Rita, and her husband Gary, retired from their jobs in Los Angeles, California in June, 2002 and moved to St. Thomas that following September. As owners of units at Sapphire Village Condominiums, Rita ventured into the hospitality business and launched Condo Del Mar website in March 2003. After gaining popularity and receiving highly touted compliments on top travel bulletin boards, other owners sought her advice and assistance regarding ways to increase their short term rental occupancy.