The Tribune

Five years after Mario Carey Realty (MCR) first opened its doors in downtown Nassau, the firm is expanding again with plans to open a Long Island office.

“We are thrilled to open our doors to Long Island and take another step in the Family Island market after opening in both Abaco and Bimini,” said MCR founder Mario Carey.

“We are eager to showcase the rustic beauty of the island, a place with so much untapped potential. And because we were able to identify an agent with strong local ties who is respected on the island, but also has visions for its future, we are ready to move forward with the expansion.

“James Fox has been embedded in Long Island real estate for the past eight years, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the growing MCR team.”

Mr Fox first started practicing real estate in 2005, quickly climbing the ranks at another firm, he believes, by recognising potential buyers and those who might some day settle in Long Island.

“Being a son of the soil, I know Long Island from point to point and coast to coast,” said Mr Fox. He is a pastor who assists the Ladies Friendship Club in his spare time, offering rides to persons who need transportation, whether for work or just to collect food packets.

“That community mindset is a perfect match for MCR, where we are strong supporters of civic contributions,” said Mr Carey, who serves as president of R.E.A.C.H., the autism support organisation.

Mr Carey’s family is also from Long Island and, an accomplished diver, he returns as often as possible to dive Dean’s Blue Hole, widely described as the eighth wonder of the world.

“Long Island is full of natural beauty that I think many people have never seen,” said Mr Fox, who believes there are several changes that must occur for the island he calls home to reach its full potential.

Making Long Island a port of entry with Bahamas Customs and Immigration would have a far-reaching impact, he said, making it easier for foreigners to arrive without going through Nassau, Grand Bahama, Exuma or other ports of entry.

He also believes Long Island needs more accommodations.

“The island has beautiful beaches and is largely untouched. What we are lacking is accommodations,” said Mr Fox. “My dream is to sell a 419-acre property next to Dean’s Blue Hole and build a resort there. We just need easy access and more places for people to stay.”