Maui Blog - Georgina M. Hunter R(S): October 2009

Deed Street - A new way to make your real estate tweets work for you (and help consumers).

I think this is a great idea, and I have already tested the waters with ^MAUI.  Try it, you'll like it.  So if you're searching the web for Maui Real Estate information, I'll see you on Deed Street. 

Aloha from ^Maui ~ Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ 808 283-0635 ~  @mauihunter

Via Matt Stigliano (RE/MAX Access - San Antonio Real Estate Rockstar):

Deed Street (beta) logoTake a walk on Deed Street.

I was introduced to Deed Street at Blog World 2009 thanks to Doug Lazovick, the founder and man behind the curtain.  During the conference I actually spent quite a bit of time with Doug and got to know him and chat with him about Deed Street.

The idea of Deed Street is pretty simple.  As you tweet about real estate in your local market, Deed Street pulls those tweets onto its site and lets users search through them in real time as they happen.

Say for instance your a consumer in Phoenix, Arizona.  You head over to Deed Street and select your location (Phoenix, Arizona).  The next screens shows you the current tweets happening in Phoenix.

Tweets about Phoenix, Arizona real estate at Deed Street.

screen capture from Deed Street - PHX

How does Deed Street work?

Deed Street requires little work on your part, but it does require some.  When you're tweeting about real estate, you need to add a special tag so that the computer voodoo magic that makes Deed Street run recognizes that you're talking real estate.  In order to make it easy (and differentiate it from hashtags (#) and other secret codes of Twitter), Doug opted for the ^ symbol.  Doug even has reasoning for that.  What's it look like?  The roof of a house.  (If you speak to Doug on Twitter he even calls it the "house symbol.")

So in order to tell Deed Street you're talking about Phoenix real estate, you would enter ^PHX somewhere in your tweet.  In my case, San Antonio real estate is represented by ^SA.  There are quite a few cities available currently (Deed Street is in Beta, but I bet if you ask Doug, he'll get your city up there in no time at all), but too many to list here - so go to Deed Street and click the "Location" tab on the main screen to learn the code for your city.

In addition to the city codes there are several other important codes:

^CRE - Commercial Real Estate

^MTG - Mortgages

^REO - Real Estate Owned

^LSTG - Listings

^RENT - Rentals

^^ - General Real Estate (use this one when it's a non-local tweet)

Let's talk in examples.

You have a new listing in your hometown of Philadelphia.  Your new listing is at 123 Fake Street and has a pool.  It's also a foreclosure.  What do you tweet?

How about: Home for sale: 123 Fake St. Fabulous home with pool! Price change - $210K ^PHI ^LSTG ^REO http://fakeURL.com/123FakeSt  (This would get your tweet listed in the Philadelphia section (^PHI), in the listings section (^LSTG), and the real estate owned section (^REO).)

The First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit just got extended to 2092 and is now $80,000 for everyone.  Obviously, you want to tell the world!  (Please note: if you're reading this and getting excited - a) it's not true and b) it's not going to happen)

How about: New First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Rules - $80K for everyone until 2092! Read more: http://fakeURL.com/NotTrue ^^  (This would get your tweet listed in the general real estate section (^^).)

Your name is Ken Cook and you just wrote you finest post ever about FHA mortgages.  You think everyone must see it.

How about: New post at FHA Home Loans: Learn the secrets to getting approved for FHA loans. http://fakeURL.com/FHASecret ^^ ^MTG  (This would get your tweet listed in the mortgage section (^MTG).)

And your tweets don't just have to be links to blog posts.  You could also just tweet things such as:

Anyone know any good ^MTG people who work with ^REO in ^SA ?

(Anyone know any good mortgage people who work with real estate owned properties in San Antonio?)

I hope that gives you some ideas to get started using Deed Street.  It's still in its infancy, but there has been a lot of good feedback from agents so far and I think it could become a great place for consumers to do research long before they pick up the phone, plus as a local tweeter, they will see your face and everyone wants exposure.  If you have any questions, hit up Doug Lazovik on Twitter, he's a super down to earth guy and will help you out.

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: http://cmp.ly/0

All content ©2008-2009 by Matt Stigliano, Realtor® unless otherwise noted.

 Matt Stigliano, Realtor® | RE/MAX Access | (210) 646-HOME | www.RErockstar.com

"Your all access pass to San Antonio real estate."

Connect with me on Twitter and Facebook.

RErockstar.com small icon.RE/MAX Access LogoRErockstar.com small icon.

 

Connecting with Maui buyers and sellers - Using My Maui Blog

Maui oceanfront properties for sale

In response to the challenge from Active Rain's Bob Stewart, I had to take a hard look at what I'm doing with my blog.  To tell the truth, I don't integrate it into my marketing plans enough, but I need to change how I think, and start using this resource which I have created!  Reading some of the other member posts has really been inspirational.

What have I done? 

Print them:  I use one of my older posts, about me as a Maui Realtor, tweak it a little and print it up on the back of fliers that go into the brochure boxes hanging on the listing signs.  This is a way for people to see who I am and they can go to my website and start their property search there.  Why waste that space, right?  After reading some of the other posts about using our blogs for marketing, I realize I need to be printing up more and using them at Open Houses, especially my Maui newsletters.

Email them:  Another AR challenge produced some Relocation Packages which have been quite useful.  If someone contacts me about moving to Maui, and they have never been here (yes, that happens), I can send them a link to the relocation package for a start.  I started a Maui Real Estate Q&A which will be expanding and ready to send out to those who ask.

Link to them:  Wow, I just checked and sure enough I have linked to the same relocation package from my website.  So I was on the right track, but need to be more proactive here.  What I need is some local info links, and now I know where to start, since I have done many many Localism posts for Paia, Haiku, Kihei and other Maui towns. 

Pass them out:  When interviewing local businesses and people, I will hand them my business card, and put www.MyMauiBlog.com on the back - that's the quickest and easiest way for them to find my blog and see how they've been featured.

Online:  These posts go straight to Twitter and Facebook, where they sometimes get more comments that on here, which is always nice.

I can see I have a long road ahead of me to integrate my Maui blog more into every day activities.  At least the more I blog, the more good material I have.  Thanks Bob, and the AR members!

Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ Jim Sanders Realty Inc. ~ Paia MAUI HI 96779

EMAIL ME ~ 808 283-0635 ~ SEARCH MAUI ACTIVE LISTINGS

West Maui Mountains seen from Maui Lani - Kahului Maui homes for sale

 

Maui Real Estate Q & A - What's an Ohana?

I get asked this question every now and then, so decided it was time to write a post about it, and start a new feature of Questions and Answers.  So, here goes with the first Q & A.

ohana in Haiku Maui

What's an Ohana?

In Hawaii, the term ohana is used frequently in real estate listings.  It refers to an apartment or cottage on the same property as the main home.  An ohana can be a mother-in-law suite, or granny flat.  Typically it would mean an apartment attached to the main house but with it's own entrance.  It can also be a detached cottage, or an apartment over the garage.  It can even be a non-conforming tool shed or barn.

Where does this term come from?  Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family.  Here in Hawaii, it's expensive to live and many times a household will be comprised of more than one generation.  To make life easier, a separate ohana is built or created so the families can each have their own space, yet still be close.

Ohanas come in all sizes and shapes, and there are laws regarding which properties can have them or not.  Sometimes the zoning will restrict the size.  Sometimes CC&R's will prohibit them.  When buying a home on Maui it's always good to ask your REALTOR® about the rules in each case.

Are you looking for a Maui home with an ohana?  Please let me be your guide to all things Maui.

*****

 Thanks for reading My Maui Blog!

Aloha from Maui ~ Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro  

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

~

Other related posts:

Maui Real Estate Q & A - What's Mauka and Makai?

What's a residential condo on Maui?

What's DOM?

 

Paia/Haiku Maui HI Real Estate Newsletter - October 2009

Paia/Haiku Maui Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter     -     October 2009

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The October Realtor Caravan for Maui's north shore featured 3 homes in the
5-corners area of Haiku.  This is where Ulumalu, Kaupakalua and Peahi RoadsHaiku Maui HI ocean views - homes for sale
come together.

1.    Attention Farmers, 5-Corners  $738,000.00
- 6 flat acres with mature fruit trees, wooded area, large lawn, rough road
- 2-story 3BD/2BA home in need of a makeover, water catchment, peace and quiet

2.   Botanical Retreat, 5-Corners  $875,000.00
- charming 3BD/2BA home with open floor plan and extra spacious covered lanai
- downstairs could be used as a separate ohana, with own entrance and lanai
- 2 acres, partially wooded and beautifully landscaped with tropical flowers, koi ponds and fish farm



Haiku Maui HI ocean views - homes for sale3.    Asian Style, Upcountry  $1,450,000.00
- 3.46 acre organic farm with dozens of fruit-bearing trees and fish ponds, year-round stream
- 3BD/2BA main house has hardwood floors, high ceilings, granite counters, hilltop privacy
- detached studio ohana is made of bamboo, also an art studio and plant nursery

4.    Gated Subdivision, 5-Corners  $1,775,000.00
- almost 3 level acres with large house and ohana, palm lined driveway
- 4,452 sf main house with 2 kitchens and 4BD/4.5BA, tile and wood floors, huge covered tiled lanai
- breezeway connects to 2 story garage/workshop, with cute 2BD/1BA ohana above

5.    Quality Bargain,  Spreckelsville  $3,250,000.00
- priced well below the replacement value, but sellers must move on
- gated estate on the fairway and close to the Country Club and beachesSpreckelsville Maui homes for sale
- magnificent remodeled 5BD/3.5BA with flagstone floors, huge upstairs master suite
- detached 1BD/1BA cottage, beautiful grounds with mature trees and lush lawns, extra long lap pool and spa

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A relic of St. Damien, our newly canonized saint, will be making a tour of Maui and will be in Paia the afternoon of October 25th at the Holy Rosary Church.  Other stops for this precious heel bone include Kihei, Kahului, Wailuku, Hana, Makawao, Kula and Lahaina. 

Belgium-born Jozef de Veuster, also known as Father Damien, was canonized a saint Oct. 11 in a ceremony held in Rome and attended by more than 500 Hawaii residents.

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Georgina M. Hunter (RS) e-Pro (808) 283-0635

Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
PO Box 792050, Paia, HI  96779
(808) 579-8255  FAX: 579-9004

Looking for a Haiku farm?    Call THE HUNTER...
Georgie Hunter, your north shore expert.

Search all land and residential listings on my website... www.eastmaui.com

http://www.twitter.com/mauihunter  Sign up for the Haiku/Paia newsletters!

read about Maui on  www.MyMauiBlog.com

search Haiku Maui homes for sale ~ search Haiku Maui land for sale

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Aloha from Maui.  "I want to help you reach your Real Estate goals."

 

Picnics in Paradise - your own custom romantic Maui picnic experience

 Picnics in Paradise custom romantic picnics on Maui

PICNICS IN PARADISE - MAUI HAWAII

Have you ever dreamed of having your own private Maui picnic?  Would you like to get picked up and taken to a private location where everything is waiting for you? 

It can happen to you.  Pierre and Annabelle are the magic behind the idea.  They are in the business of developing their own line of dips, and gourmet picnic items.  Pierre is a chef at the Four Seasons Resort in Wailea, and he is ready to spoil you!

 I met them at Mana Foods in Paia, while sampling their delicious organic dips!

  

picnics in paradise

Picnics in Paradise, Maui Hawaii

Prices range from $350-$500

call Pierre or Annabelle

808 269-8365

808 205-9251

Aloha from Maui!

Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ EMAIL ME

 

Kula Maui HI Real Estate Newsletter - October 2009

Kula Maui Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter     -         October 2009

If you were present for the  October Upcountry Realtor Caravan you could
have enjoyed some lasagna and other goodies!
But you really don't need the enticement of a good meal to appreciate these
3 Kula homes and 1 large parcel for sale.
orange blossom on Maui
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1.    My Favorite Neighborhood, Kula  $825,000.00
- nicely remodeled 3BD/2.5BA home with downstairs suite for family
- 1/3 acre with organic garden, greenhouse, and an oversized carport for 6 cars

2.    Cul-de-sac Privacy, Kula  $859,000.00
- well maintained 3BD/2.5BA home and detached cottage on .86 acres
- high ceilings, huge picture windows, wood floors, graceful archways, fireplace

3.    Cloud Nine, Kula  $1,200,000.00
- it feels like you're in the country at this architect designed view home with a lap pool
- unbelievable gulch-side privacy makes you feel like you're floating on a cloud
- 3BD/2.5BA with den and garage, fireplace, stunning views from house and decks
Kula Maui land for sale
4.   Agricultural Land,  Kula  $5,500,000.00
- 52 acres of gently sloping pasture land, with 2 parcels, approved farm plan
- open building permit already waiting for your home, cottage and garage
- bicoastal views, gravel roads, brand new well with excellent water quality
- great opportunity for development, no neighbors

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Sign up for the free e-newsletters about the Kula real estate market.
Georgina M. Hunter (RS) e-Pro (808) 283-0635

Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
PO Box 792050, Paia, HI  96779
(808) 579-8255  FAX: 579-9004

Looking for a Kula farm with a private well?    Call THE HUNTER...
Georgie Hunter, your Upcountry Expert

Search all land and residential listings on my website... www.eastmaui.com
Follow me on Twitter .... I'm @mauihunter

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KULA MAUI homes for sale

Aloha from Maui.   "I want to help you reach your Real Estate goals."

 

Aloha Friday - weekend update

Paia maui oceanfront homes for sale

It's ALOHA FRIDAY once again, and many people on Maui will be diving into their weekend at the beach, for surfing, or windsurfing, maybe even some kiteboarding.  It's been super hot, so this weekend the beaches will be packed.  Just found out there's a high surf advisory for the south shores!

While it's a temptation, I will most likely have to pass on this fun activity, since there's too much other stuff going on.  We have some visitors arriving on Monday to our Haiku home, which means I need to get the guest cottage cleaned up and ready - not my favorite activity.  Add to that the usual weekend housework, laundry, and gardening, and you can kiss that day goodbye.  Saturday is shot.

Sunday I will do an Open House in Kihei, at a vacation condo listing I have - (hey there might be a chance for a quick beach break, now that I think of it).  Kihei has some great beaches and they get rocking on the weekends.  Kihei Maui has a great selection of condos for sale.

Sunday night we are invited to a birthday party for an old friend, in Haiku.  Well he's not that old, but I mean long-time friend.  It won't be wild, because we all have to work on Monday morning.  At least it's not far to drive home!

My weekend sounds ordinary enough, how about you?  What are your plans for the weekend?  Doing anything special?

Aloha from MAUI ~ Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ call or text me at 808 283-0635

Maui Hawaii

 

Wordless Wednesday - Paia Bay in the morning - Maui Hawaii

Paia Bay in the morning, Paia Maui Hawaii

Are you looking for a beachfront Maui home?

Search all Maui land and residential listings on my website... www.eastmaui.com

I Love Paia Maui Facebook Group
Paia Maui homes for sale
~ Paia Dining ~ sign up for the Paia/Haiku newsletters

Aloha and thanks for reading my Maui Blog! - Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro - 808 283-0635

 

Wailea Maui HI - Market snapshot - October 2009

Wailea maui homes and condos for sale

Wailea Maui HI -  Market snapshot - October 2009

Single Family Residence - 58 Active and Pending Wailea Maui homes for sale

  • 4 PENDING sales Wailea Maui homes for sale
    - $995,000 - $4,750,000
    - all are 3 bedroom homes, with pool, or beachfront

  • 54 ACTIVE Wailea Maui homes for sale
    - $875,000 - $38,000,000
    - only 8 are oceanfront or beachfront
    - 500 sf to 7,500 sf of living space

As your buyer's agent I can arrange for your private showing of any of these beautiful homes. What's your budget when it comes to luxury?  What kind of dream home are you looking for?  Are you ready to buy now?

 

Makena beach on Maui

  • 3 SOLD Wailea Maui homes in past 3 months
    - $652,000 - down from $799,000
    - $1,245,000 - down from $1,475,000
    - $4,300,000 - down from $5,900,000

Search Wailea Maui Hawaii properties for sale - beachfront, oceanfront - homes, condos, vacant land

Aloha from Maui ~ Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro  

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

Thinking about a 1031 Exchange?

 

Wailea maui Hawaii homes and condos for sale

 

Relocating Coconut Palm Trees - Before and After

moving palm trees on Maui

Relocating Coconut Palm Trees - Before and After

Here in the Hawaiian Islands there's a real need for mature landscaping to make your property more attractive.  It's not really tropical looking without coconut palms is it?   

If you don't have time to wait for those beautiful coconut palm trees to grow, why not just plant some big ones?  There's no shortage of coconut palms growing in Haiku Maui, where there's plenty of rain and sunshine for growth, and they just sprout up from the fallen nuts, like weeds!  If you know the right people you can pick out some good specimens, and have them dug up, loaded onto a truck and hauled to your new home.

moving palm trees on Maui

These 2 young palm trees were growing in a protected valley in Huelo, Haiku.  That's my hubby on the backhoe carefully digging aroung their root balls.  Coconut trees are pretty easy to relocate because they have a relatively small root ball.  It's a good idea to cut off many of the outer fronds since they just get in the way and end up dying later.  The palms can tolerate a fair amount of rough handling as long as they don't get too dried out.  Dig them, move them and plant them the same day for best results.  The really big ones are much trickier to move as you can imagine.  That takes special equipment and a big budget.  When a new resort goes in, they spare no expense and you will see rows of majestic, tall palms in the landscape.  They can't afford to wait for them to grow, but they can afford to have it now.

moving palm trees on MauiBefore setting the trees in place, be sure to have a well prepared hole, with some nutrients added.  Once the trees are planted, water them thoroughly and soak the roots.  A good watering every day or two for the first couple of weeks will really help them on their way.  It won't be long before they take hold and start reaching for the sky.

It's really satisfying to plant your own coconut trees and watch them grow, and then harvest the nuts!

HAIKU MAUI homes for sale.

HAIKU MAUI FaceBook group

Get the FREE HAIKU MAUI real estate newsletter

 

EMAIL ME ~ call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ SEARCH MAUI ACTIVE LISTINGS

Aloha and thanks for reading my Maui Blog! - Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro

 

Other related posts:

 

How To Buy A Bank Owned Home! Via YouTube - This is Funny!

Buying a bank owned home.....it's not really this bad, but some of it rings true.

Seriously though, there are some good deals on Maui bank owned homes right now.  Please feel free to contact me for more info:

Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

 

Aloha Friday - Paddle with your pooch at the beach!

paddle with your pooch on MauiPaddle with a Pooch - Stand Up Paddle Event on Maui

If you're on Maui this weekend, why not pack up the dog and the stand-up paddle-board and head over to Sugar Beach for a fun event!

WHEN: Saturday Oct 10 from 8:00 - 12:00

WHERE: Sugar Beach, next to the Sugar Beach Resort, in North Kihei

COST:  $20 entry fee goes to benefit the Boo Boo Zoo animal refuge in Haiku Maui

Visit Paddle with a Pooch on Facebook

Kihei Maui Google Map

Kihei Relocation Package

 

Please register in advance if you can. The first 50 dogs to register get a cool Paddle with a Pooch t-shirt!  You can register by calling (808) 575-5432, ext. 17, or emailing Holly@naishsails.com.  You can also visit the Naish Maui Pro Center located at 111 Hana Hwy in Kahului.

Thanks to Andy Church of Naish Sails Hawaii for letting me know about this fun beach event!

Aloha from Maui ~ Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

maui

 

Maui Hawaii South Shore Condo Newsletter - October 2009

Maui Hawaii South Shore Condo Newsletter     -     October 2009

Currently there are 707 Kihei, Wailea, Makena and Maalaea condos for sale.
672 of those are fee simple.  73 of the total are under contract.  Some are
hi-rise, some are low-rise and some are single family homes.  At least half
of them are vacation or resort condos, meaning an owner can rent them on a
daily or weekly basis.  A fair amount of them are bank owned or soon to be
bank owned.  What kind of condo are you looking for?

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Kihei beach scene Maui1.     Such a Deal, Central Kihei  $132,000.00
- cozy 1BD/1BA short sale condo in small complex away from busy roads
- remodeled with travertine floors and granite countertops, new plumbing and A/C

2.     Hot Properties, South Kihei  $199,000.00
- there are 3 of these 3BD/2BA Kihei Shores units in the same building for same price
- one is a short sale, one is bank owned, and the other is neither but it's already pending

3.    Beachfront Bargain, Central Kihei  $295,000.00
- 1BD/1BA furnished vacation condo with ocean view from lanai, heated pool
- walk to church, movies, dining, medical clinic and shopping



Kihei Maui condos for sale4.    Just like Home, North Kihei  $425,000.00
- lovingly remodeled as a home, this 2BD/1BA vacation condo has a beautiful kitchen with cherry cabinets
- tiled floors, recessed lighting, slide back both patio doors to extend your living area to the outside gardens

5.    Oceanfront Penthouse, South Kihei  $528,000
- 6th floor unit features 9 ft. ceilings, extra double paned windows in bedroom and bathrooms
- 2BD/2BA, remodeled kitchen with black pearl granite, stunning views, rooftop garden

6.   Oceanfront Discount, South Kihei  $660,000.00
- relax on your 3rd floor lanai and take in amazing ocean views with swaying palm trees
- remodeled and repriced to sell, with all tiled floors, white kitchen, white walls, clean and breezy
- this complex has a low turnover rate, best priced unit right now



Wailea Maui condos for sale - Hoolei7.    Private Pool, Wailea  $1,380,000.00
- your own private pool, 2BD/2.5BA townhouse with garage, in a gated community with pool and fitness center
- sunset, ocean and fairway views from this gorgeous 2 story residential unit built in 2007

8.    Just Released, Wailea  $2,175,000.00
-  brand new and opulent 3BD/3.5BA townhome has never been occupied
- 2 story 2,619 sf home with elevator and garage, laundry room, huge lanais
- ideal for a second home or full time Maui residence, minutes away from golf, shops, beaches

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Fishing at Kahoolawe
- Waters around Kahoolawe will be open to permitted
vessels for trolling Oct. 10 and 11 and Oct. 24 and 25.  All vessels must
register annually with the Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission and pay a $25
fee in order to enter the reserve for trolling on designated dates, and they
must also file a catch report whether or not they get anything.  To register
or obtain more information about fishing in these restricted waters, contact
Dean Tokishi at 808 243-5889.

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Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro
Paia, HI  96779  (808) 283-0635

Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
PO Box 792050, Paia, HI  96779   (808) 579-8255  FAX: 579-9004

Looking for a place to go fishing?
Call THE HUNTER... Georgie Hunter, your South Maui Specialist.

Search all condo and residential listings on my website...  www.eastmaui.com

Learn more about Maui by reading  www.MyMauiBlog.com

Sign up for these MAUI REAL ESTATE MARKET REPORTS .. they're FREE!

 ------------------------------------------------------------

Aloha from Maui... "I want to help you reach your Real Estate goals."

 

Two Thoughts On Excellent Customer Service

Hey if you're a raving fan of mine, show me how much you love me on my FaceBook fan page... and then pick up the phone and call me!  Or wait, first call me, then fan me.  You WILL be in good hands.  : )

Via Gary Woltal - REALTOR® Dallas Ft. Worth (Keller Williams Realty):

Day SpaWhile many Realtors don't like to think of themselves as truly Salespeople which they are, a softer view of themselves is Customer Service which is a component of Sales.

Two Thoughts On Excellent Customer Service:

With the use of oral, written, or web types of feedback determine for yourself if you are

  • DELIGHTING your customers. This is what you should strive for. They just love your service and that you go way above their expectations, answering and addressing their concerns probably even before they know they have a problem.
  • CREATE RAVING FANS. In real estate they call it word of mouth or referrals. Get those delighted clients to recommend doing business with you and themselves again at some point but with others they know that need your services.

Sales, or the Customer Service aspect of it, is not rocket science. Just take VERY GOOD care of the people you work with. You are like the massaging hands working on someone at a Day Spa.

 

Paia/Kuau/Spreckelsville Maui Hawaii - Market Snapshot October 2009

Since I've been posting some nice oceanfront pictures from Paia and Kuau Maui lately, I think it's time for a market report in this area.  In case you missed the photos:

Paia/Kuau/Spreckelsville Maui Hawaii - what's for sale and what's selling?   October 5, 2009

2 Paia/Kuau/Sprecks Maui lots for salepaia maui homes for sale

  • 2 Active  $1,650,000 - $2,900,000
  • 1 SOLD  $4,500,000 Sept 2008

 

31 Paia/Kuau/Sprecks Maui homes for sale

  • 28 Active $350,000 - $16,000,000
    3 Pending $380,000 - $900,000
  • 3 SOLD since July  $210,000 - $600,000

This is what a $210,000 home on Maui looks like.  It was old, and it was a fixer-upper.  Are you looking for something like this Paia home?

IDX Search Paia Maui residential listings

 

Paia maui oceanfront homes for sale

 Top End of the Market

This is what you can expect for your views if you buy oceanfront in Paia Maui. 

Are you looking for a very unique oceanfront Maui home for sale

Search all Maui land and residential listings on my website... www.eastmaui.com

I Love Paia Maui Facebook Group
Paia Maui homes for sale
~ Paia Dining ~ sign up for the Paia/Haiku newsletters

 

aloha from Mauipaia

 

Speechless Sunday - another beautiful Maui oceanfront scene

Maui beachfron properties

Paia Maui homes for sale * Maui oceanfront properties for sale * Paia Google Map

eastmaui.com

Georging M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro 

Jim Sanders Realty Inc. ~ Paia MAUI HI 96779

EMAIL ME ~ call or text me 808 283-0635

SEARCH MAUI ACTIVE LISTINGS

Aloha and thanks for reading my Maui Blog! - Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro - 808 283-0635

 

What happened to Halloween?

Yes it's that time of year again.  How can you miss it?  Have you been inside a store lately?

Via Charlottesville Real Estate - Your Trusted Broker Charles McDonald (RE/MAX Assured Properties - No one sells more Real Estate):

 

I may be opening up a can of worms, but it would not be the first time! (((What a Tangled Web We Weave!)))

 

Our schools (may be your schools too) have changed the Halloween Party to a “Harvest Festival”.  

You know that all those years growing up “Halloween” has really just corrupted me for life!  

 

I understand that this is a “politically correct” (or in-correct) thing to do (is it really a Church and State issue?). We have to be sensitive to others…yada yada yada…  

How many people know the origins of Halloween? 

Well, I did not know the origins so I looked it up. Here is a link, it is very interesting.

  The History of Halloween  

So are there really that many people that even know the “All Saints Day” has anything to do with Halloween?  

I say let our kids be kids and have some fun.  

Next thing they will be changing the “Valentines Day” to “Friendship Afternoon” and ok, now I am getting ridiculous!

Oh, wait, they are going after Valentines Day too…. St. Valentine… But that is a different story!  

HARVEST FESTIVAL vs HALLOWEEN…GIVE ME A BREAK!!!

 

What happened to Halloween?

 

Silent Saturday - Maui oceanfront homes - NOT for sale

Kuau Maui oceanfront home

Hey I wouldn't sell it either if I owned it!

Paia Maui homes for sale * Maui oceanfront properties for sale * Paia Google Map

eastmaui.com

Georging M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro 

Jim Sanders Realty Inc. ~ Paia MAUI HI 96779

EMAIL ME ~ call or text me 808 283-0635

SEARCH MAUI ACTIVE LISTINGS

Aloha and thanks for reading my Maui Blog! - Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro - 808 283-0635

 

The Perfect Offer...Or Cash is Still King

Confused about the current glut of bank owned listings?  Please read this post about REO sales and tips for buyers and their agents.  It might make just tip the scales in your favor.

Via John Occhi Hemet CA Real Estate (Allison James Estate and Homes):

From where I sit as a REO Listing agent in the Hemet - San Jacinto Valley the California REO Market is finally starting to heat up.  OK, it may not be sizzling, but I have seen more action in the last week than in a long time - both with buyers and my sellers.

Desperate buyers are still struggling to get into escrow to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit that is scheduled to be pulled off the table for any escrows that don't close on or before November 30th, 2009.  That's only 61 days from now and our average time in escrow here in Hemet - San Jacinto, CA is currently 52 days for FHA loans, which are most of the first time homebuyers.  My thought with the decline of the program escrow may get a bit busy toward the end of next month,

Not long ago the banks would come back with "highest and best" giving prospective homebuyers the opportunity to come back and up their offers in the hope of beating out the competition.  It was not uncommon for five or more buyer to bid up to an additional 5% - 8% and even 10% over their earlier bids that were already over list price.

Well, laws changed.  Policies changed and most importantly the appraisal process changed dramatically this summer.  As a result of these changes, the banks found themselves going through the expense and trouble of renegotiating contract after contract.

So, now the banks are getting smarter.

No longer am I, as an REO Listing Agent, asked to solicit ‘highest and best'...the banks just want best!  What this boils down to is the banks are satisfied with the list price as an appraised value - that is why they spend all the money on BPO's and appraisals before the property is ever listed in the MLS.  So the value is a non-issue.  Write your offer for list price.

What Else Can a Buyers Agent Do?

When educating your buyer clients, you as their agent, have a responsibility to educate them on the market condition and changes as they occur - not 3 months later.

The best offer is for all cash.  No surprise, but more often than not most first time homebuyers don't have that much cash available.

A year ago we had a ‘Down Payment Assistance" program where it was almost expected for the bank to contribute 3% towards the buyers closing costs.  Often times these costs were stacked onto the offer price, so in theory it was just a paper drill.  Well those days are gone and to be honest, buyer should not be asking for any cash back from the seller towards closing costs or other concessions.

Listen, I understand that not everyone has a pile of cash to pay for all of this stuff - but at the risk of sounding politically incorrect let me just say that maybe it isn't time for your buyers to buy a home then.  Home ownership is not for everyone and it is not a right.  Whatever you do, don't call me and plead your clients case as if they are entitled...not if you want my help.

The next step to strengthening your offer and looking better than all the others hovering in the pack is to not ask for any money for repairs and waive your inspection contingency.  Check the house out when you write your offer.  Then while you are waiting to process the paperwork, bring in your father-in-law, your brother or hire a professional inspector - but due you diligence early on.  Remember, you want your offer accepted...not negotiated.

Banks are starting to get away from home warranties.  Not sure what happened, but I'm guessing that one of the banks got sued by someone who bought a REO home with a warranty and then there was a condition that was not covered...so I'm betting that the homebuyer might have been an attorney and turned around and sued the bank on some sort of ‘implied warranty' causing the bank to undertake some expensive repairs.

So do everyone a favor, just factor the three hundred bucks or so into your offer and pay for that yourself.  It's $300 - don't turn that into an issue - be better than everyone else and get your offer accepted.

Same theory goes with the termite inspection.  These are NOT required by many lenders...unless they are in the contract, than the underwriter wants to see the report and clearance.  Especially if you are buying a home that is only a few years old.  I have yet to see any termite damage in a home less than 5 years old.  If you are wanting to buy an older home for sale by the bank - then get your diligence done before you ever go into contract...make it clean.

Now you Know What NOT to Do...What Can You Do?

If your buyer can't come in with all cash - up the ante.  Increase the Ernest Money Deposit to the full 3.5% that they will need for an FHA Loan.  This shows the bank you are serious.

Nearly every offer I see has a personal check.  So, what is better?  How can you separate yourself?  How about a Cashiers Check?  Absolutely and deliver it to the Listing Office.  Let them know you are serious and not shopping for any house that will take them.  Put your money where your offer is...in the hands of the listing agent.

Increase the total cash down, as well.  Just because the minimum buyer contribution for an FHA Loan is 3.5% there is nothing that says you can't put down 4%...5%...or, (oh my gosh, do I dare say it) 10% or MORE!  Stretch - no one ever said buying real estate should be easy...and if they did say it, they are not in business today!

The next thing you can do is get a GOOD LOAN.  Lets be brutal here folks, FHA Loans and FHA Buyers are at the very bottom of the food chain.  After Cash comes a good Conventional Loan with a hefty 50% down payment...even a 30% or 20% gets lots more respect than a government subsidized loan that rarely requires a single months income out of the buyers pocket.  So I'll say it again...STEP UP and SHOW ME THE MONEY.

After the Conventional(even a 10% down Conventional loan ranks much higher than an FHA, VA or other exotic loan).are all of those exotic programs that give the seller the impression that they will take longer to close and that the buyer has the benefit of free taxpayer subsidized money and therefore they can or should be putting more skin in the game because it is just too easy for these buyers to get up and walk away (and it happens all the time).

The other big issue with FHA, VA and other exotic loan programs is they often require the seller to do some pretty expensive repair work, which is not adjusted for in the purchase price.  The banks really would prefer to sell their inventory "AS-IS"

Other than cash buyers; it is understandably hard for a first time homebuyer in the Hemet - San Jacinto, CA Valley to meet all of these requirements.  Please use this as a guide to best position your or your clients offer if you are serious about wanting to buy a new home in this or any other competitive real estate market.

Until Next Time, Have a Blessed Day,

John Occhi, Hemet CA REALTOR®

 This blog and the contents written here is the intellectual property of John Occhi, Hemet - San Jacinto Valley REALTOR® in the South West Riverside County region of the Inland Empire of Southern California.  The views and opinions expressed are just that - views and opinions of John Occhi and those who comment.  Please note that I am not an attorney or a tax professional and any time I discuss either topic, I suggest you consult with the proper professional for relevant assistance. 

This blog is part of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network, which is a social network highlighting the best of Web 2.0.  Information is provided with the intent of educating and assisting home owners, home sellers, home buyers and real estate investors with information the can be used to make better real estate decisions. 

I am proud to be a full time REALTOR® who is proud to be a contributing member of the ActiveRain community

 

Makawao/Pukalani HI Newsletter - September 2009

Makawao/Pukalani Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter     -     September 2009
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The September Realtor Caravan was exceptional, with homes in all prices.
This first one was so appealing it's already snapped up and pending.  But
there are plenty more to choose from.  Let me know if you have any questions
about these upcountry Maui homes for sale.

Pukalani and Makawao homes for sale1.    Brand New, Pukalani  $325,000.00
- charming 1BD/1BA residential condo cottage on quarter acre with only one other home
- bamboo floors, granite counter tops, custom tiled bathroom, stainless appliances, bay window

2.   Just Remodeled, Pukalani  $447,000.00
- 3BD/2BA single story fairway home in a quiet location, carpet and tile, white kitchen with French doors
- all level yard with starfruit, pomegranate, macadamia nut and 2 mango trees

3.    Second Home, Pukalani  $475,000.00
- upgraded 3BD/2.5BA 2-story with open floor plan and 12 ft vaulted ceiling, bedrooms downstairs
- single family home is part of a private 24 residence subdivision, borders golf course, easy to lock up and leave

Pukalani and Makawao homes for sale4.    Cul-De-Sac, Pukalani  $574,500.00
- wonderful 3BD/2.5BA family home on landscaped quarter acre lot, ocean views
- high ceilings, new carpets, nice tradewind flow, lots of windows and natural light

5.    Contractor Owner, Pukalani  $695,000.00
- fantastic Wailea-like remodel for this 3BD/2.5BA home with viewing deck above
- top to bottom remodel includes Tigerwood floors, travertine, limestone, granite, central A/C
- lots of decks for entertaining, manicured yard with hot tub, double garage, new roof

6.    Best Buy, Upcountry  $895,000.00
- beautifully built and private 2BD/1.5BA rock faced home with aluminum roof, plastered walls, cement floors
- building pad ready for second home with awesome ocean and mountain views, 2 acres in gated community

achiote seed pods growing on Maui7.    Island Style, Upcountry  $2,250,000.00
- distinctive 3BD/2.5BA Hawaiian home on 2 acres in upscale gated community
- unobstructed ocean and West Maui sunset views while overlooking the waterfalls, salt water pool and spa.
- detached cottage with 2 car garage and separate driveway,  immaculate landscaping, custom entry gate

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Maui County Fair - The 87th county fair starts today, with the usual kick-off parade before the gates open.  The weather is great and it should be a good weekend for fair goers.  Be sure to view the horticultural and orchid displays, those are always my favorites.  Bring the whole family and spend lots of money because it's all for a good cause.

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Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro   (808) 283-0635

Jim Sanders Realty Inc.
PO Box 792050, Paia, HI  96779   (808) 579-8255  FAX: 579-9004

Looking for a gated community?
Call THE HUNTER... Georgie Hunter, your Upcountry Specialist.

Search all land and residential listings on my website... www.eastmaui.com
Read more about Maui on www.MyMauiBlog.com
Follow me on Twitter..... @mauihunter
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MAKAWAO MAUI property search ~ PUKALANI MAUI property search

Aloha from Maui...   "I want to help you reach your Real Estate goals."