The Maui Hunter Real Estate Blog

Friday Funnies - Canadian Wives

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:02:46 -0600

This is not intended as any kind of racial stereotyping, or slur, it's just a JOKE that was emailed to me from my Canadian sister-in-law. It was too good not to share..... so please have a fun Friday and a great weekend!

CANADIAN WIVES:

Three men married wives from different countries. The first man married a woman from China. He told her that she was to do their dishes and house cleaning. It took a couple of days, but on the third day, he came home to see a clean house and dishes washed and put away.

The second man married a woman from Italy. He gave his wife orders that she was to do all the cleaning, dishes and the cooking. The first day he didn't see any results, but the next day he saw it was better. By the third day, he saw his house was clean, the dishes were done and there was a huge dinner on the table.

The third man married a girl from Canada. He ordered her to keep the house cleaned, dishes washed, lawn mowed, laundry washed, and hot meals on the table for every meal. He said the first day he didn't see anything, the second day he didn't see anything but by the third day, some of the swelling had gone down and he could see a little out of his left eye, and his arm was healed enough that he could fix himself a sandwich and load the dishwasher.

Thanks for reading My Maui Blog ~ Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ 808 283-0635

Photos from Kula Maui Hawaii this morning

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:29:04 -0600

Today was the Kula Maui version of the Upcountry Realtor Caravan. It was such a beautiful day and the properties were quite varied. One of the Kula homes for sale had a fantastic garden that was just like a manicured park! I got some nice plant shots, as you can see here. The climate in Kula is so perfect, and the soil is rich, making for wonderful growing conditions. Do you have a green thumb?

There's some more, but I posted them on FaceBook and you can see them if you log in...

December Kula album on FaceBook

KULA MAUI homes for sale

Aloha from Maui and thanks for reading My Maui Blog

Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

Paia/Haiku Maui Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter - November 2009

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 21:27:08 -0600

Paia/Haiku Maui Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter     -     November 2009

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The November Realtor Caravan for the north shore had a lot of great offerings in the $700,000 price range. If you've been following the Maui real estate market, you'll see there are some good deals right now. Let me know if any of these are what you're looking for.

1.    White and Bright, Kuau $599,000.00
- 3BD/2BA home with rock walls and mature tropicals, well planned
neighborhood, walk to shops and dining
- fresh new look, stainless appliances, white cabinets in kitchen and baths, wood floors

2.   Small but Sweet, Huelo $720,000.00 (pictured)
- artsy and cute 1BD/1BA country cottage, tropical gardens and water features, bamboo gazebo
- tranquillity and privacy in a sea of green jungle on Maui's north shore
- 2.4 acres, ocean views from the terraced building site for main house

3.    End of the Road, Haiku $725,000.00 (pictured)
- almost 3 acre parcel with 2 well separated homes, next to forest reserve
- Chalet style 4BD/3BA main house with remodeled bathrooms and kitchen, big views
- cottage is small but could be made larger, large lawns and mature trees

4.    Green Thumb, Haiku $725,000.00
- 2 ranch style homes with large covered lanais, total makeover needed
- very extensive covered greenhouse/growing area, good for orchids and nursery
- nice gently sloping 2 acres with mature fruit trees and flowering vines

5.    Old and New, Paia $750,000.00
- combination of old plantation construction and new Balinese studio cottage
- close walking proximity to beaches, shopping and dining, all things Paia
- a charming Maui lifestyle can be yours, including the mango tree

6.    Sunset Views, Haiku $962,300.00 (pictured)
- nice secluded setting with ocean and mountain views, overlooks a lush gulch
- 4BD/4BA 2-story home with plenty of lanais, tiled floors and open beam ceilings
- detached studio would make a great work out room or yoga retreat

7.    Country Estate, Haiku $1,203,000.00
- come and enjoy your manicured 2 acres in a cool upcountry setting
- 4BD/3BA main house with 3-car garage, detached 2-car garage with dog kennel
- cute 2BD cottage is well away from main house, koi pond

8.    Maui Country Club, Spreckelsville $4,500,000.00
- beautiful Hans Rieke 5BD/5BA custom home on the fairway, with 3 car garage, caretakers quarters
- unbelievably well-built, exotic woods featured throughout, solar hot
water, back-up power system
- huge lot is almost an acre with mature landscaping, backyard swimming
pool, spa and gazebo

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The first big winter swells have arrived on Maui, and big wave surfers have
already been ripping it up at the JAWS surf break in Peahi. More
storm-generated large waves were expected this weekend and next week.

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

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

Looking for a home near JAWS?    Call THE HUNTER...
Georgie Hunter, your north shore expert.

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

Tweet me on Twitter.com @mauihunter

read about Maui on www.MyMauiBlog.com

HAIKU MAUI homes for sale ~ HAIKU MAUI land for sale ~ HAIKU MAUI PICTURES

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

Wordless Wednesday - thankful for the sun, rain and wind on Maui

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:07:43 -0600

Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

I am very thankful for the sun, the rain, and the wind for providing us with ample energy and water to live and grow.

Maui off grid homes.

Georgina M. Hunter (RS) e-Pro ~ call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

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

Delving into my new MacBook Pro - and loving it!

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:46:44 -0600

I GOT MY FIRST MACBOOK!

I am so stoked that I have a new MacBook Pro finally. I have wanted one for a long time but kept putting it off. Well I hinted to my dear hubby that I wanted one for my birthday, and wouldn't you know it... now it's REALLY happened.

It's not really that much different that using a PC, but it seems to be a lot smoother. It sure does start up faster, which I can appreciate. (Of course just wait a few years until I have it clogged up with thousands of pictures and documents.) I like the searching feature that "stacks" things up for easy viewing. I really love the backlit keyboard - where have you been all my life!?

Okay, so am I using the MacBook to write this post? NO... still stuck in the past and using what's comfortable. I need to get a few more items still, so have been using both PC and Mac side by side. I hope to toss this PC aside soon and be totally Mac!

I'm really looking forward to learning all the great features that come with my new MacBook. I may be absent for a few days, and you know why - I will be watching a lot of tutorials and playing around.

Please feel free to offer some advice for this Mac newbie!

Aloha and thanks for reading this blog.

Fan me on Facebook! * Follow me on Twitter! * Read MyMauiBlog!

Speechless Sunday - cute water feature in Huelo Maui

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:10:28 -0600

I took this snapshot at a home for sale in Huelo, Haiku Maui. The 2 acre residential listing is probably overpriced, but it had some nice features like this pond with fountain. I'm currently using it for the wallpaper on my desktop. If you're looking for a nice home on Maui, let's connect.

HAIKU MAUI HOMES FOR SALE ~ MAUI HOMES FOR SALE WITH POOLS ~ HAIKU MAUI LAND FOR SALE

Aloha from Maui and thanks for reading My Maui Blog

Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

Kula Maui HI Real Estate Newsletter - November 2009

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:01:27 -0600

Kula Maui Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter - November 2009

The Realtor Caravan for the Kula area was small this month, but had a nice range of listings. Happy Thanksgiving!

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1.    Brand New, Kula $514,900.00
- 600 sf 2BD/2BA residential condo cottage on large lot, extensive rock
walls
- completely insulated, lots of windows and skylights, maple and tile
floors, views

2.    Probate Sale, Upper Kula $725,000.00
- half acre lot with a 3BD/2BA home with attached garage, lofted ceilings,
fireplace
- bi-coastal views from home and large deck, could use some updating

3.    Trophy Property, Lower Kula $999,000.00
- 2BD/1BA home, large capacity septic system, two fenced pastures, exotic
plants and fruit orchard
- several fantastic terraced building sites for a main home, rock walls
- 6 acres with breathtaking, panoramic ocean, outer island, and mountain
views

4.   Heavenly Grove, Kula $2,300,000.00
- gated 3.6 acre compound fit for a king and queen, historically significant
estate property
- 5 buildings include 3 dwellings, an oversized garage, and a 2-story AG building
- rolling lawns, mature tropicals, Hawaiian lava rock walls, meandering walkways
- organic orchard with avocado and citrus trees, two dramatic waterfalls

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Did you know that Kula is ranked as the wealthiest zip code on Maui?
According to Pacific Business News Book of Lists, Kula ranks higher than any other zip code on Maui. With a population of about 8,000 people, they say the average household income is about $96,000. and the average home value is just over $1,000,000.
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Georgina M. Hunter (RS) e-Pro (808) 283-0635

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

Looking for a historic property in Kula? Call THE HUNTER...
Georgie Hunter, your Upcountry Expert

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

Kula Maui homes for sale ~ sign up for FREE the Kula newsletter

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

Wordless Wednesday - DaKine Canoes in Kahului Maui

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:11:38 -0600

Please enjoy this view while deciding whether or not to go for a canoe ride.

Maui Oceanfront properties for sale ~ Kahului and Wailuku Maui homes for sale

Aloha and thanks for reading this blog.

Fan me on Facebook! * Follow me on Twitter! * Read MyMauiBlog!

Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ call or text me today! 808 283-0635

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

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:37:19 -0600

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

When reading listing remarks for Maui properties for sale, you might come across the terms MAUKA and MAKAI. What do they mean, and what does it have to do with real estate?

You know how you would direct somebody to the north or south, and to east or west... well here in Hawaii we also direct people to mauka or makai.

MAUKA - this refers to the mountain, in the direction of the mountain or land mass.

MAKAI - this refers to the sea (Kai), in the direction of the sea or ocean.

So whether a home is on the makai side of the street, or the mauka side of the street can make a big difference. Makai of the highway will generally be more expensive real estate, because it's closer to the ocean.

Search all Maui properties for sale ~ Oceanfront Maui properties for sale

Thanks for reading My Maui Blog!

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

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

Maui Hawaii South Shore Condo Newsletter - November 2009

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:35:49 -0600

Maui Hawaii South Shore Condo Newsletter     -     November 2009

What's selling and what isn't selling these days? As this newsletter
focuses on the new listings each month, it's interesting to see that there
are quite a few of them already under contract. Here's a synopsis of which
new Kihei and Wailea condo listings are already selling.

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1.     Southpointe at Waiakoa, North Kihei $154,900.00
- bank owned 2BD/1.5BA condo in a quiet location within the complex
- well maintained ground floor corner unit with recently remodeled kitchen

2.     Haleakala Gardens, North Kihei $185,000.00
- large floor plan 2BD/2BA unit with open beam ceilings, AC, solar powered ventilation
- it's a short sale and it claims to be the lowest price in this complex

3.    Kihei Villages III, North Kihei $189,000.00
- 2BD/1.5BA ground floor condo with paved fenced yard and extra storage, 2 parking stalls
- pet friendly complex and NOT a short sale or bank owned

4.    Haleakala Gardens, North Kihei $209,900.00
- bank owned 3BD/2BA upstairs corner unit, eligible for HomePath mortgage
with 3% down payment
- laminate flooring, vaulted ceiling, upgraded kitchen

5.    Maui Vista, South Kihei $219,000
- ground floor 1BD/1BA vacation rental condo with 3 pools, 6 tennis courts, BBQ area
- lovely garden views, furnished, across the street from Charley Young Beach

6.   Island Surf, Central Kihei $298,000.00
- 1BD/1BA penthouse unit with ocean views, pet friendly vacation complex
- beautiful remodel includes wood ceilings, updated bathroom, track lighting

7.    Hale Kamaole, South Kihei $399,900.00
- front row 1BD/1BA vacation condo with big ocean views, quick beach access
- corner unit with extra windows could use some TLC and updating

8.    Kamaole Nalu, South Kihei $425,000.00
- leasehold 2BD/2BA vacation condo with amazing ocean views
- walk to beaches, restaurants and shops from this beachfront building

9.    Grand Champions, Wailea $549,000.00
- large immaculate 2BD/2BA furnished corner unit with garden view lanai, tiled floors
- swimming pool and tennis courts, Wailea Blue course next door

10.    Wailea Ekahi II, Wailea $649,900.00
- listen to the waves from this 1BD/1BA vacation condo that's close to the beach
- ground floor unit with large tiled lanai, nice garden view, king size bed

11.    Ke Alii Ocean Villas, South Kihei $790,000
- 2BD/2BA top floor corner unit, closest building to the ocean, not a vacation rental
-brand new construction across from Kamaole I Beach Park

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Kihei High School - The much anticipated environmental impact statement for
a new high school in Kihei is now moving forward. The plan is to build a
1,650-student facility on 77 acres mauka of the Piilani Highway at the
intersection of Kulanihakoi Street in North Kihei. In addition to
completing a draft EIS, the project will also need funding and rezoning.
The school will have a gymnasium, football and track stadium, ball fields
and tennis courts. It hopes to be the first high school in the state to be
certified as an energy efficient building under LEED standards.

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

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

Looking for a vacation home in Kihei?
Call THE HUNTER... Georgie Hunter, your South Maui Specialist.

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

Learn more about Maui by reading MyMauiBlog.com

Search Maui condos for sale by name!

Sign up for these FREE email newsletters about Maui condos for sale.

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

Aloha Friday - funny parrot story

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:30:10 -0600

This just came to my email inbox and I thought it was worth sharing.

The Parrot

A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious, and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music, and anything else he could think of to 'clean up' the bird's vocabulary.

Finally, John was fed up, and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot, and the parrot got angrier and even ruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hands, grabbed the bird, and put him in the freezer.

For a few minutes, the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute. Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer.

The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said to John, 'I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior.'

John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. Just as he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird continued, 'May I ask what the turkey did?'

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Aloha from Maui and thanks for reading My Maui Blog.

$8000 Home Buyers Tax Credit Extended by Congress

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:05:11 -0600

With the extended home buyer tax credit, things should be looking bright for first-time Maui home buyers and move up buyers too.

If you're looking for a home on Maui, be sure to contact me for help and information:

Georgina M Hunter R(S) e-Pro ~ EMAIL ME ~ text or call 808 283-0635

Search Maui properties for sale at www.eastmaui.com

Via Ginger Moore (Wilkinson & Associates Realty):

Good News:

$8,000 Home Buyers Tax Credit Approved & Extended by Congress

This is a fabulous and savvy move by our congress. This home buyers tax extention will help consumers, realtors and help to stimulate our economy.

Congress has approved the $8,000 home buyers tax credit extension.This bill was unanimously passed by both houses.

This bill was set to expire at the end of this month. The Home Buyers extension date is now April 30, 2010. You must be entered into a contract by this time.   Homes must be closed by June 30, 2010.

There is another new $6,500 Home Buyers tax credit incentive for existing property owners that want to sell their home and possibly buy another during the same period of time. You must have owned your current residence for 5 consecutive years to be eligible for this.

Here  are a couple of the qualifying limits listed below:

Qualifying Income limits:
     raised from $75,000 to $125,000 for single tax payers
     raised from $150,000 to $225,000 for joint tax payers

The maximum allowable home purchase price is $800,000 to qualify for this home buyers credit.

  Here is a link where you may find out more information on the Home Buyers Tax Credit:             http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=204671,00.html

It is a great time to buy a home. Interest rates are low. There are many homes to choose from, on the market. If you are interested in purchasing a new home, or selling an existing home, just give me a call. It would be "my pleasure" to help you!

Your Real Estate Connection

Wordless Wednesday - Maui oceanfront views

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:14:16 -0600

With little time for blogging lately I find myself posting pictures of Maui views. While having lunch with a client in North Kihei, I snapped this one. I'm looking forward to doing some real blogging again.

Maui Oceanfront properties for sale ~ Maui condos for sale ~ Maui homes with swimming pools for sale

Aloha and thanks for reading this blog.

Fan me on Facebook! * Follow me on Twitter! * Read MyMauiBlog!

Speechless Sunday - living the Hawaiian lifestyle in Wailua Maui

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:35:12 -0600

Taken while showing property in Wailua Maui, Hawaii - on a a rainy day.

*****

Thanks for reading My Maui Blog!

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

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

^Maui Real Estate - Utility Changeover Phone Numbers

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 04:07:47 -0600

If you're buying or selling a home on Maui, these service provider numbers will come in handy. Print this up and keep it close.

Maui Real Estate - Utility Changeover Phone Numbers

Maui Electric 871-9777

Water Dept. 270-7730

Gas Co. 877-6577 or

Maui Gas Service 244-2022

Hawaiian Telcom 808 643-3456

Maui News 242-6363

Oceanic Time Warner Cable - 871-7303

Trash pick up 270-7452

Haiku trash pick up 572-7272

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

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

For The Dog Lover In All Of Us

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:52:36 -0600

This is so cute I just have to pass it on. We had a dog scare today when Kona ran off and went missing. She was having the time of her life visiting all the dogs in the neighborhood! With help from the neighbors we got her back and had a good laugh.

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

New Dog Breeds

The following breeds are now recognized by the AKC:

Collie + Lhasa Apso = Collapso, a dog that folds up easy for transporting

Spitz + Chow Chow = Spitz-Chow, a dog that throws up alot

Pointer + Setter = Poinsetter, a traditional Christmas pet

Great Pyrenees + Dachshund = Pyradachs, a puzzling breed

Pekingnese + Lhasa Apso = Peekasso, an abstract dog

Irish Water Spaniel + English Springer Spaniel = Irish Springer, a dog fresh and clean as a whistle

Newfoundland + Basset Hound = Newfound Asset Hound, a dog for financial advisors

Terrier + Bulldog = Terribull, a dog that makes awful mistakes

Bloodhound + Labrador = Blabador, not a popular dog with CIA agents

Malamute + Pointer = Moot Point, owned by... oh, well, it doesn't matter anyway

Collie + Malamute = Commute, a dog that travels to work

Deerhound + Terrier = Derriere, a dog that's true to the end

Paia Maui Hawaii - Halloween celebrity sightings

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:14:46 -0500

Paia Maui Hawaii 96779

Happy Halloween everybody!

You never know who you're going to see in this town, and celebrity sightings are frequent.

Aloha and thanks for reading My Maui Blog!

Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro

808 283-0635

@mauihunter

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

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:57:27 -0500

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

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

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

Take a walk on Deed Street.

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

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

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

screen capture from Deed Street - PHX

How does Deed Street work?

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

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

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

^CRE - Commercial Real Estate

^MTG - Mortgages

^REO - Real Estate Owned

^LSTG - Listings

^RENT - Rentals

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

Let's talk in examples.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: http://cmp.ly/0
All content ©2008-2009 by Matt Stigliano, Realtor® unless otherwise noted.

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

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

Connect with me on Twitter and Facebook.

Connecting with Maui buyers and sellers - Using My Maui Blog

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 21:23:53 -0500

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

What have I done?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:11:04 -0500

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

What's an Ohana?

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

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

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

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

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Thanks for reading My Maui Blog!

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

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

Paia/Haiku Maui HI Real Estate Newsletter - October 2009

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:06:36 -0500

Paia/Haiku Maui Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter     -     October 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

read about Maui on www.MyMauiBlog.com

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

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

Picnics in Paradise - your own custom romantic Maui picnic experience

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:54:30 -0500

PICNICS IN PARADISE - MAUI HAWAII

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

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

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

Picnics in Paradise, Maui Hawaii

Prices range from $350-$500

call Pierre or Annabelle

808 269-8365

808 205-9251

Aloha from Maui!

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

Kula Maui HI Real Estate Newsletter - October 2009

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 21:50:27 -0500

Kula Maui Hawaii Real Estate Newsletter     -         October 2009

If you were present for the October Upcountry Realtor Caravan you could
have enjoyed some lasagna and other goodies!
But you really don't need the enticement of a good meal to appreciate these
3 Kula homes and 1 large parcel for sale.

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1.    My Favorite Neighborhood, Kula $825,000.00
- nicely remodeled 3BD/2.5BA home with downstairs suite for family
- 1/3 acre with organic garden, greenhouse, and an oversized carport for 6 cars

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

3.    Cloud Nine, Kula $1,200,000.00
- it feels like you're in the country at this architect designed view home with a lap pool
- unbelievable gulch-side privacy makes you feel like you're floating on a cloud
- 3BD/2.5BA with den and garage, fireplace, stunning views from house and decks

4.   Agricultural Land, Kula $5,500,000.00
- 52 acres of gently sloping pasture land, with 2 parcels, approved farm plan
- open building permit already waiting for your home, cottage and garage
- bicoastal views, gravel roads, brand new well with excellent water quality
- great opportunity for development, no neighbors

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

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

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

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

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KULA MAUI homes for sale

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

Aloha Friday - weekend update

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 21:32:34 -0500

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wordless Wednesday - Paia Bay in the morning - Maui Hawaii

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 22:12:33 -0500

Are you looking for a beachfront Maui home?

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

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

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