The Bermuda cedar tree, renowned for its distinctive appearance and historical significance, is arguably Bermuda’s most beloved endemic plant and has played a critical role in the development of the island, but it is by no means our only endemic plant. 

Our island is composed of a wide range of natural habitats considering it is only 54 square kilometers in size, and our ancestors walked daily through coastal forests, meadows and wetlands populated with a unique mixture of endemic plants including Palmetto, Darrell’s Fleabane, Yellow Wood, Royal Fern, Turkey Berry and St. Andrew’s Cross. 

Despite their importance as the foundation of our eco-system however, several of these original inhabitants are now rarely sighted due to human development and encroachment from imported invasive plants such as Casuarina and Brazil Pepper. 

Even worse, some of these plants are now so rare that the few remaining specimens are in danger of being uprooted by well-intentioned homeowners who don’t know what they are, or don’t recognize their importance to the landscape around their house. 

IDENTIFYING AND PROTECTING ENDEMIC PLANTS 

The Bermuda Plant Finder – An illustrated guide for Bermuda’s Indigenous and Invasive Plants which was developed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, contains color photos and a lot of helpful information regarding which plants will most likely thrive in the diverse variety of soil and weather conditions that are found around the island. 

“These rare plants are listed just like old Bermuda houses,” says endemic plant specialist Robin Marirea. “Before you start cutting back old bushes on your property it’s a great idea to look them up in The Bermuda Plant Finder, to identify exactly what they are, because there are certain ones (like cedar trees) which you are not supposed to cut down,” he explained. 

It goes without saying that it is important to ensure that you have correctly identified each of your plants to ensure that it really is an endemic species because it can be confusing to distinguish between endemic and naturalized (non-native) plants. 

This is particularly true when it comes to cedar trees as there are currently several species of ornamental Juniper in Bermuda that are often confused with the Bermuda Cedar because they are particularly similar in appearance. 

According to the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources only about 5% of the original Bermuda cedar population survived the juniper scale insect attack that occurred between 1946 and 1953, meaning that these particular plants are resistant to scale. 

In consequence, growing cedars from the berries of these same trees (or their descendants) will ensure that your seedlings will also be resistant to the scale and develop a strong tab root (deep root system) that will help them withstand hurricanes. 

While it is possible to clone cedar trees from tip cuttings, Mr. Marirea cautions that this form of propagation tends to produce plants with a much shallower root system which makes them vulnerable to the ravages of high winds. 

DECIDING WHICH SPECIES WILL THRIVE ON YOUR PROPERTY 

Ms. Lisa Green, Co-Author of A Practical Guide to Garden Management in Bermuda, recommends taking a drive around your own neighbourhood to see what is growing well in your area of the island and then checking with commercial nurseries and private growers to see what is available. 

Asking friends and neighbours for permission to take cuttings or gather seeds is another way to introduce endemic plants to your garden that are likely to thrive, provided you have the time and the patience to propagate them yourself. 

As tempting as it might be, however, it is important to resist the urge to tamper with or remove plants in our National Parks, Nature Reserves and Micro-Forests as these are all resting on protected land. 

GROWING ENDEMIC PLANTS TO SHARE 

“The local nurseries do stock some of the more common endemic plants,” says Ms. Green. “But the nurseries just can’t keep up with the demand – we really need more individuals who have space to propagate endemic plants on an individual basis.” 

“Even if you already have all the plants that you need for your own landscaping, growing these plants as a pastime and sharing them with friends or donating them to the National Trust’s Annual Plant Sale is a great way to help ensure that these species will survive by making them more accessible locally,” she explained. 

Church sales, House Sales and even Emoo and Facebook Marketplace are also great places to keep your eyes peeled for endemic plants that people have grown at home. 

PROPAGATION TIPS 

“The key thing to understand is that you can’t just plant one endemic plant (or source all of your cuttings from one plant) and expect it to thrive,” cautions Mr. Marirea. “Ideally these plants need to be planted in clusters of 6-8 because some species generate both male and female plants, and you need both to be present in order for them to flourish.” 

Additionally, it’s important to understand that some endemic species have a longer lifespan than others and you will need a garden management plan just as you would for any landscape project – a Bermuda Olivewood tree, for example, which can grow to a height of 25 feet will last lifetime, while a St. Andrew’s Cross shrub, which seldom grows more than 18 inches high, has a much shorter lifespan. 

Resources: The Bermuda Garden Club has published three comprehensive books on gardening in Bermuda which turn up regularly at The Barn and Jumble Sales. 

A Practical Guide to Garden Management in Bermuda, can be obtained free of charge at Waterville and the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo – contains both information regarding how to rid your garden of invasive plants as well as tips for replanting with endemic species. 

The Plant Finder Guide contains lots of helpful information regarding the best method and time of year to propagate each species http://www.gov.bm/sites/ default/files/plantfinder-april-2016.pdf . 

The post Landscaping with Endemic Plants appeared first on RG Magazines.

Due to Bermuda’s small size and limited number of dwellings, you might be tempted to think that any property on the island would sell easily but even when the market is “hot” nothing could be further from the truth. 

A home’s location, condition, pricing, seller’s attitude and even the behavior of existing tenants can all influence the amount of time that it takes to attract and secure a qualified buyer. 

I sat down with two of Bermuda’s most experienced realtors, Cesa Edwards of Bermuda Longtail Real Estate Ltd. and Judy Maybury of JBM Realty & Associates, to get their insights regarding some of the most common reasons that homes sit on the market and how to make these properties more appealing to potential purchasers. 

How has the Internet impacted Home Sales in Bermuda? 

Thanks to the internet, both ladies agree that today’s purchasers are savvier than ever before. 

Gone are the days when the only way to gather any accurate information on a property was to make an appointment to view it in person. Potential purchasers can now tour the inside of a home from the end of a laptop and sellers need to ensure that their virtual listing contains high quality images that accurately depict the features of a property as well as a detailed written description. 

Failing to create a compelling online listing can dissuade potential purchasers from ever going to see a property – costing the seller both time and money. 

How Does the Asking Price Influence the Likelihood that a Property Will Sell? 

An overpriced home, no matter how appealing, will struggle to attract buyers. 

These days even cash buyers will usually pay for an appraisal to determine a property’s fair market value and listing a home with an inflated asking price can cause a deal to fall through – either because the purchaser walked away, or because the bank refused to mortgage a property for more than it was actually worth. 

“Everywhere in the world real estate is all about price,” says Mrs. Maybury. “It is critical to price a house in alignment with the current market conditions and comparable sales.” 

Mrs. Edwards agrees. “It might be tempting to put a high listing price on a property to see what happens, but sellers need to ask themselves if they would ever agree to purchase that property at the price and terms they are asking for,” she said. 

“Not only does an unrealistic asking price increase the amount of time it takes to secure a sale, but a subsequent price reduction can actually make some buyers suspicious that there is something wrong with the property,” Mrs. Maybury said. 

OTHER COMMON REASONS THAT HOMES DO NOT SELL 

There are lots of reasons that a home can be challenging to sell including the density of the neighbourhood, proximity to a major road, exposure during hurricanes, privacy and safety concerns, distance from Hamilton and proximity of amenities such as grocery stores and transportation. 

While these location related challenges are not things that you can really change about a property that you are selling – there are many other fixable issues that can make a property less desirable if not addressed. 

Minor flaws and peeling paint can make a big difference in how a property is perceived and they need to be remedied before a home is put on the market. 

Even small issues such as mildew and clutter can be very off-putting to a buyer who is seeking a “move-in ready” property. 

“Home staging is not necessary in every situation,” says Mrs. Edwards, “but ensuring that a property is clean and free of too many personal possessions can make it easier for a purchaser to visualize themselves living there.” 

“Especially if a property is vacant, it is very important to cut the grass and maintain the landscaping – both to make a property feel welcoming and to make it easier for potential buyers and their agents to gain access to the property,” says Mrs. Maybury. 

How Important is the Marketing Strategy? 

Effective marketing can make all the difference in selling a challenging property. 

“In Bermuda we are experiencing a seller’s market in some price ranges, but we also have a buyer’s market in certain other price ranges and situations,” says Mrs. Maybury. 

Both women agreed that it is important to make sure that your marketing is directed toward the right audience because what one person might consider a challenge, might well be a desired feature for the right buyer. While city living, for example, might be off-putting to some people due to noise or congestion, it might be the ideal lifestyle for a young professional who wants to walk to work and enjoys eating out. 

How Important is it to Choose the Right Realtor? 

Particularly if you are selling a challenging property, you need to make sure that you are working with an experienced realtor who has a good business reputation with colleagues, banks, lawyers, and property surveyors alike. 

Tactfulness and professionalism are also essential. 

“Every real estate transaction is like a marriage – in order for things to work, neither party can feel compromised, neglected or disrespected,” says Mrs. Edwards. “Both parties need to leave the table feeling satisfied in order for the sale to go through and this is particularly true when you are selling a challenging property.” 

Selling a challenging property requires a strategic approach that considers all the factors influencing the sale. 

By thoroughly evaluating the property, setting a realistic price, creating a strategic marketing plan, and effectively networking with other real estate professionals, even the most “unsellable” homes can find the right buyer and transition from sitting on the market to sold. 

The post Selling the Unsellables appeared first on RG Magazines.

Whether you are contemplating renovating a single room or the entire house, homeowners always face the same problem – how do you find, hire and co-ordinate the comings and goings of the multiple tradespeople required to get the job done? 

I met with Stephen Mayor of The Maintenance Co. to get some advice for ensuring that your next home repair or renovation project runs smoothly. 

What Does a General Contractor Do? 

A general contractor is responsible for overseeing and managing construction or home renovation projects from start to finish. They act as the primary point of contact between the homeowner and the workers, ensuring that all work is performed correctly, on time, and in compliance with safety regulations and building codes. They also provide the homeowner with updates on the project’s progress, address concerns, and communicate any necessary changes. 

“In Bermuda at the moment we mostly have large construction companies and individual tradespeople who are very specialized such as plumbers or electricians,” says Mr. Mayor. “That’s fine if you want to under-take a large scale project like building a brand new house or just make one small repair, but the moment you try to fix two or three things at the same time it starts to get tricky.” 

“We fill the gap with a one-stop-shop dedicated maintenance and handyman service that takes the guess work out of finding, hiring and scheduling all of the various people required to complete a small to medium sized home repair or upgrade.” 

“We prepare a detailed cost estimate, including materials, labor, equipment, and other expenses. We also monitor the budget throughout the project which means you only have one bill to pay rather than having to deal with multiple vendors and payment schedules,” he said. 

Managing diverse specialists independently can quickly become overwhelming, leading to missed deadlines, costly mistakes, and unnecessary stress. 

As in the rest of the world, in Bermuda there is currently a shortage of properly trained tradespeople. Those with skills and experience are in high demand and often expensive or difficult to schedule for a small job. 

“Because our company has forty years of experience in the building industry, we have long established relationships with a wide variety of specialist tradespeople – we literally know which particular plumber would be best suited for each individual job – and we take care of ensuing that they are on hand precisely when they are needed,” Mr. Mayor explained. 

“In a typical home remodel, for example, you might need new wiring, plumbing, flooring, painting and air conditioning work to be done. We get hold of each trade and line them up in the right order, for the right amount of time,” he said. 

“If you don’t do this correctly you can run into delays in completing the work, and delays are the number one reason that projects run over budget,” he explained. 

Is it a Good Idea to Cut Corners by Doing Some of the Work Yourself? 

Thanks to the wonders of YouTube, many homeowners might be tempted to think that they can do the demolition part of a renovation job themselves. But is this a wise idea if you are not an experienced handyman? 

“Taking down a wall might seem as easy as swinging a sledgehammer but is the homeowner going to be prepared for what they find inside the wall?” Mr. Mayor asked. “In Bermuda you might suddenly find yourself looking at wiring issues, dampness, mould, or even termites and discover that the job was much more involved than you initially anticipated.” 

What Should You Do If You Decide Go it Alone and Start Running into Problems? 

“Ideally you would start by letting an expert who has comprehensive knowledge and is trained to consider all the possibilities provide a free quote so that you know exactly what you are getting yourself into before you start,” he said. “But if you have already embarked on some work and you are feeling truly overwhelmed it’s really never too late to bring in a general contractor to sort things out.” 

What is Your Key Piece of Advice for Anyone Who is Planning Home Repairs or Renovations? 

The key to delivering any home repair or renovation project on time and on budget is always going to be to start with proper project planning and project management. 

“You really need to start by figuring out what you want to do and then make your plans based on what you can afford – otherwise you really do run the risk of getting midway through a project and discovering that you cannot afford to finish ,” advises Mr. Mayor. 

“Even though it costs money at the front end, you can save yourself money (and a lot of headaches) in the long run by getting proper plans from an architect or a designer because then you have all of the correct specifications for the job,” he said. 

Although tackling home repairs or renovations can seem like a daunting task, enlisting the help of a general contractor like The Maintenance Co., can simplify the process, ensuring their projects are completed on time and within budget. With their expert knowledge, established relationships with skilled tradespeople, and a commitment to seamless project management, a general contractor provides a one-stop solution to keeping your renovation journey smooth and stress-free so that you can focus on enjoying your home. 

For further information visit www. maintenance.bm or call 543-5000. 

The post Why Hire a Contractor? appeared first on RG Magazines.

I sat down with executive coach and founder of Olive Branch Consulting, Dr Crystal Clay, to get some simple tips to help students demystify and prepare for the internship interview process. 

If you have never interviewed for a position before, where do you start?

“The first thing you have to do is ‘reframe’ your own thinking regarding what your qualifications are,” began Dr Clay. “Think about your own life experiences and how you have been spending your time – have you been involved in team sports, or worked on a group project, or done any volunteer work?

“In each instance, think about what your role was in the activity and what technical skills or life skills you acquired as a result of your involvement. Then think about how you would tailor your answers to interview questions to highlight how your background fits the requirements of the internship you are applying for.”

How do you research a company offering an internship?

These days you can glean a lot of useful information by visiting the “About Us” section of a company’s corporate website and social media pages, “but don’t stop there,” said Dr. Clay. “Keep in mind that this internship might ultimately lead to a job offer, so try to talk to someone who works at the company and find out what the company’s track record is for training talent and what their corporate culture is like.

“It’s important to understand the company’s mission, vision and values, and ask yourself how these align with your own personal values and whether this is a company you would want to work for long-term.”

How do you demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for a position during an interview?

“The best thing you can do is display a high level of engagement from the moment you walk through the front door,” said Dr Clay. “Smile and make eye contact with everyone you meet, particularly when you are sitting in the reception area waiting for your appointment to start.

“Always shake hands firmly and be ready to ask questions that demonstrate you understand what the company does, the role being offered, and opportunities for learning while you are taking part in the internship programme.”

What should you wear to the interview?

“To some extent this depends on the industry, company culture, and the type of job that you are applying for,” she said. “If you are applying to a law firm, for example, they will most likely expect you to dress in conservative business attire, while a creative firm, such as an advertising agency, might be ok with a business casual outfit.

“If in doubt, it is always better to overdress rather than underdress,” she cautioned.

What should you bring to the interview?

You should always bring copies of your resume, copies of your references, a copy of the job description including the exact date, time, and street address of the interview, a notepad and pen for taking notes (another great way to subtly convey your sincere interest in the position) and a portfolio with samples of work, if this is a requirement of the position that you are applying for.

What should you never bring to an interview?

“Never bring extra people – especially your parents,” said Dr Clay. “It is perfectly fine for someone to give you a lift to the meeting, but that person should never come inside the building.”

“Also – and I cannot stress this enough – you need to take a good hard look at all of your social media profiles and ask yourself whether your profiles are consistent and professional. If in doubt, clean up your profiles before you start going for interviews. Employers absolutely do look at the social media presence of everyone they are considering hiring these days.”

Learning to prepare properly for interviews is essential for your future career – take these early opportunities seriously. 

The post Interviewing for Internships appeared first on RG Magazines.

Whether you will be studying on-island or abroad, it’s crucial for students to actively prioritise their mental and physical well-being. I caught up with Lyndon Jackson, acting director of counselling & student activities at the Bermuda College to get his advice regarding setting yourself up to thrive during your college years. 

“College life presents a unique set of challenges that can significantly affect your health and wellness if you are not properly prepared,” he said. “When a student is transitioning to higher education, every aspect of their life is impacted by changes in academic expectations, scheduling, diet, sleep, physical surroundings and social dynamics. 

“Unless you take the time to check in with yourself and develop healthy coping mechanisms, it’s easy for normal life stressors to spiral into anxiety and depression.” 

Are college students taking mental health seriously enough? 

Mr Jackson believes that students are generally experiencing higher levels of anxiety and depression than once was the case, but they may not necessarily be aware that they are struggling: 

“It’s really important to have a conversation regarding how you deal with stress personally and how the decisions you are making are impacting your behaviour,” he said. “In this respect, each person is unique, so the best advice would be to work to understand what stress and anxiety look like for you, and then work to build a support system to help you cope.” 

Are colleges actively working to change the conversation around mental health and to build a culture of support and understanding? 

Mr Jackson said yes: “These days you will typically find a range of resources to support students’ mental health, including counselling services, wellness programmes and peer support groups designed to provide students with the tools they need to thrive during their academic years.” 

What advice would you give to students regarding the use of alcohol or drugs during their college years? 

It goes without saying that each college and each jurisdiction is going to have different regulations regarding the use of these types of substances, and you must not make assumptions regarding what is legal or “acceptable” practice at the institution of higher learning that you are going to be attending. 

“As a student, you need to keep in mind that you have academic, financial and relationship responsibilities to maintain. You need to understand how these types of substances impact you personally and know your limits,” Mr Jackson cautioned. “Never lose sight of the fact that there can be serious consequences for your actions, and you need to carefully consider whether your behaviour is safe and sensible.” 

WELLNESS TIPS FOR COLLEGE-BOUND STUDENTS 

“Perhaps the best thing you can do to support your wellness is to consider what sort of campus environment would suit you best, before you even apply to college,” he advised. “It’s a good idea to think about what sort of person you are and whether you would do better on a small campus or whether you would prefer to be at a large university in a big city.” 

It is also essential to understand that the transition to college life is just that, a transition. Familiarise yourself in advance with the various types of resources that are available to support your mental, physical, emotional, nutritional, spiritual, social and financial health. 

By taking the time to do a little research and making the most of the opportunity to get to know yourself and your personal value system, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the health and wellness challenges they may encounter in college, along with effective strategies for addressing them. 

Embracing mental wellness is not just about surviving college and avoiding burnout; it’s about thriving and making the most of this transformative period. 

The post From Stress to Success appeared first on RG Magazines.

Since the end of WWII, however, increasing contact with the world at large and adoption of associated consumerism have brought us to the point where we are much more “disconnected” from the natural world – in short, we have lost sight of the consequences that our actions and choices are having on our island home. 

And yet, Bermuda remains a closed eco-system which paradoxically means that we are also uniquely positioned to re-develop a truly sustainable and self-sufficient agricultural ecosystem rooted in the principles of permaculture. 

I sat down with Mr. Eugene Dean, the Founder of Greenrock and Agricultural Engineer Mr. Malachi Symonds to gain a better understanding of some of the opportunities and challenges we are currently facing. 

WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY? 

“Sustainability is the art of closing circles,” says Mr. Malachi Symonds. “For example, if a chicken eats plant material, and then subsequently produces waste that is used to fertilize the soil, which in turn produces more plant material for the chicken to eat – that is a closed circle which is sustainable.” 

How much do you feel the average island resident really understands about sustainability? 

“The way we have been living for the last 50 years has taken us away from the concept of living in harmony with nature,” says Mr. Eugene Dean. “You know the world is completely upside down when natural processes are being referred to as ‘alternative’”. 

“Right now, the focus is largely working to buy stuff, as opposed to creating what you need for yourself from what you have around you,” he said. 

WHAT IS PERMACULTURE? 

According to Google, permaculture can be defined as a design philosophy which incorporates principles from ecology, landscape design, and environmental science, to create a farming system that harmonizes (or mimics) natural processes. 

If you plant a berry from a cedar tree and subsequently grow a tree the same size as the initial tree that the berry came from within your lifetime, then you have utilized the principles of permaculture to achieve sustainability. 

How does the philosophy of “working with, rather than against, nature” manifest in practical permaculture practices? 

Successful permaculture utilizes the principles of observation to gradually create a farm that is its own eco-system. “You essentially embark on a learning journey whereby you watch to see how your farm responds naturally and make adjustments based on what you learn,” Mr. Symonds explained. 

How does permaculture differ from traditional commercial farming? 

Unlike traditional farming, which typically utilizes chemical fertilizer and pesticides which are harmful to the environment, and the practice of monoculture (planting only one crop per field), permaculture which utilizes “interplanting” of crops positively enhances soil fertility, water conservation, and ultimately reduces waste. 

“It not only encourages people to reconnect with the land and food production, but it also challenges you to come up with ways to utilize everything you have access to instead of throwing it away,” he said. “Rather than throwing unused food away, for example, you would turn it into compost which nourishes the soil or turn your vegetable scraps into soup stock.” 

How does interplanting crops help mitigate issues like soil erosion and nutrient depletion in Bermuda? 

In Bermuda’s unique climatic and soil conditions mixing several different types of crops together in the same field at the same time mitigates soil erosion and nutrient depletion. This technique helps by providing continuous vegetation cover to the soil (which helps retain moisture) and also allows taller crops to provide both partial shade and to act as a windbreak to small plants. 

The decomposition of intercropped plants also returns essential organic matter to the soil which ultimately enhances soil structure and fertility. 

How might permaculture contribute to building a more self-reliant and resilient society in Bermuda? 

“When you have development without consciousness it leads to social and environmental degradation,” says Mr. Dean. “But when we are conscious and thoughtful we are in harmony and the principles of permaculture actually nurture economic stability because they reduce (if not eliminate) waste because they prioritize utilizing renewable resources and maximizing efficiency”. 

“The challenge is that people need to see working examples to understand how they can do this themselves,” says Mr. Symonds. “Right now, the perception is that it is very expensive and time consuming to start an organic vegetable garden because we have been conditioned to believe that we have to purchase all of the supplies from a store – but this doesn’t have to be the case if you employ a few basic techniques and a little creativity.” 

THE FUTURE OF FARMING 

Overall, permaculture offers a holistic approach to farming that aims to create sustainable, self-sufficient, and resilient agricultural systems, contrasting with the depleting and resource-intensive nature of traditional farming. 

Although a move toward permaculture will require farmers and government departments to work together to design and implement updated policies that protect Bermuda’s natural resources and the wellbeing of its people, it is a task worth undertaking. 

As Bermuda faces the pressing need to reconnect with sustainable agricultural practices, permaculture offers a promising path forward. By fostering a deep understanding of natural processes and emphasizing resource efficiency, permaculture not only addresses critical issues like soil erosion and nutrient depletion but also promotes a self-reliant and resilient society. 

The post Reinventing Sustainability in Bermuda appeared first on RG Magazines.

But what exactly is this, and is this a viable means of increasing your water supply for individual homeowners? I met with Hamish Burns, Managing Director of Atlantic Water Development Ltd., to get answers to these and other basic questions. 

What is Reverse Osmosis? 

According to Mr. Burns, reverse osmosis is a method used to desalinate seawater, converting it into fresh, potable water. The process involves using a pump to force seawater molecules through a semi-permeable membrane that filters out salt and other impurities, and then separates the resulting clean water from the remaining more concentrated brine. 

The fresh water is then directed to a holding tank (usually your household water tank) and the salty brine is discharged in such a way that it cannot re-enter the water table in accordance with Bermuda government environmental standards. 

Is Reverse Osmosis a practical means to supplement the water supply of an individual homeowner? 

Although RO plants have been utilized by the government, hotels and businesses around the island for some time, home RO plants have been less common until recently. 

“There are now a variety of smaller RO units available that are capable of producing about 1800 gallons (or the equivalents of two truckloads of water) in a 24 hours,” says Mr. Burns. “The newest models are now also equipped with an energy recovery device that helps to reduce the energy consumption (and the operating cost) of the unit.” 

“While this might be more water than some people need, if you have a historic home with a very small water tank, an irrigation system, or an infinity pool that constantly needs topping up, installing an RO plant could simplify your life considerably,” he said. 

What do you need to have in place to install an RO plant? 

“According to the latest government survey there are currently 3142 private wells on the island but some of these have collapsed,” he said. “So, unless you happen to already have a viable well on your property, the first step would be to drill a well and fit it with a PVC sleeve,” he explained. 

“We would then install the RO plant, connect up the water lines, and then test the entire system to make sure that the fresh water being produced is clean and free from any contaminants.” 

How do you maintain an RO plant? 

These days an RO plant is equipped with a salinity sensor to ensure that the system is producing good quality water, and it will immediately divert water away from the freshwater tank if the membrane fails for any reason. Mr. Burns also recommends running the system at least once a month as well as testing the quality of the water manually with a meter. There are also monthly and seasonal maintenance contracts available. 

With the introduction of smaller, home-friendly RO units, and proper maintenance protocols, individual homeowners can now more feasibly integrate this system into their daily lives. Whether it’s for managing the demands of a historic home, maintaining an irrigation system, or keeping an infinity pool topped up, reverse osmosis stands out as a practical option to ensure a steady supply of clean water on the island. 

For more information, please visit https://www.atlanticwaterdevelopment.com. 

The post From Sea to Tap appeared first on RG Magazines.

As with any major life decision, it’s essential to consider whether a condo lifestyle aligns with your personal needs and preferences. I met with Broker / Agent Sharon Cranfield of Cranfields Property Bermuda to get her perspective regarding the potential pros and cons of owning and living in a condominium. 

What are the basic differences between living in a condo and a single-family home in Bermuda? 

As with any home purchase, when evaluating a condo development, you need to consider the features and amenities that you require such as the size of the unit, parking, storage, security measures, pet ownership, and proximity to schools and grocery stores. 

“The biggest differences all relate to rules,” says Ms. Cranfield. 

When you own a private house, you make all the decisions regarding maintenance and use of property yourself, but a condominium development is governed by a member body that establishes the rules that everyone must abide by. 

“The rules are meant to lay out ‘how’ the occupants of the condominium should treat each other, but some people find this restrictive,” she explained. “Typically, there are rules governing pet ownership, the parking of cars, additions and alterations, use of outdoor space and the ability to garden.” 

What types of amenities are available in Bermuda condo developments? 

Depending on the size and price-point of the development, the range of available amenities includes onsite parking, landscaped gardens, storage units, security, swimming pools, beach access, fitness center, tennis courts, common room, and children’s play area. 

What is the difference between a Freehold Condominium and a Leasehold Condominium? 

Freehold Ownership Under the Condominium Act (e.g. Rockaway): Each unit in the development becomes real property vested in the development and it represents 1 share and can be rented or sold. There is a board of directors made up of owners. Owners may sit on the board and vote at AGM, they will also be expected to abide by the rules and regulations. 

Source – www.propertyskipper.com 

Leasehold Ownership Under the Condominium Act (e.g. Mizzentop): The right to live in the condominium unit for a period of time is purchased with a shared interest in the grounds and amenities around it. A condo maintenance fee is paid monthly, and alterations are limited in accordance with the head lease as well as other restrictions imposed by the landlord/ owners committee. You will have some input on the condo rules and regulations if you are a member of the Board with voting rights at the AGM. 

Source – www.propertyskipper.com 

What things are typically included in condo fees in Bermuda? 

“Condo fees typically include things like registration of the condo corporation with the Registrar of Companies each year, property insurance, property management (either by a professional management service or by a caretaker), maintenance of exterior of buildings, maintenance of the pool and landscaping of the grounds, lighting of the common areas, as well as paving of driveways and common areas,” says Ms. Cranfield. “It’s important to read all of your condo documents carefully because every development is somewhat different,” she advised. 

What is typically excluded from condo fees? 

Regardless of the size or location of your unit, condo fees do not typically cover internal repairs (such as a blocked kitchen drain), replacement of windows and shutters, personal property insurance, upgrades to aging infrastructure, or unanticipated events that have cost implications. 

“If the water heater in your unit bursts and causes damage to the unit below, you would need to make a personal insurance claim as this would not be covered by the property insurance for the development,” she explained. 

What is a condo levy? 

“A condo levy is additional fees that condo owners must pay to cover expenses, repairs, or upgrades that are not covered by the regular condo/ maintenance fees (such as replacing an elevator),” says Ms. Cranfield. 

“In each instance a cost analysis of the job in question is made and an assessment of shared costs is levied on each dwelling unit,” she said. “However, these levies can be apportioned equally on a per unit basis, or based on a mathematical formula that relates to the number of bedrooms that a unit contains.” 

What are some of the typical restrictions regarding pet ownership, renting out the unit, or making modifications etc.? 

Always ensure that you ask to see all of the rules and regulations before purchasing a condo to ensure that they will work with your lifestyle as these can vary significantly from one development to the next. Some developments, for example, have restrictions regarding the type, size and number of pets that can reside with you, while others restrict whether you can rent your unit as an Airbnb, put plant pots on the balcony, or even have a care-worker living with you in your unit. 

What are some of the “red flags” that a purchaser should be on the lookout for when considering purchasing a condo unit? 

“This is yet another reason why it is important to read and understand all of the condo documents that you receive when you make your purchase,” says Ms. Cranfield. “A lot of first-time condo purchasers seem to forget that they will need to pay a monthly condo fee in addition to their monthly mortgage payment or that these fees can increase over time.” 

It is also advisable to consider the condition of the development overall. Are the grounds being properly maintained? Are the development books up to date? Is the property manager living on-site, a paid third-party or is the management being organized by a group of resident volunteers? 

“All of these factors can affect your ability to get things repaired, or deal with unruly tenants,” she cautioned. 

For those valuing convenience, amenities, and urban living, condos can be an excellent choice. But it’s important to keep in mind that condo living is just that – a lifestyle and take the time to choose the one that suits you best. 

The post Is Condo Living RIGHT FOR YOU? appeared first on RG Magazines.

Watch now as Host Stephen Cox discusses the importance of being prepared with the right tools for everyday household repairs and DIY projects with “Mr. Fix It” Amoti Nyabongo. Packed with tips and ideas for island life – this video will empower you with the confidence to tackle many little domestic dilemmas.

CLICK TO WATCH THE VIDEO

The post Homekeeping – Having the Right Tool is Everything appeared first on RG Magazines.

But even though the Ministry of Public Works regularly issues bulletins reminding us that, “owners of property adjacent to a road are responsible for trimming back overhanging trees and hedges on their properties to stop vegetation from projecting into the roadways or sidewalks,” pruning foliage is a laborious (and sometimes costly) task that it is tempting to defer as long as possible.

As we are all too aware, however, there’s nothing like a good old-fashioned hurricane to show us where we have been remiss.

But as much as felling a tree may seem like a “one and done” situation, there is a lot that can go wrong if you lack the knowledge or proper tools for the job. I caught up with David McCann, Bermuda’s preeminent tree surgeon and owner of Bermuda Arborist, at his yard in Radnor Estate, to get some savvy advice for would-be lumberjacks.

What is a tree surgeon?

As a custodian of Bermuda’s arboreal heritage, a tree surgeon is charged with nurturing, preserving, and maintaining the island’s living treasures.

“Beyond the basic tasks of pruning and planting, my team and I focus on soil science, fertilization, diagnosing diseases, pest control, and tree removal,” says Mr. McCann. “There’s a lot you need to know to keep trees healthy because each type of tree has its own specific wants and needs when it comes to fertilization and pest control”.

ASSESSING THE HEALTH OF A TREE

Tree cutting requires specific knowledge and skills to ensure it is done safely and effectively. Without proper training, you may not understand how to assess the tree’s condition, determine the direction of fall, or use tools such as chainsaws safely.

“A lot of people don’t realize that most health issues with trees originate in the roots because that is how a tree feeds itself,” Mr. McCann explained.

“The first thing that I always do is assess the health of a tree from a distance to get a sense of the overall state of the canopy and foliage – checking for airflow or included bark (branches that are fused together),” he said. “Then I put my hands on the tree to perform a manual inspection to search for soft softs, cavities, or signs of decay.”

COMMON DISEASES AND PESTS IN BERMUDA

Aphids: Small insects that attack the new growth on roses and citrus trees resulting in distorted leaves and a failure to develop blossoms and fruit.

Ganoderma: A fungus that kills palm trees. It remains in the soil even after the tree has been removed, making it necessary to replace the soil before replanting.

Scale Insects: All species of trees in Bermuda are susceptible to scale insects that feed on trees causing them to excrete a sweet sticky “goo” which ants love. The ants then track this substance all over the tree which in turn leads to the development of black sooty mold causing the overall health of the tree to decline.

MISGUIDED MAINTENANCE ISSUES

The roots of a tree are not meant to be completely buried – as a rule, the trunk is supposed to flair upward from partially exposed roots. “If you mound soil up around the base of the trunk to cover the roots, the moisture in the soil will cause the bark to start to rot,” he cautioned.

“Pruning is also quite a scientific activity because you should only thin out areas that are too congested to give the tree better access to air and light, and you should only cut a branch in a place where the tree can naturally heal itself,” he explained.

“Believe it or not, if you cut the wrong branch, this can lead to the slow decline and death of a tree (and this is particularly true of Bermuda cedar trees). It can also leave a tree susceptible to disease, and in the worst-case scenario it can make the tree more likely to blow over in a storm.”

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

While the allure of wielding a chainsaw may tempt some to attempt tree removal independently, the complexities and risks involved underscore the importance of consulting an expert.

Improper tree-cutting techniques can result in a tree falling in an unintended direction, potentially damaging nearby structures, vehicles, or other property.

“Never forget that mistakes with a chainsaw are permanent and most YouTube videos are incorrect!” says Mr. McCann. “It goes without saying that it’s important to use the proper harness, hard hat, gloves, and eye protection at all times, but it’s equally essential to ensure that you are using the right tool for the situation you are facing.”

“A lot of people might be surprised to know that I have 30 chainsaws – not just one,” he said.

“I can’t tell you how often we get calls from people who have either injured themselves, seriously damaged a tree, or are just too overwhelmed to finish the job,” he said. “Safety is a huge part of tree pruning – both for the welfare of the tree and for the people involved.”

On our hurricane-prone island, neglecting the care of our natural resources can pose significant safety risks. While it’s perfectly fine to trim your own hedges, proper tree care requires a blend of science, skill, and safety best managed by trained professionals.

By following the advice of arborists like Mr. McCann, however, homeowners can ensure their trees continue to thrive, preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of our island for future generations. For advice or a free assessment, contact Bermuda Arborist on Facebook or call 516-0880.

The post Preserving Paradise appeared first on RG Magazines.