Hau`oli Makahiki Hou

Hau`oli Makahiki Hou is Hawai`ian for Happy New Year and Gong Hey Fat Choy is (Mandarin) Chinese for Happy New Year.  It is the Year of the Snake and celebrations are happening all over Maui.

I am so grateful for all the blessings of 2012 and look forward to the possibilities of 2013.
For my Maui Real Estate clients some thoughts to consider:

Buyer Clients: If you have been on the fence about a Maui home, don't hesitate.  Our market is improving and economically Hawaii overall is looking positive for 2013.
There is already multiple offers for homes under 450k with aggressive bidding the first day a
home comes on the market.
It takes moving quickly on a property such as those to ensure a positive outcome.
For our markets that have higher starting pricing we are seeing a reduced inventory as well.
This makes choices fewer and patience in your search to find that perfect property.

Selling Clients: Although the market is on the upswing, there are still distressed sales dragging on comparable prices.  If you are selling, you must keep in mind that the home has to appraise if the buyers are getting a loan.  Even though it isn't a buyer's market it isn't quite a seller's market yet.
We anticipate that may be the case in the next several months but that will depend on the inventory staying low and the economy continuing it's recovery.  I was number one on Maui for most
closed transactions in 2012. If you are thinking of Selling please consider contacting me to list your home.  I will share our 100 point written marketing plan with you.

Remember if you do purchase a home on Maui it is a lifestyle with much to enjoy!

Aloha, Gina Duncan, R Broker, ABR, AHWD, BPOR, e-Pro, SFR
Mauigina@gmail.com   808-250-9858
www.fineislandproperties.com  Search the Maui MLS and More.

Kula Manu Maui's Finest View

What is not to like about this view?  From the top of the quaint subdivision of Kula Manu this
executive home features 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and an over sized garage/storage.  The homes rooms all
have incredible views and an open plan featuring surround sound, fireplace, vaulted ceilings and
a gourmet kitchen complete with self closing wood cabinets, stainless appliances, granite counters, large island, gas cooking and a pot filler over the stove. Wrap around trex decking on the home takes you from the views on the front to the wooded seclusion of the rear yard complete with herbs, vegetables and fruit trees.

Kula Manu neighborhood is located mid way up in Kula and is just right.  Not too hot and not too cold.  It has close by restaurants including La Provence, and the new Kula Cafe.  Kula Community Center features tennis, and exercise classes.  The private Waldorf school is near and the Kula Elementary is noted to be one of the best elementary schools on Maui.
Kula Manu has an open field for exercise or exercising "fido" and a nature path complete with Hawaiian Heiau.  Enjoy the Kula lifestyle which includes picking up fresh farm produce, strawberry
picking, and the beautiful parks nearby.

This lovely home can be yours.  Asking $899,900.  Please view www.fineislandproperties.com for more pictures and information or call me at 808-250-9858.

Aloha, Gina

Sophisticated Maui Starter Home

Stunning Remodel can be yours. This 3bdr, 2bath home has had a complete makeover including new roof, flooring, fixtures, kitchen, baths, appliances and landscaping. Commanding Central Valley Mountain views from the back lanai which includes a screened in porch perfect for entertaining in the shade. Granite counters, stainless appliances, new flooring, gorgeous vanities in both baths and custom tile with accents in main bath too. Plantation style home features include a huge carport with soaring ceiling perfect to store all the toys. Don't miss seeing this one. It won't be around long.
385 Kaiolohia St in Kihei HI close to world class beaches, and shopping.
Listed $399,900.

For further information please visit: Fine Island Properties Website

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

November Maui Real Estate Statistics

November Real Estate Statistics for Maui

Things are looking up as home prices continue to be stable and rise in certain areas. Overall it
seemed to be a flat month for November.
We are heading into our busy season: Nov - Apr and there is an expectation we will see buyers coming to Maui this year to buy as we feel that we have hit our bottom and are on the rise.

For the full report please click on the link below.  Maui can vary greatly area to area to for advice on the statistics don't hesitate to call me 808-250-9858.


November Maui RE Statistics

To search the Maui MLS and more please visit Fine Island Properties Website

Aloha, Gina

Maui Best Island

Maui was voted again the Best US Island by readers of Conde Nast Traveler's Magazine.
A rating of 92.1 vs second place island neighbor of Kauai at 89.3.

We love Maui and it is no surprise to people who make Maui their home or choose to visit again and again.
I don't know of anywhere there are more beautiful beaches all accessible to the public.
If ocean activities are not what you are looking for Maui offers many other great things to do.
Hiking, ziplining, swimming in waterfall fed pools, exotic foods to sample, fabulous shopping and much much more.

We love to share everything about Maui and have a Plan Your Maui Vacation tab on our website at www.fineislandproperties.com

See you around the island.

Aloha, Gina

Economist Paul Brewbaker gives Maui Real Estate Outlook

We had the sincere pleasure of having Paul Brewbaker former Bank of HI Economist and now with his own consulting firm speak to the Realtors of Maui last Friday.

Mr Brewbaker is seeing recovery for our housing market with the more activity and progress on Oahu.
As he says "Don't you just hate them"?

He has a very humorous delivery for those dry statistics.  They are however critical statistics for my clients to look at if they are considering buying property on Maui.
Please see link below for the entire power point presentation.  If you would like more specific Maui neighborhood values please call me to discuss the active listings in the area you are most interested in.

Aloha, Gina

PS: The Maui Real Estate Statistics are posted monthly at our website Fine Island Properties.

PAUL BREWBAKER SEMINAR POWER POINT

Maui Vacation Rentals to Return

Maui County passed a vacation home rental bill that will take effect this June.
As many of you may remember Maui used to have many transient "vacation short term" homes to rent similar to B&B's without all the extras.  Folks visiting from all over the world were stunned when they were shut down as they were not "legal".  No process was put in place prior to the shut down to make them legal and Maui's economy did suffer as a result as well as our tourism numbers especially in areas like the North Shore.

Now after a few years we will have a new streamlined system by the planning department that will legally permit these homes to allow vacation rentals.  There will be rules including how many can operate in each area of the island, similar to the B&B bill. Neighbors will have to be informed and large sign erected again similar to what we saw with the B&B process.

The North Shore area will be allowed 88, Hana will have 48, 40 for Upcountry, 36 in Central and 100 in the busy area of South Maui and the West side will have 88.
There will have to be a nearby property manager in charge of the homes including checking in/out the guests and quiet hours will be 9pm to 8am.  Ample off street parking will have to be provided and the homes can't have more than 6 bedrooms.
We welcome this change and look forward to seeing those visitors who missed staying in a neighborhood as opposed to a hotel setting.

Crown Jewel of Upcountry Maui

The Crown Jewel of Kulamalu:

I had the pleasure of listing 47 Alaapapa Place in the neighborhood of Kulamalu in Pukalani.
This happens to be my neighborhood too.  This home has some of the nicest features of any home in our neighborhood beginning with a sparkling pool complete with turtle and fish accents.  The home is located on the Upcountry Golf Course of Pukalani.  It has a course winding through the hills of Pukalani with some of the tee off shots going across open gulches (very challenging).  The Ocean and Central Maui views are superb.

The home immediately captures you as you enter with built in Asian side table and alabaster niche, trayed ceiling and vistas out through the open great room to garden views.  The great room has great architectural details including high ceilings, transom windows and inset entertainment center with surround sound.  The kitchen is a chef's dream with custom granite, light wood cabinetry, reverse osmosis water, stainless appliances and a breakfast bar that doubles for entertaining.

The master is a true suite with travertine entry through double doors, walk in closet, views of the pool, jacuzzi tub, large separate shower, granite double sinks and an outdoor shower with river rock accents.

The guest room doesn't disappoint as it features its own en suite bath and has views of the sunsets and golf course.  The other bedroom has a cozy window seat overlooking the herb garden and fruit trees with a full bath adjoining.  The den/office has high ceiling and is conveniently located just off the entry.

Pukalani features its own community swimming pool, shopping center including Starbucks, Post Office, Medical Center, Restaurants, Grocery Store, Banks and Hardware store.
The community center has walking trails from flat, to hills, playground, tennis courts and sports fields used for the areas league soccer, and baseball.

Upcountry is special for its cool weather, and Pukalani is the heart of Upcountry with easy access to Makawao town, Kula and Kahului is only 20 minutes away.  For beach lovers don't fear the beaches on the South side are 30 minutes and Paia Bay and Baldwin Beach is approximately 25 minute drive.

Asking $895,000.

For a showing please call Gina Duncan, R (S) 808-250-9858
Visit our website for more pictures at : www.fineislandproperties.com

March Maui Real Estate Statistics

Every day I am asked, "How's the Market"? I usually answer, "It depends", because depending on what area of Maui you are referring to and the price point the answer can vary widely as evidenced in this month's statistics. Condo sales that were lagging are picking up steam especially in Kihei. Homes in Central priced under 400k are seeing multiple offers and bidding wars. Our luxury Market in Wailea is seeing movement especially in the one million dollar price point and buyers still have a larger inventory to choose from in the 1-2million dollar range. Significant Average Price increase is being noted in the Wailea Makena area. Lahaina and Napili are seeing good price increases but Kapalua with little sold shows a decrease. Lahaina sales continue to be bolstered by the Honua Kai development.

Current Absorption Rate base on this month’s Active inventory divided by March Sales is:

Residential = 9.6 months, Condo = 8.7 months, Land = 24.4 months.

To understand your area please contact us so we can go over in detail with you the statistics and what that means in regard to your Real Estate goals.

It is our pleasure always to assist you with aloha and no pressure service.

Click the link below to view the full report from the Maui Association of Realtors

http://www.ramaui.com/UserFiles/File/Stats/All-March2012.pdf

With Aloha, Gina Duncan, R (S)

www.fineislandproperties.com

Your Trusted Maui Realtor and Your Guide to Maui Real Estate

808-250-9858

Prince Kuhio Day in Hawaii

Tomorrow March 26 we celebrate Prince Kuhio Day.

I thought I'd let everyone know a little bit of history about this beloved Hawaiian Prince.

Prince Kuhio was born on Kauai but grew up on Oahu and attended Punahou School in Honolulu. He also had further education in Europe and California. At the age of 24 he was involved in the attempt to restore the Hawaiian Monarchy after the overthrow but was imprisoned for his role in the attempt at restoration. After he was released he traveled with his wife widely through Europe and was received as a royal. He fought in the Second Boer War for England.

Finally returning to his homeland he began a life in politics serving Hawaii. He is most noted for the introduction of Hawaiian Statehood Act in 1919 although it was 40 years later that actual statehood was granted. The Hawaiian Homes Commission Act was passed during his time in Congress despite his objection to the high blood quantum requirement and that the land would only be granted as leasehold not fee simple. Prince Kuhio reorganized the Order of Kamehameha in 1903 and they honor him every year here on Maui by giving a lecture about his life and contributions to his people. Prince Kuhio was the founder of the Hawaiian Civic Club in 1918. He passed away in January of 1922.

Many times in Hawaii we see famous landmarks named after our Hawaiian Royalty but know little about them. I hope you enjoyed getting to know more about Prince Kuhio and this will interest you in knowing more about the Hawaiian Monarchy and Hawaiian History.

With Aloha,

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

http://www.Fineislandproperties.com

Lumeria on Maui

I was invited to spend an evening today at Maui's newest Upcountry Educational Retreat/Spa.

The much talked about Fred Baldwin Memorial Home has been converted by Xorin Balbes who has turned his dream into a reality.

The home is thankfully different from the trendy spas we associate with on Maui and features elegant touches of dark paneled ceilings, and wood flooring in the main areas with Moroccan fixtures, crystals and Buddha themed restful areas. Addition of the colors bring the rooms open but separate areas a warm feeling. The guest suites all feature custom designed furnishings, and an elegant plantation home feel with the touch of modern day spa in the baths. There is a full cafe kitchen and dining room that can handle special events including weddings. The highlight of the Estate are the sumptuous porches with ample seating, and stunning gardens. The wind sings through the pines that border this sanctuary.

Wailea Condos for Sale

http://www.fineislandproperties.com/?pg=fi_wailea_condos

The Fine Island Properties team has the best buys in Wailea condos.

Check out our Kanani Wailea condo home. Gated neighborhood, disappearing edge pool, spa, and gym are amenities right outside of the door. 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, travertine flooring, Wolf appliances, sumptuous master with en suite bath and stunning ocean views. Short sale $799k.

Another option would be our listings in Kai Malu. Both feature gorgeous ocean view. The Honua model has wood flooring and master suite on main level. The Lewa model has luxury furnishings and its own private swimming pool and spa. Priced regular sale starting from 1.2million.

Call us today for your own luxury Wailea condo home and let us show you why Wailea is the best.

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

Maui Real Estate - Kula Homes for Sale - Maui Homes for Sale

Maui Real Estate - Kula Homes for Sale - Maui Homes for Sale

The most Aloha Real Estate team ready to show you

the very best Maui has to offer.

Fine Island Properties Team at Keller Williams Realty

fineislandproperties@gmail.com

Gina Duncan, R (S) and Reggie Audant, R (B)

Buying vs Renting. Is it a good time to Buy?

Why is it a good time to buy? What are some of the key factors in renting vs owning a Maui home?

The key factors in deciding to rent vs own should be based on sound financial analysis of the buyers employment stability, the buyers ability to make a payment that not only includes a mortgage, but the taxes, insurance, and the ability to pay for any repairs to a home. A buyer has to have the ability to budget for things from termite tenting to a new roof. The buyer should have a clear goal of home ownership, their "5-7 year life plan" and receive professional advice from a REALTOR, mortgage lender, and a tax advisor prior to purchasing or even looking for a property. Too often renters make the error of comparing what they are paying in rent as compared to a mortgage and don't factor in all the other costs associated with buying a home. I want to look back with a client and have them thank me 5 years from now that they made a sound financial decision as well as an emotional one.

Interest rates are at HISTORIC lows. I recall refinancing on one of my homes and thinking I was lucky to get a 7% rate. People need to realize that if they can lock in now to a 30 year fixed rate under 5% that this is a huge benefit that won't last forever. It is rare in Maui Real Estate to have both the interest rate and prices both be this low as they are today. Home ownership can lead to security and stability for a buyer. It is a great piece of mind to know you can live in your Maui home for as long as you want to and not to have your landlord sell or renew your lease. You are able to personalize your Maui home or your Maui condo and receive the benefit of a mortgage interest tax deduction, and appreciation & something tangible for your investment. If you invest in the market and your stocks go down you don't have a tangible asset like a home. As FDR stated, " A nation of homeowners is unconquerable." Home ownership not only brings personal satisfaction it builds community, and creates jobs. Many studies including a Harvard study on The Social Benefits and Costs of Home ownership and the National Association of Realtors August 2010 Social Benefits of Home ownership and Stable Housing bear this out.

For more about Maui Real Estate including Maui MLS search visit our website at http://www.fineislandproperties.com/

Aloha, Gina Duncan

Hawaii ranks 3 times in top 10 for Vacation Adventures

We know Hawaii is special but its nice to see other folks think so too. US News just ranked 3 Hawaiian islands in their Top 10 Vacation Adventure Sites. Kauai came in at #3 and Maui right behind at #4. The Big Island of Hawaii was at #7.

Beyond the toes in the sand and swimming in the warm Pacific waters the islands offer everything from Kayaking to Zip Lining across lush cliff tops. Hiking is great on all the islands and Kauai with its "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" has spectacular scenery and what can be as spectacular and peaceful as Hiking in the dormant Volcano of Haleakala on Maui. The Big Island boasts one of the largest cattle ranches in the country and Horseback riding can be enjoyed there and on all the islands. Maui and Oahu even have Polo.

Let us not forget snorkeling, boogie boarding and diving too and my husband Doug's favorite fishing.

Come and visit and see why we choose to make Hawaii our home and year round vacation spot.

If you want more information on Maui or Maui Real Estate check out our website: www.FineIslandProperties.com

Aloha, Gina

808-250-9858

The REO Market has recently had changes in Hawaii due to Act 48 which was enacted in May of 2011. The Act stipulated that there be a moratorium on foreclosures and that the lenders had to meet with homeowners prior to foreclosing on their homes. If foreclosure went forward they would have to file a Judicial foreclosure which costs time and money for the lender.

We had inventory "shadow inventory" that the lenders are still able to process and sell as long as the Maui foreclosure happened prior to the new law's date. Currently there are 55 Residential Foreclosures showing active on Maui's MLS and 36 Condos compared to short sales at 68 for Residential and 62 for Condos.

Many owners knowing that the courts are tied up are waiting it out. Others who once tried to get a loan modification and were turned down are now trying again. Leverage is there now that the banks have to go through the Judicial foreclosure process.

I've represented over 75 Maui short sale owners and I am encouraging folks to modify if they can. If not short sale is an excellent option. The Judicial process may be slow but one bad potential outcome is that they lender asks for a deficiency judgement for the balance owed. In the non-judicial process lenders for the most part forgave the difference, but if they have to spend time and money they may not be as willing.

For further information please visit our website: www.FineIslandProperties.com or email me at Mauigina@gmail.com

I look forward to assisting you with your Maui Real Estate needs.

Maui County Property Taxes for Homeowners May Rise

Tax Exemption to be Lowered &
Property Tax Totals Up for Owner Occupants

The Maui County Council Budget & Finance Committee approved last Tues to look for revenue in the current Property Tax Homeowner Exemption. Currently resident owners are given a 300k deduction of the tax basis and a lower per $1000 rate for calculating their property taxes.
The rate recently went from $2.00 per 1000 to $2.50 per 1000.


Now the government is looking to the deduction portion and wants to lower the 300k to 200k.
Initially the 300k increase came about due to skyrocketing real estate prices on Maui. Now that we are back to pre increase for average sales prices they want to take that back down to the lower level. Maui currently has much higher exemption and rates than Oahu.
While good in theory I would argue that the job situation was a little different back then and people were not struggling so hard. We do have some of the lowest property tax rates in the nation and state so I would look for this to pass.




Aloha, Gina

Serene Tropical Maui Estate

Serene Tropical Estate Home

2600 Kanakanui Rd Kihei

Stunning doesn't begin to describe this one of a kind luxury executive gated estate. Just past lush tropical landscape this exquisite, very private, & serene property features furnished main home, cottage, 4 car garage, tropical oasis pool & tennis court. Appointments incl travertine tiling w/custom accents, mahogany trim, custom lighting, rain forest granite, surround sound system, & more.

The gracious living room is past granite columns w/room for the piano. A sunken media area, dining area and kitchen are part of the great room concept.



The custom pool has waterfall feature, rock accents, & a walk in beach entry.
Outdoor living to love incl. limestone counters and Jenn Air BBQ, hot tub, & an outdoor shower area featuring Bali artwork designed right in the lava rock walls. The 2nd level Master Retreat has sweeping ocean & outer island views. Sunsets year round, a sitting area, and the master bath is everything you can desire. Jacuzzi tub w/from the ceiling bath filler, walk in shower, dual glass bowl sinks on granite counters, & a walk in closet 2- 1/4 acre lots are included so you can build your own retreat, Bed and Breakfast, or add another home.

New HI Foreclosure Law: What you should know...

Act 48: Hawaii Relief has arrived in the form of our new foreclosure law just enacted. This gives real power back to the people and makes lenders meet face to face with the borrower prior to foreclosure.

Many of our short sale clients have complained (and rightfully so) that they felt disenfranchised from the process of negotiating with their lender for a loan modification. In some instances they were told by their lender unless they were late in payments they wouldn't get modified. So late payments equalled bad credit and the banks still didn't modify their loan, and many times claimed paperwork was "missing" or not turned in. These were the same excuses from lenders that we have seen for years working with short sales.

Overseen by the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs, Office of Administrative Hearings, with assistance from Judiciary this new law will require lenders to file with the Department prior to foreclosure process beginning. The Dept will then notify all parties and if an owner occupant (having lived in home for 200+ consecutive days) wishes to mediate then both parties are given date/time to meet. There are minor fees involved required from both parties.

If the Mortgagee is pursing a non-judicial foreclosure both parties are required to participate. The program is slated to begin on or before Oct 1, 2011 and not end until Sept 30, 2014.

Certain requirements from the owner are required including list of items to bring to the negotiating table.

To read more on Act 48 click on the link below.

http://hawaii.gov/dcca/oah/mfdr/mortagage-foreclosure-dispute-resolution-mfdr-program

Maui Dream Hacienda w/Ocean Views

Maui Upcountry Dream Hacienda Home

You would think with all the homes that agents view we would have so many to recommend to buyers. Unfortunately that sometimes isn't the case. However this Baldwin Ave Hacienda is one of the homes on Maui I can truly recommend. I recently visited Century 21 agent Becky Hanna at her open house on Baldwin Ave. I was taking the scenic drive home from church and had always wanted to get a closer look at this particular home situated on 2 acres in Makawao Upcountry Maui. Set off the main road with a gated entry that featured tumbling purple allamanda flowers this home welcomes you with a circular drive up to the charming entry. The understated entry belies the homes casual elegance just inside.

The main entry features double glass doors that welcome you to the fabulous U shaped floorplan (one of my personal favorites) that features main living and 2 bedroom wings. The main living area is warm and inviting with a custom chefs kitchen w/ koa cabinetry, granite counters, built in eating area in the kitchen and top of the line appliances. There is a separate dining area and the living area is cozy with built ins, and stereo system for the wall mounted tv. The details of the home are very special and include trayed ceilings, expansive sliders to take in the views, moldings, elegant wood interior doors, custom flooring, arched entries, gorgeous lighting, zoned A/C, monier tile roofing, copper gutters, and so much more. All of the living areas enjoy overlooking the pool/spa area out to Central Maui views of the ocean and city lights at night.

The master suite is a focal point of the home with his and her walk in closets & a spa retreat like bath. Beautifully appointed w/wood cabinetry and the shower is a full walk in with shower, and spray heads. The double sink areas are designed at the higher height that is a must in a home today & they are separated by a accent cabinet for extra storage. Travertine tiling completes the luxury feel. The spa tub has an architectural wave that is a feast for the eyes. No expense was spared and the suite overlooks the pool courtyard area. Click on the link to view the MLS information for this one of a kind home:

http://maui.fnismls.com/publink/default.aspx?GUID=67e36dee-c719-4bd8-a312-21167e6b0d3e&Report=Yes

Please contact me for more about this stunning home and other luxury Maui properties. The Fine Island Properties Team is "Your Guide to Maui Real Estate"

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

http://www.fineislandproperties.com/