Friday, October 28, 2005

New Listing in Kuau Plaza on Maui's North Shore

Once again I have a great new listing in the Kuau Plaza building in Kuau, Maui.
This 3 story building is located very close to Ho'okipa Beach Park, one of the best windsurfing spots on this island. Mama's Fish House Restaurant is only a short walk away, for great drinks and pupus, overlooking a sandy beach and swaying palms.

This ground floor unit is 2BD/2BA and has been remodeled this year. The kitchen is new, and the bathrooms have been upgraded. Look how cute it is!
Are you looking for an affordable home on Maui? Look no further. Please contact me today:

Georgie Hunter
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635
EMAIL

Friday, October 21, 2005

Kona Coast Boat Harbor


Honokahau Marina and Small Boat Harbor on the Big Island, is the place to go to charter a boat on the Kona Coast. The Marina is about four miles south of the airport and about two miles north of Kailua Town, off the main road, Queen Kaahumanu Highway. There's plenty of free parking, and facilities like gas, shops and restaurants.

This is the place to come for big game fishing, like marlin and mahi mahi. The calm deep waters are ideal for sportfishing, making Kona famous the world over for the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. Dive and snorkel boats also leave from here for day and nights diving excursions.

I can't help you to hook up a big fish, but I can help you to hunt down a home in the islands. When you're ready to start fishing for a home, send me an email.

Thursday, October 20, 2005

Maui - Best Island in the World

Once again Maui has the honors of being voted the "Best Island in the World" by the Conde Nast Traveler magazine....for the 12th year in a row! They have also voted it the “Top Travel Destination in the World”. Those of us who live here will agree.

It's no suprise when you think about it. Maui is still relatively small and undeveloped compared to so many other places in the world. The weather is very stable, with no big temperature fluctuations. Extreme weather is pretty much nonexistant. Sure, there's the occassional tsunami in the coastal areas, but we have a very good early warning system. The island has many terrains and microclimates, providing a suitable living environment for just about anyone's taste.

The economic climate is doing well too. Unemployment is low, with lots of jobs and opportunities for those who are willing to work. Self motivated people can start up their own businesses and find many niches waiting to be filled.

Due to the fact that so many are moving here, finding a home to buy can be a challenge. A good realtor will make that search much easier for you. If you've decided to move to Maui and need to find a home, please call me. If it's out there, I'll find it for you.

Aloha and happy hunting.... Georgina M. Hunter R(S)
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635

Big Island of Hawaii - Real Estate

The Big Island of Hawaii, the largest of the islands in the Hawaiian chain, is growing rapidly in population. Real Estate supply and demand is driving up the prices, as on the other Hawaiian islands. Over the past year, the median price of a residential property is up 44% islandwide, with much higher increases in select areas. Some of the hottest housing markets are North Kohala and Ka'u. Vacant land is also a hot ticket with the median price increasing over 118% from September 2004 to September 2005.
New developments are showing up all over the Kona coast, with units selling and reselling even before completion. The climate and beauty of the island appeal to many, and it's easy to see why properties are selling so fast.

There are still areas where old Hawaii clings tentatively to the new Hawaii, and development is not happening. This is what gives the Big Island some of its charm and character, and let's hope some pockets can be preserved to remind us.

For more information about Hawaii Real Estate please call or email:
Georgie Hunter
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635
thehunter@eastmaui.com

Wednesday, October 19, 2005

Green Sea Turtle

While staying on the Kona coast, one evening we spotted a green sea turtle on shore. The tide was coming up and he struggled to catch a wave back into the water. This was a lucky chance to snap a few pictures of a beached turtle.

The rugged black lava shoreline on the Big Island is very dramatic, and treacherous to walk on. The Big Island is the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, and is still very much alive with volcanic activity.

Monday, October 17, 2005

Island Air to Kona Hawaii

We booked a flight with Island Air to the Big Island, as their internet rates were competitive and we thought we would try them for the first time. When we got to the gate at the Kahului airport, there was another flight to Kona boarding in a few minutes. They let us jump onto that flight instead, but they wouldn't guarantee that our bags would make it when we did. No big deal, we went anyway, and the plane was almost empty. It was "just like the old days" when you had to walk out on the runway and climb the stairs to get on the small plane. I'm glad I wasn't wearing a skirt, as the wind will lift that thing up!

We were really impressed with the friendly service and quick departure. The best part was, upon arriving in the cute little Kona Airport, our bags were unloading on the conveyer just moments after we walked over to Baggage Claim! Island Air gets my vote for efficiency, and I'd recommend them to anyone who wants to fly interisland.

Kona Airport is still small and open air. It's a great little airport, and the surrounding countryside is striking in it's own way... all black lava.

Sunday, October 16, 2005

Kitchen cupboards for Maui Cottage

Meanwhile, back at the farm.... the cottage has got the kitchen cabinets installed, and ready to be "fitted" for the countertops. The wood is Hickory, Mission style with brushed nickel handles and knobs. We bought them from the Maui Lowe's and have been somewhat satisfied with their service. Since there was a botch up with 2 of the doors, they have expedited the speedy delivery of the correct versions, along with some other additional items. The convenience of having the Big Box store supplier is certainly a nice option, especially for all the little things.

Corian counter tops will be coming before Christmas they say, but I won't hold my breath.

And by the way, the slate floor is grouted and sealed and ready for it's close up.

Progess will halt at the end of today, as we prepare to take a week off and go to the Big Island. Stay tuned for updates from a more exotic locale.

Saturday, October 15, 2005

Maui Red Bull King of the Air - 2005

October 2005. Three days of Maui Red Bull King of the Air contest at Ho'okipa Beach Park...Oct 13-15. The wind and the waves were up for this annual event on the north shore.

Some contestants are getting air late in the day on Saturday Oct. 14. This event brings out the best in the field.

If you're interested in owning your own oceanfront property on the north shore of Maui, check out all listings at MY SITE ,
then give me a call...

THE HUNTER
808 283-0635

Thursday, October 13, 2005

Paia~Haiku Realtor Caravan

Here on Maui we Realtors get together every month to view the new listings in different areas. The north shore region of Paia/Spreckelsville/Kuau and Haiku are lumped together as they are quite similar in climate and appeal. We all meet at the Maui Country Club in Spreckelsville and get updated on what's new before we head off in our cars to see the homes. There are usually 6-12 properties each month that are open for agents to have a look. Sometimes there's a new starter home in Paia, which is always exciting. There's usually a couple of 2 acre Haiku properties, consisting of a house and cottage. Occasionally there will be a fabulous oceanfront estate or vacant land. It can take 2 or 3 hours to see all the new listings and take it all in. It's a great way to spend a Thursday morning.

Maui Country Club
MAUI COUNTRY CLUB, SPRECKELSVILLE

If you're interested in knowing more about the homes and land on the Caravan, you can sign up for my FREE email newsletter.
There are other newsletters as well, which you can sign up for at my website.
Please take the time to send me an email and I'll be happy to put you on the mailing list.
Aloha from the North Shore of Maui!
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
Georgie Hunter.... 808 283-0635

Tuesday, October 11, 2005

Honua Kai reservations

Today, October 11, 2005 was the first day to submit reservation forms for the Honua Kai condo hotel development on Ka'anapali Beach. We got there at 9, when the doors opened, and there was already a line up of about 50 realtors. Some enthusiastic agents had even "camped out" on the doorstep to ensure they got their forms in before the "cutoff". Sales agents say they will only take 500 reservation forms to start, and possibly more if it looks like some people will drop out. There is a lot of excitement for this new Intrawest offering, as it's been a long time coming.
The next phase, detached townhomes, will be marketed in the spring, probably February 2006, starting around $3,000,000. If this kind of pre-construction project interests you, please contact me for more details.

Georgina M. Hunter R(S)
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
Paia, HI 96779
808 283-0635
thehunter@eastmaui.com

Sunday, October 09, 2005

Paia Fish Market Restaurant

There's a really good fresh fish restaurant in Paia, and it's not too expensive.

My favorites are: fish tacos, and the Caesar salad with MahiMahi. The French fries are also excellent. The fish is caught in local waters, and brought in daily.
It's located on the corner of Hana Highway and Baldwin Ave, in Paia. You can't miss it, right at the traffic light. They are sporting a shiny new ornamental Marlin on the front these days.
While you're in Paia, walk kitty corner and past the Minit Stop to The Shops at Paia Bay. Here you will find Jim Sanders Realty Inc. Come on in and I'll show you what's on the market in Paia and area. Just ask for Georgie.
For more info on where to eat in Paia, check out this list of restaurants and stores in our town...PAIA RESTAURANTS.

Thursday, October 06, 2005

Kula Kai, Maui - it's a great neighborhood

Kula Kai is one of those quiet Kula neighborhoods that are easy to miss as you drive by. It was developed in the 70's and has filled out pretty much completely. Lot sizes are about 1/3 of an acre, and utilities are all underground. Because of the sloping grade, most homes have excellent ocean views. It's a quiet and peaceful residential neighborhood, with happy homeowners maintaining their beautifully manicured gardens.
There are usually 1 or 2 homes for sale in here at any given time. This month there are a couple of new listings of interest. Whether you're looking for a fully remodeled home, or something that could use updating, I think you'll find good value here. If you're in the market for a Kula home, please email or call:
Georgina M. Hunter R(S)
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635
thehunter@eastmaui.com


Kula is located in the upcountry area of Maui, on the fertile slopes of Haleakala Crater. The climate is mild, usually with low rainfall, and not much wind. There are many small flower farms, ranches, and botanical gardens. It's mostly a residential community, with not much commercial activity. A new shopping center is currently under construction, called Kula Malu, which is only about 5-10 minutes away from Kula Kai by car.

Monday, October 03, 2005

Kihei Starter Homes - part 2

I saw a nice Kihei condo over the weekend. It's a 2 bedroom unit in a small complex with only 6 units. There's a nice pool, and the beach is just across the street. Each unit has an upstairs and a downstairs, and access to the attic for storage. This unit has been remodeled, and looks really nice. The seller is very motivated and ready to move. Vacation rentals are not allowed. It's strictly for long term living, and most units are owner occupied. Pets are allowed with approval of the owners. If you're in the market for a 2 bedroom Kihei Maui condo that allows pets, then look no further. Listed at $480,000. Call me for more details. www.eastmaui.com/realestate
Georgina M. Hunter
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635

Kihei Starter Homes

If you're looking for entry level condo living on the South Shore of Maui, Kihei has a wide range of low priced 2 bedroom units.
Kihei Villages, and Southpointe at Waiakoa are the 2 largest developments, with about 875 units between both locations. Pets are allowed, and the neighborhoods are close to schools.
Apartments are either upstairs, or downstairs with a yard. Some ocean and mountain views can be seen. Upgraded units are getting snapped up, but there is always a good selection if you're interested.

One of these affordable condos could be just what you need.

Are you looking for a condo?
Call the Hunter.
Georgina M. Hunter
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635
eastmaui.com