Author: Eric Page 4 of 8

St. Croix Sales Data: January 2009

On February 3, 2009

Single Family Residential

As of the first of February, there were 270 single family residential homes on the market on St. Croix; 9 were under contract, and 4 sold during the month. The Average Sales Price was $451,500, average days on market 248, and average % of list price 92.9%.

Condominiums

As of the first of February, there were 205 condos on the market on St. Croix; 4 were under contract, and 3 sold during the month. Average sales price was $571,500, average days on market 335, and average % of list price 89.1%.

Lots/Acreage

As of the first of February, there were 507 land parcels on the market on St. Croix; 8 were under contract, and 4 sold during the month. Average sales price was $50,500, average days on market 260, and average % of list price 88.4%.

Statistics are courtesy of the St. Croix MLS.
Kim Lucas, Realtor
Coldwell Banker Land-de Wilde Realty
kim@coldwellbankervi.com
340-626-3758
www.kimlucasvi.com
www.retireinthevi.com

St. Croix Marine

By Eric

On January 15, 2009

In Favorites

Down in Gallows Bay lies St. Croix Marine, a full service marina located within walking distance of Christiansted. They have dozens of slips for all sizes, from small day boats to yachts over 150 feet long.

If you need to haul out they provide an impressive 300 ton marine railway, a 60 ton marine travel lift, and certified craftsman as well. Take a walk around the yard and you’ll usually see a half dozen boats being worked on.

Located within the marina compound is The Golden Rail, a tropical open-air restaurant that serves a great breakfast with large portions. It can get busy but is highly recommended for the marina view, tasty breakfasts, and an interesting boating crowd. People from all over the Caribbean can be found here – I met the Captain of Sea Eagle, an interesting guy with an amazing yacht (a 118 foot Hakvoort sport fisherman with dual jet drives and a top speed of over 40 knots).

St. Croix Marine also has a dinghy dock so patrons can walk to Schooner Bay Market, Chandlers Wharf, Gallows Bay Marketplace, the post office or the customs office. The well-stocked Gallows Bay Hardware Store is only a two minute walk. Some rental car agencies provide free pick-up and drop-off service to the marina. Another nice plus is that fuel is inexpensive, thanks to the Hovensa Oil Refinery located on the south shore of the island.

Scanning around the harbor you may also see the amazing 137′ Schooner Roseway anchored just offshore of Christiansted. For more on that see my earlier post Aboard the Roseway.

So that’s a little about one of St. Croix’s best marinas. Visit their website at St. Croix Marine or call (340) 773-0289. Below are a few photos of the St. Croix Marine docks, boats and the Golden Rail Restaurant, all in Gallows Bay, St. Croix USVI. Click on photos for larger version…

St. Croix Sales Data: 2007 vs 2008

By Eric

On January 11, 2009

In Research Properties

Below is 2007 versus 2008 sales data for the St. Croix, USVI real estate market. Data provided courtesy of REALTOR® Kim Lucas of Coldwell Banker VI.

Residential:

Single Family Residential Sales decreased 34% in 2008 from 2007. The number of sales went from 178 in 2007 to 117 this last year. However, average sale price increased 21%, from $419,810 in 2007 to $511,532 in 2008. Sales prices closed at 91% of list price in both years.

Condos:

Number of condo sales reflected the single family market but the downturn was not as dramatic. Sales decreased 4%, from 89 in 2007 to 85 in 2008. Sales prices also decreased, from $254,457 in 2007 to $217,196 in 2008, or 14%. Properties sold for 91% of list price in 2008, only slightly down from 2007.

Lots/Acres:

Number of land sales also decreased in 2008, by 19%, from 262 in 2007 to 212 in 2008. Prices increased substantially, 38%, from $116,012 in 2007 to $161,250 in 2008. Percent of list price for sales was down slightly from 2007.

Sugar Mill For Sale

By Eric

On January 11, 2009

In Select Properties

Unique St. Croix sugar mill house complete with view and rental history – The home has 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, an office, a wonderful 2500 ft. deck, pool, and hot tub with amazing views of Christiansted Harbor. Estimated interior living area is 3,200 sq ft. All this is nestled in the hills of the gated community of Judith’s Fancy!

The unique property was built to resemble the sugar mills so important in St. Croix history, but wasn’t actually an operating mill. Stove, sink, and some base cabinets are available, and wiring and plumbing are already in place for a kitchen in the lower living quarters. There’s also a 12 K generator, 15,000 gal cistern, and septic system. Appliances include 1 range, 2 refrigerators, microwave, dishwasher, washer/dryer, and ceiling fans. There is a security gate, and association fees from Judith’s Fancy.

Some owner financing may be considered.

Directions: Go through Judith’s Fancy gate, take immediate left. Take 1st Right, Judith’s Way. Take next left, Lorraine Lane. 4th drive on right. Stone wall says ‘302.’ Park beside sugar mill.

Below are few photos of the property…

Caribbean Printing

By Eric

On January 8, 2009

In Favorites, Services

Today I stopped in at Caribbean Printing & Marketing in Gallows Bay. They design, print, copy… plus a whole lot more. Jarred, their lead designer, showed me around the shop and we discussed some of their capabilities, new equipment and plans for the future. It was fun to see such a thriving business and excited team.

In-house they have the usual printing, folding and binding equipment plus some nice new digital printers. There is an impressive new wide format printer that can produce beautiful large-format color reproductions (think of all the island artists who’ll want to make Giclée prints of their work!). I also learned that Caribbean Printing & Marketing has been in business on St. Croix for over 30 years… they’ve got some real experience when it comes to printing.

Here are some of their capabilities:

full color printing – flat or raised
black and white or color copying
document and report binding
business cards and stationery
laminating (small and large format)
menus and flyers
rack cards and posters
multi-part invoices and forms
graphic design and web site development
newsletters and reports
invitations and announcements
brochures and presentations
labels, stickers and raffle tickets
magnetic signs
programs and booklets
advertising specialties (mugs, keychains, etc.)
fax send and receive services
retail paper products
mailing services (inserting, addressing, sending)

Future plans… Jarred and Mike explained plans for their new design center which is currently under construction. They will offer graphic design and website development in the adjacent space next to the printing business. Customers will be able to see samples, drop by for meetings, and interact with the designers. Renovations are underway and the finished space will have a creative factory-style look. The proposed new name will be The Design Factory (corrected name).

Stop by Caribbean Printing & Marketing on St. Croix USVI (behind Gallows Bay Hardware), or call 340-778-8100. Their website is at www.cpmvi.com.

Click below to see a few photos…

The Secret of The Waves

By Eric

On December 7, 2008

In Favorites, Restaurants

Friday night we drove down to St. Croix’s North Shore and pulled into the parking area for The Waves at Cane Bay. We think this is one of St. Croix’s best-kept secrets for dinner and drinks. Most drive past The Waves with no idea what they’d find if they descended the stone steps beyond the parking area.

Step down and you’ll see the view of Hamm’s Bluff across the ocean is incredible. Ten feet from our table the surf crashes into the natural swimming pool. Graceful arches, teak chairs, torches, crashing waves and a sunset over the mountains give a unique feeling that’s both intimate and romantic. We briefly met Laura, the owner, who has done a wonderful job of renovating with local stone and simple, elegant furnishings. Carl, or as he’s known to North Shore folks, Crazy Carl, waited on us with good cheer and excellent service. He also recommended an Austrian white wine named Laurenz V. Laurenz & Sophie Singing Gruner Veltliner, which I now highly recommend.

View from The Waves (click to enlarge)

So the setting is beautiful, but the food… wow! The gazpacho and conch chowder were flavorful and delicious. The shrimp and spinach crepes were perfectly prepared and creatively presented. The salt and pepper encrusted mahi on seaweed was the best mahi that we’d ever had. Our 13 year-old daughter realized it was the first time at a restaurant that she’d ever finished her entire entree (chicken and shrimp alfredo). And for dessert she had homemade cookies and cream ice cream… “the best she’d ever tasted”.

This was the second time we’d had dinner at The Waves. Again it was outstanding. Another great night out for us–unbeatable view, great meal, excellent service, happy kids–what more could you ask for? For more information click for The Waves at Cane Bay.

Below are a few photos we took of The Waves at Cane Bay. Click to enlarge….

Kitchens, Doors, Tile…

By Eric

On November 19, 2008

In Favorites, Services

Today we stopped in at Armrey Industries, part of a new group of businesses located just outside of Christiansted, USVI. Armrey and their partners at Richmond Design Center have a unique business model that umbrellas three companies under one roof… kitchens & bath products, windows and doors, and tile products. Plus each company helps with design and does professional installation. What a great idea!

The three showrooms offer great ideas and knowledgeable employees. Everyone was friendly as we browsed around and learned about their different products. There are many styles of granite, Corian®, and even bamboo counter tops available. We saw dozens of floor and bath tiles plus beautiful mosaic designs in the tile showroom. And in the door and window showroom I was impressed by the beautiful wood and glass folding doors that would be perfect for opening up any tropical home to the outdoors. Later, we got a quick tour of one of their manufacturing facilities and watched craftsman fabricate custom granite counter tops.

If you are looking to build or remodel we recommend stopping by. For contact information or to visit their websites click here for Armrey Industries for St. Croix kitchens and baths or visit Wooden Bridge Trading Company and Mark Hansen Designs for windows and doors.

Below are a few photos I snapped during our visit (click to enlarge)…

Obama Wins Presidency!

By Eric

On November 4, 2008

In Favorites

It’s been a long campaign but tonight Obama pulled out the big win. The first ever African American has been elected President! Down here in St. Croix we’ve seen many Obama signs and bumper stickers (and USVI residents can’t even vote for President). It’s apparent to me St. Croix was rooting for Obama / Biden.

The people I talk to are genuinely excited about a future with Obama as President. Even though times are tough economically people are optimistic. New, secure jobs created from investing heavily in the renewables industry seems like a smart direction for the country. Getting out of Iraq will certainly allow us to redirect 10 billion per month to other areas. That’s 300 million per day. Plus, a tax cut for 95% of Americans will help.

Comments from Obama supporters usually revolve around his intelligence, thoughtfulness and inspirational abilities, many make parallels to John F. Kennedy. My hope is that he’ll set a good example for America on the world stage and accomplish what he has proposed to do here at home. Congratulations Barack Obama and Joe Biden!

Below are a few photos I liked…

1968 Century Resorter For Sale – SOLD

By Eric

On October 21, 2008

In Boating

SOLD! FOR SALE IS MY 1968 CENTURY RESORTER (fiberglass) with the original Chrysler 440 engine and transmission. This is the larger, more spacious 19 foot long Resorter, not the 17. It runs perfectly and is in good condition. My goal was to keep it 100% original and eventually get it into show condition. It has a light tan exterior (original), burgundy upholstery and black accents.

It was previously owned by a master marine mechanic up in Lakeport, NH. He professionally rebuilt the engine and installed 2 new oak stringers that support the engine. Mechanically the boat is in excellent condition. Since I’ve owned it I installed new flooring and interior sideboards. Both jobs were done meticulously with Century stain, A&A factory approved upholstery in correct colors, marine plywood, and A&A rubber flooring. Again, my goal was to restore it original show quality. Still left to do is the dashboard upholstery (included), seat upholstery and perhaps new mahogany side rails. The gelcoat and chrome is original and in good shape, but not show quality. All gauges and steering wheel are original and in good condition.

If you want a classic boat that runs perfectly and requires almost no maintenance (unlike wood) drop it in the lake and enjoy. If you want a boat to turn into show condition during the winter this is a perfect start. Comes with galvanized tandem wheel trailer in good condition (may need new tires if you are hauling the boat far away). As you probably know, this is a rare and classic boat built solidly for skiing or cruising on the lakes.

I am only selling because we moved to St. Croix, USVI. It took me 3 years to find this particular boat. I am meticulous and all work has been researched and done as close to factory as possible. Once fully restored it should be worth about $12 -14,000. Sale price is $8,000 for a quick sale (sorry, lower offers or trades not accepted). Trailer, custom burgundy cover, extra prop, detailed receipts and misc. items all included. Located in Wolfeboro, NH. For details contact the owner at eric@cruzana.com or call (908) 548-3001. To see this boat in person contact Phil Spencer at Lakes Region Restorations by calling (603) 651-9147 or (603) 569-5038.

Below are a few photos (sorry no interior pics, I had not planned on selling)…

Tropical Pavilion – St. Croix

By Eric

On October 6, 2008

In Select Properties

If you’re like me, owning a small bungalow in true Bali style would be a dream come true. Got a small piece of land for a tropical hideaway? Need a creative outbuilding for an art studio? Looking for a private home office? Maybe a tropical retreat for special visitors?

Finally a company called Tropical Pavilion has created just what you need… a pre-manufactured ready to assemble tropical pavilion made from beautiful hardwood. Everything from floor, doors, windows, woven rattan ceiling, right on up to the pre-assembled wood shingle roof comes shipped to your door in one big container. Call up your buddies or hire a carpenter to assemble (10 days is the usual assembly time). Before you know it you’re ready to sip a cool drink from your very own pavilion.

Here is one definition I like… PAVILION [puh-vil-yuhn]: Pavilion may refer to a free-standing structure sited a short distance from a main residence, whose architecture makes it an object of pleasure. Large or small, there is usually a connection with relaxation and pleasure in its intended use.

Perhaps the best part of this story is the price… my favorite pavilion (Model PH16) is under $29,000 for the entire building. Shipping is extra, from Bali to USA is roughly $3,000. Lighting and furnishings are not included.

Special Offer: Mention Cruzana and save an extra $250 off the total price. After purchase simply email Cruzana with the model# and price of the pavilion you purchased. The manufacturer will then mail a check direct to you. For all questions or to order please visit www.tropicalpavilion.com

Here are more details…

Made from sturdy, termite-resistant Merbau, legally harvested
Model PH16 (shown in photos) is 323 sq. feet for a total 18′ x 15′ footprint
Rafter joinery includes stainless steel bolts and screws, hurricane clips optional
All exposed woodwork is sanded and professionally coated, like furniture
All glass doors and windows are included, you choose sliding or hinged front door
5mm thick Ironwood shingles are overlapped ensuring a lifespan of up to 30 years.
Four layers make up the roof with an attractive exposed interior ceiling (rattan or bamboo weave interior layer, plywood, protective aluminium foil then outer Ironwood shingles)
Other models and customization is available

Click on photos to see Model PH16…