the signs in, taking pictures of the surrounding area. They belong to Franklyn, who kindly contacted me from the Bahamas.

We were very impressed with the helpfulness of the people and the sense of community.

We missed the ferry by five minutes which gave us time to eat the remains of our lunch, Terrance's peppermints and watch the workers returning on their ferry from Parrot Cay.

On our return to Provo, we all felt we had had a special day out. We had accomplished what we set out to do, in an idyllic get away place where people are few and life is free and easy.

We had fun along the way - as tourists, real estate agents, friends ,clients and buyers.

We really do have a wonderful life here and I am grateful every day to be out of the stressful rat race, crowds, rain and cold.

Land to build on in Turks and Caicos

2008-12-02T13:45:00.000-05:00

It's funny how when you least expect it you make a new connection and before you know it, you have a new client who then becomes a friend.

My car needed attention and so I found myself near the launderette (where the cobbler is!) asking Wayne the alternator specialist to check out my battery and alternator .

He asked me to leave the car for the day and when I returned he'd fixed the problem and commented on my realtor signs advertising me on the sides of my car.

As we chatted he asked me to list his land in Chalk Sound. I was flattered..especially as there is a realtor's office right by his garage and of course everyone knows everyone else.

I didn't ask, grateful of the new business, and as we worked through the paperwork, he nonchalantly told me his friend and business partner had the piece next to his and he would list too.

The next day, my boss, Terrance and I trundled out in blistering heat to identify the lots, take pictures and erect signs.

We found ourselves down a dirt track where rally drivers would have fun. That's the fun of real estate on island; you find yourself in all sorts of undiscovered places !

I must remember to have a pair of hiking boots in the car and ditch the high heels.

These adjacent lots of around half an acre do have good views of Chalk Sound and Sapodila Bay.

Plots in Chalk Sound have escalated in price over recent years and fewer are now available as they are bought and lovely homes have been built.

Greg's lot has planning permission and slightly smaller at 0.41 acres.

Wayne's is 0.58 acres.

They are great guys and I would really like to sell their land so they can invest the proceeds in their business ventures.

Get in touch if you feel that building your dream home is something you'd like to consider.

Many people have already invested in land and it really is straight forward and welcomed here.

Check out more on my website

http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/

Call me on (649) 242 1714.

Buy a Business in the Sun

2008-11-11T19:32:00.016-05:00

Have you thought it would be a great thing to change direction, get out of the rat race and the cold and find a new relaxed way of life in the warm Caribbean sun?

What about buying a small private resort in the Turks and Caicos Islands where your guests return each year but you stay permanently?

One has recently become available as the original owners,although happy to continue, think it's time to change their direction and travel the world. They have lovingly created this little piece of paradise tucked away down a little cul de sac by the beach in the famous Grace Bay area where all the tourists want to stay. It comprises of three separate rental vacation units each with their own outdoor space.Their upper level home is also available to rent occasionally so you can choose to live on or off site.Guests are happy to cater for themselves as each unit has a fully equipped kitchen.Better still, a variety of restaurants are all within walking distance if they choose to eat out.

The pool sits in manicured grounds with an abundance of plants and tall established palms trees.Sitting there you feel like you are in total seclusion but actually, everything you would need is right on the doorstep.A building lot under separate title is available at the rear of the property in case you have grand plans for expansion. This is a tradidtional unpretentious resort and a chance to "work" in all year round sunshine with happy smiley people cominthrough your doors.Sounds the perfect solution to winter blues and real work? all me for more details or check out my website. Cell (649) 242 1714 http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/

Great Value Penthouse In Caribbean

2008-11-11T19:17:00.009-05:00

If you are thinking of buying an apartment for yourself in the sun then look no further than Turks and Caicos..

This two bedroomed penthouse apartment in waiting for someone to grab it quickly and make it their own.

Conveniently located in the very popular Turtle Cove you can go fishing, diving, eat in one of five restaurants, pick up a movie, hire a scooter or a car or explore Grace Bay Beach.

The views of the ocean and Turtle Cove Marina are second to none.

I suggest that you come over and experience what life is like over here. You'll wonder why you left it so long.

At this affordable price, treat yourself, especially if you are reading this clad in winter woollies!
Check out the photos on my website and give me a call.

http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/

Call Jan on (649) 242 1714

I'd be happy to help you live the dream....

Snowbirds fly to Turks and Caicos

2008-10-30T18:27:00.009-04:00

As I called my father in England to wish him a happy birthday on Tuesday, he said it was really cold over there. Hard to imagine when we are sitting in as little clothing as possible and yearning to get in the sea to cool off, instead of being in front of the computer in the office.

Then a girlfriend in South Carolina called and said it was cold there. She is returning to her little house on the canal next week, for her five month stay to paint.

So it seems that the weather is turning cold quickly .Time for the snowbirds from all over the world,to prepare to come here for their winter season of catching up with friends,reading,sunning,diving,fishing and whatever.

Perhaps you should and could think about joining them?It's a great place to unwind and take stock of what's important in life.

As Delta announced recently that they were putting on an extra direct flight from Atlanta,we must have something that lots of people want.

There are owners of all sorts of properties who would be happy to rent to you from one month to a year...depends on how long you need to feel completely relaxed and integrated!

Call or e mail me for information on rentals available and maybe you will want to buy that little piece of paradise for yourself .It's all that easy.

http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/

(649) 242 1714

Good friends in Turks and Caicos

2008-10-19T17:44:00.007-04:00

What did you do on Sunday?

I put the coffee on early morning and my husband watched a little British rugby on television,remarking on all the crowds in the stands dressed up in scarves and coats.

We do not possess any winter attire and living here, we forget about the change of seasons.

Good friends of ours left island in April to return to UK after a two year stay on island.We all missed them a lot.They booked a trip back almost immediately and arrived on Wednesday for a ten day stay.

It's been a perfect excuse to slack off work and join in the fun so today Jules and Tony, who own the Unicorn Bookstore on island,invited us on their boat so we headed down to meet them at the dock in Leeward.It was just like old times.

The water was calm and the sun, hot. Not any boats out there today so guess people are still off island.We spent a good half hour deciding which stretch of empty beach, and on which island, we were going to park ourselves for the day.Tough decision!

We ended up on Fort George, well known for sand dollars and pretty shells. It was only a few minutes from launch site and yet there we were as if on a deserted island, miles from civilisation.

An opportunity to catch up on news and views, and as we sat thinking how lucky we are to live here, whilst Pat and Paul tried to work out how they could return here fulltime.

It really does make you feel alive and appreciate every day where the woes of the world pass you by. We may have high utility bills and food costs but we have very few other expenses and when we get out on that clear turquoise water, with good friends, there's nothing to compare.

Visit my website http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/ to see the life style here .

Better still come and experience it first hand.

Perfect Building Plot in Turks and Caicos Awaits

2008-10-14T09:02:00.009-04:00

British friends of mine arrived on island last week and asked me to discuss their land.

They decided to list it with me as their circumstances have changed so I am excited to offer this opportunity to a discerning investor who dreams of making that home in the sun a reality.

They bought wisely, as this lot faces the cross breezes, is private and quiet, located down a small cul-de-sac.

It is a short walk to one of the best schools on island.

For those who enjoy diving and fishing or exploring the islands from the water, the open sea is on your doorstep.

Leeward,Providenciales boasts some of the biggest and most beautiful homes on island.

They are individually designed and building codes ensure your surrounding environment is protected.

Build your own dock where you choose on this 120ft wide canal space.

Moor your boat at the bottom of the garden and be on open water in minutes.

The water really is this vibrant turquoise blue, so clear that turtles and eagle rays are visible as you sit on the dock and sip your sundowners.

The present owners are in the throes of planning permission to make the purchase and build easier and quicker so you can begin clearing the ground sooner than you thought.

Underground services are already available.

Surrounding homes give you an idea of what is around and Jimmy Amos, who dug out the canals is on hand to give advice.

See more details on my website http://caribbeanhomefinder.net/turks-caicos-property-LAND-LEEWARD.php or better still come on over and see for yourself. You won't be disappointed.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Global Downturn Blues?

2008-10-09T15:34:00.015-04:00

Want to escape the bad news? In the Turks and Caicos Islands we choose whether we want to hear and see it on the television and then think ourselves lucky we live here, escaping the doom and gloom of the real world.

Beginning to think of that winter wardrobe of boots and hats?

Come to our little piece of paradise and you will wonder what kept you away for so long.

You won't need many clothes and you'll bring far too many anyway...

The weather is perfect if you like to be warm constantly,the beaches are beautiful and you can walk for miles. The sea is warm and turquoise blue like you have never seen before and you really can get away from it all.

Many nationalities have decided that investing in property here is a sound decision. Being a British overseas territory with land title protected by the Crown and the lack of personal taxation, canny buyers have been lured into wanting to own a part of this haven in the Caribbean.

There are great restaurants, the best diving in the world and deep sea fishing, water sports for those who want to be busy and my preference every time ? Lying on the beach watching the busy people!

It has got to be one of the best places to chill out and that's what is needed right now.Right?

Check out my website to get tempted to look at real estate here http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/

There are just a few of the select properties available and as a sales associate within the Turks and Caicos Realty Association, I am able to access all inventory enabling me to carefully match clients and property which best suits their life style and requirements.

You can get a feel for the life here from the pictures we took.

I am gearing up for a busy season and thank all of you who have been e mailing me with your promises to come over...I look forward to meeting you and sharing what the Turks and Caicos islands have to offer.

Don't delay, book that flight and have something to look forward to bigtime!

Turks and Caicos Holiday Planning

2008-09-30T13:20:00.006-04:00

We are back to normal on the island of Providenciales and although many hotels and restaurants are taking their well deserved breaks right now, they will be gearing up for a busy new season beginning in November.

The children around the world are back at school after the summer break, and autumn / fall will soon be upon those living in temperate climates so maybe now is the time to begin planning the winter holiday so you have something to look forward to as the nights draw in.

There is no better place to enjoy the winter months than in Turks and Caicos.

The weather is beautiful and the beaches are stunning, so it's a great place to recharge your batteries and dream of that vacation home in the sun...

We have many for you to choose from, to suit all tastes and pockets; villas with private beaches, penthouses with all facilities at your finger tips, luxurious condominiums in beach resorts, land to build your dream home - you name it, we can probably can show you.

It's a favourite destination for the rich and famous where they can be left alone to enjoy freedom from the press and fans so don't expect a bargain, but your investment will grow significantly as the islands become better known.

Deep sea fishing, scuba diving, island hopping for romantic picnic lunches on deserted beaches are some of the very best reasons to have your break away from real life...

So look at my website to get a flavour of what's on offer (there's lots more) and remember I am eager to help buyers meet their individual aspirations and I will do my very best for each one of you.

http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/

Turks and Caicos Islands weather the storms

2008-09-14T19:33:00.002-04:00

It has been a while since I wrote a blog - life has been busy and uncertain. We are in the hurricane season from June to November and here in the Turks and Caicos, we are often blessed with quiet times whilst neighbours have to endure the worry and effects of tropical storms and at worst,hurricanes .

We knew we were due some activity sometime as the last major hit was over 45 years ago.

On the island of Providenciales we were aware of approaching Hurricane Hanna but these storms often disappear so we were surprised that she actually paid us an unwelcomed visit.

The damage wasn't too bad but flooding in low lying areas caused some distress. As we were watching the water dissipate, we had word of the next named hurricane, namely Hurricane Ike.

This one was beginning to make people watch closely and begin preparations for its arrival in the early hours of Sunday.Everyone seemed to be going about their errands with shopping lists in hand incase we were going to be without power and essentials for a few days.
Stores were well stocked and there was a calm about the place as we watched the websites for progress, hoping Ike would veer away into the ocean and leave land alone.

It was not to be.

Some friends were very nervous and headed off to the airport to see if they could get on a plane and leave. Some found friends to take them in and others went to designated shelters.

We decided to stay at home as there would be work to be done in the aftermath.

Throughout the night we had our cell phones working so we could text friends and see what they were doing during the night.
I was nervous even though I had experienced hurricanes in Bermuda.

This Category 4 storm was going to be massive and I wondered if our building would stand up to its wrath.

We overlook the marina on one side and some boats remained there. The sea is at the back and I wondered if the sea surge would rise to the predicted 13 - 18ft.

It was too noisy to sleep and the darkness made it sound even more ferocious. We could not see what it was doing.I imagined I would see boats in the grounds of the Yacht Club in the morning.

At first light we surveyed our surroundings. Much of the landscaping was damaged. The buildings were in tact. others on the horizon were missing a few shingles.
The boats swayed gently in the breeze as if nothing had happened.
The pool was sludge green and all the cars were in tact.

We all felt blessed and set about the clearing up of surface water and strewn plants.We were without power and internet for a few days but hey ho so what? Our power company (PPC) had a massive job on their hands and as usual, did not let us down.We were inconvenienced for as short a time as needed.

There were those who suffered badly though and the news quickly filtered through that the capital Grand Turk, some 60 miles away was hit badly, as was South Caicos ( fishing capital) and Salt Cay.
The Government declared them disaster areas and set about assessing the immediate needs of the people there.

Many organisations, The British Royal Navy, The Marines, The Bermuda Regiment,private companies, citizens,voluntary groups including The Red Cross and Rotary have worked tirelessly to do what they can to help the vulnerable and displaced.Countries have been offering support.

More than 80% of homes were damaged so the shelter and basics required for so many families is huge.

Miraculously, there was no loss of life on any islands, perhaps due to the fact that people are more prepared and informed than ever before.

Turks and Caicos is not practised in disaster management. We are used to being spared the destruction of such forces but recently, the Government had begun to take the threat of hurricanes seriously, setting up public service information and a disaster management section.
This has been timely.

Providenciales is back to normal for many.The trees and flowers are budding new life and some schools began the new term on Wednesday.

The hotels and resorts are traditionally quiet at this time as they refurbish and send their staff off for their well deserved vacations. Some tourists are here and the resorts will full again by November.

Grand Turk, South and Salt Cay have a long way to go but hopefully, with the co-ordinated effort of those more fortunate to have escaped Ike's devastating visit, those so badly affected can see a future worth waiting for.

Thankfully,donations are coming in from concerned parties from around the world.
Basics such as drinking water, tents, mosquito nets, tarpaulins,food,medicines are being flown and shipped in daily in an effort to make people as comfortable as possible in traumatic circumstances.

These islands depend mainly on tourism as a source of income.
It is hoped that vacationers will support the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands by visiting these beautiful islands this season as they are now ready to warmly welcome new and returning visitors alike on Providenciales.

Luxurious living in Turks and Caicos islands

2008-08-21T16:34:00.009-04:00

The fall edition of the new Turks and Caicos Real Estate magazine came onto the shelves this week. It is full of wonderful opportunities to purchase land,condominiums ,commercial space and houses in all the islands of Turks and Caicos.

It was too late to add my friends' beautiful Yacht Club penthouse which they listed with me last week but all is not lost.

As soon as they said " Let's do it', we got it launched onto my website and it has generated a LOT of interest already.

As I show the property the wows and oohs as people step inside are understandable.

It is beautiful and just ready for that special someone who knows that they want a penthouse with direct water access and no hassles.

As I scoured the magazine looking at penthouses for sale, I have to say that this one beats them all hands down for stunning interior, price and location. Where else could you have the marina and the beach , all the restaurants, dive operators and deep sea fishing on your doorstep?

The owners spent many months ensuring that every detail met their high standards of workmanship and increasing the size of all the windows has brought the views of Grace Bay right into the condo from every room.

The kitchen with granite work tops and Viking professional appliances is used by professional chefs when the owners arrive for their vacation. It is equipped with sets of Villeroy and Boch china to every pan and pot a chef needs to produce impression suppers in a luxurious setting.

The wet bar has two wine chillers and two drinks cabinets.

Look overhead to the sparkling light fixtures in each room..

The blue and white decor of the main living area with glass, chrome and stainless steel depicts a clean, crisp and ultramodern environment.

The master bedroom finished in soothing pastel greens overlooks the marina and infinity pools with a large an ensuite bathroom fit for a king or queen.

The two guest rooms with ensuite shower rooms situated at the front of the penthouse ensure privacy for all.

This development is one of a kind in Turks and Caicos.

It is located on Turtle Cove Marina for instant access to the ocean for diving, boating, deep sea fishing and snorkelling.

The prestigious Yacht Club boasts its own fitness centre and large infinity pools.

Strata fees are the lowest and we are well managed and experienced.

It's the only place to have its own docks within the a marina whereby you can be on open water in 2 minutes.

The owner has a Yacht Club boat slip, a 26ft Fishing boat,Wrangler Jeep, a garage space all for separate purchase. Should you want the whole package, he is open to negotiations.

Regardless, it is a great investment, as the islands continue to flourish and the interest in owning a little piece of paradise continues to increase.

Contact me for further details or a showing.

Look at more photos on my site

http://www.caribbeanhomefinder.net/

It won't be around for long..

Rentals in Turks and Caicos

2008-08-14T11:53:00.004-04:00

Having blogged some time ago about Cathryn's villas and townhomes in Leeward, I just wanted to reiterate their desirability for comfort, space and all that she provides for a wonderful stay here.

She is getting bookings now for the new season so now is the time to make one for yourself and the family so you will not be disappointed.

She has offered a discount to those wishing to hire her huge villas for more than a month so why not break free and really relax and get to know us?

One of her long term town homes will be available for rent as of the end of October so to all those on island or coming to take up employment, get in quick..

I am finding that people call and say, "There is a lot to rent long term but they are not upto the standard and quality I am looking for".

This is NOT true of Cathyrn's homes which is why they are not empty for long.

As I am giving you the heads up, act today....

Visit her website

http://www.pelicannest.tc/

Or contact me direct as I would be happy to help you..and it's FREE!

649 242 1714

jan@caribbeanhomefinder.net

Life in Turks and Caicos Islands

2008-08-10T07:56:00.007-04:00

As my mother-in-law said to me on my wedding day, thirty something years ago , "Life with Rowland will never be dull'".
How right she was...but to be fair the beginning of August starting off badly was not something I could credit or blame him for..and now the weekend is here, things have calmed down.

In a nutshell, my car decided to go on strike each morning just when I needed to go to an appointment or important meeting. It must have been the shock of being cleaned and waxed by my own fair hand last weekend.

I needed to check on on listing I have on my website, Villa Roi Soleil, and on the way, I practised my rally driving skills. As I approached a small hill , a truck was approaching down the middle of it.
Fortunately, I drive a large four wheel drive Nissan, so she came into her own as I veered to miss the truck ,swung across the road, spun round and ended up in the bushes on the opposite side of the road,with two flat tyres and a dented wing. I was fine except I have a For sale sign in the window and just thought " I'll have to drop the price now".
It was 6p.m. Luckily a truck load of construction workers pulled up, jumped out, pushed and jigged the car and after a hefty tip and lots of my business cards distributed ( they wanted to buy the car!)they went on their merry way.

With two flats, I needed to make a call to Mackey, the tyreman. He said he'd send a couple of guys and whilst I waited for them, several workers stopped to check and see if I was ok.
I had my doubts that help would arrive BUT they did and with all the gear.

We often think that life here is inefficient and laid back ( and that's what we like)but actually No, I can't say it is with that sort of service.

I forgot to mention that our tenants next door had reported no air conditioning working which meant an engineer had to replace the thermostat ( I had tried to fix it myself). Again, all done within a morning, with a cheery smile and another invoice.
They also reported no hot water. Things come in threes don't they?

As we live overlooking the marina where the Music Fest took place, (Lionel Ritchie was fab) we all have been surviving on four hours sleep each night as the main crowd puller didn't get on stage till 2pm.
All good fun until one morning we woke ,blurry eyed to see a torrent of water cascading over the balcony from under the door of the one bed apartment.When our tenants came out they were paddling! We all set about sweeping whilst Rowland looked for the stop cock. The water heater was the culprit so again another service engineer friend turned out to deal with it and soon enough, one new water heater and another invoice appeared.

So that was the beginning of the week.
It got better though, as some good friends asked me to sell their beautiful penthouse apartment and others gave me parcels of beachfront land on Middle Caicos to sell and I was published on Caribpro.com ( thanks to Susan) which has brought me all sorts of e mails from others wanting to change their lifestyles.

So what does next week hold I wonder? It's always busier and more fun that I could imagine.

For now, I am going to contemplate my navel ( as they say) and sit on the beach for a couple of hours; I get many of my ideas there and it sets my energy levels high ready for the whatever comes my way next week.

Just hope the invoices are a thing of the past, the penthouse is sold ,one investor buys all 40 acres on Middle Caicos and my car is happier. I'll let you know.

LAND FOR SALE IN TURKS AND CAICOS

2008-07-26T12:19:00.002-04:00

It is always pleasing to receive enquiries about property here in Turks and Caicos, especially from people reading my website from far away places...

I had an e mail late the other night from a gentleman who has land to sell in North Caicos.
Now this was welcomed as I do not have a listing over there.

It is a short boat ride away and when my husband and I have house guests we always put a trip to North on the "What you must do list"

We drive ten minutes from home to the dock at Leeward and take the boat over. It's a great fun ride. Some passengers are resident on North and go to Provo for provisions once a week. Others are tourists who wish to explore outside their immediate locations.

When we arrive at the impressive new marina in North there is a car waiting for us and off we go exploring all the tracks, usually arriving at the newly built causeway over to Middle Caicos. That's a sight to behold.
It's like being part of the movie "I am Legend"; you are all alone with a highway in front of you. Get out of the car and take pictures of the expansive views of road and vegetation as huge pelicans soar overhead.

North Caicos also boasts a new airport proving that infrastructure of these other islands is making headway.In turn investors are looking at North as the next Providenciales.

Consequently, land prices have escalated.
The stamp duty on islands other than Provo, is much lower, to encourage investors over there.

So the gentlemen from far away has land in Kew, North Caicos, to sell.

He has two separate lots, inland and very reasonably priced for this country.

One is 0.49 acres for only $40,000. It has road frontage too.

I think this would be a great investment for someone wanting to put their money to good use

Clients I know have bought several lots in North and Middle and waiting for future development to push prices up.

So if you are thinking of investing for the future, here is an opportunity and I know my far away gentleman, would welcome prospective buyers.
It's not on my website as this deal is only available for the next two weeks.
So call me if interested and I can send you details via e mail.

Jan@caribbeanhomefinder.net
649 242 1714

Land in Discovery Bay Could Be Yours

2008-07-16T13:59:00.001-04:00

Buy a piece of land in Turks and Caicos

A friend of mine popped into the office the other day. He said that he was off to the Middle East to build roads.
This is one drawback of island life;you make friends and sooner or later they leave for new pastures.
However, it creates opportunities for others.

It came as a surprise, when he informed me that he owned land in Provo, Turks and Caicos and that he would like to give the listing to me.

Having told me that it was 0.78 acre and one plot back from the canal in an area I know well, I was not too excited. As I explained to him, there are other desirable building plots around there, right on the canal which would be competition for his plot.
BUT, he continued on and the more information he relayed, the more desirable the property became.
This is because he has full structural drawings to build a 2 storey duplex consisting of 2 apartments and a separate guest house. ( planning permission would have to be applied for)
The upper levels would have views over the lake and canal.

The new owner could live in one unit and rent the others or live off site and rent the whole lot.
Of course, another option would be to build a large single family home.

All long term rental income here is tax free and with the rental market being strong, the return could be a healthy one.

See more details on my site www.caribbeanhomefinder.net or call me (649 242 1714)

Great News for us all!

2008-07-07T18:38:00.004-04:00

Stamp duty reverted back to 9.75% on the island of Providenciales at end of June.

I was disappointed but a neighbour friend who is also a lawyer text me today to say that the Government had decided to re-introduce the reduction fro July 9th to August 31st 2008.

This is great news for us who sell property and for the buyers but I guess the lawyers aren't so happy as they have been so busy with investors taking advantage of this deal. over the last three months that their work is going to continue growing.

So what are you waiting for?
Get shopping and take advantage of this wonderful windfall and we can all benefit!
Contact me for some great deals that I have on file...
Cell 649 242 1714 or send a message from my site. Thanks

We have rebadged Anchor Realty Ltd

2008-07-06T18:30:00.004-04:00

We have been busy at Anchor Realty Ltd, changing our logo and thrashing out new marketing ideas. The result is that my boss, Terrance, went off island to do some shopping....

I manned the office which was having a refit.

Most days I would contact him via e mail with more items to add to my wish list.

I would have liked to have seen him come through customs on his return as they must have wondered why he had swinging signs, sticker signs, new business cards, flyers, car magnet signs and that's besides all the things his wife wanted for their new house!

So the photo shows us, with new signs, as we trek around the islands erecting them on our listed properties.
We are pleased with progress and are working hard as a team.

With business growing so fast there is always so much to do, but we are having fun along the way as the variety of tasks keep us motivated. Cannot ask for more really.

Check out our new listings for this season on the TCREA site.

www.tcrea.com or my listings on my website
www.caribbeanhomefinder.net
or www.anchorrealtyltdtc.com