HGChristie Bahamas Real Estate Review

Real Estate Review
Everything You Need to Know About Real Estate in The Bahamas

Dear Valued Readers,

In the Bahamas, the season of 'Fall' means a thankful 'bit of a dip' in the evening temperatures and a watchful eye on 'The Weather Channel'.

'Fall' seems to be ushering in a season of change within American Politics and the economic market also. The Chicago Tribune reported the inference of a strengthening market, stating "Investors are continuing to see countries throughout the world taking measures to keep interest rates low and are worrying less about a double-dip recession and positioning themselves for a caffeinated economy." The writer continued in this vein and indicated that investors are constructing their portfolio towards cyclical trends while, positioning themselves for a year-end rally. This trend and the adjustments in the US political arena will be worthy of watching. In the Bahamas Real Estate Market, there is a definite increase in activity and interest.

Translating this information to the real estate market, the portfolio of homes at the moment remains healthy and allows for selection and potential 'deals'. However, one of the areas that has not seen a significant rebound is 'new development'. This means that as sales transactions increase, due to a strengthening market, the portfolio of existing homes will begin to shrink and drive 'demand' and 'prices' up. All of these factors point to 'now' being the optimum time to purchase.

Our featured property this month is a 'green' home. Interestingly, 'Green' home construction and development, is an area that is receiving a lot interest going forward. We invite you to have a look at "Elegant 'Green' Island Living" in the Abacos. Another new listing that HGC acquired recently, is a fabulous home in the exclusive Old Fort Bay community. An outstanding feature of this listing is the intention of the seller to contribute proceeds from the sale of this home to his extraordinary charity.

Take a moment to view this gorgeous home, a little bit of Britain in the Bahamas, as well as, the wonderful organization, 'Critical Path International' slated to benefit from its sale.

Along with numerous great listings to check out, we hope you enjoy the information provided in this month's newsletter. We are including an electronic version of our newest edition of 'Investing in The Bahamas'. This will allow you easy access and reference to this useful information. As always, it is our pleasure to assist you with all of your real estate needs in The Bahamas.

Please click here to read our new online issue of The Bahamas Investors Guide.

I close in wishing you and your loved ones 'bountiful moments of thankfulness' this month and always!

Sincerely,

John Christie
HG Christie Ltd.

Christie's Great Estates

dd Read our Island Breeze Online Edition!

Feature Property:
Green and Luxurious at 'Ceol Mor'
Find your dream, green home in Abaco

Waves lapping against the shore and the sound of the sea breezes create rhythmic melodies at this tropical escape called 'Ceol Mor'. A Scottish meaning for "The Great Music".

Set at the end of a quiet peninsula, this luxury residence enjoys a scenic hilltop setting with a variety of bird life and views of the occasional boat sailing by. An earth friendly solution to living, 'Ceol Mor' is low maintenance and built with sustainable materials. With a three-pod floor plan connected by wooden decks this home is easy to live in. Two floors including an open Great Room with designer kitchen area upstairs and two en-suite bedrooms downstairs making up the main pod. The Southerly pod has 2 bedrooms, a bathroom and office on the upper level. A bonus or storage room and laundry area doubles has a gym on the lower level.

'Ceol Mor' is set on over 2.4 acres and the total building size is 2,650 sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms.

Solar and diesel power, split a/c units, water storage and reverse osmosis systems, satellite TV, high speed microwave internet access, a large garage, impact resistant windows and doors, various vehicles and permits to construct additional decking and a 150 ft. dock are just some of the many exceptional features of 'Ceol Mor'.

Exclusively offered with HG Christie for $2,750,000.

Please contact Dwaye Wallas at dwayne@hgchristie.com or (242) 367 5454. For more information, visit our listing online at AS11366.

Click here for more information about this best opportunity.

Offered exclusively with HGChristie for $3,995,000.

Contact John Christie at (242) 357 7572 or email at: john@hgchristie.com

HGC's Featured Agent
Robbie Bethel - Hope Town, Abaco

Robbie Bethel was born in Nassau, Bahamas. At 19 Robbie relocated with his family to their 'ancestral island home' of Abaco. After 4 years as a Safety Management Officer for Tankship Transport, Robbie's buoyant personality led him to the Hospitality Industry. For three years Robbie managed Harbour's Edge Restaurant in Hope Town. In this position, Robbie's affable personality allowed him to meet and become friends with many second home owners and visitors. Robbie's natural people skills led him towards a career in Real Estate with HG Christie in 2004. Shortly after joining the company Robbie Bethel became a licensed BREA estate agent.
Robbie's lineage and knowledge makes him an excellent resource for real estate clients throughout the Abacos. However, his primary focus is on his home island of Elbow Cay and the nearby Cays of Lubbers Quarters and Tilloo Cay.
Robbie's love for the island of Abaco and his hobby of website design has spawned the creation of several travel, visitor and environmental information websites. These successful websites have proven to be very supportive in advancing his real estate career. When not working on a 'deal', you can find Robbie exploring the islands of the Bahamas, boating, traveling or following his passion for cooking and gardening.
Robbie's combined knowledge of Out-Island Real Estate, photography and graphic design skills, makes him an invaluable member of the HG Christie Team. HGC is proud to have Robbie as this month's featured agent.
To contact Robbie at the office 366 0700 or his cell (242) 577 8533 or email him at robbie@hgchristie.com

HGC Real Thoughts

5 Reasons Why it Makes Sense to Buy Now

If you've been thinking about buying a home, you may still be on the fence. With daunting economic news, we've all had a lot on our minds. But the outlook for homebuyer is quite good. Here are five important reasons why now is the right time to buy:

1. Homes are affordable again
We all know that housing prices are the lowest they've been in years. But according to the National Association of Realtors, existing home prices have in fact increased from this time last year. While it's difficult to gauge whether they have hit their absolute bottom, it's clear that low prices won't last indefinitely. When prices trend up, the buyer's advantage can evaporate quickly.
2. Interest rates are remarkably low
Today's historically low interest rates enable you to get more home for your money and enjoy smaller monthly payments.
3. Buyers have the luxury of selection
The large inventory of available homes enables prospective buyers to be remarkably picky. This means you can find a home with every feature you want, rather than having to compromise. Some people may be inclined to wait to see what happens in the market, but putting off a purchase until inventory shrinks means you won't be able to get as good a price or as perfect a home.
4. Sellers are motivated to negotiate
Anyone selling a home today knows that it has to be well maintained and priced attractively. And sellers are negotiating as never before.
5. Mortgage lenders are ready to lend
This is a great time to apply for a loan. Keep in mind that securing your business should be as important to your lender as getting the best loan is to you. Don't settle for anything less.

In closing, remember that today's real estate market is truly a once-in-a-generation opportunity. The better prepared you are when you're looking to buy a home, the greater the flexibility you'll have in choosing what is right for you. HG Christie can assist in providing you with cutting edge technology coupled with years of experience and expertise. Since 1922 HG Christie has been an industry leader in Bahamian real estate and providers the right information and support for wise investments in Bahamian Real Estate. Allow us to assist you today.

'A Sneak Peak of 'The World'
The Most Unique Vacation Home Experience Available

Recently, John Christie, Director and VP of HG Christie Ltd., hosted an intimate cocktail party and tour on board 'The World' while docked in Nassau, Bahamas.

The World is an opulent ship offering ownership into an exclusive community where your private apartment becomes your magic carpet and provides you with the ride of your life as you travel the world!

After the event, John Christie shared that it was, "Like having access to the world aboard your own luxurious yacht." Our photographer shared his first impression in this sentence, "WOW! It is truly luxurious living in every sense of the word."

As the attendees shared their experiences some of the services offered that made an impact on our group was that "...a chef will come to your room if you don't want to go to any of the restaurants", and the concierge services are designed to care for you and your every whim, including, "... setting up a place to sleep on deck if it's what you want - 'camping' a la World style."

Life aboard The World is just the beginning of a lifestyle devoted to the new, the exciting, the adventure and the peace of allowing yourself into cultures and communities only witnessed on television documentaries. Spacious apartments fitted with all the accoutrements found in quality home design, a relaxed atmosphere and a never ending itinerary to the far reaches of the world are all combined to make The World the most unique vacation home experience.

Click here to see more of the amazing images from this exceptional tour. If you would like to receive more information about ownership or vacation opportunities, please contact John Christie at: john@hgchristie.com

HG Christie sponsors 'Little Miss Abaco'
Madisyn Cole

Marsh Harbour Abaco HGC Agent, Kathleen Albury, is brimming with pride...
HGC's own Kathleen is proud to announce that her adorable daughter, Madisyn, was recently crowned 'Little Miss Abaco'. This bright and talented little lady was selected to represent Abaco in the upcoming national 'Little Miss Bahamas Pageant'. Distinguished little ladies, such as Madisyn, go on to New Providence island, home of the capital city of Nassau, to compete for a national title.

John Christie, Madisyn Cole & Kathleen Albury

Mr. John Christie; VP of HG Christie, Madisyn Cole; Little Miss Abaco, and Mom, and HG Christie Abaco agent; Kathleen Albury.

This year the pageant will draw approx 33 contestants from around the Bahamas. As part of the contest, Madisyn will be required to participate in a Cultural Costume presentation, an Evening Gown display and a Talent performance. Madisyn is planning to perform a 'cultural dance' for her talent segment. The contest is scheduled for November 21st at the Wyndam Hotel in Cable Beach on New Providence. HG Christie Ltd. is proudly sponsoring Madisyn and is wishing her well at this highly anticipated event.

Downtown Nassau Loves Art And Its Country
Sponsored Art Project Encourages Colorful Positive Living

'Listen You Can Hear the Sea Calling' - by AJ Watson

Artists in the Love My Bahamas project, a partnership between Caribbean Bottling Company (Bahamas) Ltd., the bottler of Coca-Cola in The Bahamas, the Downtown Nassau Partnership (DNP) and the Ministry of Tourism has displayed extraordinary murals and sculptures through out downtown Nassau contributing to the buzz of the restoration of historic Nassau.

Love My Bahamas Art

Love My Bahamas involves 15 artists that have converted 15 sites or areas into splashes of colour depicting Bahamian themes and scenes. These works will remain on exhibit for a city walking tour until December 2011.

Participating artists include Antonius Roberts, John Beadle, Chantal Bethel, Lillian Blades, John Cox, Claudette Dean, Tyrone Ferguson, Maya Hayuk, Jace McKinney, Toby Lunn, Kishan Munroe, Jolyon Smith, Allan Wallace, Arjuna Watson and Daniel Weise.

Our Blog: Horizons

Keep up with our HGC Real Estate Blog

To visit and for more information visit us at our blog - Horizons.

Upcoming Bahamas Events

Don't miss these exciting events!

Until Nov 24 (Wednesdays)
BIFF Film Series
The Bahamas International Film Festival hosts its 2010 BIFF Film Series with movie showings every Wednesday 7:30pm at Old Fort Bay. Cost: $12/per screening; $100/complete package, including popcorn. T: 325-5747. Visit BIFF

November 19 - Friday
Art Exhibition: Max Taylor's "Jazzblutings"
Doongalik Studios hosts the opening show for Max Taylor's "Jazzblutings", a collection of smaller acrylic paintings depicting musicians and snippets of Bahamian life. Opening beings 6:30pm. Exhibition runs until Fri, Dec 10. T: 394-1886 See www.doongalik.com

November 20 - Nov 21
BNT's Annual Christmas Jollification
The Bahamas National Trust hosts the annual Christmas Jollification that features over 60 artists and artisans, amazing food, beautiful plants and some of the most talented arts and crafts specialists in the Bahamas. 11am-6pm in the Retreat Gardens. Cost: $10/general public; $5/BNT members. T: 393-1317.

November 20 - Saturday
"Artists of The Bahamas" Exhibition Opening
Come out for the official opening of Nassau's city-wide art exhibitions showcasing the artwork of Bahamian artists from the film "Artists of the Bahamas". Artists include John Beadle, Stan Burnside, Jackson Burnside, John Cox, Amos Ferguson, Kendal Hanna, Brent Malone, Eddie Minnis, Antonius Roberts, Dave Smith and Max Taylor. Exhibitions visible at Doongalik Studios, National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, PopOp Studios, D'Aguilar Art Foundation, The Hub and Post House Gallery, 10am-4pm. Continues to Fri, Dec 10. See www.artistsofthebahamas.com

November 21 - Sunday
2010/2011 Heart Ball Tea Party and Fashion Show
The 2010/2011 Heart Ball Committee invites you to attend the Tea Party and Fashion Show under the theme "Islands of the Bahamas", 2:30pm-5:30pm at Government House. Donation: $25. Proceeds in aid of Victor Sassoon (Bahamas) Heart Foundation. T: 327-0806.

November 28 - Sunday
Home Staging Seminar
Sara Saunders hosts a Home Staging Seminar and invites you to come and see the amazing "before and after"-booth and learn more about home staging, the benefits of home staging, facts and stats, and enter to win for a chance to get a free home staging/redesign in one of your rooms. Don't miss this opportunity. See www.homestagingbahamas.com

Contact Us Today!
HG Christie Office Directory

NASSAU	Head Office: Millar's Court P.O. Box N-8164 Nassau, Bahamas Phone: (242) 322-1041 Fax: (242) 326-5642 sales@hgchristie.com
ABACO	Abaco Main Office: P.O. Box AB-20106 Marsh Harbour Abaco, Bahamas Phone: (242) 367-5454 Fax: (242) 367-5452 abaco@hgchristie.com Hope Town/Elbow Cay Abaco, Bahamas Phone: (242) 366-0700 Fax: (242) 366-0701 hopetown@hgchristie.com Green Turtle Cay Abaco, Bahamas Phone: 242 365 4191 Fax: 242 365 4174 greenturtlecay@hgchristie.com
ELEUTHERA	Eleuthera Main Office: P.O. Box EL-25148 Governor's Harbour Phone: (242) 332-3404 Fax: (242) 332-3406 eleuthera@hgchristie.com Windermere Island Eleuthera, Bahamas Phone: (242) 334-2298 Fax: (242) 334-2818 windermere@hgchristie.com
EXUMA	P.O. Box EX-29122 George Town, Exuma, Bahamas Phone: (242) 336-2274 Fax: (242) 336-2272 exuma@hgchristie.com
GRAND BAHAMA	P.O. Box F-42498/#360 The Mall Drive (Opposite International Bazaar) Freeport, Grand Bahama Phone: (242) 351-8501 Fax: (242) 351-7491 grandbahama@hgchristie.com
TURKS & CAICOS	P.O. Box 264 Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands Phone: (649) 231-2110 Fax: (649) 946-5425 sales@hgchristie.com

NOVEMBER 2010

In This Issue

FEATURE: Green and Luxurious at 'Coel Mor'

HGC Best Opportunity

The Balmoral

HGC Interview with The Agent

Sneak Peak of 'The World'

HGC Sponsors 'Little Miss Abaco'

HGC Island Buzz

Featured Listings

NS07186
Old Fort Bay
New Providence

Proceeds of this sale go to a charity called 'Critical Path International' helping orphans around the world, especially Haiti. Click here for more info.