First Bank and Banco Popular, both based in Puerto Rico, with branches throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands, received $400 million and $935 million respectively from the federal government as part of the financial bailout (TARP), according to USA Today. Both banks, along with Scotia Bank (Canadian) have funds to lend for local mortgages. Merchant’s Bank, based on St. Thomas, is also active in the mortgage business. If you are considering purchasing a home, condo, land or commercial property on St. John, financing is available to qualified buyers. In today’s real estate climate there are many good buys available. And our winter daytime temperatures are still in the 80’s!!
