Speaking to -
Friendship & investing
Who are the people bringing Baia Vista to life? In this interview series, we talk to the people behind the project: from buyers and investors to designers, builders and others involved. Each with their own story, a unique vision and a special bond with Curaçao.
Be inspired by their motivations, dreams and experiences - and discover how they are building something beautiful together on this sunny island.
Interview with buyers Ernst & Mitchell
Friends Ernst and Mitchell have shared a close friendship for more than a decade - and, in recent years, a growing shared ambition. What began as shared interest in business and real estate now culminates in a joint investment in Curaçao: their own place under the sun at Baia Vista.
For both of them, real estate has played a role for a long time. Ernst knew at a young age that he wanted to go in this direction and has now been active in commercial real estate for many years. Mitchell built his career in insurance and mortgages and is also involved in a real estate agency. That combination of knowledge and ambition ensured that their conversations increasingly turned to investing, future plans and opportunities.
Why Curaçao?
“When you think of Curaçao, you think of sun, freedom and relaxation,” says Mitchell. “It is an island where the weather is almost always good, where there is a lot to do, but where you can also simply enjoy yourself - on the beach, at a beach club or on the water.”
The desire to build their own property portfolio had been there for some time. Initially, they looked at investing in the Netherlands, but changing laws and regulations and increasing competition made it increasingly difficult for private investors to actually take that step.
When did Baia Vista come into the picture?
Through a close acquaintance of Mitchell, who was in Curaçao at the time, they came across Baia Vista. “We were forwarded the brochure and as you scroll through it, you immediately see: this is something special,” Ernst says. “Spacious flats, good facilities such as a swimming pool and communal areas - it just made sense.”
Still, they were cautious at first. Curaçao is not around the corner and, to be fair, Ernst had never even been to the island before the purchase. “That only came later,” he laughs. “But fortunately: nothing disappointed. On the contrary.”
Wat finally gave the deciding factor?
After extensive research, discussions with residents on the island and having the financial picture calculated, it became more and more concrete. “The combination of a first serious investment, the possibility of local financing as well as the feeling for the project was the deciding factor,” says Mitchell.
The flat will mainly be used for rental, but also for personal use. “It's the ideal mix for us,” Ernst explains. “An investment for the future, but also a cottage under the sun where we want to stay ourselves with regularity.”
“We looked at several developments on Curaçao,” Mitchell explains. “Areas like Jan Thiel and Blue Bay are beautiful, but often not financially feasible. What makes Baia Vista unique is that you are part of a new area development from the start. You see it emerge, grow into it - and hopefully that translates into long-term value.”
Hoe are you looking to the future?
After completion, they plan to spend a few weeks on the island first. “To enjoy, but also to really land,” Mitchell adds. “That moment when you get the keys... that seems very special to us.”
Read more from this series:
🔹 The word - Two sisters, one dream
About how two sisters and their partners with a shared love for Curaçao and a strong entrepreneurial heart are now realising their third home on the island - this time inside Baia Vista.
🔹 The word - The architect
On how architect Cees den Heijer designed Baia Vista as a living environment that blends into the landscape: with natural cooling, plenty of space, and a vision in which every day feels like a holiday.
🔹 The word - Sani Kitchen Projects
On how Michael Grootjans of Sani Kitchen Projects and his team ensure high-quality kitchens, bathrooms and tiles at Baia Vista - with an eye for quality, sustainability and natural luxury in a tropical climate.
🔹 The word - Closer to the family
About how, after years of holidays in Curaçao, Jan & Elly finally decided to invest in a home on the island - not only because of the sun and tranquillity, but mainly to be closer to their daughter, son-in-law and grandson.
🔹 On the floor - STERKin, financing partner
On how Mark Sauerbreij, founder of STERKin, guides buyers of Baia Vista in financing real estate on Curaçao so that a dream home on the island can also be realised financially.
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