By Kaitlin Keegan    11/27/23

It’s been quite a year for interior design. As houses are swept off the market in minutes after listing and new homeowners tackle what they want their home to be like, 2023 was marked with white, clean designs along with minimalism, shiplap and fast furniture. The design world has shifted gears for 2024, ushering in an era of quartz, vintage furniture, wallpaper, cozy and divided interiors and bold colors and design. Sharon McCormick of Sharon McCormick Designs shared some tips on what’s hot and what’s not for the new year.

What’s hot for 2024

In the kitchen, it’s all about the quartz. Quartz and quartzite countertops have become all the rage versus granite, marble or laminate. Quartz has earned the top spot for its color selection, durability and scratch resistance.

As far as design in kitchens, wood grain kitchen cabinets, particularly white oak, or cabinets in vibrant colors are taking over from the white kitchens that were in the last few years. Statement hoods also make a big difference. Beverage stations for coffee, smoothies or a wine bar are also becoming popular if you have the space.

Another big change is the flip from open space layouts to more traditionally divided rooms. The allure of smaller, more intimate spaces began with the pandemic and the trend has only become more popular. Cozy, more nurturing spaces are taking over from wide open layouts.

When laying out your furniture in a room, maximalism without messiness is in. It plays into the want for cozy spaces. Accessorize as much as you want, but don’t let things get too cluttered or overtaken especially in smaller rooms.

It’s also time to play with colors, fabric and wallpaper. Bold patterns, especially striped and plaid fabrics, are very popular. This year, designers also like checkerboard patterns and tassels, fringe, braids and cords for window treatments and upholstery details.

On the color wheel, neutrals have taken over from gray. Think warm tones like beige, tan, cream, brown, caramel, amber, honey and butter. Beside neutrals, blue is the top color. Vibrant tones especially teal and aqua are hot along with purple, red and earthy greens.

As far as lighting spaces, layered lighting is popular. This can be done with bold, sculptural chandeliers, wall sconces, art lights, decorative ceiling lights and fixtures made of natural materials such as rattan, wicker and leather. If you have to do recessed lighting, canless LEDs are preferred.

Anything that adds character to a room is trending. This can be paneling or wall moldings, or customization and personalization. A big trend coming in for 2024 is decorated ceilings. You can achieve this look with paint, moldings, wallpaper or millwork. Wallpaper on the ceiling? It’s in! Wallpaper can also be used to create murals to bring the outside in.

Did you go out and get a lot of mid century modern furniture while it was trending the last year or two? While mid century modern is falling out of style, you can mix in other styles with existing furniture to make a more eclectic look.

In the bedroom, layers are the key. Take multiple layers of bedding and use pillows, throws, upholstered furniture, wallpaper, art, lamps, moody colors and decorative lampshades. Have fun with it. Off of the bedroom, dressing rooms are becoming more popular, if you have the space. Large walk in closets you can get changed in, dressing rooms are a way to declutter your bedroom and move those things to their own separate space.

What’s on its way out from 2023

Some of the things falling out of favor have been slowly dropping in popularity over the last few years. For example, gray has been consistently dropping in the trends. Also dropping as all-white interiors and mid-century modern.

Other trends that are not so popular anymore include granite countertops, open floor plans and minimalism.

One of the biggest changes in trends is fast furniture or furniture that is cheaply made, easily broken, and short term. These are the pieces most likely to end up in a landfill. The push to sustainability has driven this fast furniture industry out of favor.

Inside, there’s a few design aspects you won’t see as much of. These include boxy furniture, accent walls, matching furniture sets, can lighting and oversized bathtubs.

Also with the push to more individualism in design, sleek, generic, shiplap and impersonal hotel-style bedrooms have fallen from favor.

Overall, the trends are going toward having fun with your home design. Add more of your personality into your home. Don’t be afraid of color or texture.

By Eve Smallman   11/14/23

The best color combinations for small spaces will make your place look so much more stylish. The right colors paired together can make a space feel brighter and more inviting, so it’s a good idea to know what they are.

When decorating your small house or apartment, it can be tricky to know where to start in terms of picking colors that complement each other. If you don’t have the budget to keep trying out different ones, it’s a good idea to try and get it right the first time. That’s where our expert advice comes in.

If you’ve been looking through small space decorating ideas and want to know what colors you should be painting and furnishing with, I’ve got you. I’ve spoken to designers to find out the best combos for small spaces that will work in every room.

Ready to get started? These shades are definitely the best paint colors for small spaces. For each combo, I’ve found colors that you can paint with and decor you can style, so you can get started ASAP.

1. LIGHT COLORS WITH BOLD COLORS

Light colors are great for making a small space look brighter. You can still use them to do that while bringing in your personality. “Using only light colors can sometimes make the space feel bland and uninviting — that’s where adding a pop of vibrant or bold color comes in,” says Jonathan Faccone, interior designer and founder of HALO Homebuyers.

For those who love Scandi small living room ideas, this natural combo is the way to go. “Cream, with its soft and light tone, serves as an ideal base, creating an illusion of spaciousness and enhancing natural light,” explains Ana Coddington, lead interior designer at Archival Designs.

She adds that the light wood adds just the right amount of warmth and texture, preventing the space from feeling flat and dull. “When you pair cream with light wood — like birch or maple — you’ve got yourself a beautiful match that perfectly complements each other.”

Ana Coddington

Ana Coddington is the lead interior designer at Archival Designs. She has over 10 years of experience with consultations, CAD software, and space planning, helping to create unique and stylish homes.

3. MONOCHROMATIC COLORS

Using the same color in varying shades will create a sense of cohesion throughout your home. “For example, this could be using shades of light blue and navy blue in a bedroom or different hues of green in a living room,” says Faccone. “Monochromatic colors create a harmonious and cohesive look, making the room feel more spacious.” This also adds visual interest without being too overwhelming.

When choosing color combinations for each room, there are a few things to remember. “For bedrooms, I recommend using soft and calming colors like light blues, greens, or lavender to create a peaceful environment,” says Ricky Allen, interior designer and founder of Ever Wallpaper. “For living rooms, you can play around with warm and inviting tones like earthy browns, rust oranges, and mustard yellows.” These colors will make the space feel cozy and welcoming.

Ricky Allen

Ricky Allen is the Interior Designer and Director of Ever Wallpaper. It sells high-quality wallpapers and murals, using non-toxic, odorless, and environmentally friendly materials.

4. PASTEL AND WHITE

Love sugary sweet pastel tones? Pairing them with white will balance them out and make them stand out more. “Pastel colors, like light pink, pale blue, or mint green, are soft and gentle hues that add a touch of elegance to any room,” explains Coddington. “When paired with crisp white accents, they create a fresh and airy feel that can make even the tiniest of spaces look bigger.” This combination is perfect for creating a calming atmosphere in small spaces.

5. SAGE GREEN AND WHITE

If pastels are not your thing, consider using sage green as the main color for a small space. “This muted green shade is very versatile and can work well with different design styles,” Coddington tells me. “When paired with white accents, it creates a clean and serene look that’s perfect for small spaces.”

She adds that the lightness of white balances out the deepness of sage green, making the room feel more open and spacious. This color combination is also great for bringing a touch of nature indoors, adding a refreshing and organic feel to the space.

FAQS

Now you know the best color combinations for small spaces, you might be wondering what colors you should steer clear of. These are the worst paint colors for small spaces, according to design experts.

Sam Shalom    11/2/23

As one of the oldest cities in South America, Asunción is also known as “The Mother of Cities”. Rich with history and culture, the capital of Paraguay also enjoys all the modern amenities of a modern metropolis. Recent visitors are discovering what residents of this diverse city experience daily; Asunción offers unique shopping, a plethora of outdoor experiences, historical places of interest, museums, music and theater companies, sports venues, nightlife and, of course, delicious food.

Coldwell Banker Origenes Broker/Owner, Gustavo Gomez, opened the first Coldwell Banker Paraguay office in Asunción in March of 2023. Gustavo shares, “Those seeking a relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life will find an atmosphere ofserene relaxation, offering them the time to recharge amidst the stunning landscapes and delicious cuisine.” Gomez elaborates on culinary diversity, love of the surrounding natural beauty, and enjoyment of living or visiting Asunción in the interview below, and his passion for his home might inspire you to learn more by visiting in person.

Where do you live? I live in Asunción, Paraguay

What is the perfect weekend day like? To wake up and savor a leisurely Paraguayan breakfast with tereré (traditional breakfast drink) before embarking on a journey to explore the wonders of Paraguay.

What are the common modes of transportation there? The best way of getting around is to rent a car, ride a bike, take the bus, ortravel by taxi. 

Tell us about the foods your area is known for. Paraguay boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a fusion of flavors influenced by its rich cultural heritage and the blending of indigenous, Spanish, and Guarani traditions. Paraguayan cuisine emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients, including meats, seafood, vegetables, and fruits. While it may not have the same international recognition as some       other cuisines, Paraguay’s food scene is rich in flavor and reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Whether you’re savoring a traditional Paraguayan barbecue of grilled beef, sausages, or chicken with chimichurri sauce or indulging in sweet delights like Mbatata (sweet potatoes prepared in various ways), Paraguay offers a unique and delightful culinary experience.

What is your favorite meal, at home or at a restaurant? I have a deep appreciation for our traditional Paraguayan cuisine. The variety of flavors and dishes we offer truly makes our culinary heritage something special. To start a meal, we have a delightful selection of mezes that include:

Sopa Paraguaya a cornbread and cheese soup; Mbeju cheesy flatbread with a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey interior; Chipa cheesy bread rolls enjoyed as snacks; Mandioca Frita, fried cassava sticks with dipping sauce; Empanadas, which are savory turnovers filled with various things like meat, cheese or vegetables; or Saraki, a traditional corn and cheese dish.

Where do you recommend someone vacation in your region and why?

1. For historical significance, Areguá is a charming town and attracts visitors year-round who wander through its picturesquewinding streets and relax in one of its cozy cafes and There are well-preserved ruins of the Jesuit Missions which display Paraguay’s rich colonial history and architectural heritage.
2. Experience the regional culture at Cerro Cora National Park which is steeped in history, and brimming with intriguingtrails, historical sites, and quaint shops and eateries to Paraguay is renowned for its exquisite Ñanduti Lace, atraditional craft passed down through generations. You can find these intricate lace creations in local markets, souvenirshops, and boutique stores throughout the country.
3. Enjoy the natural wonders of Paraguay. The Iguazu Falls is a breathtaking sight to behold, offering an awe-inspiringexperience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers Pantanal Wetlands offers a unique opportunity to witness Paraguay’s diverse wildlife and lush landscapes. You can embark on guided wildlife tours and birdwatching excursionsin this pristine natural habitat.
4. Imbibe in local fare and culture of yerba mate, a traditional Paraguayan bever age, by joining locals in enjoying thisflavorful tea-like drink, or let time roll by with a stroll by the Asunción Riverfront, a perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by.

What is your favorite recreational or leisure time activity?  Paraguay offers a wide range of activities for both summer and winter. Itsdiverse natural landscapes, from unspoiled beaches to rolling hills and magnificent mountain ranges, provide the perfect backdrop forvarious activities. Some popular options include horseback riding, trekking, birdwatching, water sports, golfing, guided historical tours, and cultural events.  Additionally, Paraguay boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, hotel lounges, and live music venues that comealive after dark.

Is there a specialty your area is known for? Paraguay has a rich cultural heritage, and its artisans produce a variety of unique handicrafts and traditional goods. These include Ñanduti lacework, ceramic pottery, intricate embroidery, and handmade jewelry. Youcan find these locally crafted treasures in bustling markets, souvenir shops. and artisan boutiques, each bearing the cultural heritageand craftsmanship of Para guay. These handicrafts and traditions are not only a source of cultural pride but also a means of preserving and sharing Paraguay’s rich heritage with the world. Travelers can explore these crafts and traditions in local markets, artisan shops,and cultural events throughout the country.

Share a little known but interesting fact about the area/region: Paraguay, located in the heart of South America, offers uniqueopportunities for investment and growth in various sectors.

Paraguay’s central location in South America makes it an attractive hub for trade and commerce. The country is a major exporter of soybeans, beef, and other agricultural products. It offers fertile land for farming and agribusiness investments. Paraguay has implemented policies to attract foreign investors. It offers tax incentives, ease of doing business, and political stability conducive to investments.

Paraguay’s real estate market, especially in urban areas like Asunción is experiencing growth. The demand for residential and commercial properties is on the rise, making it an attractive sector for investment. Paraguay is invested in improving its transportation and logistics infrastructure, including roads, ports, and airports, to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade. The country’s banking and financial services sector is growing as well, attracting investments from both domestic and international players. Paraguay has a young and growing workforce, providing a source of skilled labor for businesses.

While Paraguay offers numerous investment opportunities, it’s essential for potential investors to conduct thorough due diligence, seek local expertise, and stay informed about the evolving business environment and regulations. As the country continues to develop and open up to international investments, it presents a hidden treasure for those looking to diversify their portfolios or explore emerging markets.

If you were to live in any other region where we have a Coldwell Banker presence, where would it be and why? Around 20 years ago, I discovered the charm of Paraguay, and since then, I have found my second home in this beautiful country. Paraguay’s unique blend of friendly people, peaceful ambiance, and an amazing climate has captured my heart, making it impossible for me to imagine living anywhere else.

Territory Summary:

Paraguay is a landlocked country located in the heart of South America. Here is a summary of its territory, including aspects of economics, history, and geography.

Geography: Paraguay is bordered by Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest. The Paraguay River, one of the country’s main geographical features, runs north to south through the western region, dividing the country into two distinct geographic regions: the Gran Chaco to the west and the Eastern Region to the east. The Gran Chaco is a vast, sparsely populated region characterized by semi-arid plains, thorny scrubland, and occasional marshes. The Eastern Region, also known as the Paraná Plateau, is the more populated and economically developed part of the country. It features rolling hills, fertile plains, and a network of rivers and streams.

History: Paraguay has a rich and complex history. It was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Guaraní, who still form a significant part of the population and have influenced the country’s culture. Paraguay was colonized by Spain in the 16th century and gained independence in 1811. The 19th century was marked by conflicts, including the devastating Paraguayan War (1864-1870) against Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, which resulted in significant loss of life and territory for Paraguay. Political instability and authoritarian rule characterized much of the 20th century, including the long dictatorship of Alfredo Stroessner from 1954 to 1989.Since the transition to democracy, Paraguay has made progress in consolidating democratic institutions and promoting economic development.

Economics: Paraguay has a mixed economy with agricultural and industrial sectors playing significant roles. Agriculture is a major economic driver, with important exports including soybeans, beef, grains, and other agricultural products. The country has a significant hydroelectric power generation capacity, with the Itaipu Dam on the Paraná River being one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world. The Taxes percentage in Paraguay is 10%, it also has a GDP growth of 3,6%. Another good characteristic of stability in Paraguay is the annual inflation rate in Paraguay is only 4.2 percent.

Key Facts:

• Population: 7,000,000
• Language(s) Spoken: Spanish and Guarani
• Climate: Subtropical
• Currency: Guarani

Industry Facts:

• Types of Architecture: Minimalist and Colonial
• Prices per sq. ft./meter: 285
• Average Sale price: $100,000 USD
• Average years in house/apt: 20 years
• Types of financing: Own or bank-related

Melissa Dittman Tracey    11/6/23

This winter is forecasted to be harsh for many areas of the country. Here’s how homeowners are getting their properties ready.

Homeowners are taking on jam-packed to-do lists before the arrival of winter, which is expected to be harsh this year as a weather pattern known as El Niño threatens to wreak havoc on many areas of the country.

“From hurricanes to record snowfall to soaring temperatures, 2023 has seen its fair share of extreme weather,” notes a new report(link is external) from Thumbtack, a home service resource. “And it’s taken a toll on our homes. As homes get older and face more storms, some wear and tear is inevitable.”

The report notes that water damage cleanup and restoration projects have risen 91% year over year, and waterproofing projects are up 71%. Thumbtack also notes that roof inspections are up 108% annually, with nearly half focused on routine check-ups in preparation for the winter season.

Homeowners can take proactive steps to get their house ready, including ensuring their gutters are properly installed and cleaned out each season. Home improvement professionals also say it’s important that basement walls are properly sealed to prevent water seepage. Checking the landscaping is also important to make sure water is flowing away from the house and not toward it.

The report notes an uptick in sump pump installation and repairs (up 63% compared to a year ago) as more homeowners take steps to remove excess water and protect their property from flood damage. “Sump pumps also can help homeowners reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills,” the report notes.

Also, the report notes a recent increase in projects geared toward maintaining the home’s heating system, particularly duct and vent repair, which are up 67% year over year. “Ensuring your HVAC system is serviced and working properly will help you stay warm during the cold winter months ahead and avoid any pricey emergency repairs,” the report notes.

Thumbtack evaluated its database of millions of home projects nationwide to uncover the top home projects this fall. The following are the repair projects homeowners are requesting most this fall and their average cost:

1. Appliance: $80
2. Electrical: $185
3. Plumbing (pipe repair): $175
4. Roof: $375
5. Plumbing (drain repair): $56-$129 per hour
6. Central air conditioning: $300 (average cost for labor and parts)
7. Drywall: $310
8. Sprinkler and irrigation system: $100
9. Garage door: $154
10. Locks: $104

Thumbtack also reports the following outdoor projects as most popular this fall:

1. Lawn mowing and trimming: $55-$70
2. Full-service lawn care: $65-$108
3. Tree trimming or removal: $490
4. Roof repair and maintenance: $400
5. Outdoor landscaping and design: $62-$96 (average minimum fee)
6. Pest control services: $125
7. Pressure washing: $281
8. Exterior painting: $3,000-$8,100
9. Fence and gate installation: $1,501
10. Concrete installation: $6.92-$9.77 per sq. ft.

By Melissa Dittman Tracey     10/16/23

You needn’t be scared of the bold and colorful styles spicing up more interiors lately. (Yes, that even includes Barbiecore—for now.) Instead, the aesthetics that have grown tiresome in the eyes of many designers tend to fail at successfully balancing that fine line between too little and too much, along with embracing some unusual shapes (hello, blobs and spray foam!) and scratchy fabrics (we see you, bouclé).

Each year, new scares and frights emerge to haunt the interiors of our homes. Remember 2022’s most horrifying trends, which included the “cloffice” and wallpaper murals? (Eek!)

Get ready to gasp and scream with the Styled, Staged & Sold blog’s annual countdown of the overdone trends we’re ready to say goodbye to in the new year. This list is compiled from designer input and consumer surveys.

10. All-white bathrooms

In an interior design world that now howls for more color, all-white bathrooms are starting to feel cold and dead. More than a quarter of interior designers surveyed by Fixr.com, a home remodeling site, called out all-white bathrooms as the top home trend they hope will slither away into the ethos. Instead, designers want to see more color: Nearly 60% of designers called colorful bathroom interiors, especially through shower tiles, a hot trend to embrace this year.

9. Outdoor maximalism

Since the pandemic, homeowners have been trying to use every square inch of their yards. They’re filling their outdoor spaces with abundant potted plants intermingled with firepits, yard games, party lights, outdoor kitchens, statues and accessories, gardens—all accented by brightly colored furnishings, pillows and patterned rugs. Sure, color is in—but this can grow into an overly designed nightmare. Designers say it’s time to scale back some of that overdone outdoor style. Stick to one neutral color palette and let the greenery and nature surrounding you serve as your main outdoor focal point.

8. Black stainless steel appliances

We’ve heard the screams of horror from some homeowners who say this alternative stainless steel finish is not living up to its hype. They’ve complained it’s prone to peeling, chipping and flaking. Their complaints have even sparked a class-action lawsuit(link is external), accusing one major manufacturer for perceived defects from its black coating. Traditional silver metallic stainless and black stainless are actually made from the same material, but black stainless has a coat of black paint. If it scratches, the shiny steel could potentially pop through underneath and make for some highly visible scratches.

7. Bouclé fabrics

Bouclé has become a popular choice for sectional sofas and chairs. But they’re not just being used as accents; they’re getting scattered all over the home. Designers warn that the look isn’t aging well. Bouclé fabrics are made from a tightly woven, looped yarn material, often crafted from wool, cotton or linen. It appears lumpy, textured and foam-like. It’s often used in curved furnishings to offer warmth and cozy vibes. But here’s some bad news for bouclé: The fabric can be prone to pilling, is not pet-friendly and sometimes appears dirty, particularly when used in off-white or creamy fabrics.

6. Zellige tiles

These Moroccan clay tiles, which are often shaped like small squares, are known for their imperfections. No two Zellige tiles look alike. But those imperfections can look sloppy, particularly on a kitchen backsplash or as shower tile with a shiny glaze that spotlights its unevenness. Particularly concerning, Zellige tiles installed on the floor could pose a trip hazard due to their unevenness and irregular shapes.

5. Super shiny surfaces

Grab your sunglasses. From cabinet fronts to countertops, stainless steel appliances to range hoods, and backsplashes to floors, the trend toward shiny, glossy surfaces is reflecting poorly. These overly polished fixtures are now getting swapped out for more organic, natural materials and textures. Countertops, for example, were once favored in polished, super-shined quartz or granite. Designers are now showing preference for honed or matted finishes offering a softer sheen that’s less reflective and has a more organic, slightly textured finish.

4. Low backsplashes

Another fading trend is the mini backsplash, which has a small edging that creeps up ever-so slightly around bathroom and kitchen countertops. Under today’s design lens, these now appear unfinished and underwhelming. Plus, the lower backsplashes aren’t providing much protection for the walls—which is the original purpose of a backsplash, after all. Fixr.com called out low backsplashes as one of designers’ least favorite kitchen trends for 2023. Instead, take backsplashes to new heights—even all the way to the ceiling—for grander statements.

3. Mirrored furniture

Designers love mirrors, but the trend went into overdrive. Mirrored furnishings, like nightstands and dressers, were meant to exude luxury and Hollywood glam. But you may want to reserve that flashy bling for the lighting fixtures, not the furnishings. Mirrored furnishings were last popular in the 1980s, and their quick re-emergence lately is already feeling outdated. Plus, designers say that mirrored furnishings are prone to fingerprints, smudges and bad reflections. (We see what’s hiding under that bed!)

2. Dining benches

Backless bench seating used for kitchen dining tables were to help hide bulky chairs. These low-profile benches could easily slide underneath the table. They came in style with the farmhouse décor fad. But these benches are uncomfortable, cumbersome to slide onto, and can create an awkward moment of entrapment for whomever finds themselves stuck in the middle. Let’s bring back the chairs!

1. Blobs

The “blobby” home trend—also dubbed the “blobject”—has ushered in amoeba-like shapes in décor and furnishings, including curvy tables, wavy mirrors, plump furnishings and mushroom-like lamps. Similarly, a TikTok trend earlier this year unleashed a popular and potentially dangerous DIY project: using spray-foam insulation(link is external) (the toxic industrial foam used by builders) to coat tables, mirrors and home accessories. This globby, gooey gak coated many home accessories, making for foamy, wavy edges. Interior design influencer Phoenix Grey, known as the “Design Daddy,” called this one of the worst home design trends of 2023 and said the result “looks like it’s pulled from the intestines of a horror movie.” We agree! The blobs and spray foam are in stark contrast to the straight edges and clean lines that once dominated interior design. We welcome change, but sometimes a blob is just a blob. And, well, that’s not always pretty.

What do you think? What are the scariest design trends you’ve been spotting in 2023 and that you hope will fade in the new year?

Sam Shalom   Oct 2, 2023

If the days getting shorter and brisker have you considering where you might go to get away this winter (for those of us who do NOT have 360 days of sunshine a year), we encourage you to read our October selection, featuring the Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos office. General Manager Louise Peterson paints a picture of a gorgeous tropical island where you enjoy near constant tropical climes, with plenty of outdoors activities and beautiful scenery to explore. Of course, you could also just relax and enjoy the fresh seafood as well.

“After a busy day of work and school we get into our bathing suits and head to Grace Bay Beach by Coral Gardens Resort.  There we put on our snorkel and mask, swim out to the reef where we can enjoy the warm ocean and look for colorful tropical fish,” states Peterson. “We can do that each and every day of the year.  There aren’t many places in the world where that’s possible.” As Peterson notes, there are very few places where this is possible. Read on to discover many of the potential reasons to visit, move, or invest in the beautiful Turks & Caicos Islands (or TCI, as the locals refer to it).

Where do you live? Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos has an office in the heart of Grace Bay at the Caicos Cafe Plaza on the island of Providenciales (or “Provo”) within the British West Indies.  We enjoy about 350 days of warm sunshine each year and spend a lot of time outside walking the beach, snorkeling, kitesurfing and spending time with friends and family.

What is the perfect weekend day like? TCI enjoys a tropical climate tempered by trade winds and the average year-round temperature is about 82 degrees. A perfect weekend day would be to head out on the water to look for JOJO the dolphin, our most famous resident.  JOJO is an Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin who swims freely in the water off Grace Bay in Providenciales. He was first spotted in the early 1980’s and was declared a National Treasure by the Government in 1989.  The water surrounding these islands is spectacular, we are so fortunate to be able to live in a country where we can enjoy such a healthy lifestyle.

What are the common modes of transportation there? Drive cars or hire a taxi.

Tell us about the foods your area is known for. The food in TCI is strongly influenced by several cultures including African, Jamaican, Bahamian, Spanish and Lucayan. Traditional dishes such as Boiled Fish and Grits, Johnny Cake, Conch fritters, Hominy and Crab, Jerk Chicken or Fish, Peas and Rice are all extremely popular. Fishing is a large industry here as well. We do like spicy food and eat a lot of fresh fish and lobster.  If you are a foodie, you would love our restaurants as we have some of the best chefs in the world living right here in our backyard.

What is your favourite meal, at home or at a restaurant? At a restaurant or at home, both are great.  My favorite is Conch (pronounced KONK), it’s fished locally.  Anything with conch is delicious, conch salad is my favorite and so healthy!  It is made from conch (diced), green and red pepper, sweet onion, Habanero pepper, fresh squeezed orange and lime juice, salt and pepper.  It can also be enjoyed as conch fritters, cracked conch, stewed conch, jerk conch but the best is a fresh conch salad!

Where do you recommend someone vacation in your region and why? If you are coming to TCI for the first time, then a vacation in Providenciales would most likely be your first choice.  The hotels are amazing, the restaurants superb, and the beaches stretch for miles.  The best part is getting out on the water.  Deep sea fishing, boating, kitesurfing, snorkel excursions, scuba diving, kayaking through the mangroves – there is so much to see and do.  Providenciales is the most developed island and home to luxury beachfront condos, estates and villas.  North and Middle Caicos are a short 20-minute ferry ride from Providenciales.  Not as much development as Providenciales and a slower-paced lifestyle.  On North and Middle Caicos, the beaches are spectacular, and you often find you have them all to yourself.  Salt Cay, known as The Island That Time Forgot, is a special island in TCI.  It’s 2.6 square miles, the smallest island in the TCI and oh-so-quiet and peaceful. Hundreds of years ago, we had a thriving salt industry that was based on South Caicos, Grand Turk and Salt Cay.  Salt Cay is a very popular “whale-watching” destination from January until late March each year as the whales pass through the Turks Island Passage. Salt Cay is like traveling back in time with the older style traditional Caribbean homes painted in bright colors with pretty wood shutters.  A leisurely bike ride around the island, a visit with the donkeys and an afternoon siesta in a hammock would be the perfect day. Salt Cay is one of the quietest places I have ever been to, just the sound of the ocean waves and a light breeze.  The permanent resident population in Salt Cay is about 65 people.

What is your favourite recreational or leisure time activity?  Watersports are huge in TCI and if you like sandy beaches and ocean-based sports this is your place! Kiteboarding is also a favorite activity..  The beach at Long Bay (South-East side of the island) is a perfect location for kiteboarding, windsurfing and jet-skiing as it’s a shallow crescent shaped bay that has an almost constant breeze.  We spend a lot of time jet-skiing around Provo or taking the skis over to the other small islands like Pine Cay, Fort George, Dellis Cay and even as far as North Caicos.  To see the islands from the water is special for us.

Is there a specialty your area is known for? We have a very special event at the end of every year, and it’s called Maskanoo.  On December 26th each year we have a street festival celebration along the Regent Village area in Grace Bay.  The roads in the area are closed and everyone comes out to eat, shop, listen to music, dance, and celebrate. It’s one of TCIs’ biggest cultural events of the year sponsored by the T&C Hotel Association. The parade is amazing and if you are visiting us during late December do mark that date on your calendar.

Share a little known but interesting fact about the area/region: By total landmass, the Turks & Caicos Islands is one of the world’s smallest countries.  Most development in the country has taken place over the last 40 years. T&C is a Tax Neutral Jurisdiction and has an attractive tax environment. TCI has no property tax, no income tax, and no capital gains tax. No restrictions on foreign individuals owning property here, either.  The development here is low-density, there are no large buildings or towers allowed.  We enjoy the quiet relaxed pace of island life.

If you were to live in any other region where we have a Coldwell Banker presence, where would it be and why? I love it here, we live a very sporty lifestyle, always outside at the beach or in the ocean exploring the marine life.  I’ve travelled to many continents, countries and places in my lifetime, but I’ve never seen anything as special as Turks & Caicos.  We are blessed to live here. 

Territory Summary:

Turks & Caicos is a British Overseas Territory (UK).  We are located 575 miles south-east of Miami Florida.  Our Lat/Long position is 21.6940 degrees N, 71.7979 degrees W.  We are an archipelago of 40 low-lying coral islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The Turks & Caicos Islands are surrounded by 340 miles of barrier reefs.  Our reef is the third largest barrier reef in the world.  There are eight main islands comprised of two sets, the Turks Islands (Grand Turk and Salt Cay) and the Caicos Islands (West Caicos, Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, and South Caicos). The Columbus Passage (also known as Turks Island Passage) separates the two sets of islands. The passage is 7,000 feet deep and 20 miles wide. There are three inhabited private Cays in the Turks & Caicos – Ambergris Cay, Parrot Cay, and Pine Cay. East Caicos and West Caicos are both undeveloped islands. Tourism, Financial Services and Fishing are the primary industries. Very strong tourism industry with hotels and resorts or vacation villa rentals.  Low lying islands south-east of Miami Florida; east of the Bahamas and north of the Dominican Republic.

Key Facts:

• Population: 47,700
• Language(s) Spoken: English, Spanish, French and Creole
• Climate: Tropical
• Currency: USD

Industry Facts:

• Types of Architecture: British Bermudian Colonial and Modern Caribbean Contemporary
• Average Sale price: Average Sales Price $1.5 Million USD;
• Average Home Sales Price $3.8 Million USD (residential detached single family)
• Average years in house/apt: 15 years
• Types of Financing: Traditional Bank Mortgage; Private Bank Financing; Pre-Construction Staged payments during construction with balloon payment at completion.

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