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