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Topic starter
Hi all,
I arrived on Saturday for my first visit to Stt since deciding that this is where I would like to call home. After visiting Stt for the past 8 years, and understanding that there are significant differences, I'm looking to make the move in the next 3-5 years.
As if fated, I found your site shortly after my Feb. visit, and it has been intriguing to look at the place through new eyes, which is what I'm planning to do while here for the next two weeks.
I've got some appointments set up with some realtors to get a sense of what it costs to live in what I think I want to live in. It's different, as you know, thinking of a resort to stay in for a week and thinking of a location where you'd like to live from now on. As I have timeshares here, I'm also taking this opportunity to get a feel for the daily expenses (like the surprise I had a the grocery store yesterday - the coffee I buy at home for $5.99 a can is 12.99 here) - because eating out all the time, while fabulous and varied, is not how I'll behave when I move - fascinating which things are higher - liquor is dirt cheap but wine, ohh la la...
I have been fortunate to become acquainted with a number of local people, and if makes all the difference in the world in helping a type-A such as myself understand what works here and what does not. I also have read the many messages here about obstacles and barrier, etc,, etc. and I laugh because as a Chicago native, the issues raised about living on the islands are no different, in this context, than issues that occur anywhere else - I think expectations are skewed because a one-day cruise stop or a one-week visit five years ago is not the same as the day-to-day.
In any case, just wanted to let you all know there's one more person on the quest. Sorry I won't be here for the summer gathering but if anyone would like to communicate while I'm here (through the 31st) I would welcome your post...
Posted : May 17, 2004 7:57 am
Hello TCorn,
Thanks for sharing!! All the best with your pre-move visit. Look forward to reading your opinions and findings at the end of the 2 weeks. If you have any questions feel free to ask!!
--Islander
Posted : May 18, 2004 12:55 am
Topic starter
Hi Islander (and all),
Thanks for the response. I've spoken to two realtors who have both said:
1. The inventory of condominiums (that's what I'm interested in - not sure I can handle maintenance on a house) is very low and there's not a lot to show right now and
2. The 3-5 year window I'm working with is too far away to get a sense on potential costs, etc.
They also said there are plans in the next 2-3 years for the construction of a couple of new condo complexes on Stt (didn't have details).
I'm going to call a few more - wish there were "open houses" where you could go and take a look at things.
In any case, it feels good to start getting some hard info (both realtors were very helpful with general information) and I"ll keep you posted.
Also, if it's your view that this is a bit premature to be looking into real estate, please let me know.
Thanks much.
TCorn
Posted : May 19, 2004 10:22 am
Hello TCorn,
Last I checked the MLS there were around 40 condos (a few are likely fractional ownership/time share). You might take a look at the listings if you haven't; if you cut and paste http://www.usvicentury21.com/
and then click on Search MLS that would work.
I don't its premature for you to take a look at the real estate while you are there. It will certainly give you a basic 'see for yourself' perspective of where condos are located and what they look like and price range and availability. You can then continue monitoring the MLS to see what has changed, which properties in what areas come up the most ect, whether listings are going up or down; you are researching to help you with your perspective plans - its all good. Just keep in mind that in 3-5 years other properties might become available and prices may change ect.
All the best.
--Islander
Posted : May 19, 2004 2:09 pm
