Better communications on the way

Telecoms company Orange Dominicana has announced an investment of more than US$900 million in telecommunications development in the country, in projects that include the launch of the novel technology known as 3G+, enabling customers to access the internet simply and flexibly.
The access to one of the latest advances in telephone technology will be available to Dominicans beginning next month, as announced by the company yesterday as they hailed the facility that will be offered to the public as one of the decade’s major achievements.

The latest third generation technology Orange Net 3G+, available from February, will provide both data and voice transmission, via phone calls, video downloads, email exchanges and instant messaging, from a laptop, in the home or on a mobile 3G.

Making the announcement, Orange Dominicana president Jean Marc Harion and Orange International president Olaf Swantee stressed that Orange customers would be able to enjoy the Orange 3G+ technology, accompanied by the largest GSM network in the country, and with the greatest value-added options and facilities in the market and resulting in an optimum communication experience. Orange investments in 3G+ are worth more than US$25 million, adding quality to the communications infrastructure in the country. The initial investment made in 2009 with the frequencies in the 900MHz band cover the National District, Santiago and Bavaro. In 2010, the coverage should extend to the main areas of the country and provide service to 50% of the population.

For more on communications in the Dominican Republic, from a West Indies Real Estate perspective, click here.

West Indies Real Estate welcomes Ikea to the Dominican Republic

Ikea will be opening its first store in Latin America this coming Wednesday, 17 February. The catalogue features prices equal to those offered in Europe, in many cases well below prices in other stores in the Dominican Republic. As of Friday, 29 January, Ikea will be distributing 300,000 copies of its 376-page catalogue to homes in Santo Domingo.  Also, the catalogue can be accessed online.

Marketing director Julissa Taveras said that Santo Domingo was chosen because the company sees the DR as a progressing country that is full of opportunities, as reported in Listin Diario. She said that the company is open to the idea of sourcing goods from Dominican suppliers at some future point.

For the Dominican market, the company has hired a Spanish company to provide furniture and goods assembly services.

West Indies Real Estate has its own in-house Interior Design expertise in the form of Broker/Owner, Judith Fox-Hogg, who is a Fellow of the Institute of Design.  We are happy to advise on your requirements when you are purchasing property from West Indies Real Estate.

The Herrera Industrial Association (AEIH) is suggesting that the international community and the Dominican and Haitian authorities propose the creation of an agreement for a long-term development plan involving both countries. According to El Nuevo Diario, the rebuilding of Haiti has to go beyond short-term assistance in order for the country to achieve long-term economic independence. The AEIH, headed by Miguel Cabrera, warned that no matter how much money is spent or how much international aid is channeled into Haiti, the effects will not be sustainable in the long term unless a plan is developed that involves both countries in a strategy that raises production, strengthens commerce and creates jobs on both sides of the island.
The AEIH has expressed its support for the stance taken by Andres Vanderhorst Alvarez, the head of the National Competitiveness Council, who suggested the creation of a development plan that includes elements of production as a complement to the Dominican Republic’s Competitiveness Plan. He proposed the creation of a Hispaniola Cluster so that the two countries could insert themselves into the international marketplace. The AEIH emphasized that the plan would in no way affect the sovereignty of either country.

At the same time, President Rafael Correa of Ecuador visited the Dominican Republic for a meeting with President Leonel Fernandez. He said the purpose of their discussion was to coordinate aid to Haiti. He also overnighted at the United Nations Minustah camp in Haiti and praised Dominican aid to Haiti. “I saw the immense number of Dominican trucks with aid for the people of Haiti. I believe that by working together we can give Haiti the definite push that its heroic people need for the destiny they deserve,” he said at a press conference following the 2-hour meeting.

If you would like to help the Haitian earthquake victims, via one of West Indies Real Estate's chosen charities, Island Impact Ministries,  click here.

Delightful beachfront project

This very adaptable property, located in a gated community within a larger, highly popular secure project, has been reduced by US$75,000 to US$500,000 and offers a great business opportunity.

The Dominican Republic is becoming increasingly popular with independent travellers who perhaps are ready for a change from the all-inclusive resorts, those who are taking an extended break from work or looking for a complete life change.    Live in this large villa yourself and manage a small, bed and breakfast operation or appoint a rental manager and watch your investment bring in a good income from afar.  This investment property offers superb rental potential.

For more details and to discuss the many possibilities, please contact us quoting Ref: 2492.

Another great price reduction

This spectacular property overlooks the whole of Sosua Bay with views all the way to Puerto Plata and Mount Isabel de Torres.  It has been used as an individual home, with many special features, but is perfectly suited to a Bed and Breakfast business or a super apartment rental investment, having its own private pool and patio area.  Set in a hillside residential area just a short drive to downtown Sosua,  it is possible to walk to the beach. 

With 6 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, there is ample accommodation and a third storey could easily be added.  In addition, there is a massive, covered terrace which could be transformed into a stunning restaurant, enjoying the most breathtaking views in Sosua.

If you are ready for a major life change, this property has recently been reduced to US690,000 from $750,000 and represents a great investment.

To find out more, please contact us quoting Ref: 2329.

Two apartments priced at not much more than the value of the land....excellent deal

Great two storey property divided into two apartments located on beachfront lot, with sufficient space to build a principal property closer to the water.  This property is now competitively priced at just US$299,000.  With the land being worth in the region of US$275.000, you cannot go wrong in buying this property - with the option of living in the whole property, living in one apartment and renting the other, building a more luxurious villa closer to the water with its own guesthouse or rental units.....or simply keep the property and watch it increase in value.

Contact us for further details.

Medical Teams help earthquake victims

Island Impact Ministries, one of West Indies Real Estate's chosen charities, is working hard to help in the wake of the Haitian earthquake, sending in medical and food supplies to aid the survivors.  The charity's founders, Pastors Robert and Kelli Nelson from the United States, were missionaries in Haiti for many years.  Although their work is now mainly in the Dominican Republic, they still have a heart for the Haitian people and are doing what they can in the relief effort. 

If you would like to support their work, please click here.

Immaculate Villa in Beachside Community with incredible ocean views

This superb villa located between Sosua and Cabarete was built in 2006 to the highest standards and represents amazing value for money, just being reduced to US$395,000.  It was previously priced at a high of US$590,000 and West Indies Real Estate did not feel that it was over-priced at that figure!

Just a short walk to the beach, this oceanview property is wonderful as a large family home or a combined home and rental property and could easily be used as a lucrative Bed and Breakfast business in this highly popular area of the Dominican Republic.  See our commercial listing for full details.

We really cannot imagine this gem remaining on the market for long at this price, so to avoid disappointment, please contact us for more details and to arrange a viewing.

Superb oceanview condo close to all amenities of Sosua, reduced by US$46,000

Imagine waking up to this wonderful view of Sosua Bay and Mount Isabel de  Torres.  Now it is closer to your reach, as the price of this lovely First Floor, 2 bedroomed condo has been reduced to US$349,000 from US$395,000.

This luxury unit is located in a very quiet side street of Sosua, one of the most popular towns on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.  It is surprisingly tranquil, whilst being just a couple of minutes' walk from all the amenities and nightlife of downtown Sosua and steps from the beach. 

Whether you are looking for a permanent home, a part time vacation getaway or an investment property, this condo could be perfect for you, offering an excellent rental yield with high occupancy.

Please contact us for more details and to arrange a viewing.

Great deals available on the North Coast

Everyone is looking for a special deal these days so we plan to feature on our Blog all West Indies Real Estate listings that become significantly reduced in price, for the keen bargain hunters amongst you.

This lovely villa in Orchid Bay, Cabrera has been reduced by a massive US$200,000, to $699,000 and the owner is motivated to sell!  This area on the north coast of the Dominican Republic is stunningly beautiful, has a choice of superb beaches, magnificent views and is close to the famous Playa Grande Beach and Golf Course.  The town of Cabrera is one of the nicest and best kept towns on the whole island, with a thriving international community.

Contact us for further details, quoting Listing 2720.

Price reduction - great deal

This superb condo is in a very well run and maintained project just on the eastern edge of Cabarete, on the beach and with lovely grounds, just a stone's throw from all the water sports, restaurants, night life and shops.  One of the best, more established locations in Cabarete. 

One of the best features of this property, newly listed by West Indies Real Estate, is the lucrative rental pool.  Just contact us for full details and we will be happy to explain how this property can really work for you.

As mentioned some time ago on the West Indies Real Estate blog, The National Geological Service (SNG) - a dependency of the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Development -has now begun its operations.

West Indies Real Estate enters 2010 with renewed optimism for  Dominican Republic real estate market

Jose Loinaz, Founder and Co-owner of West Indies Real Estate, discussing business at the annual Christmas Party

2009 was a difficult year in so many ways, although the Dominican Republic was affected less by the global crisis than many other countries.  However, the West Indies Real Estate Team largely forgot business for a few hours and enjoyed a wonderful Christmas celebration at Casa Veintiuno, an excellent restaurant and small hotel on the outskirts of Sosua.

Below are some photos of the celebrations, but before looking back, we would like to look ahead to a much more positive real estate market in 2010, with early signs of a recovery already being evident here on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic.  West Indies Real Estate team is ready and waiting to serve both buyers and sellers and is already embarking on exciting new marketing plans for the coming year, including it's forthcoming television broadcast in the United States.

West Indies Real Estate supports

Bebe Schultz handing over the donation to Gerhardt Mulder of CLINI-CLOWNS

In the weeks before Christmas, a lot of interest has been forthcoming about the launch of CLINI-CLOWNS. Bebe Schultz very kindly handed over a considerable donation from the sales made from baking. This was handed over to Gerhardt Mulder at the Jolly Roger restaurant in Sosúa.

Bebe knows of the incredible work done by CLINI-CLOWNS which was first introduced in Holland. She said she welcomed the idea as being so important to so many bedridden and hospitalized children, whilst taking up only a small amount of effort from volunteers to become a Clown for a visit.

"We desperately need your support to make sure this wonderful venture gets going as quickly as possible so we can brighten the days of these wonderful and needy children."

For more information as to how you can help CLINI-CLOWNS or perhaps become one of the volunteers, please contact Gerhardt Mulder on 829 978 5534.

Christmas Concert

The Santo Domingo Cathedral Choir presents its Christmas Concert on Christmas Day. The caroling begins at 8.00 p.m. sharp because it is a TV production. In order to get seats, be sure to arrive no later than 7.00 p.m. because it is a very popular event.

West Indies Real Estate is doing its own bit to bring culture to the north coast, via North Coast Players, the new theatre group to take the north coast by storm.

Martha Heredia loved by all in Dominican Republic

Young singer Martha Heredia was met with a heroine's welcome on her return to the Dominican Republic yesterday. Last week Martha was crowned this season's Latin American Idol contest winner. Heredia was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd at the Las Americas International Airport, and then made her way to the Presidential Palace in Santo Domingo where she met President Fernandez and First Lady Margarita Cedeno. Commenting on Heredia's excitement, the President said that the Ambassador's Hall at the Presidential Palace had seen celebrities, sports stars and been the scene of many great events, but never had it been filled with so much energy, until last night. Heredia, who was joined by her parents, gave a positive message to youth, saying that they need to follow their dreams because it's never too late. Speaking on her record, Heredia says she can't give out too many details, but that her first CD will be out soon and will include songs in different genres.

Sosua Kids receive funds

Finishing off our current series on charities receiving support from North Coast Players, Sosua Kids was the third charity to receive a donation of just under 20,000 pesos (approx. US$555) to further their work in helping some of the poorest Dominican children in Sosua to receive an education.  West Indies Real Estate adopted this charity last year, along with AAAS  and Island Impact Ministries and co-owner, Judith Fox-Hogg, founded North Coast Players with the intention of raising funds for local charities, including those supported by West Indies Real Estate. 

Mary Kay Ballack, Office Manager of West Indies Real Estate, is seen in the photo presenting the donation to Karen Conquergood  (President) and Janet Williams (Treasurer) of Sosua Kids.

Sosua Real Estate booming

West Indies Real Estate featured project is spectacular for the holiday season

This lovely sight now greets people travelling along the main highway as they pass Sea Horse Ranch.  Every year the decorations seem to get better and better.  Sea Horse Ranch is one of the most sought after gated enclaves on the north coast of the Dominican Republic and its entrance is especially impressive at this time of year. 

West Indies Real Estate features many luxury villas for sale and rental in this wonderful, beachside, residential community which also offers horseriding, stabling and tennis facilities.  At present, we have 20 magnificent villas listed for sale, ranging in price from US$650,000 to $3,995,000.  The most recent property to be added is a superb, Balinese style luxury villa lovingly renovated by an international interior designer, offering so many special touches that they would be impossible to list.

 In addition, you can build your own luxury villa on one of the lots still available, including an outstanding lot with private beach access - for details click here.

If you would like to know more about Sea Horse Ranch and the many properties available, please contact us, we know the project better than most!

Island Impact Ministries receives much needed boost from North Coast Players

Island Impact Ministries was the second of three charities  to receive a donation of just under 20,000 pesos (approx. US$555) to further their work in providing medical care to some of the poorest communities on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.  West Indies Real Estate adopted this charity last year, along with AAAS (as reported earlier) and Sosua Kids (more to follow) and co-owner, Judith Fox-Hogg, founded North Coast Players with the intention of raising funds for local charities, including those supported by West Indies. 

In thanking North Coast Players for their great effort, Island Impact Ministries Co-Founder, Robert Nelson, wrote:

Dear Friends,  

It's Christmas time again.

Several companies have begun their Christmas celebrations. Jumbo commercial mall on Santo Domingo's Luperon Avenue has announced Christmas Choir Symphony recitals in its food court area every Saturday, starting 28th November through Saturday, 26th December at 5pm.

Banco Popular has begun its Sunday Christmas Story performances in the parking lot of its John F Kennedy headquarters.

Here, on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, West Indies Real Estate's Team will be enjoying their annual Christmas party this Saturday, 12th December.

West Indies Real Estate selected charity benefits from North Coast Players' first production

AAAS (Association of Friends of the Animals of Sosúa) was one of three local charities to receive a donation of just under 20,000 pesos (approx. US$555) to further their work with the animals of Sosua.  West Indies Real Estate adopted this charity last year and co-owner, Judith Fox-Hogg, founded North Coast Players with the intention of raising funds for local charities, including those supported by West Indies.

Judith Liggio (left), President of AAAS, is seen here receiving the donation from Judith Fox-Hogg.  To read more about the valuable work performed by AAAS, click here.

The Long Night of the Museums

If there is a museum you have always wanted to visit and have been postponing it, on Thursday, 10 December, Dominican government-sponsored museums and some private museums will be open from 9 am to 12 midnight and admission will be free. The event is known as "The Long Night of the Museums" and is in its second year. Special activities are planned for the participating museums. The event is held to mark the Day of National Heritage and is organized by the Department of Museums of the Ministry of Culture.

West Indies Real Estate is doing its own bit to encourage culture on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic through its sponsorship of North Coast Players, the new theatre group formed by West Indies Real Estate co-owner, Judith Fox Hogg.