What is being done to help Homeowners

I wanted to share this with our readers. I received my weekly US Dept of the Treasury report and it had some interesting information regarding preserving home ownership.

Under the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) there are numerous ways for homeowners to seek modification on their loans to save their home. Even if you have tried modification in the past and have been turned down I encourage you to contact your lender regarding their participation with the HAMP program. Phyllis Caldwell's Dec 1st recent testimony before congress outlines many of these options.

Program Guidelines Include:
1. Homeowners must be evaluated for loan modification prior to foreclosure.

2. Suspension of foreclosures for homeowners who have applied for HAMP.

3. Evaluate other options for homeowners who do not qualify for HAMP.

4. Provide written explanation and give homeowners 30 days for appeal if denied modification.


If you have any questions regarding your options in a foreclosure such as short sale we are here to help. http:www.FineIslandProperties.com

Aloha, Gina

New Technology for Real Estate

Technology tickles me. I love the aha moment when I see the benefit of helping our clients by integrating the latest technology. So far this year Docusign (electronic signing via email) has been the biggest hit with the clients we serve. Years of trying to print 22 page contracts and having fax jams and running out of ink and paper are gone.

We utilize Docusign for our clients so they only have to open their email and click through the offer and it

sends it back to us or on to the next party in line to sign.

It lets the client save a copy of their document or they can print it out.

When you work with the Fine Island Properties Team you will know that you are reaping the rewards of our

education and that we are always looking for ways to improve how we serve YOU!

Aloha, Gina

Fall means Pumpkin Patch time

On Maui most people think the fall colors we enjoy are just the oranges and reds of our sunsets. But the other side of Maui (Upcountry) holds many of the traditional treats that mainlanders know and love. Our family went to the Kula Country Farm today and had a super fun time at the Pumpkin Patch. The Kula Country Farm not only has the Pumpkin Patch, but U Pick Strawberries, an example of a hydroponic garden, a corn maze, flower farm, and of course horses, goats, chickens and cows for viewing. We picked our favorite pumpkins and I found some fresh limes, and a vine ripened tomato for our dinner too. When visiting Maui or even if you live here don't forget to head up Haleakala Hwy and you will be pleasantly surprised at the country atmosphere there. Now go pick your pumpkin before they are all gone...

ONE OF A KIND MAUI BEAUTY

Aloha Pualani is one of the very few properties of its kind on Maui. It is an intimate getaway w/only 6 condos in the complex. All new as of 2003 and upgraded in 2010. The courtyard pool setting with cabana outdoor kitchen/and bar make this an inviting and fun retreat.

Each suite is a townhouse design with main living on ground floor and an upstairs private oasis including lanai with ocean view. One bedroom/1.5 bath Bamboo Suite is steps to miles of sandy beach. The one bedroom/1 bath Gardenia is tucked away next to the meditation garden, waterfall and fishpond. Spectacular interior design including luxury art in both suites. Both priced at 310k. Enjoy the video of these properties and if you were waiting for that true Maui experience wait no longer.

Call 808-250-9858 for further information.

Aloha, Gina Duncan

For Sale Kihei Kai Nani

Our very special short sale at Kihei Kai Nani needed its very own blog for many reasons.

Location: Just across from Kamaole II Beach and next door to restaurants and shops this quaint and cozy complex has a "10" location for vacationers or folks just wanting to live the Maui Life Style.

One building up from the pool area is convenient but not noisy and this condo overlooks a park like bbq area.

Remodeled: Most all buyers we meet want a great deal on price, but want the property to be remodeled too.

This condo has had a very nice remodel, incl kitchen, tiled flooring in and on the lanai and a stunning bath remodel including custom tiling.

Price: At $220k this short sale is at an affordable price. This condo is currently in the vacation rental program. I've participated in over 40 short sales and can give you timely and good advice regarding this type of transaction.

Kihei is a great place for a second home and you will love the convenience and quality that Kihei Kai Nani offers. Contact us at Fineislandproperties@gmail.com for further information or to search the Maui MLS for this and other condos go to http://www.fineislandproperties.com/

Aloha, Gina Duncan, R (S) ABR, e-Pro, SFR

Our New Kai Malu Listing

KAI MALU WAILEA MAUI

We know and LOVE Kai Malu in Wailea and we would love to share with you what makes it a great place to live or enjoy a second home. Each Kai Malu has a generous amount of square footage in a 2 story floorplan. Each building features 2 units. Each home comes with its own private 2 car garage and lanai.

We Just listed a Lewa model with one bedroom/den downstairs and a master suite and an additional bedroom upstairs. The furnishings for this home are exquisite. This model features a wood flooring, and your own private swimming pool, & jacuzzi that overlooks the blue sparkling Pacifc ocean.

Kai Malu community features include a disappearing edge swimming pool, gym, steam and dry sauna and lovely meditation area. Lush tropical plantings with waterfalls great you at the gated entry.

The other popular Honu model is one that we sold last year and that offers a full master suite down with 2 additional bedrooms upstairs. Many are listed for sale and we would be honored to represent you in a purchase at Kai Malu and you can know that you are in experienced, good hands.

To search for information about this and other Kai Malu properties please visit www.FineIslandProperties.com and search the Maui MLS

Aloha, Gina Duncan Mauigina@gmail.com

Maui June Real Estate Statistics out are Mixed

Maui June Real Estate Statistics are out and the menu is mixed.
Many of these sales are still a result of the first home buyer tax credit which had to close by June 30th.
So volume of sale was up as expected, but prices are flat to decreasing.

Residential units rose to 43% but w/average sales price up 2% and median down by 7%.
Condo units rose to 64% volume sold, but had a harder time with the pricing with average sales down 11% and median down 32%.

That is painting our picture here on Maui at this time. If it is below median and priced right it is selling, but the higher price and lets wait and see isn't working. Our current absorption rate for residential and condos is over 13 months making it still very much a buyers market.

The biggest surprise to investor and buyers at a lower price point is that you are competing and homes/condos that are great values like most REO properties have multiple offers at or above full price within a day or two so having an agent who is hardworking for you and stays on top of the inventory is a great asset.

If you would like to view the full report and search the Maui MLS just visit: http://www.fineislandproperties.com/
We look forward to assisting you.

Aloha, Gina Duncan, R (S) ABR, e-Pro, SFR
Mauigina@gmail.com
808-250-9858

May Maui Real Estate Statistics

MAY MAUI REAL ESTATE STATISTICS

Our Real Estate Statistics are out for last month. Published by the Realtors Association of Maui these stats give us an indicator of the past market performance and by keeping updated month in and month out we can sometimes see trends.

Last month we had a total of 81 homes sold and 104 condos. Residential Avg Sale price was up 5% but the median lagged down -9%. Condos were way up in volume 59% but Avg Sale price was down -9% and median down to -34%.

Our markets just like anywhere are local and what applies in Kihei may not apply in Kula, or the same can be said comparing Wailea to Kaanapali. It is important for you to consult with a local full time Realtor team like ours to really have a stronger grasp on how the statistics can impact your home buying or home selling.

We post the full set of Maui Real Estate Statistics at www.FineIslandProperties.com and we are available to answer any questions you may have at FineIslandProperties@gmail.com

My Short Sale Was Approved, Am I Good to Close?

Short Sale Approvals:

Short sales receive 3 distinct types of "Approvals" prior to an actual escrow being opened.

Our Maui Real Estate Team: Fine Island Properties has been involved in over 40 shorts sales in the past couple years. The rules of short sales do change very often, but the approval process has pretty much held.

The first type of approval is the approval a seller may receive by the lender prior to listing the property.

The seller may have gone over their options with the lender and the lender may have advised/approved of

them to list the property short sale.

The second type of approval is where the negotiator for the seller's lender states that they have "approved" your offer. This is the first step in a two step process. Once the buyer and negotiator have come to terms for

the amounts on the file using the guidelines the negotiator follows another level of approval is needed: The Investor approval.

The third type of approval is the Investor who owns the loan. They are the ultimate decision maker and sometimes counter their own negotiators guidelines. Be sure that when you are "approved" that it has the Investor blessing. A final written letter will come shortly after a verbal or "Equator System" approval.

If you or someone you know is thinking about a short sale on Maui please have them contact us for further information. We do advise our clients to explore all their options, receive legal and tax advice prior to entering into a short sale process. Visit our website: http://www.fineislandproperties.com/ for further information.

Aloha, Gina

Our Own Hawaii Holiday

May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii (May 1st )

Back in 1928 poet and writer Don Blanding wrote in a newspaper that a holiday should be held in Hawaii to honor the custom of making and wearing lei. Fellow writer Grace Tower Warren came up with the idea to celebrate this on May 1st and is credited with "May Day is Lei Day".

If you are ever at the Honolulu Airport one of the best treats is to visit the lei making booths just outside the drop off areas for the main terminal. They strand the most beautiful fresh lei there.

Most of our celebrations for this day are held at the schools each year in May. There is a big celebration with a king and queen along with royal court. There can be conch shell blowers and Kahili bearers too. Hula is danced and lei are worn. As a parent it is a proud moment to watch your child in the fun May Day/Lei Day celebrations.

My son Joseph (Kenui) was chosen to represent his sophmore class at St Anthony Jr Sr High School this year by performing a hula. Can't wait to see it.

Aloha, Gina

Oceanfront Properties on Maui

Buying Oceanfront Property on Maui

Maui offers some of the most beautiful coastline and views in the world. When it comes to purchasing property on Maui, Oceanfront can present some unique challenges that every buyer should be aware of.

Questions you and your agent should ask include:

1. What is the elevation for the property above sea level? Any past known flooding problems?
2. Would the lot allow for the home to be moved back if coastal erosion occurred?
3. What if any attempts to control erosion have been made in the past and were they successful?
4. Does the property have a permitted seawall? Is it in good condition as laws changed in 2006 for rebuilding.
5. Does the owner have a State Certified Shoreline Survey that is recent (within the past 12 months)?
6. What effects have the salt air/wind had on the home itself?
7. Are there any security issues you should be aware of? Maui beaches belong to all the public and are not private.

If you are looking to purchase oceanfront property look no further than the Fine Island Properties Team. We will assist you with the extra due diligence described above and more that Ocean properties require.

Aloha, Gina

My Maui Tax Bill Seems Too High

Maui Property Tax



You have just received your property tax bill in the mail from Maui County. It seems high to you and you know the neighbors home just sold for 100k less. "What is up? Can I file an appeal?"

First know that the tax assessed value is based on 1 1/2 years ago values. An appeal will have to show that
the market price for your property 1 1/2 years ago is 20% less than the assessed value. 20% is mandatory number per Maui county code.

To file an appeal you pay $50.00 at the tax office and then wait approx. a year to get your appeals hearing. Approx 98% of the filers will fail to win their case.

You will need a Realtor to get you a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) for your home based on 1 1/2 year ago pricing. The Fine Island Properties Team at Keller Williams Realty Maui will be happy to assist you if you feel you are being overcharged. Contact us at: FineIslandProperties@gmail.com
Visit our website: www.FineIslandProperties.com and look under the ABOUT MAUI tab, government selection for link to Maui County Tax Website.

Aloha, Gina Duncan

Searching online for Maui Real Estate

Buyers contact me for information on homes via the Internet on a daily basis.

It continues to surprise me how many clients think that Zillow, Trulia and Craigslist are good places to find Real Estate. As a Realtor who markets property I do post my listings to these sites. Many many agents DO NOT. So if you are only looking there you are missing out on many Maui Properties for Sale.

To not miss out search http://www.fineislandproperties.com/ and click on Maui MLS Search.

This is the same MLS information that I have access to and includes ALL the Listings available in Maui that are posted on Maui MLS. For FSBO listings you would have to search FSBO sites, Craigslist, and the paper or better yet hire an EXPERT. Your local REALTOR to assist you in the search. Our fees are paid by the sellers broker so for free you are getting experienced, educated advice and on our site FREE Maui MLS Search.

Aloha, Gina

How much are the current Interest Rates?

How much are the current Interest Rates?

I get asked that question on a daily basis and my answer is that it "depends".
When purchasing a property the interest rate a lender will offer you can depend on many factors
and not just your credit score. How long you have been in your job, what you earn, what money you are putting down can play a part in the rate and points you may pay.

That is why I always suggest the first stop for any buyer is the Lender. Once a lender gives
you a good faith estimate based on your information then you can decide if that payment is
comfortable for you and if so then start shopping.

Once you are quoted a rate you also need to understand that unless you pay to lock it in rates change daily. Rate locks generally are for 30 to 60 days. Since it is highly unlikely to close a loan in 30 days I recommend trying to get the 60 day lock. It is very important to be working with one lender by the time you are placing offers so that together we can coordinate price and terms with your mortgage lender.

Aloha, Gina

Agriculture on Maui

I read a great article the other day in the Living Maui Style magazine. In the article Tom Blackburn-Rodriguez spoke with the Executive director of the Maui County Farm Bureau, Warren Watanbe about Maui's Kula Agricultural "Ag" Park. Most people when they think of Maui think of beaches, and when it comes to our fruits a pineapple, maybe some mango and papaya trees come to mind. Most visitors don't get a chance to learn about our fabulous farms Upcountry in Kula that grow mouth watering vegetables and other fruits not commonly thought of as "Maui" like strawberries.

The Kula Ag Park has 445 acres on 31 lots farmed by 26 farmers. Watanbe has a sustainable goal of 50% of residents food coming from our crops here in the islands. Currently it is estimated according to the article that we import 85% of the calories we consume. Crops like Maui Onion, Strawberries, Lettuce, Cabbage, Berries for Jams, tomatoes and herbs are all grown on Maui. There are many "fruit and vegetable stands" and a large one on Lower Kula Highway makai side of the road on the way out to Ulupalakua, but many of our locally grown products can be found in any grocery store.

Whether you live here or visit here when shopping for food take time to look for the Maui Grown seal with the green leaf. You will be enjoying food that is fresh and you will also support our local farmers.

Less than a Full Renovation

In the latest Realtor magazine there was an article called "Small Projects, Big Bang" by G.M. Filisko. They mentioned the Cost vs. Value report that is done yearly. If you would like a copy please email us at FineIslandProperties@gmail.com

They also listed 10 Big Impact, Low Cost projects and in these tough economic times it was a timely article and I use this information when listing properties myself. I would like to share a couple of their tips with some tips of my own.

Staging was all the rage and then when the market dropped and sellers were counting every penny it was a very needed service that unfortunately fell by the wayside. You can work with your Realtor to get staging ideas if you can't afford a professional stager. We see many homes and know what the buyers are looking for. This information if followed translates into $$$ for the Seller.

1. Tidy Cabinets. Along with their suggestion of tiding kitchen cabinets it is wise to take apart your linen closet and fold nicely your things and de-clutter to show there is even more space available. The same goes with your clothes closets. Don't under estimate what is behind your doors.

2. Replace Light Fixtures and Faucets. This is a relatively inexpensive way to bring an outdated room up to modern standards that today's buyer wants and expects. New faucets replacing older pitted or outdated looking ones is another great tip.

3. Garage. In addition to their wonderful suggestion of installing a touch entry pad for roughly $425 it is important to make your garage spacious and neat and tidy in addition to the rest of the home.

4. Last but not least: Landscaping. Don't ignore a tired lawn. Cut and Hard edge your lawn. Fertilize your lawn & your plants, pull those weeds and add a couple potted plants with some sophisticated plantings by the front door.


A little can still go a long way and add $$$ to your pocket when selling your home.