In grade school I remember the most intimidating aspect being that of the formidable essay assignment.  What to write? What to write?  What to write?  That was the easy part.  The biggest mystery to me in my adolesence was how on earth to put it together. I could make up better excuses to get out of chores than I could to invent a good essay and often found myself discouraged by writing and thinking there was some big mystery to it.  You learn basic mechanics in school through outlines and practice.  But no one ever tells you the secret of how to draw the dialogue out of you, how to cultivate a story and tell it so it engages, satisfies and intrigues the reader.  Danielle Steel knows that secret, but she's not telling.

Enter Margaret and Frank South.  Both successful writers and producers on a mission to change lives. They started with a big idea on modest terms and have created a life-changing program for children that challenges them to put their lives and experiences to paper.  It helps the underserved and underprivledged put meaning into their lives and deal with the negative they have been exposed to. 

When I first met Margaret South I was immediately engaged by her easy going nature, spirit and down to earth approach.  Little did I know that a chance introduction through a mutual friend would expose me to so much opportunity to help our community and give back by giving a little time.  Little did I know she was a former Hollywood powerhouse who left the glitz and glam for the casual lifestyle and environment here in Honolulu.

Learning for a Lifetime Foundation is an organization that needs to be in each and every community.  If you don't have it you don't know what you are missing.  If you do have it you wish everyone could experience it.  I recently became the Board President I believe in this so much.  If you are interested in learning more visit: http://www.kidstalkstory.com/lfal.htm

I've always tried to live a healthier way of life, both for my family and for the environment.  Unfortunately, the novelty of making my son's organic baby food wore off after 3 months. It was time consuming and tideous and he would usually end up screaming by the time this working mother could get food grinder out.   I retreated to purchasing organic baby food from the grocery store because I wanted the best for him. 

The  environmental issues we are faced with have never been more significant and making changes can be overwhelming.  Remember everything you put in a drain, whether it be in the tub, the toilet or the sink ends up one day in the ocean and ultimately in our drinking water.  We have to reduce the amount of toxins we are putting in our water.    

My first venture began with aligning myself with a company who would auto-ship products that claimed to be environmentally friendly, unfortunately it was difficult to substantiate many of the claims and after one follower told me she rinsed the family dinner of burnt spaghetti noodles in the floor cleaning product and her family "safely" consumed it, I was determined to find a better way.

I have tried to concoct my own cleaning products.  The typical mix is vinegar and baking soda in various quantities and sometimes a squeeze of lemon juice.  A working woman has multiple challenges with this; a) finding the time to concoct the mixture b) remembering what the recipe is and actually doing it  c) often it isn't as effective as most of the toxic chemicals.  After continually running out of  time,  I fell back into bad habits.

Today, I've made my changes easier to follow through with.  At Kale's in Hawaii Kai I buy Biokleen products.  Oxygen Bleach Plus is safer alternative to bleach that is both Chlorine Free and Color Safe, you can also use it to remove carpet stains.  One 32 oz container serves 32 loads of laundry.  From Safeway I've been using the Planet products, dishwasher detergent, dish soap and laundry soap. These products are certified biodegradable, not  tested on animals and are effective for every day use.  I want to do my part, and using safe, effective products that I can purchase off the shelf have made it easier to change my buying behavior.  Speaking of changes, I encourage everyone to forgo plastic bags. They are an environmental disaster unto themselves.  Bring your own reusable bags, and if you forget your bag... carry your groceries out Costco style, and don't forget to say something to your retailer... they need to make changes too!  Imagine how much better we would be without the waste of plastic in our environment.

Today while waiting for an appointment I noticed a card promoting a company called Styrophobia.  to be honest with you, I have stryophobia and completely got what they stood for.  If you don't know, styrofoam is as bad as plastic.  It also releases toxic gases into your food when it is microwaved and never ever biodegrades.  You can learn more about alternatives to styrofoam at www.styrophobia.com .  I am always interested in improving our planet whether it be through living green or building green.  I'm not excited about the prospect of needing to move to Mars... although they do have water there! ;>

In my life I have had many dreams.  Some have come true and some are still fantasies, but knowing by putting yourself out there and believing in yourself is the biggest part of the equation.

I never thought a year and a half ago, I would complete any Marathon, yet last December I completed the Honolulu Marathon in a respectable 5 hours and 33 minutes.  I never dreamt I would train for a Triathlon, yet this year I completed two and on my 48th birthday I actually placed 3rd for the Honolulu Triathlon Sprint in my age division.  I didn't do it  to win, I began my training to learn and have fun.  Along the way I met people, I experienced an incredible change in my health and my life and I continue to have fun.  I am currently in my 2nd year of Marathon training and my goal is to finish 30-45 minutes faster this year than last.

I shared this incredible experience with my son (that's us on the left).

What I'm saying to you is, choose your dream.  The life you would lead if you didn't do real estate for a living.  We all know it's a full plate, but unless you explore those little adventures you'll always wonder "What if?".

Last year I began an adventure into writing.  Fiction of course!  Which is why I am not seen on this blog as much as before.  Out of that writing group came 2 referrals.  People who got to know the real me and appreciated that side of me.  I made new friends, many of whom I would have never met had I not pursued a dream.

My latest adventure is in the realm of acting.  After having done my first HGTV show, My House is Worth What? I was bitten by the bug.  I audtioned for my first paying role, landed it and shot a pilot... oh and I met a few more people who are now clients. 

I'm a full time realtor with part time passions that help me in my business while I continue to help others. buying and selling their biggest investments.  Living my dreams with no regrets, and a lot of new friends I might not have otherwise met. It's magic!

I challenge you to do the same ~ incorporate your own dreams into life and make them your reality.

This is my best year yet, so when I hear the market is slow, from other agents, I ask them, "How much of your business is by referral?"  Mine is 88%.  That means I am doing good work in cultivating trust and long term relationships with my clients and my contacts.

A lot of people ask, "How do you acquire that kind of referral rate?"  In my eyes it's simple.  Be yourself, be ethical, help others, be honest, don't be in this business "to make a sale", give your customers good advice and keep your snot nose clean.

This is a completely different real estate market from what it was 3 years ago.  Gone are the days of 28 offers on a house, people picking up agents who have a pen versus those who have skill, strategy, integrity and knowledge.  For those of you on the mainland, you've been living with a "real" market for over the past 12 months.  In Hawaii, this is fairly new to us.  Agents are no longer the order takers.  In order to make our business thrive we need to be aware of what is happening nationally, regionally and locally.  Our economic environment  affects our future market a great deal.  We have seen the closure of two major airlines, the downsizing of several large firms, and the local visitors bureau asking those who finance it for advice on how and who to market to.

It saddens me to acquire clients who were told in the recent two years to purchase and their investment would be "safe".  Many of these buyers bought short term, which is never a good strategy.... it's a back up plan if you know the market implicitly well, have extensive financial resources and are risk acclimated.  The sellers I see who had an agent who sold the on this concept are now often facing a short sale or losses, frequently the agent has left the business.

To investors and buyers who haven't been through multiple cycles in the markets, remember, an agent who does nothing more than write up your offer, is indeed an order taker.  Look for an agent who gives you real advice, along the lines of the Clint Eastwood film, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.  Only when you have the full and realistic snapshot can you make the decision that is right for you.

Imagine my surpise when I log onto active rain to update a number of completely outdated items on my page and I find a bank.  A bank?  For a Campaign?  I knew things were changing but... holy moly.  Well change they have and so have I. 

Things have indeed changed.  The irony of seeing a bank on Active rain struck me.  Over the last 6 month facing the deteriorating health of my mother, I strained to put my time into everything as if nothing was changing.  Almost a year after the first set back in her health she peacefully passed on January 24, just after midnight.  During the time she was ill I managed to get by with my life.  Working 70 hours a week or more, caring for my family, juggling friends and keeping my mother company while helping her whenever I could.  I gave mobile office a new definition and my extra 30 lbs. I put on gave me an unflattering  unhealthy dimension.

Suddenly I was dealing with the grief of losing the closest friendship I had ever known, the woman who had given me life, helped me pick up the pieces after I made yet another mistake.  She had given me everything she had to give and still found ways to give more. I gave but like most children, perhaps not so much.  I didn't feel guilt, because I did everything I could do without completely losing my mind.  But in reflection I realized I had lost myself to her illness, to my business and I rolled along bearing a burden not unlike a martyr and didn't recognize what I was becoming.

I tell you this story because I learned in the process, we are so good at giving and we rarely take time to care for ourselves.  To explore our needs and fulfill our dreams.  I had literally lost myself.  I was angry at the world, my little world, for what I had let it become.  

This cautionary tale, albiet brief, is something I hope you can benefit from.  In December I ran my first Marathon, and my Mother was there to see me.  Did I mention it was a damn good marathon in 5 hours and 33 minutes? More importantly it was the first step I took to try and carve some time away from my business and get rid of the resentment for what I wanted but was too busy doing everything BUT taking care of myself. Last week I did completed my first Triathlon in Lanikai - it was long, it was hard and it was a huge accomplishment for me..  I never ever thought I'd do either.  The satisfaction I get of a good workout, of competing in a realm other than in my business is healthy and enables me to keep control of my now girlish 48 year old figure.

Business hasn't taken a back seat.  But I put it where it belong in the grand scheme of things.  After taking care of me, and after taking care of my family.  My health and spirituality come first.  With that I have more to give.  So next time you think about putting money in someone's bank.  Make sure it's your own account first, the account of health and peace of mind.  Without that it doesn't matter how hard you work.

  Thanks Mom, for the mosts important lesson yet.  I miss you and I love you!

By the way, this is my busiest year yet.  I'm not chasing business. I'm attracting it.  Wish I knew about this in my 20's.    

This is me on Kauai taking a breather just last month...

Next month is my 48th birthday.  I'm not saying I've got everything figured out, but I think I'm on the right track...

Beauty and elegance throughout.  Custom crafted home that shows fine building detail in every room.  Light, open and breezy.

House modelled on Grand Hyatt Bali, with design and materials from Bali, Thailand and Spain.  An indoor-outdoor garden home that includes a flowing stream, reflecting pond and multiple waterfalls.  Oceanfront pool and jacuzzi decorated with lava rock and dolphin tile images.  Rare ocean lanai projecting over water.  Four ensuite bedrooms, 6 full baths and 2 half-baths.South ocean facing for best sunset views.

Located on the South Shore of Oahu, near Doris Duke's famed Shangri-La, and situationed just blocks away from Diamond Head, this home provides incredible 180 degree ocean views .

Smart House System:  Crestron system, top-of-the line in smart house systems.  Controls lighting, waterfalls, stream, pool/jacuzzi jets and heaters, Theater, video and audio distribution through house, closed circuit cameras, and security interface.  Controls are found via touch panel computer screens and wall plates.  Cat 5 cabling throughout the house.  Seller would provide credit to buyer to program the house as they desire.

Materials:  Exotic woods, stones and statues from Bali.   Hardwoods include teak manufactured and carved doors, merbau wood manufactured doors (1.75" solid doors), merbau wood soffits throughout the house, custom designed teak railings with light fixtures in corner posts (160' of teak railing), bamboo and teak flooring.  Balinese doors; 2 large Balines entrance doors to Master Bedroom and Theater area, carved doors in the Theater.  Stone materials include Italian marble in kitchen/dr, rough cut Indonesian marble in hallway and lower level.  Garden statues from Bali.  Dining room custom designed and shipped from Spain.

Theater:  24' X 26' Theater, with 9' solid and custom designed teak bar, teak ceilings, motorized velvet drapes, soundproofing, built-in equipment closets, gold video/audio connectors for optimal performance, built-in ceiling mounted and motorized screen.

 Exclusive Listing...

Call Kelly Mitchell BBA-M, (RA) (808)384-7165 

www.kellymitchellgroup.com  

It is with a heavy heart that I write to tell of the passing of one of Hawaii's most celebrated talents, Don Ho, who passed today at the age of 76.  This story is not about his passing as much as it is about the impact he had on others.  Those close to him and those who knew him from a far.  From thousands of miles away Don Ho left his impression on everyone he touched.

My grandmother in law, was one who loved and reverred him from afar.  One of her dreams was to put her toes into the sand in Waikiki and see Don Ho.  Not only did she see his show, she received his kiss.  It made her day, and her year - probably one of the most distinct memories she carried with her.  Don Ho left a significant impact on all he touched.

I recall the first time I knew what Don Ho was, he was singing "Tiny Bubbles" on TV.  I was a kid when he first sang that song, but he was already a worldwide sensation.  I think it was in the 1960's (am I that old?).  It was to be decades after I moved to Hawaii that I would cross paths with the famed entertainer and experience his light warmheartedness and Aloha Spirit first hand. 

I first met Don Ho through a longtime friend (Richard Faun) and his then assistant, Haumea Heibenstriet, who at the time and at present represents is so much more than that in his life.  I was taken by her protectiveness of the man, and the image, but also at her heart.  She was a big part of his life.  In those days, I hadn't been to a Don Ho show, but knew of him through people who were a generation ahead of mine.  After meeting Haumea, I was invited with friends and family, to attend his show at what used to be know as the Waikiki Beachcomber.  That show was my first exposure to the living icon.

I've been in Hawaii now 28, almost 29 years and when I think of Aloha, it is synonomous with Don Ho and the people he associated himself with.  I attended his show back in the late 90's.  It was a fun, and eventful experience.  He took the time to get to know each of us and took a group photo.  I even received one of the coveted "post-show" kisses.  The woman who was responsible for us attending that event and meeting Don Ho, was his later to be wife, Haumea.  She danced in his show, never took the limelight and was always there when he needed her.

I had lunch at his and Haumea's  bequest when I was in technology back in the early 2000's.  Don was in great health and spirit and ever his flirtatious self offering to teach me golf with his unique style of giving lessons.  I remember thinking how many women in previous generations would have given their eye tooth to be sitting where I was.  It took place at a restaurant owned by Fred Livingston and carrying his name, called, of course, Don Ho's  located in Aloha Tower. He wasn't often in the restaurant, and when he was, he would have a big floppy hat on.  Tourists rarely detected his presence as he was always flying under the radar.   He was funny, unguarded and well protected.  His friends always helped look after his best interests.   

I was happy to see that after some health issues, he had married his long time companion and best friend, Haumea.  My thoughts and prayers go out to Haumea his love, and his family.  I am blessed to have crossed paths by such an incredible man, and even more so by the friends he chose to surround himself with.  In celebration of his life...   Thank you for the lasting impression you made on all of us.  With Warm Aloha...

Chances are if you are reading this you have not had much chance to experience the fun and excitement of investing in real estate.  Most of the people I know who are avid real estate investors are self taught.  Several of my more affluent real estate investor clients were brought up in families that were avid real estate investors and much of their wealth came from those type of investments. 

If you are not one of the lucky ones that was born into a family that is real estate savvy, you will need to learn the ropes.  You can read all the Rich Dad Poor Dad books that give theory, but you'll want to go far beyond books and actually set up a network of knowledgeable contacts that can support your venture.  Buying a home for a residence is one thing, but buying a home to invest in is an entirely different ball game.  The type of contacts necessary to fulfill a decent real estate investment strategy... Loan Officer,  Attorney, Realtor, Accountant and possibly a property manager.  Choose these contacts carefully as their advice and knowledge can make or break your investment success capability.

Your loan officer is going to be a business partner of sorts and you will need a good one with a strong reputation.    When you venture into the realm of investment real estate cash is more important and typically lenders will require a more substantial down payment than on a residence.  Also, you will probably pay a higher interest rate since this is not for your primary residence.

In Hawaii, the type of property (Fee Simple or Leasehold )you are purchasing is important .  Fee simple is much easier to finance.  Leasehold will depend on the length of the lease.  In the condominium realm, and especially in areas like Waikiki, the percentage of owner occupants will also play a role in your ability to finance.  Lenders prefer to see 50% or higher owner occupancy.  With Condo-tels, lenders are not as likely to provide funding on these properties since their portfolios are fully leveraged.  Condo-tels are like hotels, but you can own the room and they usually have a management company that provides services such as, cleaning, maintenance, reservations, front desk and other amenities.  These amenities do vary by project.

You'll also need to decide what type of investor you want to be.  Are you going to "Buy and Hold" or will you "Buy and Improve to Sell"?.  This will also be a key part of your buying strategy.  Cash flow is another consideration.  Most first time investors purchase condominiums or townhomes.  They tend to be easier to rent and manage in the Hawaii real estate market.

If you are a "Buy and Hold" investor, then cash flow will an important factor to consider.  You'll need to look at the purchase price, monthly payments,  maintenance fees, association fees, and ensure you can handle the overhead.  Determine which type of property rental will be.  Long term rentals can be easier to maintain tenant occupancy and cleaning overhead.  Short term rentals (30days or less) may be restricted to certain buildings, areas and also subject to a transient tax.  Due to the high demand of rental properties in the Hawaii market, the best places to get an idea of how much rental income you can ask for, look in the www.honoluluadvertiser.com 

If you are a "Buy, Improve and Sell" investor you will need to keep a good eye at market fluctuations, interest rates and know where the likely venue is your buyer will come from.  Ensure you have experienced, dependable, contractors to help you with the improvements, obtain the necessary permits, and manage the sub-contractors.  Having these contacts in line prior to purchasing a property is key because delays in improvements and work can cost you big dollars and be the demise of your real estate investing business.  Make sure you run numbers for your investment overhead, cost of improvements, financing, taxes, any necessary maintenance, projected months off market while improvements are being made.  You'll also need to consider how much time like properties will require to be sold and how much inventory there is in your price category.  If your price range is full of like properties you will spend a lot more time on market.   

Bottom line is the experts bring to the table, realizing your capabilities and limitations, doing your homework and keeping an eye on your goal while managing the tasks at hand.  Choosing a realtor who understands the principles of investing and can help bring some of your necessary experts to the table is a huge bonus.  Well established agents have the contacts and resources to help you realize your dreams.

For more information on Kelly Mitchell and Honolulu Real Estate visit: the Kelly Mitchell Group

I'm not sure if I'm the lone wolf or if we as a country are in a complete state of denial.  

It appears, a certain leader (George W. Bush) of our country has lost his conscience.  Can we stop him?

I only hope that our children have a country left when he is removed from power. 

Why, are we not , as a people, as a government, addressing this? 

I am disturbed by reading about all the innocent soldiers who have given their lives and lost because of erroneous reason s attributed to terrorism & more popularly "Weapons of Mass Destruction"  which seems to be confused with "Egomaniac Promoting American Destruction". 

How long do we think the world will let this charade continue?   The line between East and West has been drawn.     

In the name of our children please pray for peace and remember the futility involved in lives lost due to a cause that doesn't hold water...This is not a religious plea, but rather a plea to use our energy to initiate change.

Forget Global Warming, Forget the crazy man in North Korea - if we don't stop what's happening in the Middle East.  We won't have a globe to warm or protect.   Recognize the significance of this madness.

Pray for PEACE. 

Held at the Plantation Course at the Kapalua Resort in Maui each year, this tournament bring some of golf's biggest names.  Unfortunately with Tiger's baby on the way and Michelle Wie preparing for the Sony Open, two of my favorite names are not present.  The Mercedes-Benz Golf Championships are the creme de la creme of golf, in a an extraordinary setting. No cameras were allowed during play time so the best I could do was to get the in-laws and my son under the merchandise sign.

On the other hand, my son got a big kick out of seeing Vijay Singh shoot one of the only birdies on the 8th hole. Vijay is the favorite, and while he's a bit of a male chauvanist, he is indeed a great golfer.

There are also some interesting faces present here.  Alice Cooper of Rock n Roll Fame, Dennis Hopper - star of one of my favorite movies, Easy Rider.

One the the big local advertisers here is Ocean Vodka.  Seems the trend in Hawaii is now to make things from deep sea water, I guess if you go deep enough, you can get fresh water - no salt.  You can only get it in Hawaii.

The Mercedes-Benz Golf Championships benefit a large number of local charities.

Don't expect to take too many photos if you go, they ask for you to give them your camera until play is over.  Cell phones are discouraged as well.

For more photos of the day and information click here.