03-13-2006 18:05
Tomorrow morning you'll see a new option in the Marketplace called The Land Store. This store will be the place you go to purchase a private island or to reserve a space on the SL grid for future placement of an island.

Island pricing doesn't change. If you decide to reserve a space for future development, however, your selection will kick off an auction for that space. Auctions will start at a minimum bid of $30 ($10 per month for a 3 month reservation).

We're excited about this new store, which will not only make it much easier to purchase your own island, but will also allow residents to plan ahead for larger projects requiring multiple island regions.

Initial details for the beta period follow.

FAQ
What is this store for?
You can reserve or buy islands for use in Second Life with this store.

How do I use it?
Simply double-click where you want to buy or reserve on the map. If the space is available, click Add to cart.

Once you've picked all your spaces and go to checkout, you'll be brought to a screen where you can choose either to reserve or purchase the spaces you've picked.

If you choose to reserve the spaces, then an auction will start with you as the high bidder on the spaces you've picked. Otherwise, if you choose to purchase the spaces, you will be simply billed and the island will come online usually within in a week, but no more than two.

What exactly is a reservation?
A reservation guarantees your right to build on a certain space. Reservations are a good alternative to buying land if you are not sure you need the land yet, but want to make sure you can build there in the future.

If and when you finally decide to build on a reservation, you will have to purchase the region for a flat price. (currently US $1250)

Can someone reserve a space next to me without my permission?
Just like the current standards, Linden lab will not place another region next yours (no touching borders) unless you give your permission.

Are there terms or conditions involved?
You must read and approve the Region FAQ.

What if someone uses this tool to harass me?
Misuse of this tool constitutes a violation of the Community Standards policy on Harassment and will be dealt with accordingly. Bidding on auctions alone does not constitute harassment.

Are there special conditions I have to meet to qualify for an region purchase?
All current Estate purchase rules apply, including creditworthiness and a clean disciplinary record. Linden Lab reserves the right to refuse your application and refund your purchase if your account is not in good standing or you do not meet our minimum criteria for region ownership.

Can I name the region what ever I want?
Regions must be no more than three words, and may not be the same as any other region currently in the grid. No special characters may be used.

Can I name the region when I reserve the space?
No, reservations alone do not allow you the right to name a region. You must convert a reservation into an region purchase to name the region.
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