Amy Land-de Wilde presents

Green Cay Hideaway! This amazing property in Green Cay off of Ms. Bea road on the east end has FOUR dwellings located on three lots. The primary villa includes a two-bedroom, two-bathroom main house with a pool PLUS two, one-bedroom apartments each with outdoor living space and a full kitchen. A detached one-bedroom cottage has a wrap-around gallery, fenced-in yard, and sea views abound! The upper-level main portion of the primary villa is extremely spacious including a very large living room that opens to the kitchen, a separate dining room with sea views in every direction, an office/sunroom off of the guest bedroom, and a sea-facing gallery off of the living room and sunroom/office. Included in the 1.35-acre property is a plot all on its own that you can keep safeguarding the property's privacy, sell off separately or build another villa. The building site is PERFECT - sitting on a knoll with sea views including Buck Island.

Green Cay is one of the most popular east-end neighborhoods because of the beautiful neighborhood beach that is within walking distance from this property. The beach stretches from the pull point to the Candle Reef condos all the way to Coakley Bay Plantation.

The property is set back off the main road of Ms. Bea giving it more privacy than most homes in the neighborhood (hence the name Green Cay Hideaway). With dual access and plenty of parking, you can host a lot of guests or vacationers at the same time!

This is an ideal property for an investor and has the flexibility for a good return whether long-term or short-term renting. The cottage can easily be rented separately or together with the main house if you choose to vacation rent the estate.

Ms. Bea Road is no more than 10 minutes to everything you need and want near your Caribbean home - beaches, snorkeling, hiking, sailing, fishing charters, dining, and entertainment!

Address:49, 17 and 16 Green Cay Ea, Christiansted, VI 00820

Price: $1,100,000

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents A Caribbean Estate, With Four Dwellings, In A Popular Beachfront Community – Great Investment Opportunity! appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River is a 15 room bed and breakfast on St. Croix's North Shore! This boutique inn, completed in 2007, is turn-key, constructed with poured concrete and complete with SOLAR with net-metering. Arawak Bay Inn has all of the amenities of a modern hotel yet retains the charm and ''home away from home'' feel of a quaint Inn. The refreshing swimming pool with a poolside bar and grille and ample sunny deck space was added in 2008. This boutique hotel has a welcoming lobby that is flanked by the dining room (with a full kitchen off the side) and a cozy, yet, a spacious lounge where guests can mingle with one another. Each room has keyless entry locks, Cat6 access points for high-speed internet to service travelers, and split AC units with interior & exterior access.

The rooms at the Inn are extremely spacious, offering enough space to add kitchenettes, and open to the breezy veranda and gorgeous Caribbean Sea views - this is the perfect atmosphere for guests to relax and enjoy a morning tea or an afternoon spritzer.

A meeting room was added to cater to corporate guests and weddings/events, allowing for more opportunities to increase the occupancy rate. Additionally, the property has ample parking, professional landscaping, and a backup generator.

Recent updates:

All locks updated to on-network smart locks

Smart AC sensors to reduce electricity usage

Almost all AC units have been updated very recently

Auto-switch generator installed on the generator

Add cloud base reservation software (run the property remotely)

The property is impeccably maintained making for an easy handoff to the new owners, yet there is room for growth.

Minutes away your guests can enjoy St Croix's relaxing beaches or they can hop on a sailboat at the Salt River Bay Marina to explore the island's coastline by water. The historic Christiansted town to the east and Frederiksted town to the west offer a variety of dining experiences, entertainment, and great shopping. There are hiking tours, snorkeling, scuba diving adventures, rainforest sights, and an abundance of other natural and cultural attractions nearby Arawak Bay; The Inn at Salt River. Come live out your dream of owning one of the finest bed and breakfasts in the Caribbean!

Address: 62 Salt River, St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

Price: $2,850,000

Photo credit: Corinne King and Blake Gardner

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents A Modern Boutique Hotel In St. Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

Waterfront development opportunity in the US Virgin Islands! This east-end property in the popular Green Cay neighborhood has 11.69 contiguous acres with over 1,000 feet of water frontage that includes a beautiful beach and spectacular Buck Island and Pull Point views. This waterfront acreage has so much potential to be developed into a condominium complex, multiple homes, or your own beachfront estate! Located within a coveted neighborhood in Prune Bay surrounded by residences and the Candle Reef condominium complex. Tucked away on Miss Bea road offers privacy, and the mid-east location is just minutes from downtown Christiansted, Green Cay Marina, fine dining, The St. Croix Yacht Club, Buccaneer Hotel, and short sail out to Buck Island.

Address: Rem 21etal Green Cay, St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

Price: $3,850,000

Photo credit: Blake Gardner

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents A Spectacular Beachfront Lot In St. Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands is called the “Big Island” as it is the largest of the US Virgin Islands and surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. It’s the least developed, adding to its natural beauty, which is a draw for all visitors and buyers looking to invest in the Caribbean. The terrain varies between flat and hilly, with the highest peak, Mt. Eagle, at 1,088 feet above sea level.

St. Croix has become the hottest, new destination in the Caribbean and continues to attract people from all over the world. The unspoiled land of St. Croix includes rainforests, world-class dive spots, untouched and unmarked beach coves, and historical artifacts and architecture dating back to the 1700s. St. Croix has truly a vibe like no other, with a vibrant and rich culture, two historic towns oozing with charm, an incredible art and epicurean scene, and boutique hotels. Known as the countryside of the Caribbean due to its open pastures and farmland, most of St. Croix has stayed true to its roots giving visitors and Crucians an authentic Caribbean experience.

Photo Credit: Blake Floyd Gardner Photography https://www.blakefloydgardner.com/

Our luxury real estate market includes everything from impeccably maintained historic estates, modern seaside villas, elegant condos in a gated seaside complex to knoll top estates with a backdrop of the Caribbean sea in every direction. Compared to our sister islands, St. Thomas and St. John, there is more value on St. Croix in the luxury real estate market. A comparable home of quality and size on the other islands is much higher priced than a similar property here on St. Croix— we are the largest of the Virgin Islands so that makes it easier for us to live here and get around well since we are less congested.

When considering a permanent move or a vacation home to escape the cold northern winters, St. Croix is the ideal Caribbean island to call home!

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here. For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

The post Island Expert Amy Land-de Wilde Gives All Of The Reasons YOU Should Buy Real Estate In St. Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

This gorgeous east-end residence is nestled in the hills with few neighbors in sight and stunning views spanning from the south shore to Christiansted, and all the way to Judith's Fancy! The residence, all on one level under one roof, offers three spacious bedrooms each with bathrooms en-suite, a den/office, a beautiful wet bar outfitted with a wine cooler, and a refreshing saltwater pool. Additionally, there is a detached two-car garage, a rare amenity on St. Croix. The home is complete with top-quality materials including marble floors throughout the home complimented with stunning granite countertops in the bathrooms and kitchen. Coral stone flooring wraps around the gallery and the refreshing, sea-facing pool. Nestled high in the hills with easterly breezes and unobstructed views to the west, the home enjoys year-round breezes and exceptional sunsets. An east-end location with year-round trade winds and a sunset view is a rarity on St Croix!

The villa's hilltop location in Union and Mount Washington is perfectly placed to enjoy complete privacy with unobstructed views in all directions, yet centrally located on the east end, 10 minutes to the historic Christiansted town and 8 minutes to all of your conveniences in Gallows Bay. The views are equally stunning from sun up to sun down; enjoy the lights of Christiansted in the evening and the beautiful sea views during the day.

The kitchen with an eat-in bar flows to the dining room and out to the gallery and swimming pool, ideally appointed for entertaining and unique al fresco dining experiences.

The spacious bedrooms with en suite bathrooms and plenty of closet space make this the perfect home for anyone. The primary bedroom has a custom-designed California-style walk-in closet and bathroom with a shower and jacuzzi tub.

Address: Hillside Oasis - 355 & 356 Union & Mt. Wash, St. Croix, VI 00820

Price: $1,680,000

Photo credit: Blake Gardner

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents A Gorgeous Hilltop Villa In St. Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

Address: 30 Coakley Bay Ea, St. Croix, VI 00820

Price: $1,295,000

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents An Incredible Carden Beach Villa In St. Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Maxine & Marti Gellens present

Immerse yourself in dazzling, 280-degree day-to-night views presenting a priceless backdrop from this phenomenon in modern design. Walls of glass & disappearing doors invite an influx of natural light while enabling effortless entertaining and easy movement throughout. Grand in scale yet providing an ambiance of comfortable sophistication, the interior includes 5 en suite bedrooms, 6.5 baths, home theatre, wine cellar, Crestron home automation system, and an infinity-edge saltwater pool & spa. Set high up on a hill overlooking La Jolla’s scenic coastline sits this extraordinary gated estate. Upon arrival, you will find unparalleled attention to detail such as a handcrafted, copper-clad entry door, and a one-of-a-kind dining room chandelier that is sure to delight your dinner guests. The fully-equipped chef’s kitchen is complete with commercial-grade Viking appliances, an abundance of sleek cabinetry, a breakfast room plus a large island with bar seating. Magnificent views continue into the master retreat, boasting a circular sitting area, 2-story walk-in display closet, and spa-like bath with a soaking tub and steam shower. A descent to the lower level by custom-lit handrail takes you to 4 bedroom suites and the home theatre, which could be a 6th bedroom. This stunning “smart home” features a Crestron automation system which can be controlled via Ipad with just a touch of the button. A fully gated circular driveway leads to a 3-car garage with off-street parking for several cars. Indulge in a flawless indoor-outdoor environment where the crystalline waters from the zero-edge, saltwater pool, and spa seamlessly meld with sea and sky, and the black bottom allows for a mirror-like reflection by day and lights up beautifully at night. Enjoying La Jolla’s year-round temperate climate from the comfort and privacy of your own home has never been easier. Masterfully designed by the architectural firm of CDGI with interior design by Christopher Guy

Address: 7455 Hillside Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037

Price: $14,900,000

For more information, please contact Maxine & Marti Gellens at 858-551-6630 or sold@gellens.com

Maxine & Marti Gellens is the exclusive agent representing the La Jolla, CA real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of their listings here.

The post Maxine & Marti Gellens Present An Extraordinary Gated Estate In La Jolla appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

Robin Bay – RARE Development Opportunity! Unspoiled BEACHFRONT property with 618 acres zoned for high-density development on St. Croix, US Virgin Islands! The 618 acres located on the east end, south side of St. Croix is laid out ideally for a resort property including golf courses, casinos, private villas, timeshares, and beachfront hotels/resorts. The property includes a 5,700 feet +/- 100ft: 1.08 Miles of sandy beach and continues up into the hills for spectacular south shore sea views. The current developers already designed a site plan to maximize the use of the land and received permits from the VI government. The site plan that they received permits for included a casino, two hotels, condominiums, single-family homes, a golf course, and a water park: 1500 units total. This property, with all its beauty and infinite potential, is a once-in-a-lifetime development opportunity in one of the most beautiful places in the United States.

St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands is the largest of the three US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean and the least developed adding to the natural surrounding beauty, a draw for all tourists and visitors. The terrain varies from flat to hilly, with the highest peak at 1,088 feet above sea level. St. Croix has become the hottest, new destination in the Caribbean and continues to attract visitors from all over. The unspoiled land of St. Croix includes rainforests, world-class dive spots, untouched and unmarked beach coves, and historical artifacts and architecture dating back to the 1700s.

Robin Bay is approximately 20 minutes from the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (HERA), an easy drive for visitors to get to and from the resort destination at Robin Bay. HERA currently is served by three major domestic carriers, and also receives daily inter-island flights as well as cargo and military aircraft. Approximately 10 minutes from the site is the charming historic Christiansted town with boutique shops, fine dining, and fun entertainment. The mid-east end location of Robin Bay is ideally situated for a resort or luxury community development on St. Croix.

Address: Rem Cotton Grove, St. Croix, VI 00820

Price: $24,500,000

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents An Unspoiled Beachfront Property In St. Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

Nestled into the wooded hillside of this ¾ acre home site is this stunning and spacious 11,000 square foot island residence known as Villa Nirvana. The residence was designed and built with the utmost care taken with every detail to create an island oasis and it's apparent. Rare elements such as the beautiful garden with fish pond and the sparkling negative-edge, glass tiled swimming pool with views out to the gorgeous blue Caribbean Sea have been interspersed within the sturdy concrete construction. The main house has a master bedroom suite, three additional guest bedroom suites and 4.5 baths all with imported plumbing fixtures, vanities and light fixtures. The great room is home to the kitchen, pantry, bar, living room and media center which all have panoramic sea views.

The vaulted ceilings throughout are attractive knot-free Cypress wood. All counter tops are imported African Blue Eye granite.

For overflow guests there is a one bedroom, one bath guest house, of equal quality to the main house. It comes complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, eat-in breakfast bar, large closets, storage areas and its own laundry room.

Combined the main house and the guest house have 5,000 square feet under roof and 6,000 square feet of outdoor space.

Other notable features of the property include a sauna, underground wine cellar, gated entry, covered parking for six vehicles, lush and colorful professional landscaping, security system, wired Bose speaker system, 60,000 gallon cistern capacity spread over 3 cisterns, water filtration system, Miami-Dade hurricane rated exterior doors and windows, 60-kilowatt diesel generator with two auto-transfer switches (ATS) and 7.5 kilowatt PV solar system with net metering and remote monitoring.

And where better to build such an upscale villa than within one of St. Croix's finest residential communities, known to most as Shoys/Anna's Hope. Visitors and owners are greeted by the smiling guard at the entry gate which is manned 24/7. The access roads are smooth and paved. The neighborhood is characterized by million-dollar-plus homes and has a lovely Caribbean Sea exposure complete with a sandy community beach just a short walk away. Shoys Beach is in a protected cove which often results in gentle waves.

Address: 109 Anna's Hope, St. Croix, VI 00820

Price: $2,990,000

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents Stunning Villa Nirvana In St. Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde was hosted by Haute Media Group Cofounder Seth Semilof. Watch their conversation below.

The topics included Land-de Wilde’s illustrious career from moving to the Caribbean after a year abroad, strides towards opening then selling her own successful brokerage, and her eventual ascendancy as a leading specialist in luxury real estate.

In 1986, Amy Land-de Wilde became a licensed broker on St. Croix after a year abroad falling in love with colorful Caribbean diving, beautiful topography, the welcoming people, and the island lifestyle. She opened her own brokerage in 2001, which she sold to the Schmidt Family of Companies, Coldwell Banker’s largest affiliate operation, and happily remains a broker there leading the top-producing team. Land-de Wilde has received Coldwell Banker’s top production awards annually since joining forces decades ago. With a track record of representing the most significant properties on St. Croix, she keeps current with industry innovations, marketing trends, and all facets of real estate. Her clients benefit from her excellent negotiating skills, knowledge, and deep connections to the resources that benefit new and experienced Islanders alike.

Here are some of the questions and answers from the exclusive interview with Land-de Wilde.

Seth Semilof: You moved to the island. You were at the radio station for about five years and then you said, “I either want to come into the financial industry or the real estate industry.” Tell us about that.

Amy Land-de Wilde: I had a lot of good experience managing a radio station and starting in radio sales. If practice for any kind of sales job, you are dealing with an evaporating commodity. You have to have excellent not only people skills, but you have to be organized and follow up to develop good work habits. I really do credit that beginning as one of the reasons I started in 1986.

SS: When you started, things were hot. How long were they hot for? How long did it take you to get your first deal?

ALW: My story is unusual in a way because of what was happening in our market at the time. I had my first deal within a month and my first year was good. People always tell you and it is true that you have to be able to have the cash to support yourself for that period of time. I started doing a newsletter in 1986, which I still do today, so that consistency did not take that long.

SS: You built an amazing company and worked very hard to open it in 2001. Tell us a little about the reasoning behind selling it and when you made that sale.

ALW: I started the company in 2001 and at the time, it was just Land-de Wilde realty. Although Coldwell Banker had been talking to our company, which I finally did go to that larger company in another couple of years, I stayed at that company until she closed it. That is what started my company. Coldwell Banker continued, I continued, and that was the best decision ever, so I am very happy about that. When I sold in 2018, there were about 35 people, which is not huge for a company in the States, but I was eager to do that.

SS: How is St. Croix right now with the real estate market?

ALW: Real estate, strangely, was one of the businesses allowed to open since we managed other people's properties here from afar. It was very strict, but people were allowed to come see us to our island. People wanted to get out of their home, so we really benefited from a lot of people who came to visit and loved it who would never have.

SS: What advice would you give to somebody watching us, even a person that is in the business for six years and not as successful or someone having some success but not at that level? 

ALW: I would try to get brutal honesty from people they respect around them if they are not having the success that they feel they should be having. I would first definitely look within and say, “Am I doing my best? Am I spending the hours?” The flexibility does offer us benefits, but it is not 40 hours a week. Work-life balance is something that you need to create if you want to be successful in the confines of giving your all to your business.

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340) 690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

To watch more real estate webinars curated by Haute Residence, visit http://dev.hauteresidence.com.

The post Chat With Haute Residence Leaders, Episode 11: Amy Land-de Wilde appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

The Mill in Seven Hills! This three-bedroom, three-bathroom architect-designed residence with a studio apartment sits 525 feet above the blue waters of the Caribbean and enjoys a 270-degree view encompassing Christiansted, the north and south shores, and Buck Island. The Mill in Seven Hills blends traditional Danish West Indian architectural elements such as double-radius archways, windows, and doors with ideas from the American Southwest like rounded interior and exterior corners. Built in 1993, a sugar mill surrounds an interior stairway leading from the dining room and main floor to the master bedroom. The 1.1 acres is home to an African tulip tree, bougainvillea, poor man's orchid trees, pink cedar trees, Ixora, an African Baobab tree, aloe plants, Flamboyant trees lining the driveway, and native ginger Thomas.

There are three bedrooms in the main house each with a complete bath. The living room boasts a fifteen-foot ceiling, three sets of mahogany French doors, and dramatic views of the town, and the 100 undeveloped acres located adjacent to and south of the property. An outdoor kidney-shaped swimming pool is centered in a large tiled deck with dramatic views of the Caribbean. The kitchen features a gas range, mahogany cabinets, and a mahogany center island table, and two spacious windows overlooking the deck and back yard.

The lower-level apartment has gorgeous Caribbean Sea views to the west with mahogany French doors opening up to a private balcony and separate, exterior entrance. The Mill in Seven Hills includes a 12.5 KW propane generator with a 150-gallon capacity propane storage tank; two 25,000 gallon cisterns; a solar water heater; an outdoor gas grill; a gated entry; five surveillance cameras accessible by smartphone; and peace and quiet to match the scenery.

Address: 75 A&B Seven Hills, St. Croix, VI 00820

Price: $1,995,000

Photo credit: Corinne King

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents An Exclusive Luxury Residence In St. Croix US Virgin Islands appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Location, location, location is the age-old mantra, but is it actually as important as realtors make it seem? Here we have our Haute Residence experts give their opinions on the issue.

Is what they say about "location location location" true? What makes your location prime for real estate?

Amy Land-de Wilde, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands - St. Croix has long been the most residential of the US Virgin Islands and over the last year and a half, many newcomers have discovered why that makes us so special.

What many have discovered about St. Croix is that even taking into account that you can’t conveniently drive down the street to a Walmart, for instance, that St. Croix is easily accessible especially to the east coast of the US. Many Americans who decided first on the US Virgin Islands because of our mirror tax code, use of the dollar, familiarity, no need for a passport (but you do need a recognized photo ID), then have narrowed their search between the three US Virgin Islands, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, for their new forever home or vacation property. We are finding many buyers are choosing St. Croix because we are the largest of the Virgin Islands and there is far less traffic and no congestion! In addition, we are less touristy and larger, your money buys far more than it does on the other US Virgin Islands.

Also, we always hear what an inclusive, friendly, and welcoming community we have. Some who have had to move away for one reason or another have returned to visit or live again because they miss the friends they made here.

Anna Sherrill, South of Fifth, Miami, FL - We are fortunate enough to work in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Miami Beach FL with a special focus on the South of Fifth neighborhood. South of Fifth is a small enclave but it packs some of the most extraordinary Real Estate in all of Miami. Additionally, SoFi offers incredible dining, diverse cultures, pristine white sand beaches, and family-friendly South Pointe Park all within a just over half-mile square area. I love riding my bike from South Pointe all the way up to North Beach with the family. Miami Beach offers amenities like no other.

Beth Dickerson, Boston, MA - Downtown Boston is the HUB to finance, bio-tech, pharmaceutical, education, hospitals, and health! No better city!!

Brian Pearl of The Pearl Antonacci Group, Boca Raton, FL - Location can mean different things, but when we talk about location we are referring to one or all of the following: location within a community (lakefront versus near a highway), location within an excellent school zone, and/or location in a desirable section of the city or town we are in. We advise clients that you can always replace or improve a property, but you can't replace the location, so it's one of the most important factors when buying a home.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Darin Marques Group, Las Vegas, NV -  If you’re planning on moving to Las Vegas, you have some great times ahead. Las Vegas is one of America’s fastest-growing cities, and it isn’t just a great place to play — it’s a great place to live.

No state income tax, job creation, and a lower cost of living are all factors helping sway people to make the move to Nevada.

Yes, location is everything.

In recent months The Darin Marques Group has seen an increase in demand for Ascaya, an exclusive 664-acre, ultra-private enclave which captures the authentic Nevada visage. Each of its 313 custom homesites embodies a dramatic desert-contemporary aesthetic. In the entire community, there seems to be one street that buyers are flocking to which is Rockstream Drive.

Often compared to affluent neighborhoods throughout the country such as Hollywood Hills, Ascaya’s Rockstream Drive is a highly-desired location within the signature stoned walls of the distinguished community. Peaked at the development’s highest elevation, its collection of ultra-high-end custom-designed masterpieces showcase unobstructed views of the Las Vegas Strip, mountains, and surrounding desert landscape. 

Along Rockstream Drive, two premiere properties reflect features and amenities coveted by luxury home buyers including seamless indoor/outdoor living, exquisite gourmet kitchens with opulent finishes and professional appliances, artistic glass-encased wine cellars, private master retreats with resort-styled baths, high-tech integration, and breathtaking views. The property’s exteriors feature remarkable zero-edged pools, spas, outdoor kitchens, and fire features.

Currently listed through Darin Marques with Huntington & Ellis, 1 Rockstream Drive is a stunning one-story showcase property. Designed by Sun West Custom Homes, over 7,062 square feet of modern elegance features five ensuite bedrooms, a game/media room, and an executive office. 

Listed through Ashley Toussaint, an agent at the Darin Marques Group, 13 Rockstream Drive is a 6,700 square foot modern tour de force. This custom home with sprawling 22-foot ceilings, highlights the two-story fireplace and sky windows. The property features 3 bedrooms, gym, and wrap around balcony with a wet bar. 

Personifying luxury in every detail, the 23,000 square foot Ascaya clubhouse offers unmatched lifestyle amenities such as the 8,000 square foot zero-edge swimming pool with three lap lanes, a 3,000 square foot fitness center, movement studio, and luxurious spa.

Ascaya, where dreams live, is located south of Horizon Parkway off Roma Hills Drive in Henderson. To schedule a private showing, contact Darin Marques, broker/salesperson at the Darin Marques Group at Huntington and Ellis, a Real Estate Agency at (702) 803-3527 or darin@dmgluxury.com.

Debbi DiMaggio, Piedmont, CA - Piedmont, incorporated in 1907, sits at the top of the list when it comes to Location, Location, Location. Why? Piedmont is nestled in the foothills* surrounded by Oakland and within close proximity to Berkeley, San Francisco, and other popular East Bay cities. Piedmont is within 40 minutes of the San Francisco International Airport and 20 minutes of the Oakland International Airport which makes traveling a breeze. Piedmont is also easily accessible to many world-renowned destinations such as Lake Tahoe, the Sonoma-Napa Valley, Mendocino, Carmel, Big Sur, Monterey, and on down to Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. But one of the main reasons home-buyers purchase in our small-town community is that it is home to top-rated schools, K-12. And with only 10,000+ residents and approximately 4000 homes, Piedmont is the crown jewel of the Bay Area. We can personally attest as I grew up in Piedmont, attended Piedmont Schools, K-12, and UC Berkeley. Our children were also raised in town. Piedmont is a wonderful place to raise a family.

*The name Piedmont comes from the small region in Piedmont, Italy.

Elisa Linton, Kingwood, TX - Houston is home to many oil and gas plants, we have state-of-the-art Medical facilities and the cost of living is low compared to many cities. Houston's diverse culture makes it a family-friendly place to live. If you are looking for fun, entertainment, and culture; we have it all. Big things are happening in Houston, TX.

Elise Larrabure Girasole, Westport, CT - Luxury 5 Star Condominium living at "The Mill in Westport, Ct." offers the perfect location for New Yorkers looking for a weekend residence. Only about 1 hour from NYC, the town of Westport offers beautiful town beaches, an 18-hole golf course, a Marina, the Westport Country Playhouse, and The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts. There are also many delicious restaurants to choose from as well.

Westport, Ct. is an excellent option for New Yorkers who enjoy carefree living with amazing amenities available at "The Mill" and the town of Westport.

Frank D Isoldi, Westfield, NJ - Definitely true…it’s part of what makes the Westfield area so attractive. We have top-rated schools, an award-winning downtown, train and bus access to NYC, and close proximity to the shore and Newark International Airport. All of which attract a wide range of buyers.

Gina Duncan, O’ahu, HI - Hawaii is a dream location for many. What many don't realize is that depending on which Island you choose to call home you can experience differences from the vibrant city life of Honolulu Oahu, to the bamboo forests of Maui, to the sweeping pastures of the Big Island, to luxury golf communities of Kauai.

Your favorite location can be found in Hawaii. Clients from all over the world call Hawaii their home in paradise.

Heidi Bintz, Vail Valley, CO - Colorado is one of the hottest markets in the country!

It is no surprise that Colorado has consistently been ranked as one of the best places to live and was the fourth most moved-to state in 2020. We offer endless activities for outdoor enthusiasts, are home to vibrant cities and famous small mountain towns, are centrally located in the United States for ease of travel from anywhere, and have fantastic weather offering 300 days of sunshine per year! Colorado may be most famous for its location in the center of the Rocky Mountains where we are home to 28 ski resorts, 284 golf courses, and 4 national parks. There is truly something for everyone!

The Vail Valley, a 40-mile long corridor encompassing the towns of Vail, Beaver Creek, Avon, Edwards, Eagle, and Gypsum, is located only a short two-hour drive west of Denver and is easily accessible by flights into Denver International Airport (DIA) and Eagle/Vail Airport (EGE). The area is best known for its world-class skiing at the Vail and Beaver Creek resorts, which are visited by tens of thousands of domestic and international winter snowsports tourists per year. You will also find unparalleled fly fishing, rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and golf on one of 15 local golf courses during the summer months. With 80% of the area being designated protected public land, the opportunities for outdoor recreation will never be restricted. The exquisite and quickly growing shopping and dining scene in the Vail Valley offers an array of luxury to casual options, from longtime local staples to new upscale ventures. Several farmer’s markets, art shows, concerts, food and dance festivals, outdoor races, and holiday celebrations attract attendees throughout the year almost every weekend. The Vail Valley is also home to an extensive medical system including regional treatment centers and renowned orthopedic practices serving the likes of professional athletes. It is truly impossible to get bored in our little slice of heaven!

Real estate in the Vail Valley is largely held by second homeowners who live in Colorado’s cities, out of the state, or even out of the country. As the Vail Valley is such a large tourist destination, the most desired locations tend to be ski-in & ski-out properties on the ski mountain, on one of our 15 golf courses, or with quick access to our river systems. Views are one of the biggest features homebuyers look for in a home - the most popularly big mountain views that come to mind when thinking of Colorado mountain towns. Whether you’re a local resident or a frequent visitor, you come to the Vail Valley to play in all of its natural beauty.

Come join me in the Colorado mountain lifestyle in the Vail Valley!

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

 Joel Schemmel, Sarasota, FL - Yes, it is true. The market in Sarasota is a prime example. There are certain neighborhoods that are the most sought after and are commanding the absolute highest prices. The demand and prices are driven by location such as on the water, near downtown, best views, walking distance to shopping and dining. Other locations are sought after because of the lifestyle such as on the beach or bay. Others because they are on the golf course or in the best school district. There are many factors at play but location is one of the absolutely most important.

Kathleen Floryan, Jacksonville, FL - St Johns County in Northeast Florida enjoys a subtropical climate with year-round outdoor living activities, phenomenal public schools, and hospital systems, beaches, amazing restaurants, abundant golf, and country clubs, three types of waterfront-ocean, intracoastal, and river for all types of watersport fun. With the exception of snow skiing, every other outdoor sport can be enjoyed here for healthy living. In 2020, US News & World Report named St Johns County Florida one of the healthiest counties in the nation. You are going to love living here! 

Nancy Tallman, Park City, UT - Park City, Utah is only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, a Delta Airlines hub, with direct flights all over the US and Europe. This makes Park City one of the easiest ski resort towns to access. One can leave home in the morning and be on the slopes the same day. Park City is an authentic town founded in 1884. It is home to a charming "Old Town" with world class restaurants and entertainment.

Rick Kaluza, Pacific Heights, CA - Yes! San Francisco is the most diverse city in World located just minutes away from our gorgeous Wine Country, the Monterey Coast and everything in between.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Silvina Andrews, The Bahamas - The Bahamas is recognized for having the most beautiful water and beaches in the world. Beautiful climate year-round, modern amenities, and ease of travel makes the Bahamas an ideal place to live. The islands remain a member of the British Commonwealth and have a strong heritage in democracy and free-market economics.

The Bahamas has comprehensive and modern infrastructure that offers a unique and varied lifestyle, from luxurious amenities to secluded private islands.

The currency is one of the most solid in the Caribbean with the Bahamian dollar pegged to the US dollar on a one-to-one basis.

Political stability is a hallmark of the parliamentary democracy that has existed in the Bahamas for nearly 300 years and prudent economic policies have provided economic stability.

Tim Fenton of Blue Zone Realty International, Costa Rica - Location Location Location....as true today as ever before. What makes the Costa Ballena region the prime location for real estate is as follows: Our proximity to many unspoiled beaches with warm water along the deep blue Pacific Ocean, the lush rich rainforests that cover the stunning mountains which reach the coastline, the incredible wildlife which Costa Rica is known for, and the amazing communities of ex-pats and locals who have blended perfectly together to create a vibrant and enthusiastic living environment. Learn more at www.bluezonerealty.com

Toni Itkin, Sandy Springs, GA - Always! Location will forever be a premier asset for any property. And Atlanta in general is a prized location for so many reasons, starting with the Atlanta International Airport. Travelers can get anywhere in the world from here, most of the time non-stop. So many corporations now have headquarters here not only for that reason but for great tax benefits, a temperate climate, excellent schools, and ease of living for their employees. During this recent pandemic, we have seen many people from other parts of the country flocking here and are enjoying the great outdoors that the area has to offer. Atlanta may be spread out, but no matter where you are here, the location can't be beat!

The post Location, Location, Location… Does It Really Matter? Haute Residence Experts Weigh In appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents

Mango Hill Greathouse, built in 2006 in the style of a traditional Caribbean plantation house, is situated on a private hilltop to ensure cooling trade winds and 360-degree sparkling sea views. The property features French doors, covered galleries, and graceful stone arches throughout. There are three very spacious air-conditioned bedrooms in the main house, all with en suite baths and egress to the upper-level, sea-facing gallery. In addition, there is a fourth balconied bedroom with a separate living room in the poolside air-conditioned guesthouse. The residence frames a 40’ heated swimming pool and faces the sea views to the northwest guaranteeing glorious sunsets! Mango Hill Greathouse, located in St Croix’s premier gated and beachfront community of Shoys, is a 10-minute walk to Buccaneer Hotel’s beaches, tennis courts, 18-hole golf course, beachfront restaurants, and spa. Christiansted’s art galleries, acclaimed restaurants, and shopping boutiques are a mere five minutes from Mango Hill Greathouse. The purchase includes an adjacent, buildable .73-acre lot that has gorgeous sea views. This bonus lot could be further developed, sold for additional capital, or kept for added surrounding green space and privacy.

Address: 18 and 19 Shoys, St. Croix, VI 00820

Price: $3,765,000

Photo credit: Corinne King

For more information, please contact Amy Land-de Wilde at (340)-690-1213 or amydewilde@coldwellbankervi.com

Amy Land-de Wilde is the exclusive agent representing the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents A Traditional Caribbean Plantation Residence appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Amy Land-de Wilde presents 

Surround yourself in the well-preserved history of Clairmont Mill! This spectacular five-acre hilltop estate with sweeping Caribbean Sea views was once featured on the cover of Architectural Digest as one of the fantasy homes around the world and for good reason! The estate includes a distinctive five-bedroom great house that is built around and within a historic sugar mill – a rarity on St. Croix! There is plenty of indoor and outdoor living area all perfectly arranged around the 18th-century mill, with a gourmet kitchen at its base and a lookout bedroom suite at the crown of the mill—the crow’s nest. The great house hosts a swimming pool surrounded by ample deck space with incredible Caribbean Sea views in every direction. Three of the bedrooms, including a master suite, are housed inside the sugar mill. The lower-level executive suite is located on the same level as the great room, complete with a private lanai in a garden setting and bath en suite.

Additionally, there is an art room, with a half bath and wet bar, situated off the pool deck. The room’s romantic setting allows natural light and scenic views to fill the space – an inspiration for any artist!

This Caribbean estate has historic ruins, a detached cottage, classic architectural elements including grand archways throughout the corridor, soaring cathedral ceilings tied into the sugar mill, Caribbean-style shutters, Danish brick interspersed throughout, tray ceilings, and mahogany stairs. All of these amazing features were built into the sugar mill by the well-known builder, Michael Helm, in 1990.

Clairmont Mill is the dreamiest home in the Caribbean, no wonder it was featured as a fantasy home!

Address: 21 Clairmont Mill, St. Croix, VI 00820

Price: $2,950,000

Photo credit: Blake Gardner

The post Amy Land-de Wilde Presents A Spectacular Five-Acre Estate In Saint Croix appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.