Ulupalakua

On the slopes of Haleakala, there's a region known as Ulupalakua. They say that this translates to "man walking uphill with breadfruit". Across the street from Ulupalakua Ranch Store is the Tedeschi Winery. Once a family home and estate, it's now become a winery/tasting room that produces Maui's only local wines.


Their original claim to fame was a sweet pineapple wine, but they now make a range of wines including a nice sparkling white. If you're driving upcountry, be sure to stop and enjoy the surroundings of this peaceful estate, and learn a little of the history.

If you continue out the winding road, you will come to ranchlands that are still grazed by Maui cattle. The beautiful scenery and vistas at this 3,000 foot altitude makes it a worthwhile outing.
There are some beautiful homes for sale in this area, with views to die for. Please let me know if you're thinking of making a move to a cool elevation, and we can drive out together and see some of them.

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

Maui Kamaole Condos in South Kihei

NEW LISTING ALERT:


2 bed/2bath, fully furnished, ocean and mountain views

This popular vacation rental complex is located in South Kihei, very close to Wailea. The Kihei boat launch is right across the street, next to Kamaole III Beach Park. Unit built in 2001 and not in rental pool. Asking $989,000. Call for more details


Georgina M. Hunter R(S)
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635
EMAIL

The Lodge at Molokai Ranch

One of the best places to stay on Molokai is the The Lodge and Beach Village, at Molokai Ranch. Because it was raining, we chose to stay at The Lodge, with it's quiet country atmosphere and ambience. It was a truly relaxing experience to sleep in the peaceful surroundings amid thousands of acres of open space. In fact, we didn't even bother to take the trip down to the Beach Village, and vowed to check that out next time.


The Lodge is only 4 years old, and built with an old world style reminiscent of a mountain retreat. The vistas were incredible, and the slow pace was very welcome. All the hotel staff were very friendly and courteous, and treated us like special guests. There's a proper restaurant, a bar with pool table and TV, a big lobby with fireplace, and an outdoor pool. It's just a small hotel really, but it feels like a big one. Activities include horseback riding, acupuncture and massage. Be sure to inquire about Kama'aina rates if you're coming from one of the other Hawaiian islands.


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

Hotel Molokai, beachfront views

These are photos taken from the Hotel Molokai, on the small island of Molokai. The hotel is located about a mile and a half from the main town, and the ferry dock. It's beachfront, with a view of Maui island. The hotel is renowned for being the only place on Molokai with any night life, hosting local talent and Karaoke nights for everyone to enjoy.

There's a nice pool, a restaurant/lounge, and 2 story buildings with the guest rooms. Nothing fancy here, just plain old accommodations and freindly service.
Call: Marc Resorts Hawaii 1 800 535-0085 to make reservations.

Call:
Georgina M. Hunter R(S)
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635
thehunter@eastmaui.com

when you're ready to own a piece of Molokai.

The Ferry to Molokai

There's a small passenger ferry from Maui's Lahaina wharf to Kaunakakai Harbor on Molokai. It sails back and forth twice a day, starting and ending in Molokai. The cost is $40 per person each way, and you can make reservations ahead of time, or just show up on the dock.



Molokai is a Hawaiian island that is still very untouched. There are no traffic lights on the whole island. The people are content with their simple lifestyles and small town atmosphere. For a really relaxing change of scenery, Maui folks can take a break over on Molokai, where life is slower.


We recently enjoyed Thanksgiving Day over there. The ferry ride was fun, and the island of Molokai was a refreshing change of pace. This is the dock where the ferry ties up in Kaunakakai town. If you book with Island Kine car rentals, they will pick you up and deliver you back to the dock.


If you're looking for shopping options, you don't have far to walk.
For more information about Molokai properties for sale, please contact me today.
Georgina M. Hunter R(S)
808 283-0635
thehunter@eastmaui.com

Maui Cottage - new bathroom

Meanwhile, back at the new cottage being built in Huelo, on Maui's north shore:
We've got it almost done... the toilet flushes, the sink has hot and cold water, and the shower is hooked up too. Some surprise guests showed up, and were able to stay here and use the new bathroom, much to their satisfaction.
Once again Home Depot and Lowes were the source of all items used here, with the exception of the white floor tiles, and bamboo baseboards.
If you have questions about building your own dream home on Maui, please contact me...

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

Peahi Views, Maui home for sale

Looking for a view? Call the Hunter.
How about this view, looking out over the manicured gardens to the Pacific Ocean.
This Peahi, Maui home could be yours. It's a new listing for sale at Jim Sanders Realty. Are you looking for a nice clean 2 story home, with living quarters upstairs, and 3 rental units downstairs? Are you looking for a quiet, private, country location with ocean and mountain views? Only 15 minutes into Paia or Makawao, and miles away from the rest of the world, this location has it all. New on the market this month, this is a good one.


For about $1.5M this home could be yours. Call for more information.
Georgina M. Hunter R(S)
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635
EMAIL

Aloha Classic Windsurfing Maui 2005

This is the time of year for the Aloha Classic boardsailing competition at Ho'okipa Beach Park. This year the contest is enjoying great wind and wave conditions, as sailors from around the world compete for prestige and prizes. There's one more day of heats, and the winners will be chosen from among the best in the field.

Many people on Maui spent their Veteran's Day just relaxing at the beach and having a good time.

If spending time on the beaches of Maui is what you envision for your future, then ask me about how you can own a condo of your own.


Search for active condo listings at EASTMAUI.COM


Georgie Hunter
808 283-0635
EMAIL

Halloween 2005

Well Halloween has come and gone, but I thought I might do a quick blog anyway.

Here on Maui the biggest festivities are in Lahaina, where thousands of people in costumes will show up for the parade, the costume contests and other activities. Front Street will be blocked off to car traffic so party goers can walk up and down and hog the street. There's a live cam for those who can't be bothered to attend.

Here are plenty of pictures from Halloweens past.

ENJOY and ALOHA

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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, 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

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

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.

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.

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

Haliimaile General Store, Maui

On the slopes of Haleakala, Maui, in the upcountry town of Haliimaile, there is a great world class restaurant. The owners have taken an old general store from the plantation era, and turned it into a fine dining establishment.

The owner, Bev Gannon, has created a really unique and interesting place to have a business lunch, or family dinner. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, with lots of nostalgic mementos from a time gone by. The old store shelves are filled with items that customers can purchase, in addition to their meals.

If you make it away from the resort areas, and experience this wonderful restaurant with it's country atmosphere, you will be very pleased. It's a scenic drive through upcountry and well worth the time. Neighboring towns are Paia and Makawao.
There are many more places to eat upcountry.
When you're in Haliimaile, you might notice that there are a few of the older camp homes for sale. These are some of the most affordable homes on Maui. There are usually 1 or 2 on the market, and they really appeal to home buyers who are looking for a fixer-upper. If you're one of those buyers and want more details on the Haliimaile market, please contact me. I can send you some listings and pictures.
Aloha from the quaint little plantation town of Haliimaile!
email: thehunter@eastmaui.com
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.

Maui Oceanfront Property

We have a great new oceanfront listing in Paia/Kuau on Maui's north shore. This town is very popular with the watersports crowd, as Ho'okipa, Spreckelsville and Kanaha Beaches are all close by.
See some pictures of Maui north shore beaches.
This property has a large lot and a nice large home that could use some personal touches to make it your own special Maui retreat.


If you're looking for an oceanfront home on Maui, please call or email me about this opportunity. I have more pictures and information for anyone seriously interested.



Georgina M. Hunter ...
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
thehunter@eastmaui.com

Honua Kai update - beachfront Ka'anapali pre-construction offering

HONUA KAI - the first whole ownership condo-hotel resort to be built on Ka'anapali Beach in over 20 years is now offering RESERVATION FORMS. As your buyer's agent, I can submit your reservation along with your refundable deposit check for $20,000.

The site will consist of 2 towers, a North and South Tower with varying heights up to 10 stories, as well as the detached townhouses. Swimming pools, a public park and open spaces will be on the grounds as well. Golf courses are nearby. About 242 units in the South Tower will be offered in the initial release.

INITIAL RELEASE:
A collection of fee simple studio, one, two and three bedroom condos available through a Limited Priority Reservation Program
- Studio, one and two bedrooms sold fully furnished with two color scheme choices
- three bedrooms sold unfurnished with furniture packages available for purchase
- Buyers will have a choice of 2 designer finish packages. Interior appointments to include granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and tile entries.
- priced from the low $500's to $3.5+ million.

Please inquire for more details: thehunter@eastmaui.com or call 808 283-0635
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.

Don't miss out on this great opportunity to own a Maui beachfront condo.

Slate floor for Maui cottage

Here is a picture of the Chinese slate floor tiles in the entryway. Due to the fact that we get lots of wind and rain, we want to keep the entry tiled to avoid water damage in the future.


The tiles are laid out and ready to be set in place. Now I have to move them all aside, waterproof the cement board, and prepare the thinset. It will be a tricky job, but well worth it. Since it's a small area, about 80 sf, we can do it ourselves without much difficulty. There's no way I would want to tile a whole big room. Knee pads really make it easier!
Update: It looks great now, all grouted and sealed, but there were many times when I wondered "why am I doing this?" It was difficult and very time consuming to get it just right. My hands were shot for days, and talk about sore legs! Next time, I think I will hire a professional.

Do-it-yourself vs Hire a Professional

Don't you often wonder if you should do a job yourself, or hire an expert?

Some things are easy enough to do yourself, such as painting a bedroom, fixing the railings on your deck, or changing the oil in your car. By all means, why not save some money and time, and have the satisfaction of doing it yourself.
Then again, some things you would never dream of doing yourself, such as filling your teeth, removing a gall bladder, or painting a car. Many jobs are best left to someone with more credentials and experience. Not only with the results be much better, it will be quicker when handled by a pro.

The same concept applies to Real Estate. Sure, if you've got nothing better to do, and you have a lot of patience, why not try and sell your home without any help. How hard can it be, you think? Many people have had success by marketing their own homes in today's market. Many more have had equal success by hiring Real Estate professionals to do the job. Those who buy and sell multiple properties, know the value of a good agent, and wouldn't even consider for sale by owner. A good agent will be there when you need them, to answer questions and find resources that might be elusive. A good agent will advertise your property in a much more comprehensive way than you can do on your own. A good agent will be available 24/7, so you can concentrate on what you do best. Leave the scheduling and appointments to someone who cares. A licensed Realtor has been trained to market your home, and work with all parties to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. When the seller is happy, his agent has done a good job and is happy too.

Would you like to sell your home in Hawaii? If you have any questions about the process, please call or email. I'm here to help you.
Georgie Hunter
Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
808 283-0635

The Sound of Rain

Thursday September 22.

Waking up to the sound of gentle rain outside, trickling down the gutters and into the pipes that fill the tank, I'm sitting at the 'puter and blogging. The satellite images show that we can expect rain all day. This is hurricane season, and we are on the fringes of Jova. Most of Maui will be getting wet today, not just us lucky folks in Haiku. Good thing yesterday was sunny and I was able to get some tomatoes and brocolli transplanted. Today those little plants will love the rain, and I won't have to think about watering them.

No wind, no sun.... means we're not going to be making much power today. The batteries will sustain us for the day, but by tonight we may have to run a generator.

Meanwhile, back at the cottage that's being built, there are plenty of rainy day projects. This week we are concentrating on flooring. We have decided to put bamboo flooring in the main living/kitchen area, with a tiled entryway between the kitchen door and sliding French doors. Due to the fact that the rain will occasionally blow in, we've agreed that tiling the entry will help to prevent water getting on the bamboo flooring in the future. The bathroom will be 12' tiles, and the bedrooms will most likely be carpeted.

We are almost all prepared to lay the subflooring. Most items have been bought, save for a few tools that are needed. This will require another trip to "town".... Kahului, to those fabulous big box stores we love... Home Depot and Lowes. It's nice to have the large selection all under one roof, but we find that even still, there will be shortages of items that are very much in demand. Once that subflooring is down, I have the fun project of tiling the entryway with tumbled Chinese slate tiles in 2 sizes. We found just the right amount of leftover tiles that will do the job nicely. The bamboo flooring is another story... there are so many choices, that we haven't yet decided on a supplier and color.

Okay, so the blogging is off to a great start. More on the Maui cottage later. Please feel free to contact me with any questions about building a home on Maui. I'm no expert, but I can at least steer you in the right direction.

New kid on the BLOG

Day 1. Wednesday Sept 21, 2005

Before I get started, I'd like to introduce myself. Georgina M. Hunter. I'm a Realtor sales associate with Jim Sanders Realty Inc. on Maui. This blog is another way to connect with buyers and sellers who are looking for professional guidance. You can find more info at my website ... www.eastmaui.com Please contact me with any of your questions. 808 283-0635. hunter@eastmaui.com

It's time to start blogging about Maui Real Estate. Today's topic... building a cottage on Maui's north shore.

Building your own home is something many of us dream about, and some are lucky enough to accomplish. We are currently enjoying building our "secondary farm dwelling" on our Huelo country property on Maui. It's been a long process with many ups and downs, and I hope to be able to shed some light on all that it entails.
Here in Huelo (or outer Haiku), we have our own set of unique lifestyle challenges to deal with. Maui Electric service is not always available, and County water is not available at all. Telephone service is often on a "do-it-yourself" basis, but that's another whole story for a rainy day. So, basic utilities and access are some factors to think about out here, before even breaking ground to build.
What about the weather? Huelo is on the windward side of the island, meaning we are usually blessed with NE tradewinds which blow about 10-15 mph most of the day. Clean fresh air blows through our environment and home, and helps to keep a nice cool temperature. Yes it rains a fair amount in Haiku, but that's the beauty of it. Without ample rainfall, we'd all be living in a desert. Roughly we get about 75" of liquid sunshine a year. That's enough to keep the lawns and gardens watered, keep the dust down, and fill up the water storage tanks. We have never had to irrigate our lawn in the 15 years we've lived here! And the best part is... no bill for water service.
I will go into more detail about water catchment systems another time. Basically, it requires a surface to catch water, usually the roof of the house, a storage tank, and a pumping system to service the home. Being self sufficient in the water department is a really satisfying.
Power self sufficiency is another topic that will need serious coverage another time. Once again, it's a great feeling to be in that position. Much more on that later.
In the next weeks I will be detailing the building process of a 1,000 sf frame cottage.

Thanks for checking in to the new blog! Stay tuned for updates.