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

View actual Maui neighborhoods that you are interested in

Aloha

We have a great tool from Google that will allow our homebuyers to view the neighborhood for the condo or home they are searching for. Ck out the sample below to Wailea Palms.


View Larger Map

Home Sales Up

According to the Recent Article by The National Association of Realtors many areas of the country are seeing a jump in home sales. (see link to full article below)

Maui is no exception to this trend. Our market is showing healthy recover indicated in our statistics (available at http://www.fineislandproperties.com/) and the movement we are experiencing as Realtors on the street. In the last month there has been an upward movement for showings and offers on our listings. REO (Foreclosure) listings and listings below the 450k can expect multiple offers if priced well.

Our luxury market is a little slower but it picking up nicely as well. REO and Shortsales are not as prevalent but showing up slowly and there are very well priced for our luxury markets.

Aloha, Gina

http://www.realtor.org/press_room/news_releases/2011/01/sharp_rise

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