BREAKING NEWS – ROSEMARY SAUTER OF REMAX MAKES OFF WITH MILLIONS?

February 4, 2010

Rosemary Sauter, the owner of Remax Dream Properties on St. Thomas, has cleared her office out and is nowhere to be found according to one of her employees.

There is alleged reports of escrow accounts drained and bounced checks. upwards of millions of dollars have allegedly been taken from hard working folks just trying to buy their dream house.

Imagine the lives that would be ruined if this is true? We have reliable sources in the legal, mortgage and real estate community all offering up information about her alleged scheming.

I know she bounced a check owed to my company for $2,000. Click the photo to enlarge.

Here is an email we obtained from a source within the real estate community of St. Thomas:

To: MLS members
Subject: Message from St. Thomas Board

The Directors of the St. Thomas Board have asked that I circulate the following:

Dear Members:

The purpose of this communication is to inform you that facts have come to the attention of the St. Thomas Board of Realtors that require us to advise you not to deposit any funds into any of the St. Thomas Re/Max Dream Properties escrow accounts, including the sales, rental, and property management escrow accounts. Specifically, the Board of Realtors has been advised that the issuance of checks needed for closings has been delayed in certain instances where funds from the Re/Max Dream Properties escrow accounts were required.

In view of these delays, and related matters, the Board feels it is prudent at this time to issue this advice to its members, so they may better serve their customers and the public. Please pass this advice on to any of your clients and customers who are or may be intending to deposit any funds into any of these accounts.

This communication is not intended to indicate that there have been any inappropriate actions or events in connection with the Re/Max Dream Properties escrow accounts or any persons associated with these accounts. The Board of Realtors is not an investigative body and therefore is not and will not engage in any independent investigation regarding these matters. The Board of Directors will endeavor to remain apprised of any further
developments, and will advise its members of any change to the advice contained in this message.

Sincerely,

Board of Directors

St. Thomas Board of RealtorsR

If you are doing any business with Rosemary Sauter I recommend checking your account. If you see Rosemary Sauter it may be wise to report her to the authorities for her alleged fraud.

This is all unconfirmed right now and we will report back as soon as we hear more. If you’ve heard anything or know where Rosemary Sauter is hiding please shoot us an email to:

scott@stthomasblog.com.

UPDATE:

Arrest Warrant Issued for Fugitive Realtor!

http://stthomassource.com/content/news/local-news/2010/02/05/arrest-warrant-issued-fugitive-realtor

119 Comments »

February 4, 2010 @ 12:45 pm

John S. Said,

Maybe she needs the money to pay her legal bills.

http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/index.pl/article_home?id=17642264
February 4, 2010 @ 1:56 pm

Pamela W Said,

WOW – head of the Board of Realtors also. Just WOW. I hope it is not true.
February 4, 2010 @ 2:06 pm

scubadiverstt Said,

That’s pretty crappy of her, considered she’s on your FB as well as on mutual friends of mine’s pages. Shame on her for breaching the trust of long-time St. Thomian friends.

If these rumors are founded, I hope that she’s prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law….although the premise of “justice” in the Virgin Islands appears to be just that…..a premise…..
February 4, 2010 @ 3:19 pm

anon Said,

Just another crook! She’s gonna get away with a lot of $ and several thousands of my $. I cant believe it, you just ant trust anyone these days. Checkout her linkedin profile:

“I pride myself in being honest,trustworthy and reliable. I have a knack for understanding my customers and clients needs. I am friendly and have a reputation for getting the job done.”

I guess she now prides herself on being a scam artist, dishonest, no good, etc…. Hopefully she will reconsider and return any funds she has potentially stolen. Her silence in the matter only tells me she is guilty.
February 4, 2010 @ 3:24 pm

Krissy R Said,

We purchased tickets from Rosemary Sauter for a supposed million dollar villa lottery sale she was sponsoring. When that fell apart she promised that everyone who bought tickets would get their money back. I had numerous emails from her, all with a “the check’s in the mail” response. Obviously our money was never refunded. Don’t know if these particular 0rumors are true, but I do know she bilked us out of our money. I’m sure we aren’t the only ones…
February 4, 2010 @ 3:43 pm

Kathy O'Connell Said,

Rosemary’s office has booked several vacation rentals for me, and I just found out today that the people who rented through her paid their money, but now they have no money and are asking me to honor the bookings. So … what do I do? It’s not their fault she absconded with their money … but I can’t just leave the people out in the cold (so to speak) … so I’ll be honoring their bookings and taking it in the shorts! I hope Rosemary fries if they ever do locate her!!!
February 4, 2010 @ 4:03 pm

BAV Said,

For what it’s worth, myself, a relative, and a another friend all did receive our raffle ticket money back. We wouldn’t have known it was cancelled unless Scott let us know – big thanks there! It did take quite a few emails and the fact that 2 of the 3 of us are attorneys might have helped. I’m looking forward to “the rest of the story”. Innocent until?…
February 4, 2010 @ 7:11 pm

anon Said,

…my life savings seems to have gone out the door…with her, “my friend” of ten years or more…what do we do now?
February 4, 2010 @ 8:36 pm

Jessy Said,

I would like to THANK Kathy O’Connell (2 posts up) I am the one who booked and paid for rental thru REMAX and she IS honoring it just as she said she would. I recommend that everyone check out her properties and next time you are looking for a rental in St Thomas you book thru her – Koral Sands and Koral Seas Condos in Mahogany Run. Thank you thank you thank you!!!
February 4, 2010 @ 9:17 pm

Anonymous Said,

Well, I think it’s not at all cool for you to put a picture of someone’s check, bounced or not, up on your website. It has this woman’s personal banking information on it. You’re headline? The letter you have there doesn’t say anything resembling your headline either. Talk about jumping to conclusions. This is as bad as Fox News.
February 4, 2010 @ 10:05 pm

Paige Pepperdine Said,

As a long time resident of the VI’s and a Realtor in Florida now I find this deeply disturbing and am really sadden to know that someone in our line of business… which has a huge code of ethics, would do such a thing!! In these times of economic struggles to take advantage of people who are already struggling is simply outrageous!! If she land’s in Florida she will wish she hadn’t!!
February 4, 2010 @ 10:11 pm

Mike and Lauren Said,

We wanted to buy several of the raffle tickets, but held off to see if their was enough interest. The “rules” stated that a certain number of tickets needed to be sold and I was concerned that getting $ back may not be that easy if the drawing was not held. If it’s to good to be true…(you know the rest).

The real estate business is not the place to be right now. People who were just getting by are now getting easier to identify. While we have never meet this person, we hope it is not true. Probably wishful thinking.
February 4, 2010 @ 11:11 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

@Anonymous

Rosemary Sauter will be judged. The fact that I put her bounced check of $2000 up only shows the kind of scum bag she really is.

You don’t like it, don’t read the blog. She has infact ruined many people’s lives beacuse of this….allegedly.
February 4, 2010 @ 11:35 pm

Chocobabi Said,

OMG, was she the one that was raffling off that mansion that was then canceled? If so, I am glad I didnt participate because I seriously considered it.
February 5, 2010 @ 12:59 am

Capt. Ray Said,

Rousseau once said “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” The fact is she was in trouble apparently–too bad
All transgressions need to be exposed-how many did she hurt–Scott was proper in exposing his problem
February 5, 2010 @ 3:09 am

scubadiverstt Said,

This is to “Anonymous” who quite obviously is experiencing “Rectal Cranial Inversion Syndrome”:
I am trying to see things from your point of view; I just can’t get my head that far up my a$$.

She deserves to be exposed as the fraud she is. Obviously, the personal anecdotes are being posted here by those who’ve been scammed by her are not a fabrication.

Who gives a sh*t about her “rights”–guilty til proven innocent? I say, good for you Scott, posting her check. Chances are, the account is no longer active, and she’s off island, so it’s a moot point about her personal info.

Sorry, she closed up shop in the middle of the night and ripped off many, including the betrayal of long time friends who TRUSTED her.

Why do you hide behind “anonymity”?

Are you a “friend” or relative?

I normally don’t flame people in a public forum, but the people posting here have been victimized and at the very least, she’s guilty of stealing from them, and I find your “defense” of her (and I am being kind here) to be a slap in the face to those who’ve lost their life savings, or ticket money.

Oh, by the way: my name is Doreen Seibert. I am NOT afraid to defend what I’ve posted here or hide behind an anonymous persona and a computer facade.
February 5, 2010 @ 3:44 am

BIG Kahuna Said,

Doreen there is a reason they hide behind their computer.

When all is said and done you will see that Rosemary Sauter is made to pay for her alleged transgretions.

Where is the “innocent” Rosemary Sauter? If you were a stand-up person wouldn’t you be trying to clear your good name? Or would you be hiding in a ditch somewhere hoping they didn’t find you?
February 5, 2010 @ 6:24 am

Cristina Said,

How was she able to clean out the escrow accounts without raising red flags at the back? Some inside help at the bank too?
February 5, 2010 @ 6:26 am

Cristina Said,

I meant bank… Anger makes me write too fast to spell check
February 5, 2010 @ 6:46 am

BIG Kahuna Said,

Rosemary Sauter’s facebook profile has been removed. Still no word on where she is.
February 5, 2010 @ 7:59 am

Alexis N. Karlin Said,

Let this be a lesson…
You have to be very careful with who you trust on St.Thomas or on any Island. People will dissapear, it just happens.
If I had a dollar for every person (mostly restaurant owners) who just walked away owing tons of money on STT I would be rich!

you can’t even trust the government in STT…
February 5, 2010 @ 8:20 am

anon Said,

…wondering if all the people who’ve definitely been scammed should get together and pool their information for authorities. Sounds like a local version of a Ponzi scheme: some get paid, some don’t…and it goes on and on, till, I guess, what we’re reading about (?)
February 5, 2010 @ 11:21 am

Tim Roberts Said,

As one of the top RE/MAX Brokers here in the State of Oregon, I am first, saddened by this news and second disgusted, if it is true. I just do not understand why it is so hard for people to do the right thing. However, I see it every day. All I can say is when you are contemplating, possibly the biggest investment of your life, make sure you go with somebody you know and trust. Though, from the sounds of this particular situation, it may not have made a difference. What a shame and so disheartening. Not only for those who have lost but also for those of us who work hard everyday to do it the RIGHT way. Best of luck to those harmed. I hope you get some answers soon!
February 5, 2010 @ 12:45 pm

scubadiverstt Said,

@Scott-Probably because I cut and pasted the link (and comments) from your blog and sent her an email on FB with a subject line saying “Nice move”….
February 5, 2010 @ 2:28 pm

anon Said,

BIG Kahuna, you ABSOLUTELY should have posted that check! Way to go! I’ve lost money here. More than honestly I can afford to have stolen from me. I will still honor my rentals and re-pay my tenants security deposits out of funds I just dont have, but I will find a way so there are not even more victims of this. This woman has screwed over a lot of people here. Yes, its all alleged but if it werent true wouldnt she come forward and speak out in her defense or at least do so through an attorney, pay her bills, give people their money. Instead she is running like a coward. May she be brought to justice and go spend the rest of her life with Bernie Madoff.
February 5, 2010 @ 2:53 pm

Pamela W Said,

to Kathy: good for you. I had a similar experience in 2008 when I worked for a yacht management company. I came to work to find a great deal of money and the boss gone. All (well most) of the boat owners honored the contracts a very, very reduced rates for a long time. It has come back to reward them and me more than once. Very, very good karma for you!

to Scott: you go boy! Until only recently Cost U Less posted bad checks at the check out counter. Sure didn’t want to be there!
February 5, 2010 @ 2:53 pm

Paul Dirks Said,

Rosemary – Rosemary
Rosemary she take me money and run Venezuela.
With apologies to Harry Belefonte…
February 5, 2010 @ 4:45 pm

Eric Williams Said,

All this information is way too late for me. I deposited $65,000 in Sauter’s account to purchase a commercial property. I was unable to secure financing from a bank so I requested my deposit back. That was November 2009. I have been trying since to get my money. All I’ve been geting from Ms.Sauter is the check is in the mail. In January, my patience ran out and I demanded my money by January 15th. Ms.Sauter gave her son a check for $65,000 drawn on her escrow account, on that same day to deliver to me. Feeling good, I deposited the check and to my greatest disappointment, the check was worthless and bounced. I am determined to get every penny of my money back and would do whatever it takes. She is nothing but a fraud and swindler, St.Thomas’ Bernie Madoff. I hope they catch her soon and she rots in jail.
February 5, 2010 @ 5:59 pm

Krissy R Said,

What possible harm could come from Scott posting a copy of Rosemary’s check? Only an idiot would believe that the bank account even exists anymore. Not only did she keep our lottery ticket money (a small loss to be sure), I have personal friends who have lost much, much more from business dealing they had with her – and that’s a fact not a rumor. Seems the FBI is now involved, so they’ll catch up to her sooner or later..then…”Rosie, you gots some spaining to do!”
February 5, 2010 @ 6:28 pm

C Urchin Said,

I just have to say one thing, I have an earnest money deposit in the ReMax account (well, I did as of 2 months ago). I haven’t been “harmed” yet because my closing is not scheduled for another month . . . However, if all of us that have earnest money deposited in her account end up NOT buying the properties, everyone loses. The realtors lose their commissions, we lose our money, the owners of the properties lose the sale of the house and it goes on from there. I can just say, that if I lose my money, I won’t be able to come back and visit for awhile, much less buy another home or property on island. I’m hoping they find the money soon!
February 5, 2010 @ 8:42 pm

anon Said,

what I do not get is why would she wait to CLEAR her name from the court case then within 3 days completely RUIN her name. something does not compute. but we will probably never find out all of the story.
February 5, 2010 @ 11:54 pm

Ken Wiseman Said,

My question to the real estate professioanals and board of REALTORS in the Virgin Islands, why isn’t there Escrow companies there? Or why isn’t the earnest money deposits held in trust with an attorney? The REALTOR board there is already in violation of a federal law that says any IDX type website needs to disclose who the listing broker is? That isn’t addressed there, so why would be trust accounts be addressed? Seems to me as a REALTOR and broker, that there needs to be some reform there? Buyer BEWARE, you are dealing with essentially a third world country!
February 6, 2010 @ 6:22 am

BIG Kahuna Said,

Via Facebook:

Rae Olinsky:

Wow..so quick to slander someone..unless you have 100 percent proof…why go there…obviously you have personal anger..I’ve heard things about your site…would I go spread rumors with or with out proof..NO..I am a better person than that! Don’t judge people based on a one sided conversation!
And as far as the FB page..did you stop and think that … See Morejust maybe…her kids do not need to hear crap about their mother on a social networking site….if she did do something wrong she can explain it herself to them and not through some one else. And if she didn’t….
February 6, 2010 @ 6:30 am

BIG Kahuna Said,

Day 3 of the Rosemary Sauter search. Still waiting for her to clear her good name and tell us where the money is.
February 6, 2010 @ 7:34 am

Jason Said,

Atta Girl! (Said in a disgruntled, drunk, female voice….of course)
February 6, 2010 @ 8:23 am

Annie Said,

Arrest Warrant has been issued. Come forward Rosie
February 6, 2010 @ 9:56 am

Sauter Sucks! Said,

To: C Urchin said: “I haven’t been “harmed” yet because my closing is not scheduled for another month”

Sorry buddy, but you need to open your eyes. You have been harmed. Your $ is gone. You will not be closing because that $ will not be available to give the seller at time of closing and, you will not be getting your deposit back

To: Rae Olinsky… get your head out of your A$$, This is not about persons personal anger. If it was, he would have posted the check at the time it bounced. It is being shown here as evidence for a long time crook that is just now coming to life. I hope her kids (if she has any) do find out what a thief their mom is and what people think of her. Then maybe they can learn something and grow up to be better people.

Bottom line, there are a lot of hard working, honest people who are going to have a lot of problems here. Ranging from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.

This is a continuing issue in our society where people are putting themselves first and not caring about how their actions affect other people. I have been screwed before and I am sure I will be screwed again in my life, but I still treat others as I would like to be treated.

Rosemary will answer for her actions one day. and she is the one that will live her life in fear of being caught, going to jail, facing her maker, etc…

I first heard of this on Wed and still not word from the accused. Hmmmm thats gotta tell you something. GUILTY.
February 6, 2010 @ 10:07 am

Sauter Sucks! Said,

Let me add:

This mornings paper

Arrest Warrant Issued for Fugitive Realtor!

http://stthomassource.com/content/news/local-news/2010/02/05/arrest-warrant-issued-fugitive-realtor
February 6, 2010 @ 12:47 pm

Anonymous Said,

If she can bilk “friends” and investors out of tens of thousands of dollars, then I believe she’s capable of many of the other things she’s been previously accused.
February 6, 2010 @ 1:20 pm

scubadiverstt Said,

@Rae Olinksy-Another case of “Rectal Cranial Inversion Syndrome”…perhaps it IS contagious, after all…..wait until it happens to you before you judge others for posting their REAL experiences. Until then, take your self righteous, sanctimonious BS somewhere else. Perhaps there you can find a more “sanitized” version of events that may be more palatable for you.
February 6, 2010 @ 1:37 pm

Kathy O'Connell Said,

Thank you Jessy and Pamela for your comments. There is still such a thing as Integrity … even if Rosemary Sauter does not have it. I strongly believe in Karma, and I refuse to let Rosemary’s BAD Karma be stronger than the good Karma of those around me. Rosemary WILL be accountable for what she has done … somewhere … sometime! I personally hope it is sooner rather than later, and I hope those of you who had deposits with her can recover. By the way … The Feds did sieze her office yesterday.
February 6, 2010 @ 5:38 pm

born deh Said,

Wow, the worst thing about this for me is that she is married to my father. I never warmed up to her and now I know why. My father has been a business man on St. Thomas for over 45 years and has a stellar reputation. I felt something was wrong when they hooked up.
February 6, 2010 @ 8:25 pm

northside Said,

Wiseman – VI is not third world unless you consider the United States third world! Also, keep in mind that she was a transplant from the continental US.
February 7, 2010 @ 5:11 am

Anonymous Said,

Hello… your instincts were obviously correct. People laughed about the murder for hire plot. It needs to be investigated further…
February 7, 2010 @ 5:23 am

Anonymous Said,

By the way, if they really want to find her, they should check with some “real” friends…
February 7, 2010 @ 8:36 am

Annie Said,

Can anyone establish when they last saw Rosie on island? Was it even this past week? Many seem to think she’s been gone for some time.

Rosie on the run????
February 7, 2010 @ 9:13 am

born deh Said,

It’s funny how the old sayings like,”Money is the root of all evil”, always ring true. Rose used my father for all the contacts and friends he established over the years. I feel sorry for all the people that are affected by her dirty deeds, this includes my 3 brothers she has with my father. On a small island like St. Thomas, they will forever be stigmatized.
February 7, 2010 @ 9:18 am

Island Girl Said,

@borndeh – If she has, as is thought, fled the island – has she left family behind and in the dark? That would be horrible if you and them are left here to deal with this ridiculous mess she’s created!
February 7, 2010 @ 10:20 am

Eric Williams Said,

Hello to those of you who have time. Google her name and go to the second page. There you will read her life story and the making of this crook.
February 7, 2010 @ 10:29 am

Anonymous Said,

All, note that this is not her 1st instance with the FBI back in the 80’s she fled the US and was tracked down and arrested in St Thomas on her job at QickPics for embezzlement. As for the muder-for-hire there has to be some truth to it, how does a prominent business woman get involved with crooked cops and thugs? but now it is all making sense imagine if it went through as planned this story probably would not come out, becuase more than likely her monetary problems would be solved she would have collected no less than a million for his death: How heartless.

I am so sorry for the her husband and her younger kids becuase although the allegations he is still there and more than likely it’s for the kids.
February 7, 2010 @ 10:30 am

VI Informer Said,

All, note that this is not her 1st instance with the FBI back in the 80’s she fled the US and was tracked down and arrested in St Thomas on her job at QickPics for embezzlement. As for the muder-for-hire there has to be some truth to it, how does a prominent business woman get involved with crooked cops and thugs? but now it is all making sense imagine if it went through as planned this story probably would not come out, becuase more than likely her monetary problems would be solved she would have collected no less than a million for his death: How heartless.

I am so sorry for the her husband and her younger kids becuase although the allegations he is still there and more than likely it’s for the kids.
February 7, 2010 @ 5:58 pm

Anonymous Said,

The “crooked” cops were investigating the murder for hire. I hope Jacob was sleeping with one eye open…
February 7, 2010 @ 10:39 pm

lou Said,

lots of stuff going on here…
February 8, 2010 @ 6:35 pm

Left-VI Said,

She’s off and running! The Pirates of the Carribean!

We should have a betting pool on the day she’s captured. My bet in February 21st.

Why should the VI politicians be the only ones to steal money?
February 9, 2010 @ 11:07 am

Dan Lynch Said,

So what kind of work did you do for her to earn the $2K?
February 9, 2010 @ 1:57 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

@Dan

Actually the total bill owed to my company was 18,000 she stiffed us for $9,000. I own a branding company: http://www.brandidentityguru.com.
February 9, 2010 @ 3:36 pm

Luckywait Said,

Boy am I glad I didn’t jump headfirst into buying a property there. My wife and I have looked around the islands for 10 months now. I was always wondering what realtor controls were available. Now I know there are none. I will have to rethink moving there for now.
February 9, 2010 @ 3:59 pm

Island Girl Said,

@Luckywait…we know many, many honest people down here, including the real estate industry. I wouldn’t turn your back on the island. But yes, if someone is thinking of putting a deposit down they will definitely rethink the process, as they should.
February 9, 2010 @ 4:04 pm

born deh Said,

@Island Girl-my family has strong roots. We will be fine. We have dealt with a lot the last few years, including the murder of my uncle Officer Ariel Frett. We have no idea of her dirty deeds and her whereabouts.
February 9, 2010 @ 5:04 pm

Sauter Sucks! Said,

I emailed Re/Max International, the main company that gives people their franchises. This is their pathetic response. Basically, they are saying they are wiping their hands of Sauter and staying out of it. Thats BS, they should help in any and all ways possible. I guess since they wont be getting their franchise fee, they are out. I will never do business w/ any of their franchises in the future.

——-
February 8, 2010

Thank you for your email concerning a problem you are experiencing with Rosemary Sauter. As of this date, RE/MAX Caribbean Islands, the subfranchisor for RE/MAX International in the Caribbean, has terminated RE/MAX My Dream Properties and Rosemary Sauter is no longer affiliated with RE/MAX. It is our understanding that the St. Thomas governmental authorities have closed that office because Rosemary is under investigation by the local authorities. We do not have any further details at this time

Barbara Addy, QSC, CRB
Customer Relations Specialist
RE/MAX International, Inc.
5075 South Syracuse Street
Denver, CO 80237-2712
800-525-7452
303-796-3610
303-796-3203 (fax)
Baddy@remax.net
February 9, 2010 @ 8:11 pm

born deh Said,

Remember the big property tax scam involving some Virgin Islanders in D.C.? Is it a coincidence that the broker that took money as a down payment on some property from the scam was Rosemary?
February 10, 2010 @ 6:04 pm

Anonymous Said,

either the local authorities have really bad PR or they are slacking on the investigation.
February 11, 2010 @ 2:00 pm

Great Dane Said,

They catch the bitch yet?
February 11, 2010 @ 3:14 pm

VI-Diva Said,

First off, sorry to the Frett family for all that you are going through. My family has VERY deep roots in STT as well. My father is a very well known buisness man who has always refused to do buisness with Rosemary. In his words, “she always operated like a slick crook in the night”. I think this is a clear case of no checks or balances. I hope she is found, prosecuted, and housed in the STT jail overlooking the paradise and people she took advantage of. Further more, I hope she has an exterior cell where people can drive by daily and let her know what a rotten, stealing, b*%$h she is.
February 11, 2010 @ 3:38 pm

Great Dane Said,

Okay, These people sould be talking:

Dave Liniger, Chairman
Gail Liniger, Vice Chairman
Margaret Kelly, CEO
Vinnie Tracey, President
Ricardo Cardenas, Regional President for the VI’s
Geoff Lewis, Cheif Legal Officer

email addresses are their first initial, full last name, @remax.com

Let me know if you come up with their phone numbers, better yet, home phone numbers.
February 11, 2010 @ 4:00 pm

Sucker Said,

I received the response below from RE/MAX.

RE/MAX obviously stands for nothing and stands behind anything. Don’t do business with them. I learned the hard way/

I am in receipt of your correspondence addressed to Mr. Dave Liniger, Chairman of the Board of RE/MAX International, Inc. and other officers of our company concerning a complaint you have which involves Rosemary Sauter of RE/MAX Dream Properties, in the USVI.

RE/MAX Dream Properties has been terminated by RE/MAX Caribbean and Central America, Inc., because of violations of their franchise agreement.

RE/MAX International, Inc., which operates in the USVI under the name RE/MAX Caribbean and Central America, is an international franchising organization made up of thousands of independently owned and operated real estate offices. Although the offices are given the right to use the RE/MAX® name and service mark, each is a separately owned business and responsible for their own activities. Real estate sales associates work as independent contractors out of each office and are licensed by the state real estate commission, wherever applicable. RE/MAX Caribbean and Central America legally cannot and does not manage or control the day-to-day activities of either the independently-owned real estate office or the individual sales associates who work within the office.

RE/MAX has no knowledge of the circumstances that have led to the unknown whereabouts of the Broker/Owner of Dream Properties. Because law enforcement officials are conducting an official investigation, RE/MAX Caribbean and Central America, Inc., and RE/MAX International, Inc. cannot comment further on the case and will cooperate fully with the authorities.

Sincerely,

Ricardo Cardenas, IRES, TRC

Regional Vice President

RE/MAX Latin America and Caribbean

303.796.3454 direct

303.718.3631 mobile

rcardenas2 (Skype)

5075 S. Syracuse Street
Denver, Colorado 80237, USA
February 11, 2010 @ 4:41 pm

Hosed Said,

Catch this from LinkedIn

Rosemary Sauter’s Summary
I pride myself in being honest,trustworthy and reliable. I have a knack for understanding my customers and clients needs. I am friendly and have a reputation for getting the job done.

What a joke!
February 11, 2010 @ 7:24 pm

I believe in Rosemary Said,

I think she HAD to leave the island QUICKLY in the wake of the current events to protect her life – maybe she’s even in a witness protection program – but I know she has everyone’s money and has not used it for herself and it will be returned – she is NOT a dishonest woman. The more the media preys on her,(The Daily News of whom she supported for many years through advertising), the more trauma it will cause for everyone involved. I am asking all of you who care for her to please pray that this will all come out positively..
February 11, 2010 @ 9:57 pm

Go RE/MAX!!!! Said,

I am a RE/MAX Realtor and have been for almost a decade. I have never had a transaction not close because of stolen escrow money or anything illegal! Within the real estate industry anywhere in the world, with the Virgin Islands being no different, RE/MAX agents are among the most professional and experienced in the industry. I am saddened RE/MAX is involved in this mess but WE are an organization made up of great real estate professionals, who are hard working with lots of integrity. Most of us work long hours and are dedicated to helping clients buy, sell and lease property legally and smoothly. Most of my clients are repeat customers and I am licensed in 4 states and born and raised in the Virgin Islands . I am certainly not a dishonest person because I work with RE/MAX. RE/MAX will survive because of the organizations overall dedication and integrity to the people they serve. One ALLEGED bad apple can’t and won’t spoil the bunch…Go RE/MAX! You would not hate all your kids because one kid may have done something wrong, that would be grossly unjustified! Keep an open mind, and exercise collective responsibility before being judgmental. He who has not sinned may cast the first stone. Don’t be so quick to tear people down, one day you or your family may be at the end of an ALLEGED scandal. How many people on this blog actually lost money in a real estate transaction because of stolen escrow money? Then subtract that amount from those on this blog who actually lost escrow money with RE/MAX anywhere in the world, then with RE/MAX Dream Properties. I bet less than one percent of you can raise your hand. GO RE/MAX!!
February 11, 2010 @ 10:13 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

To “I believe in Rosemary “: first off if she was in the witness protection system there wouldn’t be a warrant for her arrest. Secondly I highly doubt our government would let her take the millions she allegedly has as spending money…

To GO RE/MAX: This is not Re/Max’s fault but there smug ruboff of a horrible situation makes them look bad. The bigger issue is that here in the VI apparently any dishonest real estate broker can siphen their escrow account.

Personally I will never ever give anyone a deposit unless it’s my attorney or they change the rules. Obviously the rules need to be addressed. This must happen quickly.

Thanks for all the passionate responses!
February 12, 2010 @ 7:48 am

maggie Said,

i used to live on stt for many years and i loved it…still love it…..stt is a crook’s disneyworld…if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
February 12, 2010 @ 9:55 am

Go RE/MAX!!!! Said,

Just an FYI..Anyone with poor intentions can make off with escrow money, even attorneys (It’s been done:-)) . RE/MAX is franchised and as such has franchise arrangements with Broker Owners. If one Broker Owner is alleged to be involved in illegal activity, it does not spoil the whole bunch worldwide. RE/MAX International can not police every Broker Owner in the world and make them honest and straight if they are not. Their only remedy is to cancel the Franchise, which in this case was done promptly. RE/MAX International is also cooperating in the investigation in any way they can. Go RE/MAX!!!!
February 12, 2010 @ 10:21 am

BIG Kahuna Said,

My question to ReMax is why don’t they require insurance or bonding for this? To give anyone the opportunity to be able to grab escrow money is crazy!

Instead of making excuses how about thinking of the victims here? People put down their life savings to buy a home and it’s ALL GONE.

Enough with the Remax cheering already. I’m pretty sure on St. Thomas no one really cares about how great ReMax is outside this problem. Go cheer somewhere else.

I feel sorry for these people who totally got screwed by an obvious flaw in the real estate system.
February 12, 2010 @ 12:14 pm

Anonymous Said,

@maggie…what do you mean if its to good to be true it probally is?

folks were just trying to buy real estate and they put down a down payment or earnest money. It is not a matter of if it was too good to be true or notg
February 12, 2010 @ 1:31 pm

Go RE/MAX!!!! Said,

Big Kahuna noticed you never addressed the fact attorneys can also steal escrow money. Care to comment? I am not a RE/MAX cheerleader as much as I am a cheerleader for honesty, integrity and good business. Every Realtor has error and omissions insurance. Perhaps those who lost money can start there in launching a claim. I pay big money for that insurance each year. Brokers are required to have it also. Instead of heading a lynch mob against real estate do some research and see how “victims” can constructively file a claim themselves against the errors and omissions insurance. This way those wronged will be on their way to getting all their money back. By the way attorneys have insurance too. Hope yours is honest or we may be looking for him or her too . See the link at
http://www.startribune.com/local/east/83968627.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUncacyi8cyaiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU of an attorney who stole money in Wisconsin just a few days ago worth over 3 million. Just a little food for thought and a solution to solve the issue. Here is to resolviong conflict
February 12, 2010 @ 3:14 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

I have addressed that lawyers could also steal money numerous times. But one lawyer couldn’t steal everyone’s money because I’m sure different agents would escrow with different lawyers.

And read the comments over again because I clearly say it’s not ReMax’s fault. Although I find it hard to believe there is no mechanism for protecting consumers.

This is not about you so stop writing in and promoting yourself or Remax, your posts will no longer be approved if you do.

Stay on the topic, this woman is missing and so is the entire 2.5 million dollar escrow account. Period.
February 12, 2010 @ 3:31 pm

Branding Blog Branding Company Corporate Internet Brand Image Strategy Said,

[...] It’s quite a story in St. Thomas. Many angry folks. You can read all about it here. [...]
February 12, 2010 @ 3:52 pm

VI-Diva Said,

After reading this entire string, I must say that I am very happy that Go Re/Max has responded. I will be sure to use the very helpful information provided by you.

With all due respect Big Kahuna, your response seems to be way off base. I was one of the angry replies above yours. I would be thrilled if you could post some more information on how we can get assistance. Big Kahuna, it would do this blog a HUGE in justice to not allow her posts to be approved here. This is an open forum, why should another opinion be censored?

Go Re/Max, please help if you’d be allowed too. I think that is really what the injured parties need.
February 12, 2010 @ 3:58 pm

VI-Diva Said,

P.S. – How do we get more information on the E & O insurance?
February 12, 2010 @ 4:00 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

Go Re/Max you may want to read the pathetic response from Re/Max above. Not one ounce of empathy in it. Not one I’m sorry to hear etc. Pathetic.

Here’s how I would have started the letter if it were my brand:

We are all sorry to hear the misfortune in St. Thomas. Until the escrow money is found we sympothize with those who may have been harmed. At RE/MAX we strive to help the consumer, blah, blah blah.

You get the point. Not one ounce of empathy, I think that’s really sad from a company who is supposed to be customer centric.
February 12, 2010 @ 4:13 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

Oh I’m all about helping people that’s all we do here on the blog. I just don’t want to drift off topic too much like the comment that “I’m starting a lynch mob against real estate” (we know that not to be true).

Any info anyone can give to prevent this from happening again is cool beans
February 12, 2010 @ 4:18 pm

VI-Diva Said,

So what does that mean? Are you going to actually post Go Re/Max’s responses? We really need that information and this is the only place I seem to be getting answers from Go Re/Max. I did some searching and she is right. i am actually psyched. THANKS GO RE/MAX!!!
February 12, 2010 @ 4:24 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

I just got off the phone with my mortgage broker and here’s what he says.

A brokerage could obtain “Fidelity Bond Insurance”, check it out here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fidelity_bond

A fidelity bond is a form of insurance protection that covers policyholders for losses that they incur as a result of fraudulent acts by specified individuals. It usually insures a business for losses caused by the dishonest acts of its employees.

So any real estate firm could add this type of policy on so that if an escrow account went missing there would be some recourse. food for thought…
February 12, 2010 @ 4:32 pm

VI-Diva Said,

Thanks Big Kahuna for that general information. Since GO RE/Max is an actual Re/Max agent, can you help us to obtain who the E&O provider for Re/Max Dream Properties would be? Is there any way that you can give us more insider information on this? I will be happy to send you my direct email address so we can correspond directly since Big Kahuna never addressed if your responses are being posted or not. I will create another one specifically for this purpose and post it here. THANKS AGAIN, you gave a little more hope to the hopeless
February 12, 2010 @ 4:34 pm

IslandMike Said,

Could that whole murder plot she was accused of be true? OMG if she lied about amount millions of dollars she was stealing from long time friends. Does she have a heart? Kahuna do you have an extra heart you could borrow her.
February 12, 2010 @ 4:41 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

My mortgage broker tells me E and O Insurance does not cover theft. It covers mistakes like if the property was a million dollars and you left off a zero to make it $100,000. But I’m not a broker and just for the record I’m posting everyones comments.

Here is a brief definition of Errors and Ommissions: Liability insurance protecting a lender against losses due to negligence, improper documentation, and other errors, but not gross negligence or fraud.
February 12, 2010 @ 5:15 pm

VI-Diva Said,

Good info to know. I got a little worried about the censorship since you wrote the following to Go/Remax:

“This is not about you so stop writing in and promoting yourself or Remax, your posts will no longer be approved if you do.”
None of the posts were self-promoting and the person never actually gave their name. I am sure that not EVERY Re/Max agent or VI Realtor is a bad apple. I was just very pissed at this one because of my lost cash. I was impulsive in my first post.
It’s good to know that ALL opinions are honored. I’d be interested in more info if GO/REMAX is still reading. You heard Big Kahuna, POST POST POST
February 16, 2010 @ 1:21 pm

Ben Dover Said,

Dear: I believe in Rosemary,

Since you are such a beleiver, why don’t you send me the $20,000 of mine she made off with? I promise to repay you with interest upon the return of Rosemary and the money of mine she’s keeping safe for me – bless her heart. Deal?

Please also send me your email address, I have some details I’d like to send you on a bridge I have for sale.

What kind of Kool-Aid have you been drinking anyway?
February 16, 2010 @ 1:47 pm

Ben Dover Said,

Dear: Go RE/MAX,

Are you drinking the same Kool-Aid as The Beleiver?

Where I come from we don’t hate our kids, not even the one that did something wrong. We stand by them, as difficult as it may be at times, with unconditional love.

Therein lies the problem with RE/MAX. It stands by NOTHING! We chose to do business with RE/MAX because of its branded name. However, We’ve learned the name stands for nothing, and it stands behind nothing. If I were you I’d worry when RE/MAX might be throwing me under the buss. They sure as hell threw all its clients under the buss!

I’m sure you are a fine and upstanding person, and I’m sure 99% of all RE/MAX agents are as well. However, It’ll be a cold day in hell before I ever do business with RE/MAX again. The RE/MAX name is now tarnised beyond repair in St. Thomas. If I were you, I would look for a more honerable firm to hang my hat.

Let me know when you switch firms, maybe I’ll list my bridge with you?
February 24, 2010 @ 4:07 pm

j dizzy Said,

is it just me or does it seem as if there isnt much public out cry about this?

I saw it on the news once and read one article in the news paper about it. Other than that it seems as if no one cares. not the people, not the police, not the media. I just thought it was strange. The governor misused 500K for security upgrades and it was the worse thing in the world. Sauter straight up stole 2.5 mil and its no biggie.
February 25, 2010 @ 10:45 am

Hosed Said,

Welcome to the Caribbean. Chances are Rosemary is sharing her haul with others of influence. I can see it now, one big butt cruise party on us!
March 1, 2010 @ 8:10 pm

Krissy R Said,

Latest rumor I’ve heard is that she was spotted in Aruba….I thought they caught her in Tortola – obviously that is not the case. Can you all believe she left her husband and son to fend for themselves with this mess?
March 12, 2010 @ 5:44 pm

Marty Wheat Said,

No more news? Has it all just been forgotten and she’s gotten away with it? Where’s the outrage? Is her resturant still operating? No contact w/ family? How can this be allowed?
March 12, 2010 @ 6:31 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

Sadly Marty there is no news to report And yes, people seem to have already forgotten. It’s so sad. I wish there was more I could say! Either she is dead or laying on a beach in Venezuela.
March 12, 2010 @ 6:44 pm

sunny Said,

Her WANTED FUGITIVE face needs to be displayed on all islands and airports…where is Rosemeary Sauter Frett AND JUSTICE??? Our soldiers are fighting for our democracy and Rosemary is sunning herself??? Sickening…
March 12, 2010 @ 7:53 pm

Marty Wheat Said,

Wow. Unbelievable that someone could steal millions and just get away with it? In this day and age, w/ Facebook and the internet, why isnt her FACE plastered everywhere? Why is her Remax website still up ( still singing her praises ) ? WHat is Remax’s responsibility in this? What does their name stand for? All so upsetting.
March 13, 2010 @ 11:27 am

sunny Said,

When society wants to “forget” and there are no consequences, this will become the “norm” and is that the way we all want to live? sad but true…twitter and tweet her face everywhere! stand up for your rights!!!
March 15, 2010 @ 10:30 am

Former Islandgirl Said,

It is so easy to look at all of beauty of St. Thomas and forget about all of the ugliness underneath. When we sold our home in St. Thomas we did not use Rosemary as our agent. Never trusted her. However we had two other well respected agents and two lawyers involved with the sale. We were already off island so after the closing a check was sent to us. We deposited said check and it Bounced!~! This was from one of the lawyers accounts. Our Bank told us it appeared to be fraud. We called our agent and our VI lawyer understandably upset. THEY WERE ANGRY WITH US BECAUSE WE ACCUSED THEM OF FRAUD. Long story short we finally did get the money however we were stuck with all of the fees and the fines and etc. Just one more thing to leave a bitter taste from the island. For all who read this — the VI has it’s own rules and while it may be a US territory it is NOT the US.
March 19, 2010 @ 12:03 pm

Paige Pepperdine Said,

Ken Wiseman Said,

My question to the real estate professioanals and board of REALTORS in the Virgin Islands, why isn’t there Escrow companies there? Or why isn’t the earnest money deposits held in trust with an attorney? The REALTOR board there is already in violation of a federal law that says any IDX type website needs to disclose who the listing broker is? That isn’t addressed there, so why would be trust accounts be addressed? Seems to me as a REALTOR and broker, that there needs to be some reform there? Buyer BEWARE, you are dealing with essentially a third world country!

I would like to respond to you Ken Wiseman. St. Thomas is where I was raised and I still have family and strong connections. I am a licensed Realtor in Florida and I know who the reputable business people are. If you go to my FB Fan page WAVE REALTY OF TAMPA BAY I can refer you or anyone who is interested in buying RE there. What people need to understand that if no one is watching the Hen House the Fox will get the Hen’s!! The real problem is that there are no members on the board of the St. Thomas Real Estate Commission. This is the board that penalizes, fine’s and revokes RE licensees and Brokers for doing things that would cause such action. They oversee all Brokers and their Associates like here in Florida we have the Florida Real Estate Commission otherwise known as FREC. This is where the public can go to file a complaint’s. Why is no one Addressing this???
March 19, 2010 @ 12:09 pm

BIG Kahuna Said,

There is a simple solution to all this. Every real estate company needs to carry “Fidelity Bond Insurance”. This insurance protects people specifically for employee theft.

Ask your broker if they have this insurance. If they don’t don’t give them your check. Period.
March 19, 2010 @ 1:29 pm

Margarita Said,

I have been wondering the same thing as Paige – I found it very disconcerting to learn that the Real Estate Commission down here is pretty much defunct – or at least inactive/incomplete. I’d like to see more discussion surrounding this critical facet of the whole debacle. Does anyone know what is the deal and is there anything happening to rectify this?! I have heard that realtors in the States live in fear of their respective commissions, yet here, one barely exists?…
March 19, 2010 @ 1:48 pm

anonymous... Said,

As a long time resident, I feel comfortable saying the territory is full of corruption. Full of it. Zero possibility she did this on her own. Money is dealt with electronically. It’s not missing… Someone knows where it is and it will eventually be recovered. I do understand the anger, I do not understand the absolutist attitude some people have.
March 19, 2010 @ 6:11 pm

North Side In Side Said,

OK, Here is a reality to ponder and I will keep it simple.

Rosemary Sauter = gone with money = murder for hire = drug extortion = bad cop = cop goes to jail = same cop in Mahagony Run murder case = investigated fed who killed white dude = VI cops at odds with feds = FEDS WIN

Either she is in witness protection or the money is a cover for a fed cover-up

Just a thought from tying all of my known facts together.
March 19, 2010 @ 6:22 pm

Marty Wheat Said,

to anonymous…please define what you mean by ” I do not understand the absolutist attitude some people have”..who are “some people” you’re refering to ?
March 20, 2010 @ 7:41 am

anonymous Said,

TO Marty Wheat: Some people = Those who think the entire story is that Rosemary ran off somehow with 2.5mm and got away with it.
March 20, 2010 @ 7:43 am

anonymous Said,

TO North Side In Side. I honestly wonder why more people don’t agree with you. Makes sense to me.
March 20, 2010 @ 8:56 am

sunny Said,

To N.Side Inside: Keep this in your equation:
Rosemary Sauter Frett is a “bad seed”….
March 21, 2010 @ 7:22 am

maggie Said,

I was talking about her million $ lottery scam…
You can’t blame people who act in good faith.
In this day and age it is hard to find anyone anywhere who wouldn’t take advantage of people acting in good faith. It happens everywhere.
March 21, 2010 @ 12:27 pm

sunny Said,

maggie: That is why our laws and the US constitution are so precious and what promotes a decent society and economy.
March 25, 2010 @ 3:14 pm

Marty Wheat Said,

New news is in the St Thomas paper, but why isnt’ her picture, plastered everywhere.

Federal Warrant Issued for Missing St. Thomas Real Estate Broker
By DARRIN MORTENSON — March 24, 2010
The U.S. Department of Justice this week issued a federal warrant for the arrest and extradition of fugitive St. Thomas real estate broker Rosemary Sauter.
The warrant raises the stakes in a five-week hunt for Sauter and the roughly $2.5 million that local real estate agents say went missing when the owner and broker of RE/MAX Dream Properties disappeared in February.
“At this time an Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution arrest warrant has been issued,” said Agent Harry Rodriguez, spokesman for the FBI in Puerto Rico.
“If she is found and arrested, she will be extradited from anywhere … in the world to face local charges,” Rodriguez said.
Last month, V.I. Justice officials issued a warrant for Sauter’s arrest after agents from the St. Thomas Board of Realtors complained that the money deposited into Sauter’s escrow accounts was missing or that they did not have access to the money to close on property sales.
March 31, 2010 @ 3:43 pm

islandbound5 Said,

I wonder if foul play is involved????
April 4, 2010 @ 12:00 pm

Marty Wheat Said,

a person stealing over $2 million isnt foul play !!!?
April 9, 2010 @ 2:21 pm

sunny Said,

I sure hope for all the decent, hardworking people who have sacrificed for THEIR OWN MONEY to have their dreams stolen, and the ripple effect of others who Rosemary Sauter Frett has damaged by her actions; IS found and brought to justice so, she may live with people sharing her mentality and ethics.Hopefully people will be on the look out for her and report it as soon as possible to the proper authorities.ASAP
May 1, 2010 @ 3:30 pm

loved vi Said,

Well Rosemary and her team used to collect my rent for me on a property i owned in VI… the rents check were getting later and later.. I had to put the property up for sale. Comes that i get offer, for almost nothing, have to take it, Rosemary runs off with the mans money, now he is suing me for the whole purchase amount of the contract, worst comes to worst I am still trying to pay for all the back hoa fees on the checks that she bounced to them. She will get hers..soon enough.. my question is why the hell was she allowed to hold that much escrow money, usually is it not required to be held by the buyer’s attorney..??
May 20, 2010 @ 9:34 am

sunny Said,

Any news on Rosemary Sauter Frett? How can any consumer feel safe giving their keys to their homes and now savings to a real estate agent? When you are “licensed” or “endorsed” doesn’t the consumer feel protected by rules and regulations? Are real estate agents and brokers screened for background checks? Many unanswered questions with little regard for the consumer.
July 18, 2010 @ 2:45 am

May she get what she deserves Said,

WOW!!! Taken people hard earn money…. She needs to be thrown the BOOK. What about the employees who worked for her? I bet they got a few tricks up their sleeves as well, uhmmmm I pray employers know who their hiring and monitor them, it can be contagious as the “Rectal Cranial Inversion Syndrome” that a couple of blogger caught while reading and posting pure rubbish. And it’s hard to believe her husband did not have any knowledge of this rubbish… To the cheerleader, I can assure you, if you or any of your family members had lost any funding in this BS, you would join the rest of the bloggers and want to know where heck is your money.. I’m pissed and I was stiff!!! The whole VI is corrupted. May the Lord have mercy on all their SOULS while they rott in HELL.
July 18, 2010 @ 5:49 pm

jpack6 Said,

99 percent of you are bad judges. I understand your anger, this is a 60ish successful business woman in a number of businesses, who just picked up left family, and businesses behind without a word, I don’t buy It….I think your police are hiding something from you. Your narrowmindedness is to just point the finger at one…. Wise Up
July 19, 2010 @ 9:16 am

Simon Said,

My friend told me about this woman. I did not know this was such a big thing. The VI is a haven for Child Predators, Crooks, Corrption, people running from the law and a haven for people who is shady. The VI is a beautiful place and has alot to do for visitors but the environments has become like a powder keg of all sorts of shady things. There is good in the USVI and it has been swept under the rug. The Island is having alot of problem that plague many US cities. I wish i could wake up from this nightmare bad rep we are getting. So sad!!!!!
July 19, 2010 @ 9:26 am

Simon Said,

Scott, Remember over a year ago when someone was raffling off a million dollar home..and she vanished? There is alot of crooks in the VI just waiting to poucing on your money and find all sorts of ways to get your money. Truth is truth…and crooks is crooks. That is why i am very leary with all sorts of entities which try to get our funds collectively and vanish. Have you noticed this has becoming a cronic problem now?