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Dear Valued Readers,
As I write, real estate - once again - appears to be the hedge that investors love to build against inflation. I am happy to report that transactions are reflecting this and outstanding opportunities and magnificent properties on the Bahamian market are continuing to stimulate interest. Take a look at our featured property. This 'showcase home' is in the coveted Ocean Club Estates on Paradise Island, truly a 'Must See'. Our featured rental in San Salvador is a dream escape complete with butler services and chef AND 'If you love it, you can buy it' as this home is also listed for sale. Read on to learn more about a new development slated for San Salvador. This past week, my sister Cara Christie, Director and agent for HGC Ltd., was elected for her 5th term to the Bahamas Real Estate Association Board of Directors. This notable appointment was also shared with Donna Jones, Top Producer and Estate Agent /Broker in our Grand Bahama office. In the local community a new US Departure Terminal at the International Airport was revealed in Nassau and HGChristie demonstrated that 'good play and hard work, go hand in hand'. It was our pleasure to provide sponsorship of world class tennis via the Bahamas Women's Open. This outstanding event provided some great tennis that I thoroughly enjoyed watching firsthand. In Grand Bahama our agent, and resident 'HGC Ripped Chix' Tri-athlete, Allison Lafrenier, participated in a "flash mob' that made the media headlines and video on YouTube. Make sure to watch the fun below. Before I go, I feel that it must be acknowledged that we have all been challenged recently by heartbreaking stories and images dominating the headlines. Whether it has been a demand for a change of government, severe winter storms, floods or earthquakes, 'Mother Nature' and political unrest have created uncertainty around the globe. While I report on the opportunities emerging in the Bahamian real estate market, like the rest of us, I possess attentive thought and reflection on the humanitarian needs of these events. I invite you all to direct our collective energies to recovery and assistance for continued growth. HG Christie salutes and joins those who are assisting, remaining hopeful and heading towards a brighter tomorrow. We hope you will too. I leave you with this quote that was shared with regard to the upcoming Ride for Hope in Eleuthera: "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving" Albert Einstein. Please let us know how we can assist you with your real estate needs in the Bahamas. It will be our pleasure.
All the best,
 
John Christie
HG Christie Ltd.
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HGC Feature Property
Perfect Paradise Canalfront Ocean Club Estates
Occasionally, the paragon of island properties shows up on the market. This home is one of them.
Located on the appropriately named island of Paradise Island within the coveted 'Ocean Club Estates' community, lies a stunning and classic neo-Colonial residence.
- Exceptional design features and spacious, open-plan living area
- 5 bedrooms and 5 1/2 bathrooms including a well-appointed 1 bedroom 1 bath guest cottage
- Theater room, study, live-in staff quarters, gated entry and tropical landscaping
- New construction with state-of-the-art kitchen and appliances
- Colossal impact-resistant windows
- Fabulous water views
A tasteful interior design showcases some of today's most sought after home features. Careful attention has been given to every detail making the beauty of this home an exceptional living space.
This is "A Must-See" home encompassing the essence of 'Elegant Island Living'.
Exclusively offered with HG Christie for $6,250,000. For the full listing online click here: JS00156.
Please contact John Christie at john@hgchristie.com or (242) 322 1041, cell: (242) 357 7572 for a showing or more information.
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HGC Featured RentalSerenity in San Salvador 
This exceptional home complete with Concierge and Chef, provides an excellent escape for groups of 8 to 15
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Click here for more rental information
Contact HGChristie at (242) 322 1041 or email at: rentals@hgchristie.com
Click here for more sales information
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HGC's Featured Agent
Penny Costain - Nassau Estate Agent |
Our Featured Agent this month is Penny Costain, a licensed Estate Agent in HG Christie's Nassau Office.
Penny Costain w as born & raised in England and travelled the world for 5 years on tankers as the wife of a Merchant Navy officer.
During her varied and successful career path Penny also worked in real estate with Black Horse Agencies' Buckell & Ballard in and around Oxford, England.
Penny spear headed managing a branch office, handling valuations, sales and marketing in the company's first all-female office.
Relocation to the Bahamas over 20 years ago allowed Penny to utilize her diverse skills and experience, which include being a certified PADI scuba diving instructor, retail management and working with Sun Development at Atlantis during the construction of the Royal Towers. Penny found her way back to the calling of real estate via Charlotteville Development Co Ltd. While setting up the POA office, running the Charlotteville Community Association, and acting as a Sales Manager for Turnberry Townhomes Penny worked on the co-ordination of the sale of lots within the community. This experience led her to pursue her passion for real estate via a full time career as an Estate Agent with HG Christie.
Current points of pride include her status as a Bahamian citizen, a gorgeous grand daughter residing in Paris with Penny's cherished daughter and son-in-law and the ability to imbue confidence and exceptional communication with her clients. Penny's several referrals speak to the high regard with which she is held by her distinguished and esteemed clientele.
If you are seeking a trustworthy, kind hearted, personable and hard working agent - give Penny a call at the Nassau office (242) 367 1041 or cell: (242) 357 4130 or penny@hgchristie.com
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HGC Update
John Christie Attends CIRE Conference
 In March, John Christie attended an exclusive broker's conference held in Barbados with Christie's International Real Estate.
Attendees learned about the many exciting developments HGChristie's exclusive affiliate is bringing to the real estate market around the globe.
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In the Community
Grand Bahama Gets Crazy - "Flash Mob" Style!
 | | Grand Bahama Goes Flash Mob Crazy at Port Lucaya |
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On Thursday, March 17th as tourists and locals were out in the spirit of not only Spring Break, but St. Patrick's Day a group of about 100 people took over the Count Basie Square in the Port Lucaya Marketplace with a 'flash mob' -Bahamian style!
Grand Bahama Estate Agent, and 'HGC Ripped Chix' Tri-athlete, Allison Lafrenier can be seen at marker 2:53 (in a blue tank top) 'getting her groove on'.
Click here or on the video to watch the excitement!
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HGC Sponsorship
HGChristie is Proud Sponsor of Women's Tennis Open
 Left to Right: Samara Albury; Nassau Estate Agent, John Christie; VP and Director, and Nassau Estate Agent, Simone Pratt of Grand Bahama, Heather Watson of Great Britain, and Vicky Andrews; Nassau Estate Agent The Bahamas hosted the very first International Women's Professional Tennis tournament - The Bahamas Open from March 14th - March 19th, 2011. Almost half of the top 15 players in the world participated in this event. This event made a big splash and the success is largely credited to Mark Knowles, our International Professional tennis champion who has represented the Bahamas for years. In this photo with HGChristie Agents, is: Simone Pratt; up and coming tennis player from Grand Bahama and Heather Watson from Great Britain who's credentials include; 2009 US Open Junior Champion and is ranked #3 for ladies in Great Britain.
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HGC Tips
Home Improvement Ideas Ranging from FREE to $1000
Tips for FREE!
� Spend an hour with a pro.
Invite an HG Christie Realtor over to assist you with ideas for needed improvements. Even small suggestions, such as paint colors or furniture placement, can go a long way.
� Find inspiration. Search for remodeling and decorating inspiration in design-oriented magazines, books, TV shows and Web sites. Simply tear out or print off the ideas you want to try and start your to-do list. Keep it simple.
� Inspect it! Not every home improvement is cosmetic. Hidden problems like deteriorating roofs, termite infestation or outdated electrical systems can negatively impact your home's value. Hire an inspector to check out the areas of your home that you don't normally see.
� Paint, paint, paint. One of the simplest, most cost-effective improvements of all is a fresh coat of paint. Newly painted rooms look clean and updated -- and that spells value. So, buy a few gallons and get busy!
Tips from $100-$200
� Plant a tree. Plan for the future with a landscaping improvement that will mature over time: a shade tree. Not only will a mature tree make your home more desirable, it will also provide a habitat for wildlife, add curb appeal and cut your cooling costs by as much as 40 percent.
� Low-maintenance landscaping saves you money now, adds value when you sell. Shrubs and colorful plants will add curb appeal to your home, but make sure you "think green" while you're shopping. Purchase plants that are native to your region, or water-conserving drought-tolerant vegetation. � Improve the air quality inside your home - Think Flooring. Air quality isn't just about outdoor conditions --older carpets can hide contaminates and allergens. When choosing new flooring, update your home with environmentally-friendly natural products like tile or laminate floors. Hard surface floors are easier to keep clean, and are usually more appealing to buyers.
� Save the popcorn for the movies... Few structural elements date a house more than popcorn ceilings. So dedicate a weekend to ditching the dated look. First, visit your local hardware store for a solution to soften the texture. Then, simply scrape the popcorn away. Tips from $400 to $750
� Update your bathroom and add lots of value. The two rooms that gain the most value from small renovation are the kitchen and bathroom. Replacing an outdated vanity, old plumping or lighting fixtures or adding a new tile floor will give your bath an updated, modern look -- without breaking the bank.
� Any kitchen update equals added value. The same rule applies in the kitchen. You don't have to start the room's design from scratch to maximize your home's value. Start by swapping out just one item, such as a stained sink or ancient microwave for shiny new stainless models.
� Replace any worn carpets or area rugs... Are your carpets and area rugs stained or worn? Nothing turns buyers off more than the thought that they will immediately need to replace all of the flooring in a home. If a limited budget keeps you from replacing all the flooring, start by replacing the carpet in the room that shows the most wear and tear.
� Keep up with regular maintenance and repairs. Walk around your home and make a list of all the small things that need to be repaired. Small repairs may not seem important by themselves, but little things can add up to create the impression that your home has been neglected.
� Get help with getting organized. Hire a lifestyle coach for a day. How does that help your home? The coach will help you organize your life, which includes organizing your home. A clutter-free house is part of a more organized life, and an orderly home is more valuable.
From $750 to $1,000
� Go tankless. Trade your standard water heater for a tankless model. Most old-fashioned water heaters keep 50 gallons of water hot at all times -- whether you use the water or not. Tankless water heaters heat only the water you need, as you need it.
� Upgrade your appliances. An appliance with an energy star label has been certified by the government to use 10 to 50 percent less energy and water than conventional appliances. Matching stainless appliances will not only look great now but will make your home shine brighter than the competition if it's on the market.
� Go for the green. Everyone loves a yard with thick, green grass. With less than $1,000 and a weekend's time, you can replace your existing patchy mix of weeds and grass with fresh new sod. You'll be amazed at the difference! | |
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| Our Blog: Horizons
Keep up with our HGC Real Estate Blog
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To visit and for more information visit us at our blog - Horizons.
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Upcoming Events
Don't miss these exciting events!
Apr 1 - Friday
NAGB Film Screening: "Brent Malone: Father of Bahamian Art"
As part of the Transforming Spaces 2011, the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas hosts the world premiere screening of the film "Brent Malone: Father of Bahamian Art", written, produced and directed by Island Films. Cocktail reception: 6:30pm. Screening: 7:30pm. RSVP, T: 328-5800. E: lmorris@nagb.org.bs See http://www.nagb.org.bs
Apr 1 - Friday
Alliance Francaise des Bahamas Movie Night
The L'alliance Francaise des Bahamas hosts its monthly movie night with the screening of the film, "The Story of Adele H.", a 1975 French film that tells the story of the real-life Adele Hugo, daughter of Victor Hugo, whose obsessive love for a naval officer led to her downfall. 6:30pm in the Societe Generale Private Banking Building. T: 302-5141. See http://www.afbahamas.org
Until Apr 3
Island Expedition 25th Anniversary Exhibition
Island Expedition, a non-profit scientific and educational organization based in the Bahamas and France, host an exhibition which celebrates their 25th anniversary of studying and documenting marine life, environmental issues and island culture. At the Ladder Gallery, New Providence Community Centre. Exhibition runs from Mar 21 - Apr 3. T: 327-1660.
Apr 1 - Apr 2 & Apr 7 - Apr 9
Play Production: "The Cabinet"
Ward Minnis' political comedy play, "The Cabinet", opens at the Dundas Centre for Performing Arts, 7pm-9pm nightly. Cost: $20/in advance; $25/at the door. See http://www.cabinetplay.com
Apr 2 - Apr 3
Rotary Horse Show
The Rotary Club presents its 2011 Horse Show at Camperdown Riding Club, 9am daily. Food and drinks on sale. Bring the whole family!
Apr 2 - Apr 3
7th Annual "Transforming Spaces" Art Tour
The Transforming Spaces committee presents the 7th annual "Transforming Spaces" art tour, a unique experience that takes participants to 6 different art spaces and allows them to view art pieces as well as meet the artists. Stops include D'Aguilar Art Foundation, Doongalik Studios Art Gallery, New Providence Art & Antiques, PopOp Studios, PRO Gallery, and The Hub. Tour begins 10am daily from National Art Gallery. Cost: $30/per person.T: 328-7916 (New Providence Art and Antiques), 328-5800 (National Art Gallery), or 394-1886 (Doongalik Studios) http://www.transformingspacesbahamas.com
Apr 4 - Apr 6
Valerie Louthan's Cashmere Trunk Show
International designer Valerie Louthan presents her annual "Designs in Cashmere" trunk show at the Guaranty Trust Bank, Lyford Cay. 10am-5pm on Mon, Apr 4. 10am-7pm on Tues, Apr 5. 10am-1pm on Wed, Apr 6.
Apr 8 - Apr 9
Ride for Hope
Ride for Hope is a charitable bike-a-thon that happens in Eleuthera, a spectacular island 45 miles east of New Providence (click here to see the route maps). "We ride because we can! and to help and inspire others who cannot. We ride to raise money; with each mile pedaled dollars come in and every single one of those dollars is donated to cancer caring centers and cancer treatment programs. See http://www.rideforhopebahamas.com/ride_who.php
Apr 9 - Saturday
National Dance Company's Auditions
The National Dance Company of the Bahamas holds auditions for persons interested in joining the company, 12pm at the Dance Bahamas School, Base Road Business Centre. Come attired as if for dance class. Fee: $15. T: 328-7588 or 457-4007. See http://www.ndcbahamas.com
Apr 13 - Wednesday
Nassau Institute's Evening Lecture: "Three Economic Myths"
The Nassau Institute invites you to an evening lecture, 7pm at the British Colonial Hilton, with Professor Steve Horwitz as he discusses three common myths that are a part of the public discourse on economics. Cost: $75/includes three course meal. T: 302-0130. F: 323-7272. http://www.nassauinstitute.org
Apr 22 - Friday
BCC's "The Saviour" Meditation
The Bahamas Christian Chorale, under the direction Darville "Sonny" Walkine with Adrian Archer as tenor, Joey Edwards as bass, Raymond Antonio on piano and Jeffrey Sturrup on organ, presents Lloyd Webber's "The Saviour", a meditation on the death of Christ, 7:30 p.m. at the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. Free admission.
Apr 27 - Wednesday
Women's Empowerment Summit 2011
Oyster Publications Limited invites women to embrace their power at the 2011 "Women's Empowerment Summit", a dynamic, impactful and exhilarating day designed just for women to address their specific issues. Cost: $295/per person; $250/per person in groups of 5 or more; $150/students. Fee includes access to sessions, lunch and refreshments, gift bag, executive padfolio, tickets to Michael Pintard's "Women Talk", bridge toll and parking passes. Empower yourself today! T: 456-3763 E: info@womensesummit.com Visit: http://www.womensesummit.com
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| 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
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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
Hatchet Bay
Eleuthera, Bahamas
Phone: (242) 335-0747
Fax: (242) 335-0747
eleuthera@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)
| | TURKS & CAICOS |
P.O. Box 264
Providenciales
Turks & Caicos Islands
Phone: (649) 231-2110
Fax: (649) 946-5425
sales@hgchristie.com
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