I have always been an entrepreneur, involved in a number of different ventures. This business background gave me a foundation when I started selling real estate nearly 25 years ago. I joined Farchette & Hanley in 1992. Prior to that I had my own real estate brokerage, which I inherited, along with a number of substantial clients whose focus was development and commercial property. I still maintain a relationship with most of them and in some cases I have become a partner in different projects. Early on I began developing properties for my clients, and for myself. Now, in addition to selling real estate, I consult on property development, particularly in the establishment of horizontal infrastructure. I am familiar with the laws and regulations regarding such matters and have a good rapport with the personnel of the various government agencies.
From the time I first started in the business I considered being a real estate broker a profession. I have educated myself about the areas that I specialize in and take pride in knowing I am very good in those areas. Like other professions or trades there are specialties. A criminal attorney would not usually be retained to handle a complex real estate matter, a science teacher would normally not be qualified to teach a foreign language and a plumber would not be called to deal with an electrical problem. The very same applies to real estate agents or brokers. Although the modern multiple listing service allows all agents access to the market, not all have the underlying understanding of the issues involved with all types of sales or property. A commercial/investment Seller or Buyer is best advised to use a broker with intimate knowledge of this area. One who is able to assist the buyer in his due diligence and analyze the existing or project the future revenue stream. One who can advise the seller on the value of his property, using income, replacement cost and comparative metrics and then marketing to the appropriate prospect base. I like this aspect of the business because it is objective, it all comes down to the bottom line.
I also find great satisfaction in helping to preserve the islands cultural heritage. Thus, historic properties have been a passion for me. They can be and often are profitable as well. St. Croix has many buildings of historic significance be they the Danish Colonial architecture of Christiansted, the Victorian of Frederiksted or the historic Great Houses throughout the countryside. I have sold a
number of them and owned a few which I have lovingly restored. I purchased the complex of four waterfront buildings pictured above right, with a partner who has been a client for 24 years, in 2003 and did most of the restoration work myself. Subsequently, we bought the adjacent property once featured in
Coastal Living Magazine (pdf file) and restored that as well.
I encourage you to consider investing in St. Croix and would be pleased to help. Properties on the island are comparatively low priced. Several knowing people have made substantial investments here already, but, there are still excellent opportunities available.
