Caribbean Real Estate

Thinking of buying real estate for investments or because you want a second home to go to when the day-to-day grind simply becomes too much? Well, here are the best places in Caribbean to buy real estate so that you can make the best choice possible.

1. Trinidad and Tobago: This nation has an economy that is reliant on two major things; oil and tourism. Thanks to both of these, the entire island nation has a low unemployment rate and a decent per capita GDP of $19,800. In addition, the country has a growing economy and its middle class is growing, lifting many out of poverty. On top of that, the country is out of the hurricane belt so you do not have to worry about your home being blown away by a hurricane. Sadly, the black mark on this country is its rising crime rate, which can be a liability depending on where you choose to live. That being said, it is by far one of the most beautiful countries on the entire planet.
2. Aruba: Called “One Happy Island” the country has a very prosperous economy that ensures many are out of poverty and the tourism industry is one of the strongest in the world. Over 1.5 million come here every year for vacation and services make up two-thirds of the country’s GDP. The country also has the second-highest per capita GDP after the Cayman Islands. In contrast to Trinidad and Tobago, the country has a very low crime rate and is not at risk of hurricanes. This means it could be the perfect place for you to go if you want to buy real estate someplace other than your country.
3. Bonaire and Curacao: Known as the Netherlands Antilles, these two islands are located off the coast of Venezuela, which puts them well below the hurricane belt. The islands have a good infrastructure and a rising per capita GDP, as well as many new developments including an airport and hotels. If you love diving, then these islands may be perfect for you. As of 2008, the countries have changed their status. Curacao is a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, while Bonaire will be a municipality under the Netherlands. Even with these changes, the islands remain very popular with tourists and you can bet that there are going to be many people like you looking to buy a home here. The islands have amazing beaches, stunning landscapes and easy to purchase homes thanks to the Dutch law that operates on the islands.

If you are thinking of moving to the Caribbean, then you should look to these three countries. A growing economy, good resources, strong infrastructures and easy to purchase properties make them the perfect choice for anyone who wants to relax under the sun in their own home. All it takes is you deciding which paradise you want to move to, and how much you want to pay.

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Real Estate in Toronto

In a study done in 2010 by the Economist to find the most liveable cities in the world, Toronto ranked in at number four, joining Calgary and Vancouver as the three Canadian cities in the top 10. Toronto joined places like Sidney, Australia and Vienna as places where it is great to live. However, unlike most of the cities on the list, Toronto is not far out of the reach of many individuals. Vancouver is one of the most expensive places in the world to live, but Toronto still has real estate, in prime places like downtown and North York, that is affordable. This means that you can live in a world class city, without having to go into deep debt in order to pay for your new home.

Buying a condo in New York or Paris will cost you a small fortune, but you can get the same type of condo, with an amazing view, in a world-class city like Toronto, for as much as you would pay for a home in the country. That is amazing to think about because you can live in what many consider to be the premier city of Canada (although Vancouver is close on the list) for a decent price.

As of January 2010, Toronto had an average home price of $409,000, only $18,000 more than Calgary but a whopping $229,000 below the highest priced city in Canada; Vancouver.

In terms of the entire world, Toronto has a comparable amount of services, culture and population to many of the greatest cities on the planet, but it ranks 31^st in terms of the most expensive cities to live in. So, you have a city that ranks fourth in terms of being the best place on Earth to live, but 31^st in terms of price. That is an amazing combination that you should take advantage of if you are going to move anywhere in Canada.

One big plus for Toronto is its surging real estate market. Toronto has out-performed nearly every Canadian city, and most of the American cities, in terms of real estate market recovery. Since April 2008, the average home sales have gone up over 100 percent a month for several months in a row. This not only shows that Toronto is a popular place to live, but that it is weathering the storm of the economic crisis that swept around the world quite nicely.

In terms of neighbourhoods, where you live will depend on how much you end up paying. The most popular neighbourhood in Toronto is Riverdale, which comes with an average home price of just $480,000, quite reasonable for where you are within the city. Riverdale is considered to be one of the trendiest and most artful neighbourhoods in all of Toronto. This just shows how you can get a home in one of the best, if not the best neighbourhood in Toronto, without having to pay more than $500,000. Riverdale itself features several art galleries, film studios and some beautiful homes that are built in the style of Georgian and Victorian architectural style.

Now, if you want to live in what may be the most beautiful part of Toronto, as well as one of the hottest areas for real estate, then you could think about The Beaches. Sitting on the shores of Lake Ontario, you get a lake view property in within the limits of Canada’s biggest city. That is pretty amazing, especially considering that the property price within this area is only around $571,921, more expensive than Riverdale but very reasonable considering the high-class style of this neighbourhood. The beaches has a very colourful history with its residents, which have included from time to time Academy-award winning director Norman Jewison, pianist Glenn Gould, Miley Cyrus, John Candy, Keanu Reeves, Kiefer and Donald Sutherland, as well as Alex Trebek. It is like living in an affordable Beverly Hills within a beautiful city.

The most expensive area of Toronto to live is Leaside, which is where many local celebrities live, and the home prices in this area fall around $650,000. That may seem expensive but it is important to remember that this high price is only slightly higher than the average price of homes in Vancouver. Try buying prime real estate in Paris, London or New York for only $650,000. You will be lucky to get a condo in a rough neighbourhood for that price anywhere but Toronto!

Toronto is a beautiful city to live in. In Toronto, what many call the Center of the Universe, you can live in a world class city for prices that you will not find anywhere. Hong Kong, Tokyo, New York, Vancouver, London, or Paris would never be affordable to the tune of $650,000 in the best neighbourhood in the city. The argument may be made that it’s cheap because it is not a good place to live, but then explain how Toronto can rank fourth in the world for the best places to live? A young family can buy a home in the best neighbourhoods of Toronto, while at the same time being in an area where there are plenty of services, cultural hotspots and more.

If you are going to buy a home in Toronto, look to some of the neighbourhoods that we have mentioned here. They are the best neighbourhoods in the city, yet highly affordable. They feature everything you could want, including some amazing people who call the neighbourhoods home. Not to mention the beautiful homes, the history and the views you get in these neighbourhoods are a bargain at the price you are paying. Anywhere else in the world and you would be paying over $1 million for the homes you get in Toronto for half of that.

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Muskoka, 1 ½ hours north of Toronto, is a land of beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and wooded pine forests that has become well known for its’ beautiful terrain. Long known as a home to wealthy sportsmen who settled here from the British Isles, this little piece of heaven is quickly developing into some of the most sought after real estate in the world.

Muskoka is comprised of a group of townships including Georgian Bay, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Bracebridge, and Muskoka Lake Township. With over 2500 square miles of untouched wilderness in Muskoka there is an uncanny few amount of permanent residents. Just over 50,000 residents call Muskoka their permanent home. There are nearly 100,000 more seasonal land owners that call Muskoka their home away from home.

The exciting natural beauty of this area has a setting of pristine lakes mixed in with natural rocky shores and magnificent landscapes. The real estate here is sought after because of the peacefulness it brings to calm your soul while still offering access to sports, shopping, and entertainment.

The 3 major lakes, Muskoka, Rousseau, and Joseph, offer more than 100 miles water for your boating pleasure. Residential cottages have hefty price tags but are a cherished family gathering place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and are generally passed down through the generations. Some of the beautiful cottages here feature gazebos, boat houses, automobile garages, and full length cottage decks. Custom woodwork and one of a kind designs in fireplaces and staircases are among the most beautiful and elegant features one could hope for. Custom stone walkways, upper decks on the boat houses and even special accommodations and extra rooms are some of the options that these countryside cottages offer.

As for activity options in Muskoka the list goes on and on. Nearby museums, sledding, and parks are just a few of the activities that are available in Muskoka. For the sportsmen there is plentiful fishing and hunting activities, not to mention snowmobiles, flying tours, camping, and incredibly beautiful golf courses. For the women there are numerous shopping venues, exhibits of fine art, and delicious restaurants about. Or perhaps spending the day in one of Muskokas’ full service spa and salons where you can restore health and beauty to your body and soul while being pampered to the highest possible standards.

Real estate prices range from $100,000 on the low end to upwards of $2 million for the extravagant properties. Real estate agents online have properties listed with plenty of pictures and well written content to help you learn about the area. If you are in the market for a vacation home and enjoy the peace and tranquility of preserved wildlife I highly recommend you look at Muskoka as an option. Of course you better have your cheque book ready too!

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Collingwood Cottage Country Real Estate Is The Place To Be For Peace that Surpasses Understanding

Collingwood, located on the southern shores of the Muskokan Georgian Bay, is a recreational heaven just outside of the largest population in Canada.  It is known for its natural beauty and untouched wilderness and has real estate offerings at prices that are providing great opportunities for real estate investors.

This region is known for its’ skiing activities and is in fact titled the capital of Ontario skiing.  Set in a mountainous region the area boasts both beaches and mountains offering an endless list of possibilities when it comes to things to do.  From snowmobiles to beaches, this area has you covered if you are an outdoor enthusiast.  There is something fun to do here for the entire family. 

The farmers market, which was originally started in the Old Town Hall building back in the 1890’s, features farmers, butchers, bakers, feed and wood sellers among others.  If you enjoy getting natural rations of fresh fruits, meats, vegetables and the like then you are in for a treat. 

The Blue Mountain Resort is a world renowned ski resort hosted in Collingwood.  Condos and cottages are available here for rent or purchase and you will have access to some of the most prestigious lands in all of Canada.  It features spa baths with entirely outdoor bath areas with a mix of hot and cold both available.  Dry saunas and eucalyptus steam rooms are an incredible way to rejuvenate your energy.  The cafes are surrounded by amazing landscaping weaving visual pleasures with great aromas to fulfill your senses. 

Real estate here is available for every style taste and all budgets.  Single family homes, condos, real estate rentals, Blue mountain chalets, farms, acreage, vacant lots to build a dream home, and waterfront properties are among the choices you have in Collingwood and the Blue Mountain region.  Known for its’ small town charm it is the perfect blend of rural and urban settings with people that know how to make you feel at home.  Perfect for retirement or vacations this area boasts a wide offering of commercial and residential real estate properties that can be affordable for renters or multi millionaires looking to make a home away from home. 

Real estate professionals in the area are plentiful and they have the knowledge and understanding of the area with a desire to know your needs.  They can assist you in finding properties within your budget and answer any specific questions you have about the surrounding areas.  This area is an affordable way to get a little piece of heaven for those of you who enjoy the peace and tranquility of preserved natural wilderness combined with urban activities not too far away!

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It is often considered one of the most beautiful areas in the world, with crystal clear lakes, prime fishing areas, thick and plentiful forests, luxury resorts, and some of the most amazing sunsets you’ll ever witness. It’s the choice of home to several millionaires as well as a summer playground to the rich and famous.  In Ontario, Canada, the area is known as cottage country and it consists of a large area of land that consists of several popular towns such as Muskoka, Peterborough, Bracebridge, Haliburton, Huntsville, Orillia, Minden, and Collingwood.

It is an ideal area to purchase real estate as there are thousands of waterfront cottages, homes, and condos available for those who are interested in residential properties. There are also quite a few commercial properties available in the area. Many people have owned homes and cottages in the region for years and they are passed down from generation to generation. However, there are still many of them for sale on the market. These properties are an excellent investment and they are often rented out for extra income.

One of the most attractive things about cottage country is that it’s almost just as popular in the winter as it is in the summer. While people swim, water-ski and boat on the lakes in the summer, they snowmobile, fish, and play hockey on them during the winter. This is ideal for those who want to purchase real estate with the intention of renting it out. It is also known as one of the best areas in Canada to retire to.

The real estate prices vary greatly in cottage country as cottages are sold as low as about $100,000 and can reach as high as millions of dollars. If you have a price range in mind as well as a specific location , there are hundreds of real estate agents in the area that are more than willing to help you out. You should be able to find something suitable for just about any budget.

It is also possible to by land, such as waterfront properties, to build your own dream home or cottages on. This will also take a little bit of time and research and the help of a qualified real estate agent. There are many websites to help you in your search. These sites will give full details of the properties and buildings that are for sale and generally come with a series of photographs and contact information for the seller. While some property and homes are sold privately, you will find that most of them involve real estate companies.

The options are endless in cottage country because of the size of land it encompasses. If you do decide to look for residential or commercial property in the area, it’s a good idea to do some homework so you know what to expect when it comes to pricing. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, you may want to enlist some professional help. If you decide on using a real estate agent, it’s recommended to ask for some referrals or testimonials as it’s important you get a good agent to help you out.

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Cottage Country Canada – Part 2

Some of the hottest and most sought-after real estate properties in Canada at the moment, both residential and commercial, are in the region just north and east of Toronto, Ontario, in what is known as cottage country or ‘the Muskokas’ to the locals. While summertime traffic can often make the trip there a brutal one, it’s well worth it once you get there to enjoy everything the region has to offer.

The area is teeming with freshwater lakes, woodlands, wildlife, hiking trails, scenic cliffs, and quaint little towns. It’s no wonder that so many people are seeking property there. It’s a virtual playground all year round and a decent sized waterfront home or cottage can often fetch well over a million dollars. The area has started attracting the who’s who of North American society and many financiers, athletes, and film actors now own or rent property there.

While many Canadian entertainers and sports stars have known about the place for years, it appears Hollywood types have finally been let in on the secret and it’s not uncommon to run into Kurt Russell, Goldie Hawn, Martin Short, Tom Hanks or many others on the streets or at the local stores as they own cottages in the region.

A real estate boom hit the area about 10 years ago and many of the smaller lakeside cottages in the Muskoka’s  were bought up and then torn down, only to be replaced, by larger, luxury homes. However, while the area is definitely seen as a paradise by many, there are still quite a few real estate deals to be found on homes, cottages, and properties.

Lakefront lots are obviously at a premium, but there are so many of them, they can still be bought and built on quite easily. The region is also home to hundreds of private islands and thousands of kilometres of shoreline with many properties being pretty secluded. 

The regions of Haliburton, Collingwood, Huntsville, and Peterborough are also ideal for those who are looking to retire or to invest in some property. These towns are almost as popular in the middle of the winter as they are in the summer and there’s an endless supply of visitors looking to rent accommodations on a weekly basis. You can easily cover your mortgage by renting out your property.  The properties in these areas are typically less than in the Muskoka’s, but the locality is just as nice.

Some people have sold their homes in cottage country by necessity instead of choice though, as property taxes continuously seem to rise in Ontario. But there definitely wasn’t a shortage of buyers and that’s why country living is now more high-end than ever before.

There are many real estate agents in and around cottage country who can help you if you’re interested in residential and/or commercial properties in the area. There are also many websites that feature most available real estate properties. These will give you a good idea of the types of homes that are available and the price range that they come in.

It is believed the average price of a lake house in the Muskoka region was about $225,000, about 15 years ago, and according to the Muskoka and Halliburton Association of Realtors, that price is now closer to $1 million. However, there are still some hidden gems and prime real estate still available for considerably less.

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 Cottage Country Canada  Part 1

Central and Eastern Ontario are wonderful travel destinations for anyone looking to get away from it all. With scenic views and easy lake access, Canada’s cottage country is a very popular tourist destination spot for people from many locations around the world. Each region of Canada has their own local cottage district, with variations in Ottawa and Ontario.

The Ontario cottage district includes the Muskoka, Peterborough, Haliburton Collingwood, and Kawarthas. Cottage country in Canada is very busy on weekends, especially those around the holidays. If you are expecting peace and quiet, then you may want to avoid cottage country during Victoria Day, Civic Holiday, and during the first weekend in September. If you don’t mind a little bustle, however, these long weekends can be very relaxing. There are plenty of recreational areas in the region that provide activities for the whole family.

The lakes are very popular destination spots in Canada. Muskoka is a region that is home to 1,600 lakes, including Lake Couchiching. The Algonquin Provincial Park is also in the Muskoka region, offering tourists a chance to get out and enjoy nature anytime of the year. The park is over 7,000 square kilometres, and is connected by rivers that were once glaciers. There are roughly one million visitors to the park each year, making it one of Canada’s most visited state parks.

Collingwood is located in the Georgian Triangle region and is a town in Simcoe county. Collingwood is a famous tourist spot because of its old time charm and location. It is located in the heart of four-season destination area and known for its vacation cottage resorts.

Haliburton is located in Ontario, as well. This section of Canada is known for its picturesque views and local artisans, as well as being home to Head Lake. This region of Canada is rural, but offers lodgings in the villages of Wilberforce and Eagle Lake, just to name a couple of the tourist destinations in the regions. Eagle Lake also offers a ski resort for family style winter fun.

Kawartha Lakes also lie in Ontario, and offer guests a diverse supply of river and lake access. The region has fifteen main lakes, as well as a host of resorts and lodgings for guests. The Canadian Shield is located in the Kawartha region, where the lakes in the area are wedged between the Shield and the ancient limestone that forms the Golden Horseshoe. The lakes of Kawartha run all of the way to Peterborough, another of Canada’s famous cottage country regions.

Peterborough is also home to a variety of lakes and scenic state parks, with the Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park running through the region. Agriculture is very important in this rural area, which also offers tourists a chance to lodge in lakeside homes while on vacation.

All of Ontario’s cottage country is very laid back and focuses on the outdoors. Warm summer weather brings an influx of tourists to the region, but any long weekend is a good chance to visit the scenic country of Ontario. Each region has unique features, ranging from ancient stone formations to activities on the lakes and rivers of the region. With dozens of lakes to chose from, and lodgings that vary from rustic to luxury, there is something for everyone in Canada’s cottage country.

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 The CN Tower – A Wonder of the Modern World

Each major city in the world must have at least one tower that stands over the skyline to really give it definition. These towers invariably end up on postcards and other visual media for sale, and as often as not they find their way into the civic logo as well, as a means of identifying the city visually in combination with its name identifying it verbally. The most famous towers can even identify a city without the need to mention its name. People see the Eiffel Tower and they think of Paris. They see the Empire State Building and think New York. More recently, the Burj al-Arab has performed this role for Dubai. In Toronto, a city which embodies the Canadian tradition of having wealth, power and success without needing to shout about it, there is still such a tower – the CN Tower.

In a lot of ways the CN Tower is situated in an ideal place to give Toronto a further boost to its identity. This is due in no small part to the proximity it has to Toronto’s major sports arena, the Rogers Centre. Originally known as the SkyDome, the Rogers Centre was a ground-breaking example of the now common mega-structure, multi-use sporting arena with a level of technological advancement that really makes you draw breath. One of the first stadia in the world to feature a sliding roof, the SkyDome made it possible to play games “outdoors” when the weather suited and “indoors” when necessary. This is now commonplace in sporting arenas, but in 1989 when it opened was huge news.

Any wide-angle view of the SkyDome/Rogers Centre will typically involve the CN Tower, which imprints it on the consciousness of baseball and football fans from all over North America. Completed in 1976, as part of a rash of skyscrapers being built in the city, the CN Tower is as recognizable a part of Toronto as any of the above buildings are to their home cities. In fact, it was the world’s tallest free-standing structure for over thirty years, from the point where it surpassed Moscow’s Ostankino tower in 1975 to the winter of 2007 when it was finally surpassed by the Burj Dubai, still under construction at present.

Unlike many of the world’s most notable towers, the CN Tower was built with a technical purpose in mind rather than office and commercial space or residential properties. It is used primarily for communications, although it does contain a restaurant, a gift shop and other elements that attract tourists as well as providing a meeting-place and a landmark for the people of Toronto. When the similarly-sized Ostankino Tower had a fire in 2000, with the deaths of several people, the response from many was to fear that the same thing could happen in the CN Tower, given the similar heights and ages of the buildings. The fact, though, is that the CN Tower was built much more safely, with fireproof building materials, stringent emergency monitoring and automatically-replenished water reservoirs at the top of the building.

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