Maui Real Estate Blog

Maui Real Estate Blog http://activerain.com/blogs/lisabuse Get updates on the Maui real estate market and read about local news and events on this beautiful island! en-us http://activerain.com/blogsview/1379122/piilani-villages-maui-neighborhood-market-update-12-10-09- Piilani Villages: Maui Neighborhood Market Update (12/10/09) <p><strong>Piilani Villages II and III is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Kihei, which located in South Maui.</strong>  The nearby location to stores, restaurants, beautiful beaches, and schools cannot be beat.  Families, couples, and retirees also enjoy the peace and quiet of the area. <img title="Piilani Villages" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/4/7/5/8/ar126049377185749.JPG" height="147" alt="piilani Villages" width="190" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 10px; float: right;" /></p> <p>It is Christmas-time and many neighbors have lights and holiday decorations adorning their homes.  It's always fun to stroll around and enjoy the festive displays.</p> <p><strong>Piilani Villages II and III is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Kihei, which located in South Maui.</strong>  The nearby location to stores, restaurants, beautiful beaches, and schools cannot be beat.  Families, couples, and retirees also enjoy the peace and quiet of the area.</p> <p>Homes in the neighborhood range from 2 bedroom/2 bath to 4 bedroom/3.5 bath floor-plans.  <strong>If you are interested in homes for sale in the neighborhood, <a href="http://maui.fnismls.com/publink/default.aspx?GUID=047517a8-5209-4026-b81e-5b49cf020c02&Report=Yes" target="_blank">click here</a>.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>These are the homes that have sold in the past 6 months (6/10/09 through 12/10/09):</strong><br /> <table cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" border="1" cellpadding="4" width="707" style="height: 192px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Address</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Beds/Baths</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Square Ft.</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>DOM</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sold Date</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sold Price</strong></span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">16 No Olu Street</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">4/3</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1780</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">73</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">6/17/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$489,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">14 Akeu Place</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">3/2</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1458</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">198</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">6/25/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$430,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">208 Luakaha Circle</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">3/2.5</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1616</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">156</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">9/3/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$409,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">14 Wawali Street</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">4/2.5</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1688</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">176</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">9/18/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$470,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">225 Kauha'a Street</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">3/2</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1256</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">60</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">10/23/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$431,500</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <strong><em>If you are interested in buying or selling a homes in the Piilani Villages II and II neighborhoods, please contact me!</em></strong></p> <p> <table cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" border="1" cellpadding="4" width="31" style="height: 85px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="21%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> <td width="16%"> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:28:02 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1379122/piilani-villages-maui-neighborhood-market-update-12-10-09- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1375363/christmas-on-maui-finding-the-perfect-tree Christmas on Maui: Finding the Perfect Tree <p><strong>Christmas is certainly in the air here on Maui!  </strong>Just this morning I saw a man with a santa hat on while cruising on his moped down South Kihei Road!  If that doesn't put you in the spirit, then nothing will.<img title="santa" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/9/4/2/4/ar126031879242497.jpg" height="188" alt="santa" width="142" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> T<strong>ree lots are bursting with fresh trees and busy with helping people select the perfect one. </strong> Our tree is now trimmed after an adventurous tree hunting weekend.  We haven't had a live tree in a few years since we were accustomed to chopping ours down in farm while living in California.  Christmas trees don't grow so well here on Maui, so we didn't have that option this year.<br /> <br /> F<strong>ake trees are a popular and eco-friendly option here, but nothing beats a real, pine-scented noble fir which looked so beautiful in the Home Depot tree lot. </strong> My husband, however, had always wanted to plant a Norfolk pine tree in our yard and thought it would be perfect to buy a living Norfolk pine as our Christmas tree this year.<img title="norfolk pine" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/0/6/0/1/ar126031883410607.jpg" height="203" alt="norfolk pine" width="160" style="margin: 10px; float: left;" /><br /> <br /> Y<strong>ou see Norfolk pine trees all over the island.  These grand pine trees are have beautiful long needles and a slightly crooked trunk that remind me a lot of something out of Dr. Seuss. </strong> They grow quite large, and as a novice gardener, I was intimidated by taking on such a complicated task as planting an actual tree, but the idea of trimming a living tree rather than one that has been cut down was appealing to me.  Besides, if there are so many of these trees on the island, how hard can growing one be?<br /> <br /> <strong>We didn't find any at Home Depot, so we headed up to Kula Hardware up in Kula, where we purchased one... or actually about 5 of them since they were all planted in the same pot for fullness effect.  </strong>We brought it home and decorated it very carefully since the branches of these trees are very delicate.  With the weight of the ornaments and strung lights, it is leaning quite a bit to the right, but it is quite a beautiful little tree!<br /> <br /> It'll be fun to plant it once the holidays are over and then to see how much it has grown a year from now <em>(if it survives, that is)</em>.<br /> <br /> But, if you are looking for a living Norfolk pine to decorate this Christmas, head up to <strong>Kula Hardware</strong>.  They have a great selection at great prices.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:40:02 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1375363/christmas-on-maui-finding-the-perfect-tree http://activerain.com/blogsview/1367366/relocating-to-maui-hawaii-pet-quarantine-laws Relocating to Maui: Hawaii Pet Quarantine Laws <p><strong>Planning a move to Maui is exciting (and may be a little stressful) with all that is involved in transporting your furniture, cars, and other belongings. </strong> If you are <span style="text-decoration: underline;">planning to relocate with your cat or dog</span>, however, please be aware of<strong> Hawaii's Pet Quarantine Laws</strong>.  <img title="cat and dog" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/0/1/6/8/ar125988778386107.jpg" height="187" alt="cat and dog" width="142" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" /></p> <p>Hawaii is a rabies-free state and wants to keep it that way, which means any cat or dog originating from the Mainland needs to undergo a 120 day quarantine process before entering the state to ensure your pet is rabies-free.<br /> <br /> <strong>We underwent this process with our dog a few years ago before moving to Maui,</strong> and although it was very rigorous with the amount of paperwork and the number of deadlines to meet (not to mention the stress of transporting him in the cargo area of the airplane!), everything went smoothly and he arrived in Maui safe and sound.  <br /> <br /> <strong>Your pet can stay with you in the Mainland during the 120 day quarantine process, which is what we did.</strong>  The 120 days is basically just a waiting period once the lab at KSU has received your pet's blood sample for the OIE-FAVN rabies blood test.  Your local veterinarian helps you with this process, as well as other shots, microchiping, flea and tick treatment, and health certificate that is required for your pet.<br /> <br /> <strong>Be sure to check the Hawaii's Pet Quarantine Laws <a href="http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info" target="_blank">website</a> and follow their quarantine checklist to make sure you meet each and every requirement.  </strong>Otherwise, your pet may have to stay in Honolulu until each requirement is met, which can be expensive, as well as a hassle.<br /> <br /> It may seem like an intimidating process, at least it did for me, but as long as you follow each step and fulfill each requirement of the quarantine procedure, it's pretty easy to receive clearance for your pet to enter the state of Hawaii.<br /> <br /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:56:10 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1367366/relocating-to-maui-hawaii-pet-quarantine-laws http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363525/the-ohana-animal-inn-maui-pet-boarding-facility The Ohana Animal Inn: Maui Pet Boarding Facility <p><strong>When in need of boarding for your pet on Maui while on vacation, I HIGHLY recommend </strong><strong><a href="http://www.theohanaanimalinn.com/index.html" target="_blank"><big><span style="color: #cc0000;">The Ohana Animal Inn</span></big></a>, in Kula. </strong> The facility is located on a beautiful piece of land with views of the ocean and of the West Maui Mountains.  The location is a place I wouldn't mind taking a vacation at, so I always feel happy to leave my dog in their care.   <img title="ohana animal inn" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/4/0/3/5/ar125971203653041.JPG" height="166" alt="Ohana animal inn" width="220" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 10px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> <strong>We've taken our cocker spaniel there for the past 3 years whenever we need to plan a trip to the mainland, and it's the best boarding facility I've ever seen. </strong> I especially like how reasonable the rates are, given its location and size.  Dogs of any size are $25 a night.  They take any pet, so you if own chickens, mice, or turtles, you are in luck!  Check out their <a href="http://www.theohanaanimalinn.com/index.html" target="_blank">website</a> for more information.<br /> <br /> We live in Kihei and the drive to Kula may be considered 'out of the way' for many, but the drive to the boarding facility is so beautiful that the drive is worth it.<br /> <br /> <strong>Just across the drive way of the boarding facility, is a small little farm with goats, turkeys, chickens, and geese. </strong> It's a lot of fun to see these animals, especially for my 2 year-old daughter, and it adds to the character of The Ohana Animal Inn.</p> <p><img title="little farm" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/2/4/2/7/ar125971211872429.JPG" height="200" alt="little farm" width="265" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 10px; float: left;" /><br /> <br /> <big><strong>TIP:</strong></big>  If you are planning on making reservations for your pet at <strong>The Ohana Animal Inn</strong> during the Thanksgiving or Christmas break, make sure you book <em><strong>early</strong></em> since it does fill up quickly!<br /> <br /> <br /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:07:11 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363525/the-ohana-animal-inn-maui-pet-boarding-facility http://activerain.com/blogsview/1346918/thanksgiving-dining-options-on-maui Thanksgiving Dining Options on Maui <p>Next week is <strong><span style="color: #993300;"><big>Thanksgiving</big></span></strong> and if you are a visitor or resident on Maui, and need to know where to go to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving meal, here are the restaurants that are featuring special holiday meals with links to menus and/or websites:<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><br />SOUTH MAUI</strong></span><img title="dinner" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/4/8/2/3/ar125870605132846.jpg" height="183" alt="dinner" width="225" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><br /></strong></span><strong><a href="http://www.waterfrontrestaurant.net/" target="_blank">The Waterfront Restauran</a>t</strong> (Maalaea):<br />Doors open at 4pm.  Adults: $45, Children (12 and younger) $21<br /><a href="http://www.mauioceancenter.com/index.php?id=5&ss=0&page=dine&content=dine" target="_blank"><br /><strong>Seascape Ma'alaea Restaurant</strong></a> (Maalaea):<br />$14.95 per person.  Call (808) 270-7068 for reservations.<br /><a href="http://www.fivepalmsrestaurant.com/Holiday_Menus.html" target="_blank"><br /><strong>Five Palms Beach Grill</strong></a> (Kihei):<br />Dinner from 3 to 9pm.  Adults $36.95 or $29.95, Children (10 and younger) $16.95<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.fourseasons.com/maui/dining/spago.html" target="_blank">Spago Maui</a> </strong>(Wailea):<br />Dinner from 2:30pm to 4:30pm.  Residents with HI ID $24, Non-residents $48.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.grandwailea.com/resort-dining/grand-dining-room.cfm" target="_blank"><strong>Grand Wailea Dining Room</strong> </a>(Wailea)<br />Buffet from 2 to 9pm.  Adults $75, Children (5 to 12) $37<br /><a href="http://www.stellablues.com/" target="_blank"><br /><strong>Stella Blues Cafe</strong></a> (Kihei):<br />Dinner from 1 to 9 pm.  Adults $24, Children $12<br /><br /><a href="http://www.fourseasons.com/maui/dining/duo.html" target="_blank"><strong>DUO Steak and Seafood</strong></a> (Four Seasons Resort, Wailea):<br />Buffet from 3 to 8pm.  Adults $87, Children (6 to 12) $39<br /><a href="http://www.mulligansontheblue.com/" target="_blank"><br /><strong>Mulligans on the Blue</strong></a> (Wailea)<br />Buffet from 4 to 8pm.  $25 per person<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ruthschris.com/Steak-House/6508/Wailea/Maui" target="_blank"><strong>Ruth's Chris Steak House</strong></a> (Wailea):<br />Prix fix menu starts at 4pm.  Adults $45, Children (12 and younger) $19<br /><br /><br /> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>CENTRAL MAUI:</strong></span><br /> <br /> <strong>Cafe O'Lei</strong> (Dunes at Maui Lani, Kahului):<br /> Buffet from 11am to 5pm.  Adults $36, Children (4 to 12) $18.  Reservations call (808) 877-0073<img title="cornacopia" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/1/2/1/7/ar125870608971212.jpg" height="245" alt="cornucopia" width="271" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> <strong>King Kamehameha Golf Club</strong> (Waikapu):<br /> Buffet seating at 10am and again at 12:30.  Adults (includes tax and tip) $39, Children (6 to 12) $19.50.  Reservations call (808) 243-1024<br /> <br /> <strong>Coconut Grill</strong> (Maui Seaside Hotel, Kahului):<br /> Buffets seating at 10am, 1pm, 4pm and 7pm.  Adults $34.95, Children (5 to 12) $15.95.  Reservations call (808) 871-8881<br /> <a href="http://www.hideawaymaui.com/Home.html" target="_blank"><br /></a> <strong><a href="http://www.hideawaymaui.com/Home.html" target="_blank">Cary & Eddie's Hideaway</a> </strong>(Kahului):<br /> Buffet from 4pm to closing.  Adults $21.99, Children (younger than 10) $10.99.  Reservations call (808) 873-6555<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>UPCOUNTRY</strong></span>:<br /> <br /> <strong>Makawao Steak House</strong> (Makawao):<br /> Doors open at 4pm.  Adults $24.95, Children (10 and younger) $10.95.  Reservations call (808) 572-8711<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>WEST MAUI:</strong></span><br /> <strong><br /> <a href="http://www.pacificwhale.org/mauiecocruises/cruise.php?page=holiday&id=1#7" target="_blank">Pacific Whale Foundation</a></strong> (Lahaina Harbor):<br /> Dinner cruise departs at 5:30pm.  Check website for prices.<br /> <a href="http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/KapaluaMaui/Dining/TheTerrace/Default.htm" target="_blank"><br /><strong>The Terrace</strong></a> (Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua)<br /> Buffet from 3 to 7pm.  Adults $75, Children (5 to 12) $27.50.  Call (808) 665-7089 for reservations.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.theplantationhouse.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Plantation House</strong></a> (Kapalua):<br /> Adults $29.50, Children (12 and younger) $17.50.  Call (808) 669-6299<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gerardsmaui.com/cms/index.php" target="_blank"><strong>Gerard's</strong></a> (Plantation Inn, Lahaina)<br /> Dinner starts at 5:30pm.  Adults $32.50, Children (12 and younger) half price.  Residents receive 20% discount.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.pacificomaui.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Pacific'o</strong></a> (Lahaina)<br /> Dinner starts at 5pm.  Cost is $38 per person.  Call (808) 661-8422 for reservations.<br /> <a href="http://kbhmaui.com/Main/Dining/Tiki_Terrace.aspx" target="_blank"><br /><strong>Tiki Terrace</strong></a> , <strong>Courtyard</strong>, and <strong>Kanahele Room</strong> (Ka'anapali Beach Hotel, Ka'anapali)<br /> Dinner from 3 to 7pm.  Adults $ 45.95, Children (6 to 12) $22.  Call (808) 667-0124 for reservations.<br /> <br /> <strong>Maui Grill</strong> (Napili Shores, Napili)<br /> Lunch from 10 am to 2pm, dinner from 4:30 to 9:30pm.  Cost is $24.95 per person.  Call (808) 442-3700 for reservations.<br /> <a href="http://maui.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/entertainment/restaurants/index.jsp#18449129" target="_blank"><br /><strong>'Umalu</strong></a> (Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Ka'anapali)<img title="treats" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/8/0/4/ar125870615840892.jpg" height="81" alt="treats" width="225" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" /><br /> Buffet from 4 to 8pm.  Adults $45.  Call (808) 667-4727<br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://maui.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/entertainment/restaurants/index.jsp#18449129" target="_blank">Cascades</a> </strong>(Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Ka'anapali)<br /> Pre-fixe dinner $46 per person.  Call (808) 667-4727<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.sheraton-maui.com/de_BRSS.htm" target="_blank"><strong>Black Rock Steak & Seafood</strong></a> (Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa)<br /> Buffet from 4 to 9pm.  Adults $39, Children (5 to 12) $19.  Call (808) 661-0031 for reservations.<br /> <a href="http://www.merrimanshawaii.com/index.php" target="_blank"><br /><strong>Merriman's</strong> </a> (Kapalua)<br /> Dinner from 4 to 9pm.  Call (808) 669-6400 for reservations.</p> <p><span style="color: #ff6600;"><em><big><big><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;">Happy Eating</span></big></big></em><big><big><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;">!</span></big></big></span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:42:05 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1346918/thanksgiving-dining-options-on-maui http://activerain.com/blogsview/1342818/valley-isle-gymnastics-on-maui-offers-fun-for-kids Valley Isle Gymnastics on Maui: Offers Fun for Kids <p>After such hearing such wonderful praises from other parents about <strong><span style="color: #000099;"><big>Valley Isle Gymnastics</big></span></strong> in Kahului on Maui, I decided to sign up my 2 and a half year-old daughter for a toddler class.<img title="gymnastics" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/2/9/2/7/ar125850333572924.jpg" height="226" alt="gymnastics" width="250" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> <strong>And I'm very glad I did! </strong> Although I was very interested in enrolling her in an activity over the summer, I wasn't sure if she was ready for a structured class, nor emotionally ready to engage in an activity with other children (I just pictured her standing off to the side as she just watched rather than participate).  So therefore, I wasn't ready to pay for a class that she wouldn't appreciate or enjoy.<br /> <br /> As I've noticed her developing more and more and becoming more engaging with other children, I felt it was time to sign her up for a gymnastics class.<br /> <br /> <strong>She is enrolled in a weekly 45 minute Discovery Class with other 2 and 3 year-olds.  </strong>The class, which also requires parent participation, focuses on basic gymnastic skills.  They get get to play on the large trampoline, low bars, various mats, and balance beams.  <br /> <br /> <strong>The best thing about the class is her coach, Coach Rusty, since he is VERY patient and engaging with the children. </strong> Each class has a focus and starts out with a 5 to 10 minute warm-up routine with stretching, music, and games.  After that the children are encouraged to roam and play with the various equipment with the coach's assistance of demonstrating certain techniques and movements.  The structure of the class is great for my daughter because of her limited attention span, like most 2 year-olds, and allows her to discover skills on her own, but with the help of an instructor.<br /> <br /> <strong>It's only been her second class and she LOVES it!</strong>  She looks forward to it each week and isn't quite ready to leave when the class is over.  I highly recommend the class to other parents of 2 and 3 year-olds.  <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.valleyislegymnastics.com/classes.htm" target="_blank">Valley Isle Gymnastics</a> also offers classes for other age groups ranging from 2 months to 18 years old, so definitely check it out!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:20:42 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1342818/valley-isle-gymnastics-on-maui-offers-fun-for-kids http://activerain.com/blogsview/1334838/mana-kai-one-of-south-maui-s- Mana Kai: One of South Maui's <p><img title="mana kai beach" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/9/0/9/2/ar125807181629096.JPG" height="196" alt="mana kai beach" width="261" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 10px; float: right;" /><strong>Every time I visit Mana Kai, a gorgeous condominium resort located in South Maui, I instantly feel like I'm on vacation. </strong></p> <p><strong> </strong>The glorious ocean views, warm sun, and the white sandy beach just outside the building make me want to drop everything and just relax one of their beach chairs on the lawn and forget about what I have to do for the rest of the day.<br /> <br /> <strong>If I <em>were</em> on vacation, I would definitely want to stay here.</strong>  Located in Kihei, just north of Wailea on South Kihei Road, Mana Kai is situated on one of Maui's premier beaches. </p> <p><strong>The one and two bedroom condo units include a fully equipped kitchen and private lanai, and allow short-term vacation rentals.  </strong>This complex is perfect for someone who lov<img title="mana kai building" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/1/2/2/6/ar125807150062211.JPG" height="207" alt="mana kai building" width="276" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 10px; float: left;" />es to vacation in South Maui, but would enjoy the benefit of leasing their unit to vacationers when not on the island.<br /> <br /> <strong>Mana Kai Resort</strong> has recently been renovated and features a beautiful pool, activities desk, beauty shop, open-air dining that offers an EXCELLENT <a href="http://beautifulmauiproperties.com/channels/activerain/topics/happy_hour_on_maui" target="_blank">Happy Hour</a> at Five Palms Grill, general store and gift shop, and <a href="http://mauiyogapath.maui.net/" target="_blank">Maui Yoga Path</a> yoga center.</p> <p><img title="mana kai pool" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/3/0/3/ar125807139830316.JPG" height="191" alt="Mana kai pool" width="255" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 10px; float: left;" /><br /> <br /> <strong><em><big></big></em></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><big>For more information about Mana Kai, or information on available condominium units for purchase, please contact me!</big></em></strong></p> <table border="1" width="3" style="height: 2px;"> <tbody> </tbody> </table><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:31:36 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1334838/mana-kai-one-of-south-maui-s- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1330850/great-news-for-home-buyers-tax-credit-has-been-extended-and-benefits-existing-home-buyers-too Great News for Home Buyers! Tax Credit has Been Extended and Benefits Existing Home Buyers Too <p><strong>The First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit has officially been extended!  </strong>Just last week, the bill was approved and signed by President Obama, which is great news for first-time home owners, as well as existing home-owners.<img title="megaphone" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/3/8/6/1/ar125789345816839.jpg" height="142" alt="megaphone" width="104" style="margin: 7px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> I wrote an earlier blog on the tax credit, which was set to expire November 30, 2009, about the details and qualifications for this credit.  <br /> <br /> The extension to the existing first-time home buyer credit is the same amount, $8,000, and expires <strong>April 30, 2010</strong>.  <em>I<span style="text-decoration: underline;">f a binding contract is signed by April 30, 2010, the home purchase will qualify if it closes by June 30, 2010</span>.</em><br /> <br /> Income limits, however, have been extended for sales occurring after November 6, 2009. For single taxpayers, the limit is $125,000, and for married couples filing jointly, the limit is $225,000.<br /> <br /> For sales occurring between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, the limit for single taxpayers is $75,000 and $150,000 for married couples filing jointly.<br /> <br /> <strong><big>There is also a credit for existing home owners, as well.</big></strong><small><strong>  <br /> <br /> </strong><big>A credit of $6,500 will be granted to existing home-owners for home purchases occuring between November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010 (or purchased by June 30, 2010 with a binding contract signed by April 30, 2010).<br /> <br /> One of the qualification of this credit is that the owner must have <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">owned and lived in a home for 5 consecutive years of the 8 years prior to the new purchase date</span></strong>.<br /> <br /> For income limits and more qualifications for the existing home-buyer credit, please visit:</big></small></p> <p><a href="http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/faq2.php#1" target="_blank">http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/faq2.php#1</a></p> <p> </p> <p><em>Photo courtesy of <a href="www.fotosearch.com" target="_blank">fotosearch</a></em></p> <table border="1" width="31" style="height: 1px;"> <tbody> </tbody> </table><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:55:08 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1330850/great-news-for-home-buyers-tax-credit-has-been-extended-and-benefits-existing-home-buyers-too http://activerain.com/blogsview/1322126/inspirational-story-a-bond-between-a-marine-and-an-a-stray-dog-from-iraq Inspirational Story: A Bond Between a Marine and an a Stray Dog From Iraq <div></div> <p>You may have heard about this inspirational story of an unbreakable bond between a U.S. Marine and a stray dog from Iraq, which aired on the <strong>Today Show</strong> a couple days ago.</p> <p>If you haven't, I've included the video below. </p> <p>The story is so touching, I just had to share it.</p> <p><strong>It is a beautiful story of a stray dog, who had suffered the abuse of an Iraqi soldier, that captured the heart of a U.S. Marine, Dennis, while serving duty in Iraq. </strong> After becoming briefly separated, the dog walked 75 miles to be reunited with the soldier. Although it is against policy for soldiers to care for dogs while serving, Dennis was determined to keep him. </p> <p><strong>He arranged for the dog to be flown to his home in San Diego, where Dennis would eventually meet up with him. </strong>The cost of the dog's travel was going to amount to $5,000, but with the overwhelming help of his friends and strangers back in the U.S., his dog was able to make the trip. </p> <p>Dennis and 'Nubs' are now inseparable.</p> <p> </p> <div><iframe src="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22425001/vp/33584389#33584389" frameborder="0" height="339" scrolling="no" width="425"></iframe><p style="font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #999; margin-top: 5px; background: transparent; text-align: center; width: 425px;">Visit msnbc.com for <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com" style="text-decoration: none !important; border-bottom: 1px dotted #999 !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; color: #5799DB !important;">Breaking News</a>, <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032507" style="text-decoration: none !important; border-bottom: 1px dotted #999 !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; color: #5799DB !important;">World News</a>, and <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032072" style="text-decoration: none !important; border-bottom: 1px dotted #999 !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; color: #5799DB !important;">News about the Economy</a></p></div><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:56:26 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1322126/inspirational-story-a-bond-between-a-marine-and-an-a-stray-dog-from-iraq http://activerain.com/blogsview/1320250/piilani-villages-maui-neighborhood-market-update Piilani Villages: Maui Neighborhood Market Update <p><strong>Piilani Villages II and III is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Kihei, which located in South Maui.</strong>  The nearby location to stores, restaurants, beautiful beaches, and schools cannot be beat.  Families, couples, and retirees also enjoy the peace and quiet of the area.  <img title="Piilani Villages II" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/3/0/3/2/ar125737541323036.JPG" height="238" alt="Piilani Villages II" width="318" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 10px; float: left;" /></p> <p> </p> <p>The neighborhood is a popular spot for trick-or-treaters on <strong>Halloween</strong>, and this recent Halloween was no exception. <em><strong> Many neighbors get in the spirit with lawn decorations, making the evening a fun and festive event!</strong></em></p> <p><img title="Halloween" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/6/0/5/2/ar125737584525067.jpg" height="145" alt="Halloween" width="182" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Homes in the neighborhood range from 2 bedroom/2 bath to 4 bedroom/3.5 bath floor-plans.  <strong>If you are interested in homes for sale in the neighborhood, <a href="http://maui.fnismls.com/publink/default.aspx?GUID=19e1b5c3-a1bd-4115-bda6-5b091cbc316b&Report=Yes" target="_blank">click here</a>.</strong></p> <p><strong>These are the homes that have sold with the past 6 month, 5/3/09 through 11/3/09:</strong><br /></p> <p> <table cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" border="1" cellpadding="4" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><strong>Address</strong></span></span></strong></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Beds/Baths</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Square Ft.</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>DOM</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Sold Date</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Sold Price</strong></span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">28 No Olu Street</span></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">3/2</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">1478</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">82</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">5/6/09</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">$465,000</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">126 Luakaha Circle</span></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">3/2.5</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">1434</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">147</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">5/18/09</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">$395,000</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">16 No Olu Street</span></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">4/3</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">1780</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">73</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">6/17/09</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">$489,000</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">11 Akeu Place</span></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">3/2</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">1458</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">198</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">6/25/09</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">$430,000</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">208 Luakaha Circle</span></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">3/2.5</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">1616</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">156</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">9/3/09</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">$409,000</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">14 Wawali Street</span></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">4/2.5</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">1688</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">176</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">9/18/09</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">$470,000</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="19%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">225 Kauha'a Street</span></p> </td> <td width="14%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">3/2</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">1256</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">60</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">10/23/09</span></p> </td> <td width="17%"> <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">$431,500</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <strong>For more information on these sold homes, <a href="http://maui.fnismls.com/publink/default.aspx?GUID=476c209b-416c-45cb-acbe-2459af7a9869&Report=Yes" target="_blank">click here</a>.</strong><br /> <strong><em><br /> If you are interested in buying or selling a homes in the Piilani Villages II and II neighborhoods, please contact me!<br /></em></strong><br /> <table border="1" width="31" style="height: 1px;"> <tbody> </tbody> </table> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:11:15 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1320250/piilani-villages-maui-neighborhood-market-update http://activerain.com/blogsview/1308647/maui-is-offering-help-to-first-time-homebuyers-through-new-program Maui is Offering Help to First-Time Homebuyers Through New Program <p><strong>It was just announced that beginning November 1st, first-time home buyers on Maui can receive assistance with a down payment and/or closing costs through a new program, First-Time Home Buyer's Grant, through the County's Department of Housing and Human Concerns.</strong> </p> <p><strong>Evergreen Home Loans</strong>, located at 173 Hoohana St., Suite 104, Kahului, has been contracted to help administer this program.</p> <p>Grant applications will be available at the Evergreen Home Loans location on November 1st, however, applicants are not required to obtain a first mortgage from Evergreen Home Loans in order to apply for the grant.</p> <p><strong>A maximum of $15,000 per grant is allowed per applicant.  In order to qualify, you must meet the following requirements:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Must be a Maui resident</li> <li>Must be 18 years old, or older<img title="money" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/9/2/0/1/ar12567751110294.jpg" height="219" alt="money" width="225" style="margin: 4px; float: right;" /></li> <li>Must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien</li> <li>Must not have more than 50% interest in property suitable for residential development</li> <li>Must be a first-time home buyer</li> </ul> <p><strong>Applicants must also not exceed the following household income limits:</strong></p> <ul> <li>$105,560 for Maui County residents<br /></li> <li>$90,888 for Hana residents</li> <li>$91,938 for Lanai residents</li> <li>$70,238 for Molokai residents</li> </ul> <p><strong>In addition, applicants are not required to repay the grant unless the grantee:</strong></p> <ul> <li> refinances the first mortgage loan</li> <li>no longer uses the property as a principal residence</li> <li>sells the property</li> </ul> <p><em><strong>For more information, call Evergreen Home Loans at 808-873-3480</strong></em></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:13:04 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1308647/maui-is-offering-help-to-first-time-homebuyers-through-new-program http://activerain.com/blogsview/1304863/halloween-happenings-on-maui-2009 Halloween Happenings on Maui 2009 <p><strong>This Saturday is<big><span style="color: #ff6600;"> Halloween <small><span style="color: #000000;">so don't miss out on some of the ghoulishly festive events going on around Maui.  <br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Friday, October 30:</span> </span></small></span></big></strong><big><span style="color: #ff6600;"><small><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Lahaina Gateway Shopping Center</strong> is hosting a "Keiki Trick-or-Treat Night" from 5 pm to 8 pm.  Stores and restaurants will be handing out treats to your little ones.  This event is for children 12 and under.  </span></small></span></big><img title="bats" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/7/4/0/7/ar125660338170475.jpg" height="188" alt="bats" width="225" style="margin: 4px; float: right;" /></p> <p><big><span style="color: #ff6600;"><small><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><br /><big><span style="color: #ff6600;">Halloween</span></big>, Saturday, October 31st:</strong></span>  Downtown <strong>Paia</strong> is the place to take your kids trick-or-treating on Halloween night.  Stores and restaurants have decorated their storefronts and will be handing out candy from 5 pm to 7 pm.  Activities are also planned to entertain the crowds.  <strong>Flatbread Pizza</strong> is hosting a keiki costume contest at 5pm.  Visit the 'haunted spa' at <strong>Maui Ocean Spa</strong> for $1 donation to the Boo Boo Zoo.  DJ Michael Fong will be playing music from 6 pm to 8 pm from atop the Green Banana decorated as a haunted house.  Cafe Mambo is hosting a Karaoke and a costume contest.  Then from 10 pm to 2 am, show off your unique costumes at <strong>Charley's</strong> or <strong>Jacques</strong>, where they both will be offering costume contests and great music.</span></small></span></big></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;"><big><span style="color: #ff6600;"><small><span style="color: #000000;">Head on down to<strong> Kihei</strong> at <strong>Piilani Village Center</strong>, for <em>"Halloween Rock-tober"</em> beginning at 3pm at the center stage next to the Food Court.  Gift certificates will be awarded to the best costumes for adults and kids  A Karaoke Sign-Off contest is scheduled at 3pm for elementary students, 4 pm for high school students, and 5 pm for adults.  Duster the Clown will also be there to entertain the kids, and as well as free balloons, face painting, and temporary tattoos.  Stores will also be handing out treats all afternoon to the kids.<br /> <br /> </span></small></span></big><img title="costume" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/8/5/0/7/ar125660342270581.jpg" height="225" alt="costume" width="177" style="margin: 4px; float: left;" /><big><span style="color: #ff6600;"><small><span style="color: #000000;">If you are in the mood for something a bit more extravagant, the J Walter Cameron Center is hosting "<strong>A Halloween Spooktacular"</strong> at the <strong>Wailea Marriott Resort & Spa</strong> starting a 6 pm.  A costume ball, live entertainment, dinner, and silent and live auctions are all planned for the adults, as well as dancing to the music of Jimmy Mac and the Kool Kats.  Bring the kids along so they can enjoy the Keiki Haunted Fun House for those 12 and under from 4 pm to 7 pm.  Keiki care will also be provided from 6 pm to 10:30 pm.  Ticket prices begin at $125, with sponsorship opportunities beginning at $1,500.  Call 344-8880 for more details.<br /> <br /> <strong>Gian Don's</strong> in <strong>Kihei</strong> is hosting an evening of fun at their spooktacular event, <strong>"HalloQueen"</strong>.  A $100 cash prize will awarded for the best costume.  Live entertainment will include a special appearance by Annabelle.  There will be 2 separate shows, beginning at 9:30 pm and 11:30 pm.  Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door.<br /> <br /> <strong>Lahaina</strong> is always a popular destination on Halloween.  The annual <strong>Keiki Halloween Costume Parade</strong> begins at 3:30 at Papalaua Street, then heads down along Front Street and then ending at the Banyan Tree Park.  Afterwards, a costume contest for Keiki takes place at the Wharf Cinema Center from 6 pm to 7 pm, followed by the annual <strong>Ghoulish Gala Karaoke Costume Contest</strong> from 7 pm to 9:30 pm.  Then, head on down to Cool Cat Cafe where Marty Dread will be playing from 10 pm to 1 am.  From 9:30 to 12:30 am, stop by Mulligan's at the Wharf where Sounds of Addiction will be playing.<br /> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong></strong></span></span></small></span></big></p> <p><big><span style="color: #ff6600;"><small><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><br /> Ongoing Haunted Houses:</strong></span>  Visit The <strong>Historic Ioa Theater's Haunted House</strong> on October 29th and 30th from 6 pm to 9 pm, then on October 31st from 6 pm to 10 pm.  In addition to the scary haunts, a couple special dance performances will take place in the theater, "I Put a Spell on You" and "Thriller".<br /> <br /> In <strong>Lahaina</strong>, visit the <strong>Wharf Cinema Center's Haunted House</strong> going on now through October 30th.  The kid-friendly shows are from 1 pm to 6 pm and the scarier shows for adults run from 6 pm to 10 pm.  On <strong><span style="color: #ff6600;">Halloween </span></strong>night it begins at 1 pm until the "coffin closes".</span></small></span></big></p> <p><big><span style="color: #ff6600;"><small><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: #ff6600;"><big><big><em>Happ</em></big></big></span></span></small></span></big><big><span style="color: #ff6600;"><small><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: #ff6600;"><big><big><em>y </em></big></big></span></span></small></span></big></p> <p><img title="house" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/9/7/9/ar125660368297965.jpg" height="180" alt="house" width="225" style="vertical-align: baseline;" /></p> <table border="1" style="width: 0px; height: 0px;"> <tbody> </tbody> </table><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:40:57 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1304863/halloween-happenings-on-maui-2009 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1299171/happy-hour-on-maui-make-sure-to-stop-by-five-palms-beach-grill-in-kihei Happy Hour on Maui: Make Sure to Stop by 'Five Palms Beach Grill' in Kihei <p><strong>One of my <em>favorite </em>places to go for <span style="color: #990000;">Happy Hour</span> on Maui is at the <a href="http://www.fivepalmsrestaurant.com/Home.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #000066;"><big>Five Palms Beach Grill</big></span></a> in south Kihei.  </strong></p> <p>I love the shaded, outdoor seating, wonderful menu items at GREAT prices, and of course, the beautiful ocean views.  <img title="Five Palms" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/2/9/2/ar125627809829278.JPG" height="178" alt="Five Palms" width="237" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 10px; float: left;" /><br /> <br /> Located on the ground floor of the <strong>Mana Kai Maui Resort</strong>, the restaurant overlooks the beautiful <strong>Keawakapu beach.  </strong></p> <p> </p> <p>The island views of <strong>Molokini</strong> and <strong>Kahoolawe</strong> are especially beautiful as the sun begins to set in the late afternoon.  <img title="Keawakapu" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/7/7/1/8/ar125627820481773.JPG" height="198" alt="Keawakapu" width="278" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 10px; float: right;" /></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>During whale season (early November through late April) you can enjoy watching the <strong>humpback whales</strong> frolic in the distant waters. </p> <p><strong><em>I always look forward to that time of year!</em></strong><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.fivepalmsrestaurant.com/Happy_Hour_Menu.html" target="_blank">Happy hour</a> time at <strong>Five Palms</strong> is generously scheduled from 2 pm through 7 pm and again at 9pm to 11pm everyday! </p> <p>Beer, wine, and cocktails during those times range in price from $2.50 to $5.00.  You can't beat that!  I <em>love</em> their Mai Tai's :). </p> <p><img title="Five Palms front lawn" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/9/4/7/ar125627846674916.JPG" height="212" alt="Five Palms front lawn" width="280" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; vertical-align: middle;" /></p> <p>Also, pupus (or appetizers) and sushi from their happy hour menu are 50% off from 3pm to 7 pm everyday.<br /> <br /> <strong>Five Palms Beach Grill</strong> also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Check out their <a href="http://www.fivepalmsrestaurant.com/Home.html" target="_blank">website </a>for menus and additional information.</p> <p><em><strong>If on Maui, definitely stop by! </strong></em> It's the perfect place to go to relax and enjoy the beautiful day.  I like how it makes me feel like I'm on vacation, yet I don't have to leave :).<br /></p> <table border="1" style="width: 0px; height: 0px;"> <tbody> </tbody> </table><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Fri, 23 Oct 2009 01:23:55 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1299171/happy-hour-on-maui-make-sure-to-stop-by-five-palms-beach-grill-in-kihei http://activerain.com/blogsview/1295422/maui-is-voted-best-island-in-the-world-again Maui is Voted 'Best Island in the World' Again <p><strong>Maui did it again!  It was vo</strong><strong>ted 'Best Island in the World' by Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards poll, for the 15th time.</strong></p> <p>Maui was also voted <strong>'Bes<img title="maui" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/9/5/0/8/ar125610833380591.JPG" height="191" alt="maui" width="254" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: left;" />t Pacific Island' </strong>for the 19th straight year. </p> <p><strong><em>It's not hard to see why. </em></strong> It's easy to fall in love with the island's beauty with its glorious sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and mountainous terrain.  But it's also about the people. </p> <p>The people of Maui spreading the <em><strong>Aloha Spirit</strong></em> that touches the hearts of visitors and residents alike.  I've never lived in a more friendly community where people truly care about others and who will go out of their way to help them.<img title="maui misc" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/2/9/9/8/ar125610848089921.JPG" height="217" alt="maui misc" width="164" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: left;" /></p> <p><em><strong>I've been touched by kindness many times here</strong></em>, and it would not be something I ever would have expected in the places I've lived on the mainland.</p> <p><strong>Yes, Maui is certainly beautiful, but the spirit of the island and of its people is what truly sets it apart.</strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Wed, 21 Oct 2009 02:06:23 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1295422/maui-is-voted-best-island-in-the-world-again http://activerain.com/blogsview/1289236/maui-condo-sales-slightly-down-year-to-date-2009-but-third-quarter-sales-were-strong Maui Condo Sales Slightly Down Year-to-Date 2009, but Third Quarter Sales Were Strong <p><strong>Condo sales on Maui are slightly decreasing, according to the Realtors Association of Maui.</strong>  For the year ending September 30, 2009, condo sales were down 9% island-wide, which is a difference of 64 condo sales.</p> <p><strong>However, when looking at the quarter ending September 30, 2009, to the previous quarter, condo sales were up 163%!  </strong>More condos were sold in the third quarter of this year compared to the first 2 quarters of 2009 <em>combined</em>.</p> <p><img title="Condos chart" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/2/2/6/3/ar125574218236222.png" height="320" alt="Condos chart" width="450" style="margin: 2px; vertical-align: middle; border: black 3px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>Kihei</strong>saw a 61% increase in number of condo sales for the third quarter compared the previous quarter, which is increase of 31 units.  <strong>Wailea/Makena</strong>, however, experienced a 16% drop in condo sales, but only a difference of 3 units. <strong>Kapalua</strong> gained 3 more condo sales, which was an increase of 150%.  In <strong>Lahaina</strong>, 21 more units were sold in the third quarter, which is an increase of 210%!</p> <p><img title="Condos sold chart" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/2/5/1/3/ar125574277531526.png" height="320" alt="Condos sold chart" width="450" style="margin: 2px; vertical-align: middle; border: black 3px solid;" /></p> <p><strong>The median price of condo on Maui decreased 14% to $491,250 at the end of September 2009 compared to the same time last year.  </strong>In <strong>Kihei</strong>, the median price dropped 27% to $305,000.  In <strong>Wailea/Makena</strong>, the price dropped 31% to $1,620,000.  <strong>Kapalua</strong> experienced a 25% price drop to $709,500, and <strong>Lahaina</strong> experienced a decrease of 15% to $410,000. </p> <p><strong>Inventory of condos on Maui shrank 15% since April 2009, and which consists mainly of short sale and bank owned properties.</strong>  In order for prices to start to rise, these distressed properties need to sell.</p> <p><strong>Buyers</strong>, this is a fantastic time to take advantage of the low condo prices, low interest rates, and a large inventory of properties from which to choose.</p> <p><strong>Sellers</strong>, only list your condo if you must sell.  Because of the competition of other properties, your condo must be priced correctly, be in better property and showing condition, and you may need to be flexible with terms, such as lease-with-option-to-buy. </p> <p>For information on the residential housing market, please see my <a href="http://beautifulmauiproperties.com/post/1287832/home-sales-on-maui-slightly-decreasing-september-2009" target="_blank">previous post</a>.</p> <p><strong><em>If you are interested in buying or selling a home or condo on Maui, please contact me.  I would be happy to assist you!</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Fri, 16 Oct 2009 21:00:17 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1289236/maui-condo-sales-slightly-down-year-to-date-2009-but-third-quarter-sales-were-strong http://activerain.com/blogsview/1287832/home-sales-on-maui-slightly-decreasing-september-2009 Home Sales on Maui Slightly Decreasing: September 2009 <p><strong><big><small>Home sales on Maui are decreasing slightly, according to the latest numbers from Realtors Association of Maui. </small> </big></strong>Comparing year-to-date sales ending September 2009 to the same time last year, 258 fewer homes on Maui were sold, which is a 36% decrease.  When comparing the third quarter ending September 30th to the second quarter of 2009, 7 fewer homes were sold, reflecting a 4% decrease.  <br /><br /><strong>In Kihei, 5 fewer homes were sold in the third quarter of this year compared to the previous quarter, reflecting a 17% drop.  In Wailea/Makena, </strong>4 fewer homes were sold, which decreased 67%.  Kapalua saw no change since 1 home sold in both the second and third quarter, and Lahaina experienced a 30% drop since 3 fewer homes were sold.</p> <p><strong>According to the graph below, the second quarter of 2009 showed better sales than the third quarter.</strong>  Although, the difference is pretty insignificant since a total of 7 fewer homes were sold on Maui in the third quarter than the previous quarter.<br /><br /><img title="Homes chart" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/2/9/5/2/ar125567758825924.png" height="314" alt="Homes chart" width="444" style="margin: 3px; vertical-align: middle; border: black 2px solid;" /><br /><strong><br />The median sales price for a home on Maui decreased 16% to $501,010 for the year ending September 2009 compared to a year ago.</strong>  The median price of a home in <strong>Kihei dropped 32% to $488,750</strong>.  In <strong>Wailea/Makena,<em> </em></strong>the median home price<strong><em> decreased 38% to $1,500,000</em></strong>.  <strong>Kapalua</strong> experienced a <strong>47% drop to $2,337,500</strong>, and <strong>Lahaina</strong> saw a median sales price <strong>drop of 35% to $650,000</strong>.</p> <p>The inventory of homes shrank 10% since April of 2009.  Most of the inventory, however, consists of short sale and bank owned properties, which needs to be absorbed before prices can begin to pick up.</p> <p><strong>Buyers,</strong> this is a <em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">great time</span></em> to take advantage of low prices, low interest rates, and a range of homes from which to choose!</p> <p><strong>Sellers</strong>, only list your home if you absolutely need to sell.  Pricing your home right is critical to the success of your sale.  The best deals are selling quickly, so it's important to understand the competition.</p> <p>For information on the Maui condo market, please read my <a href="http://beautifulmauiproperties.com/post/1289236/maui-condo-sales-slightly-down-year-to-date-2009-but-third-quarter-sales-were-strong" target="_blank">other post</a>.</p> <p>Please contact me if you are interested in buying or selling a home on Maui, or if you have any real estate questions. </p> <p><em><strong>I would be happy to help you!</strong></em></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:49:39 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1287832/home-sales-on-maui-slightly-decreasing-september-2009 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1281654/maui-s-pumpkin-patch-now-open- Maui's Pumpkin Patch Now Open! <p><strong>Maui's favorite pumpkin patch is now officially open!  <span style="color: #cc0000;">Kula Country Farms </span></strong>in Kula is selling their pumpkins of different varieties and sizes now through October 31 at their Upcountry produce stand.  Better hurry before the pumpkins are gone!  <img title="Kula pumpkin patch" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/4/2/0/6/ar125538289760242.JPG" height="180" alt="kula pumpkin patch" width="240" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> We went yesterday and there were still many pumpkins to choose from, but when we showed up last year a few days before <span style="color: #ff6600;"><big>Halloween</big></span>, they were all <strong><em>gone</em></strong>!<br /> <br /> <strong>Kula Country Farms is located in a beautiful setting off the Kula Highway near Rice Park. </strong> The scenery is breath-taking with its bi-coastal views, lush vegetation, and beautiful gardens.  They also sell beautiful Maui-grown produce, jams, and sauces, so don't forget to pick up some of their other goods, too.<br /> <br /> <em>Kids of all ages</em> will enjoy seeing the horses in the adjacent field and viewing the fun pumpkin displays, as well as picking out their own pumpkins. </p> <p><img title="pumpkins" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/5/8/2/6/ar125538302962859.JPG" height="180" alt="pumpkins" width="239" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: left;" /><br /> <br /> <strong><big><em>Also, make sure you have cash on hand since that is all they accept.</em></big></strong><br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Hours are:</span><br /> Tuesday - Friday: 11 am - 5pm<br /> Saturday - Sunday: 11 am - 4pm<br /> <strong></strong></p> <p><strong>For details, call 878-8381</strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:36:18 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1281654/maui-s-pumpkin-patch-now-open- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1277713/pillani-villages-neighborhood-homes-for-sale-in-kihei-maui Pillani Villages Neighborhood: Homes for Sale in Kihei, Maui <p><strong><big>One of Maui's desirable neighborhoods in Kihei is Piilani Villages (Phases II and III).  </big></strong>Located west of the Piilani Highway in central Kihei, this neighborhood is great for families, young couples, and retirees alike.  Families enjoy the fenced yards for their children and pets to run and play, and the peace and quiet is enjoyed by all.<br /><br /><strong>Sidewalks line the streets to make it walking-friendly.</strong>  You'll see people out walking their dogs, jogging, pushing strollers, and children riding their bikes. </p> <p><br /><img title="Piilani Villages III" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/8/4/2/4/ar125513538542487.JPG" height="175" alt="Piilani Villages III" width="231" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; vertical-align: middle;" /><img title="Piilani Villages II" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/9/2/8/6/ar125513551168296.JPG" height="176" alt="Piilani Villages II" width="232" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; vertical-align: middle;" /><br /><strong></strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>The location is great since it is within a mile of the Piilani Shopping Center</strong> where you'll find a Safeway, Blockbuster, Kihei/Wailea Medical Center, Starbucks, Jamba Juice, Borders Express, and more.  It is also located near the <a href="http://beautifulmauiproperties.com/post/1235046/living-on-maui-free-admission-to-the-community-pools" target="_blank">Kihei Aquatic Center</a>, which has 3 wonderful pools and is FREE to the community!<br /><br /><span style="color: #000099;"><strong><em>And of course, beach access is also nearby (about 2 miles away).<br /></em></strong></span><br /><strong>Built in 2001 through 2003, floor plans range from 2 bedroom, 2 bath one-story homes to 4 bedroom, 3 bath two-story homes</strong>.  As of 10/8/09, there are 2 active listings in the neighborhood - <a href="http://maui.fnismls.com/publink/default.aspx?GUID=a0398a90-66f5-4d16-8a32-15521fe2ff17&Report=Yes" target="_blank">click here</a> to learn more about the properties.  <br /><br /><big><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">These homes have sold in past six months in Piilani Villages II and III (4/8/09 through 10/8/09):</span></strong></big></p> <p> <table cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" border="1" cellpadding="4" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Address</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Beds/Baths</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Square Ft.</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>DOM</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sold Date</strong></span></p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sold Price</strong></span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">28 No Olu Street</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">3/2</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1478</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">82</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">5/6/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$465,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">126 Luakaha Circle</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">3/2.5</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1434</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">147</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">5/18/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$395,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">16 No Olu Street</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">4/3</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1780</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">73</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">6/17/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$489,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">11 Akeu Place</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">3/2</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1458</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">198</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">6/25/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$430,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">208 Luakaha Circle</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">3/2.5</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1616</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">156</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">9/3/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$409,000</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="21%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">14 Wawali Street</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">4/2.5</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">1688</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">176</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">9/18/09</p> </td> <td width="16%"> <p style="font-weight: normal;">$470,000</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /><strong><span style="color: #003300;"><br />Please contact me if you are interested in buying or selling a home in the Piilani Villages in Kihei.  </span></strong><br /><br /><em><big><strong>I would be happy to assist you!</strong></big></em></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Fri, 09 Oct 2009 19:59:48 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1277713/pillani-villages-neighborhood-homes-for-sale-in-kihei-maui http://activerain.com/blogsview/1272629/selling-your-home-how-to-prepare-your-home-for-showings Selling Your Home: How to Prepare Your Home for Showings <p><big><strong>Once your home is listed for sale, it's important to get it ready for showings.</strong> </big> You want to show off your home in the best condition and encourage buyers to see your home as theirs - <span style="text-decoration: underline;">not yours</span>.  This means sprucing up your home beyond the normal dusting, vacuuming, and picking up clothes off the floor.  <img title="for sale" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/2/0/0/7/ar125487594270024.jpg" height="207" alt="for sale" width="156" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> <big>Here are the most important things to do to prepare your home for showings:<br /> </big></p> <ul> <li>  <strong>De-Clutter</strong>:  Go around your rooms and store away knick-knacks or personal items that take up too much space on your shelves, counter tops, tables, fridge doors, etc.  This gives the impression that your home is clean and spacious.  <br /></li> </ul> <blockquote> <blockquote><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Less is definitely more,</span> so if you're not sure if the faux plants on top of the cabinets should be taken down, do it.  It may look like empty space to you, but not to the buyer.</blockquote> </blockquote> <p> </p> <ul> <li><strong>2.</strong>  <strong>De-Personalize</strong>:  VERY important!  We all love to hang pictures of our family on our fridge, walls, and shelves, but leaving these items in your home for buyers to see discourages them from envisioning your home as theirs.  Instead, they will see it as your home, and therefore less inclined to submit an offer.  </li> </ul> <p> </p> <ul> <li><strong>3. </strong> <strong>Clean Interior Walls</strong>:  If you can re-paint the walls of your home a light, neutral color - GREAT!  Lighter color walls gives the illusion that the space is bigger than it really is, but if you don't have the time, or money to hire someone to do it, then at the very least, make sure they are clean and have an even paint color.  Dirty walls can be a real turn-off to buyers.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <ul> <li><strong>4.  Spruce up Front Yard and Front Entrance:</strong>  You don't have a second chance to make a first impression, and buyers develop their impression of your home within the first 10 seconds of seeing your home from the street.  Therefore, your lawn should look healthy and well-manicured.  Buyers love to see blooming flowers, so plant some, or add potted flowers if you don't have any.  </li> </ul> <p style="padding-left: 60px;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Buyers usually spend a few moments at your front entrance as they wait to enter your home</span>, so make that space is attractive as possible.  Re-paint your front door, if the paint is chipping or fading.  At the very least, it should be clean.  Polish any door knockers, door bells, or other embellishments.  Sweep out any leaves, spiderwebs, or other debris around the door and entrance.  A new welcome mat is also a nice touch.<img title="ac" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/4/0/ar125487599504654.jpg" height="112" alt="ac " width="150" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /><br /></p> <ul> <li><strong>5.  Turn on A/C: </strong> Buyers, especially on Maui, love to walk into a home to escape the outside heat.  A cool home is comfortable and inviting.  If you don't have an air conditioner, turn on the ceiling fans and open windows to allow a nice breeze.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <ul> <li><strong>6.  Don't Be Home During a Showing: </strong> When you have an appointment for a buyer to see your home, it is best to not be home.  Buyers will feel like they are intruding or invading your space if they see you there.  Again, you want the buyers to see your home as THEIRS, not yours.</li> </ul> <p><img title="broom" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/2/4/0/ar12548760104265.jpg" height="159" alt="broom" width="162" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /></p> <p> </p> <ul> <li><strong>7.  CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN: </strong> I am not a neat freak or a clean freak, but I notice dirt, dust, and grime in other people's homes more than my own.  Buyers do, too.  So clean beyond your normal routine.  Better yet, hire a good cleaning crew to really tackle the job.  After that one good cleaning, it'll be easier to maintain it yourself.</li> </ul> <p>These are the main points.  All homes are different and may require special attention to different areas.  My job, as your Realtor, is to help you make sure your home is in the best showing condition.  If you need to sell your home on Maui, please contact me.<br /> <big><br /> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><em><span style="color: #990000;"><big>I would be happy to assist you!</big></span></em></span></big><br /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Tue, 06 Oct 2009 19:50:22 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1272629/selling-your-home-how-to-prepare-your-home-for-showings http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263643/tsunamis-can-strike-maui-be-prepared Tsunamis Can Strike Maui - Be Prepared <p><strong><big>A tsunami watch was issued for Maui yesterday shortly after a 8.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of the Samoa islands, </big></strong><big><small>but was downgraded to advisory about a couple hours later. </small></big> <br /> <br /> Since it wasn't a real threat at the time, most people went about their day as usual, but lifeguards did warn beach-goers of possible surges in waves and kept the waters clear of swimmers.<img title="tsunami" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/6/8/1/8/ar125435494481864.jpg" height="154" alt="tsunami" width="225" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /><br /> <br /> For many, it was a wake up call to how real the danger of tsunamis are to the Hawaiian islands.  <br /> <br /> <strong>The last tsunami to strike Maui was April 1, 1946, and was the worst natural disaster in Hawaii's history.</strong>  A total of 159 people died, 14 of those on Maui.  The tsunami was caused by a 7.5 magnitude earthquake in the Aleutian islands.<br /> <br /> <strong>Tsunami warning sirens are tested every first work day of the month around 12pm. </strong> You may have heard the sirens while visiting since they can be heard all over the island.  <br /> <br /> <strong>If you hear them during any other time, then the warning is real and you must head for higher ground.</strong>  If an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 or higher strikes the Big Island, warnings are immediately issued since tsunami waves can reach the Big Island and Maui in 5 to 10 minutes.<br /> <br /> Tsunami evacuation maps and preparedness can be found <a href="http://www.pdc.org/iweb/tsunami_zones.jsp?subg=1" target="_blank">online</a> or in the phone book.<br /> <br /> Every state is prone to some type of natural hazard.  <strong><span style="font-family: georgia; color: #990000;"><em><big>Just be safe and be prepared.</big></em></span></strong><br /> <br /> <br /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:15:11 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1263643/tsunamis-can-strike-maui-be-prepared http://activerain.com/blogsview/1259939/maui-county-fair-2009 Maui County Fair 2009 <p><big>The 87th annual </big><big><span style="color: #330033;"><strong><span style="color: #cc33cc;">Maui County Fair</span> </strong></span></big><big><span style="color: #330033;"><strong> </strong></span>is going this weekend, October 1-4, at the War Memorial Complex in Wailuku!</big>  This a community tradition and an event everyone looks forward to.</p> <p>Enjoy the various fun rides, wonderful food, great entertainment, and fun exhibits.  The fair begins with a parade on Thursday, Oct. 1 at 4:30 pm, which begins at the front entrance of Maui Community College on Ka'ahumanu Ave and ends at the entrance of<img title="maui county fair" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/0/2/9/2/ar125417157729205.jpg" height="240" alt="maui county fair" width="275" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /> Maehara Baseball Stadium.</p> <p><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Fair hours are:</strong></span></big></p> <p>Thursday: 5 pm to 11 pm</p> <p>Friday: 5 pm to Midnight</p> <p>Saturday: 10 am to Midnight</p> <p>Sunday: 10 am to 11 pm</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><big><strong>Admission</strong></big></span></p> <p>Adults: $5.00</p> <p>Keiki (Children): $2.00 (5-11 yrs)</p> <p>Children 4 & under: Free<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> <br /> <strong>Discount Ride Day & Fun Factory Day at the Fair:</strong>  On Sunday, the first 2,000 people get in FREE!  Also on Sunday, all 5 and 6-coupon rides rides are reduced to 4-coupons, and all 4-coupon rides are reduced to 3-coupon.  Each coupon costs $1.<br /> <br /> For more information, visit the Maui County Fair <a href="http://www.mauicountyfair.com/" target="_blank">website<br /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS; color: #cc0000;"><em><big>Hope to see you there!</big></em></span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><em>Photo is of 'Dragon Coaster' from the <a href="http://www.mauicountyfair.com/attractions-joyzone.php" target="_blank">Maui County Fair website.</a></em></p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Mon, 28 Sep 2009 16:10:11 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1259939/maui-county-fair-2009 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1254775/affordable-and-good-eats-on-maui-cafe-la-plage Affordable and GOOD Eats on Maui - Cafe @ la Plage <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong><big>I love eating out, scoping out new restaurants, and if I find some great place, I like to tell everyone about it.  </big></strong>So, I have to tell everyone about <span style="color: #cc0000;"><big><strong>cafe @ la plage,</strong></big></span> located at the Dolphin Plaza in Kihei.  <br /> </span><img title="cafe a la plage" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/2/6/1/7/ar125384363371629.JPG" height="196" alt="cafe a la plage" width="261" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: right;" /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> <strong>It's a very cute sandwich, espresso, Internet cafe (as their sign says) that serves up bagels, sandwiches, paninis, salads, soup, sm</strong></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>oothies, and espresso drinks. </strong> My family and I stopped in for lunch the other day and I had their recommended Mediterranean Melt Panini, which is essentially a tuna melt with Swiss cheese and tomato on sourdough bread.  <br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>It was SOOO good! </strong> I was hungry and the sandwich was bigger than I expected and I wasn't sure if I could finish it, but I scarfed it down!  I also appreciated the fact that the sandwich came with a side salad - not a small bag of potato chips, typical of some sandwich places. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>It was a simple salad, but the dressing made it fantastic! </strong> One of the owners is French and the french vinaigrette dressing is freshly made from a family recipe.  <span style="text-decoration: underline;">For a $7.99 sandwich, especially on Maui, this is a GREAT value!</span><br /> <br /> <strong>All their prices are very affordable. </strong> I didn't see anything over $10 when I was there, with most of the items well below it, too.<br /> <br /> <strong>The decor of the cafe is cozy and very inviting with its warm, bright colors, ample seating, and quirky french embellishments.</strong>  There is even a comfy sofa on one side of the seating area to encourage relaxation and the enjoyment of food and company.  If you feel like it, you can even pick up a book to read or a board game to play from their shelves.</span><img title="cafe a la plage inside" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/4/8/7/3/ar125384372337844.JPG" height="224" alt="cafe a la plage inside" width="298" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: left;" /><strong><br /></strong><span style="font-family: arial;"> <strong><br /> </strong>They also offer <strong>free Wi-Fi </strong>and the use of their 2 computers for a reasonable fee.  <br /> <br /> <strong>Another thing worth mentioning, is that the owners, are extremely friendly!  Customer service was fantastic.</strong><br /> <br /> They don't have a website yet, but they are located in Kihei on South Kihei Road at the Dolphin Plaza (across from Kama'ole Beach I).  Their hours are:<br /> <br /> Monday - Saturday: 6:30 am to 5:00 pm<br /> Sundays: 6:30am to 3:00 pm<br /> Phone: 808-875-7668<br /> <br /> <big><strong>Try it - you won't be disappointed!</strong></big><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> </span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Thu, 24 Sep 2009 21:06:25 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1254775/affordable-and-good-eats-on-maui-cafe-la-plage http://activerain.com/blogsview/1252911/kai-ani-village-realize-your-live-work-dream-in-south-maui Kai Ani Village - Realize Your Live/Work Dream in South Maui <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>Looking for a place to live in South Maui where you can also enjoy the convenience of a having home-based business with a professional location? </strong><em><span style="color: #000066;"> <big><strong>Kai Ani Village</strong></big></span></em> is one of Kihei's newest condo complexes which is based on the live/work lifestyle.<br /> <br /> <strong>Located on South Kihei Road at the corner of Lipoa, Kai Ani Village features 20 live/work residences and 79 home-style condos.</strong> There are 7 different floor plans from 2 bedroom/2 bath units to 3 bedroom/2 bath units. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <strong>All units include a wide range of wonderful features including granite counter tops and tile floors </strong>in both kitchen and bathrooms, separate laundry room or area, air conditioning, low energy windows, insulated walls to reduce noise, and private finished garages.</span><br /><img title="Kai Ani Village" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/3/5/1/3/ar125374914031538.JPG" height="240" alt="Kai Ani Village" width="320" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: right;" /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> <strong>The live/work units offer a first-floor work area with a restroom and customer parking.</strong>  This is a great option for the entrepreneur who prefers to work from home, but seeks a professional environment form which to do so.<br /> <br /> <strong>The complex also offers a recreational area with a community infinity pool</strong>, BBQ area, poolside cabanas, and hammocks to relax after a long day at work.  <br /> <br /> <strong>Another great feature of this complex is it's that it is being built</strong> with <strong><span style="color: #003300;">environmentally friendly products</span></strong>, such as STC-34 rated windows to reduce outside noise in certain areas, energy star appliances, native plants used in the landscaping which require less water, sound dampening products for the comfort of the home, and a saline pool which does not require use of chlorine.<br /> <br /> <strong>Nearby are wonderful restaurants</strong> and shopping areas, Kalama Beach Park, golf courses, and of course, the many beautiful beaches Maui has to offer! <br /> <br /> <strong>The construction is still in process, but a model home is ready for viewing!</strong>  Prices range from $379,900 to $799,900. <em></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><em> <strong>Please contact me today for more information, or to take a tour!</strong></em><br /> </span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:47:13 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1252911/kai-ani-village-realize-your-live-work-dream-in-south-maui http://activerain.com/blogsview/1249310/maui-tacos-5k-run-i-came-i-saw-i-almost-conquered Maui Tacos 5K Run - I Came, I Saw, I Almost Conquered <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><big><strong>Man, I'm sore!  </strong></big>This past Saturday I ran in the <span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://www.mauimarathon.com/course_5k.php" target="_blank"><strong>Maui Tacos 5k Run</strong></a> </span>in Ka'anapali, and it kicked my butt!  <br /> </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>It was my first time running it and my first 5k run.</strong>  I usually sign up for 10k runs because I'm too wimpy to train for a half-marathon or a full marathon, and since there was no 10k run option for the Maui Marathon weekend, I reluctantly signed up for the 5k.</span><img title="running photo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/4/7/7/9/ar125356672997742.JPG" height="227" alt="running photo" width="171" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: right;" /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>I say reluctantly because I run about that distance 2 or 3 days a week</strong> (well, not ALL of it - I do like to walk now and then) and it wouldn't b</span><span style="font-family: arial;">e a c</span><span style="font-family: arial;">hallenge for me and, therefore, definitely not worth the registration cost.  But, organized runs are fun, and how can you turn down a race day t-shirt?<br /> <strong></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>So, I signed up and appeared at the start line on Saturday, ready and eager to go. </strong> I told myself that i</span><span style="font-family: arial;">f I felt good, I would run it twice to get my 10k in - no problem.  <br /> <strong></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>The run started at 8am from the Whalers Village </strong>and the course involved a few switch-backs along the resort area, which I had anticipated beforehand after viewing the course map.  <br /> <strong></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>What I didn't anticipate though, was a GIGANTIC hill at the half-way point!  </strong>As I mentioned before, I am a wimpy runner.  I don't like long distances or the slightest inclines, but this was a HUGE hill!  When I first saw it ahead of me, I thought "you've got to be kidding me!"<br /> <strong></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>But, I was determined to run the whole thing - no stopping.  </strong>I just kept focused as I climbed it.  And I did it!  I ran up that hill and I eagerly ran back down it.  I was very proud of myself!  <br /> <strong></strong></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>Now, I won</strong></span><img title="maui tacos shirt" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/4/6/2/ar125356686726454.JPG" height="188" alt="maui tacos shirt" width="140" style="border: 2px solid black; margin: 3px; float: left;" /><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>'t say if I ran non-stop the rest of the way.  </strong>The 5k was a lot longer than I had anticipated and the hill certainly was exhausting, but I did finish and did NOT <em>even think</em> abo</span><span style="font-family: arial;">ut running it twice :).<br /> </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>I was done.  That hill did me in.</strong><br /> <br /> But, I had fun - AND I got a<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Maui Tacos 5k Run</span></strong> t- shirt!  </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br /> <em>Now all I need is a good massage...</em></span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:21:49 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1249310/maui-tacos-5k-run-i-came-i-saw-i-almost-conquered http://activerain.com/blogsview/1242353/best-of-maui-2009-activities Best of Maui 2009: Activities <p><span style="font-family: arial;"><big><a href="http://www.mauinews.com/" target="_blank">The Maui News</a> has tallied the results of their readers for the <span style="color: #000066;">Best of Maui 2009</span>.</big>  I mentioned the results of the <a href="http://beautifulmauiproperties.com/post/1242164/best-of-maui-2009-restaurants" target="_blank">best restaurants in a previous blog.</a>  The other categories are for activities such as best luau, golf course, spa, etc.  There is so much to see and do here on Maui, and it's helpful to know how others rate certain activities when planning your vacation, or a day off.  <br /> <br /> Here are the results for the <strong>best activities</strong> on the island:<br /> <br /> <strong><big>Best Air Activity:</big></strong>  <span style="color: #000066;">Blue Hawaiian Helicopter </span>(Kahului)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention:  Air Maui Helicopter Tours (Kahului) and UFO Parasailing (Lahaina)</em></span><img title="helicopter" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/1/6/6/9/ar125315108296612.jpg" height="131" alt="helicopter" width="192" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> <strong><big><br /> Best Land Activity: </big></strong><span style="color: #000066;">Maui Ocean Center </span>(Maalaea)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Hike Maui (Kahului) and Kapalua Adventures Zipline (Kapalua)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Sea Activity</strong></big>: <span style="color: #000066;">Trilogy Excursions</span> (Lahaina)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Pacific Whale Foundation (Maalaea) and Outrigger Canoe Experience - Makena Club Maui (Makena)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Golf Course</strong></big>: <span style="color: #000066;">Kapalua Plantation</span> (Kapalua)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Makena Golf Course (Makena) and Kahili Golf Course (Wailuku)</em><br /> <big><strong><br /> Best Eco Friendly: </strong></big><span style="color: #000066;">Hike Maui</span> (Kahului)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Pacific Whale Foundation (Maalaea) and Kapalua Adventures Zipline (Kapalua)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Luau: </strong></big><span style="color: #000066;">Old Lahaina Lu'au</span> (Lahaina)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: The Feast at Lele (Lahaina) and Drums of the Pacific at Hyatt Regency Maui (Kaanapali)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Spa:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">Grand Wailea Spa Grande</span> (Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and Heavenly Spa by Westin (Lahaina)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Art Gallery: </strong></big><span style="color: #000066;">Maui Hands</span> (Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Paia)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Viewpoints (Makawao) and Lahaina Galleries (Lahaina)</em><br /> <big><strong><br /> Best Stage Production:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">'Ulalena </span>(Old Lahaina Center)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Maui Onstage (Wailuku) and Cirque Polynesia (Kaanapali)</em></span><img title="massage" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/9/7/6/4/ar125315113746796.jpg" height="156" alt="massage" width="243" style="margin: 3px; float: right;" /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Cultural Program: </strong></big><span style="color: #000066;">Maui Arts & Cultural Center </span>(Kahului)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Old Lahaina Luau (Lahaina) and 'Ulalena (Old Lahaina Center)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Men's Island Wear:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">Tommy Bahama</span> (The Shops at Wailea and Whaler's Village, Kaanapali)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Honolua Surf Co (various locations) and Maui Tropix (Kahului)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Women's Boutique:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">Mahina</span> (Paia, Kihei, and Lahaina)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Billie J Boutique (Kahului) and Chico's (The Shops at Wailea)</em><br /> <big><strong><br /> Best Resort:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa</span> (Wailea)</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> <em>Honorable Mention: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and The Ritz-Carlton (Kapalua)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Wine Store/Gourmet Market:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">Wailea Wine </span>(Wailea)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Lahaina Farms (Lahaina) and Hawaii Liquor Superstore (Kahului)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Happy Hour:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">Tommy Bahama Tropical Cafe</span> (The Shops at Wailea)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Lulu's (Kihei and Lahaina) and Moose McGillycuddy's (Lahaina and Kihei)</em><br /> <big><strong><br /> Best Sports Bar:</strong></big><span style="color: #000066;"> Ale House Restaurants & Sports Bar</span> (Kahului)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Sports Page & Grill (Kihei) and Maui Brewing Company (Lahaina)</em><br /> <br /> <big><strong>Best Nightlife Spot:</strong></big> <span style="color: #000066;">Lulu's</span> (Kihei and Lahaina)<br /> <em>Honorable Mention: Ocean's Beach Bar & Grill (Kihei) and Casanova Restaurant & Deli (Makawao) and Tiki Lounge (Kihei)</em></span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>************************************************************************************************</p> <p><a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=beautifulmauiproperties/OQrd&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Subscribe to my blog</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mlsfinder.com/hi_ram/lisamiller/?so=a&domain=www.dreammauihomes.com" target="_blank">Search Maui real estate listings</a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/4/9/5/ar12526102759433.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="91" /></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;">Lisa B Miller R(S)</span></p> <p>Keller Williams Realty Maui</p> <p>Cell: 808-214-8633</p> <p><a href="mailto:Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com" target="_blank">Lisa@DreamMauiHomes.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p></div> Maui Real Estate - Lisa B. Miller R(S) (Keller Williams Realty Maui) Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:05:31 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1242353/best-of-maui-2009-activities