The Real Estate Association of St. Maarten (RAM) and SHTA have confirmed a partnership agreement which will allow for a supportive working relationship on areas of common interest. Both entities will remain completely independent bodies, but the boards of both associations have agreed to work closely together and meet on a regular basis.
The suggestion for both associations to work closely together occurred when Marc Van Der Bilt board member of SHTA and Project Director of Indigo Bay became a member of the Real Estate Association of St. Maarten (RAM). A relatively new association RAM has a membership base of approximately 20 local real estate companies with a goal of reaching 50 members by the end of the year.
"Earlier this year when we were in brainstorming sessions for creating RAM, we made several references to SHTA as an example of how much a well run association can accomplish within the community. To be working closely with them, I believe we will save a few years worth of hurdles in terms of gaining recognition and credibility. They will help us get a better understanding of the overall economy, and we will be able to share valuable information with the SHTA about the local real estate industry, which is one of the most important pillars of our economy. From a tourism perspective its important to note that a foreigner who owns a vacation home here contributes far more to our GDP then any hotel guest or cruise passenger, its important we value this industry and make sure the agents they come in contact with operate ethically and professionaly. Working closely with SHTA I think we will be able to accomplish a lot and their guidance will be helpful for us to grow as an association. We still have a lot to do, but I believe this is a big step forward," said Arun Jagtiani, Chairman of RAM.