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

Gina Duncan joins New Brokerage

I am honored to have been one of five agents asked to join Maui Real Estate Advisors LLC in Wailea HI.  Our owner Robbie Dein is a long time respected and successful agent on Maui and our Broker in Charge, Ken Hayo is also looked up to and an admired Broker with many years experience.
I am very pleased to join a team of top Brokers and look forward to serving my clients with a very in depth approach to Real Estate.  The Fine Island Properties Team will look forward to serving our clients with integrity and the very best level of service.

Aloha, Gina Duncan, R Broker, ABR, e-Pro, SFR
Fine Island Properties Website

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

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

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

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/

Wailea Living at Kai Malu New Listing

Kai Malu 78 Kai La Place #24B $1,500,000.

All the best Wailea Maui offers can be yours at this stunning Honua model at Kai Malu. Kai Malu is located on the Wailea Blue Golf Course and is only blocks from The Shops at Wailea and Maui's best beaches including Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach and Keawakapu which was voted number one beach in the world by Dr. Beach.

This home features include 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The main living level features gorgeous hardwood floors flowing from the entry into the master suite. The master suite features a suptuous bath with his and her sinks and a large soaking tub accented with tumbled marble.

The home is perfectly situated to take in the blue Pacific ocean just over the tropical landscape. Kai Malu kitchen features maple cabinets, granite counters, a generous pantry and stainless appliances.

Kai Malu community features are second to none and the disappearing edge pool/spa that are perched to take in 180 degree views of the outer islands and ocean will take you away to total relaxation. Tropical breezes blow over the community pavilion perfect for entertaining, workout, and sauna and meditation areas complete the spa like atmosphere. Call this one of a kind property home by contacting the Fine Island Properties Team at Keller Williams Realty Maui.

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

Fineislandproperties@gmail.com

http://www.fineislandproperties.com/

FHA Insurance on Loans to Increase in April 2011

FHA to Increase Mortgage Insurance Rates: If you are a first time homebuyer this is important news for you. FHA loans that originate after April 18th of this year are going to have higher mortgage insurance rates. The rate will increase by $250.00 for every $100,000. that you borrow. For first time buyers this increase can be significant so if you are on the fence and want to buy now is a good time if you are a first time homebuyer. Aloha, Gina

Buyers Market on Maui-Think Again

BUYERS MARKET ON MAUI- THINK AGAIN:

We have all been lulled into the "market is falling" and will continue to go down, shadow inventory, the bottom hasn't arrived thinking.
If you are looking for a condo under 200k in Kihei you may need to rethink that.

In today's search on MLS 0 yes I said 0 condos came up. Doesn't sound like rock bottom pricing and lots to choose from to me.

If you raise the bar to 250k you only get 7 properties. We have people with cash in hand searching on Maui right now for deals, so if you are a buyer you are competing for one of 7 condos. This means you can't underbid and chances are you will be in a competing bid situation.
Condos that have been on the market for months have been claimed now.
Be prepared to know the market prior to shopping for a home.

If you are thinking of buying a home and want to work with a professional team that will look out for your best interests, make the buying process fun/easy, and want to get you that best buy contact The Fine Island Properties Team at Keller Williams Realty Maui.

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

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