From Aruba to Bermuda to the Cayman Islands, when conversation turns to the purchase or sale of exceptional properties, the name heard most often is Previews. 

The Coldwell Banker Previews Program has earned a superior reputation for succesfully marketing luxury properties. The Previews' program was founded in 1933 by Henderson Talbot, a young entrepreneur who was one of the first to market real estate beyond his local area. He specialized exclusively in marketing fine properties nationally and internationally, which allowed Talbot to place these luxury properties in front of the clientele who could afford this type of home. 

Acquired by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC in 1980, this luxury home marketing program continues to build its success through the Coldwell Banker Previews International program. Through the Previews' program, Coldwell Banker has represented an impressive array of the world's most fabulous real estate. In fact, no real estate company in the world sells more homes over $1 million dollars than the Coldwell Banker Previews Program. 

Exceptional properties require exceptional marketing, and through the Coldwell Banker Previews International program, we have the tools to assist you in buying or selling your luxury property. Currently, we handle an average of $153,000,000 in luxury home sales every day. 

Coldwell Banker Previews Properties enjoy a Prefered relationship with Unique Homes. This publication offers luxury homes for sale, and reaches both the largest number of paid subscriptions in the world and the global editions of the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. 

Ask any of the agents in Coldwell Banker Island Affiliates about our Previews' program. They will be pleased to present properties which qualifiy for this exceptional marketing effort. 

 In a national campaign spearheaded by the Trust and culminating in a polling in May/June 1995, the people of the islands were asked what they thought represented Cayman best. They voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Silver Thatch Palm for their National Tree, the Wild Banana Orchid for their National Flower, and the Cayman Islands Parrot as their choice for National Bird. 

Cayman Islands Parrot: Parrots have a long-standing association with people. In early Caymanian folklore, pirates were described as having a Cayman parrot on their shoulder and old "Polly" was a common family pet. Today, however, it is illegal to take a parrot from the wild and keep it as a pet. You are more likely to hear their raucous squawking before actually seeing one, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when they are most vocal. When feeding quietly in the treetops, they are so well camouflaged you may never realise they are there. The Cayman Islands' parrots are two subspecies of the Cuban Parrot. The Cayman Brac is smaller than the Grand Cayman, and is found only on that island.National Song

"Beloved Isle Cayman" was written by Mrs. Leila Ross-Shier, an organist in the Presbyterian Church in 1930, who sung it and played it on her guitar for many years before it was adopted as the National Song.

 

In regards to single family homes, exclusive ownership allows home owners to alter their home and surrounding property in nearly any way. While building codes may prevent certain home additions and other large-scale renovations, owners of single family homes can adapt their homes to meet their unique goals. 

The owner of a condo is not always allowed to make such radical changes to their property. When purchasing a condo, owners are subject to the rules and regulations of the condo association or board. Typically composed of fellow residents, this governing body collects dues from condo owners to conduct ongoing maintenance of shared areas and perform any unexpected repairs. As part of the agreement with the condo board, new owners will be informed of what types of changes can be made to the interior and exterior of their property. In most cases, condo owners possess the same type of exclusive ownership inside their condos as homeowners, yet are limited in exterior alterations to maintain the uniformity of the community. 

If you are thinking about purchasing a condo, it is important to read the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) before making a commitment. These documents include all the rules condo owners must follow and can vary widely between complexes. If you have indoor pets or other specific needs, make sure these are addressed in the CC&Rs to prevent any unwanted surprises. If you don't understand any part of the CC&Rs when purchasing a condo, you can try to gain clarification from the director of the condo association. 

While the concept of shared ownership might seem limiting to potential owners, there are certainly plenty of benefits. For instance, the owner of a single family home is solely responsible for any problems with the properties, incurring all costs of needed repairs. However, the dues paid by condo owner cover many repair costs, both inside and outside the home. Furthermore, condo ownership can also provide access to amenities, such as pools, spas and recreation equipment outside the budget of a home owner. 

Regardless of location, either a single family home or a condo can be the right fit for the right family. To make the most informed decision, all prospective homebuyers should reflect on their own lifestyles and priorities and how they relate to the different types of property ownership. While there may be many differences between house and condo ownership, the goal is always the same - finding the best home for your family. 

 

According to cayCompass.com, the first signs of the international financial crisis were beginning to hit home, as acknowledged by Kurt Tibbetts, Cayman Islands Leader of Government Business. 

Tibbets explained, "Here in the Cayman Islands we have already witnessed some reduction in the number of tourist visitors during this season," Mr. Tibbetts said. "We've also heard some businesses, both in the financial services and tourism sectors laying off both locals and foreign workers, or choosing not to renew work permits when they expire."

Read the entire article at cayCompass and how the downturn affects immigrants to the Cayman Islands.