Live from Kailua, Oahu: Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn's Oahu Hawaii (Kailua Real Estate - Honolulu Real Estate) BLOG

EVENT: Re-Discover Kailua - Sept. 13 and 14, 2008

2008-09-09T21:48:44Z

The Kailua Mustangs Pop Warner Assocation &

the City and County of Honolulu Invites you to the

RE-DISCOVER KAILUA!

Family Festival

Sept. 13th & 14th, 2008

Kailua District Park Field

10am to 10pm Daily

EVENT WEBSITE: www.rediscoverkailua.webs.com

The Kailua Mustangs Pop Warner Association is proud to announce that it will be hosting "RE-DISCOVER KAILUA" an outdoor family festival sponsored by the City and County of Honolulu, and the Mayor's Office of Economic Development. The festival will take place on the weekend of September 13^th and 14^th, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on both days.

This event has grown in popularity over the years as residents across the State pull together to bring this family-centered celebration to their communities. Re-Discover Kailua has something for everyone - great food, live entertainment, games, rides and free movies! Our chosen theme is E hoe aku i ka wa'a - paddle the canoe, keep moving forward - a theme which honors the generosity of Kailua's volunteer-driven organizations who keep community service alive and well in Kailua. Youth programs, athletic leagues, senior activities, spiritual organizations; all play a vital role in making Kailua a great place to live. A unique feature of the Kailua Re-Discover event will be Pop Warner football games; Mitey Mites, Jr. Pee Wees, Pee Wees and Jr. Midgets from Kailua and competing districts will compete at the Kailua District Park field on both days from morning to mid-day.

FREE MOVIES, FREE MUSIC, FOOD, CRAFTS, JUMPYS AND POP WARNER FOOTBALL ON BOTH DAYS!! COME JOIN US!

- MAHALO NUI -

From the athletes, families and board of the Kailua Mustangs Pop Warner Assocation, its Community Partners and Corporate Sponsors.

PRESS RELEASE: Sotheby's International Realty Brand Rated "Most Prestigious" Luxury Real Estate Organization

2008-08-31T14:06:48Z

Sotheby's International Realty^® Brand Rated Most Prestigious Luxury Real Estate Organization

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (Aug. 4, 2008) - Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced it was rated the most prestigious real estate company by high net-worth consumers in the Luxury Institute's 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index survey.

According to the Institute, respondents who would recommend the Sotheby's International Realty brand say it has "high-end properties," "exclusive listings," "great customer service" and an "excellent reputation."

"We are pleased with this recognition because it reflects our commitment as a brand to providing top quality service to luxury market consumers around the world," said Michael R. Good, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC. "As we continue to experience consistent, strategic growth worldwide, and in light of challenging economic conditions in many markets, our top priority is to remain focused on delivering the high-quality service that is synonymous with our brand name."

A national sample of 1,666 wealthy American consumers participated in the Luxury Institute's online survey. The average income was $348,000 and average net-worth was $3.7 million. Respondents were asked to rate brands along four pillars of brand stature: consistently superior quality; uniqueness and exclusivity; social status as a product consumed by people who are admired and respected; and self enhancement, in that the brand makes the consumer feel special across all aspects of the customer experience.

In addition, the survey also measures three key outcome metrics: worthiness of a significant price premium; willingness to recommend the brands to people they care about and why or why not; and brand preference as the brand most likely to be considered the next time a purchase is made.

The Luxury Institute is an independent and impartial ratings, reviews and research institution that is the trusted voice of the high net-worth consumer. The Institute provides a portfolio of proprietary publications and research to guide high net-worth individuals and the companies that cater to them on leading edge trends, high net-worth consumer rankings and ratings of luxury brands, and best practices. The Luxury Institute operates the Luxury Board (www.LuxuryBoard.com), the world's first global, membership-based online community for luxury goods and services executives, professionals and entrepreneurs. For more information, please go to www.LuxuryInstitute.com.

About Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby's International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby's, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby's International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy's subsidiary, Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby's auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.

If you are interested in listing your home using our prestigious brand, please do not hesitate to contact me at yvonne@worrall.com or 808-721-8088. www.yvonneahearn.com .

PRESS RELEASE: Luxury Real Estate Market Consumer Trends Survey - Findings Contradict Media Perceptions

2008-08-31T13:54:25Z

For Immediate Release: July 7, 2008

Contact: James Humphrey, Architectural Digest
James_humphrey@condenast.com
212-286-4822
Jennifer Zimmerman, Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC
jennifer.zimmerman@sothebysrealty.com
973-407-6375

ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST AND SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY^® BRAND RELEASE EXCLUSIVE SURVEY FINDINGS ON LUXURY REAL ESTATE MARKET CONSUMER TRENDS

Survey Findings Contradict Media Perceptions in the Marketplace

New York, N.Y. (July 7, 2008)-Despite media reports to the contrary, real estate is still considered a sound investment and affluent consumers are confident both in the current housing market and that the value of their home has remained constant, according to a consumer research study undertaken by Architectural Digest with Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC. In the newly commissioned survey, "Seeking an Extraordinary Lifestyle," 85% of respondents agreed with the statement, "I think real estate continues to be one of the better investments a person can make." The study further revealed:

72% of respondents believe their primary home value has remained constant or increased in value over the last 12 months (46% remained constant; 26% increased).
Nearly two-thirds of respondents report that current conditions have "no effect" on their likelihood to sell their primary home (63%).
In the coming year, 79% believe the value of their primary home will continue to remain constant or increase (55% remain constant; 24% will increase).
In the next year, more than half (54%) of the million-dollar homeowners plan to buy, sell, build or invest in a new home.
69% of million-dollar homeowners agree that now is a good time to add to one's real estate holdings.
71% agree, "Over time, nothing beats real estate for building one's personal wealth."
The respondents feel that the media plays a role in the perception of the current real estate market conditions:

•§ Half (50%) of respondents think the media exaggerates conditions to make the market seem worse than it is.

"This study confirms that even in a downturn economy, our readers are what we call ‘recession- proof'," said Giulio Capua, vice president and publisher of Architectural Digest. "They continue to spend money on real estate and other luxury goods and services."

According to Michael R. Good, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC, the study proves that real estate continues to be seen as a valuable investment opportunity, especially among consumers in the luxury market.

"This study validates the assertion that real estate is one of the best long-term investments a person can make, regardless of current market conditions. Affluent consumers know that real estate plays a key role in their long-term strategy to increase personal wealth," said Good. "And among those consumers seeking to add to their real estate portfolio, the top criteria for choosing a property are location, price, amenities and home features."

Research Methodology

Beta Research Corporation conducted a geo-specific mail survey to 3,500 Architectural Digest subscribers with a household income of $100,000+ and a home valued at $1,000,000+ on behalf of Condé Nast Publications in the following designated market areas: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco/Oakland/San Jose, Boston, Atlanta, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, San Diego, Denver and Detroit. The survey was conducted between February 19 and March 14, 2008. There were 510 respondents.

About Architectural Digest

Architectural Digest is the world's definitive design magazine, reaching an audience of over 4 million readers each month. The magazine features the work of world-class authors and photographers and regularly presents a "first look" at the homes of leaders in the fields of entertainment, fashion, business, society and the arts. For more information, visit www.architecturaldigest.com

About Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC

The Sotheby's International Realty network currently has more than 9,500 sales associates located in more than 485 offices in the United States and 32 other countries and territories.

Second Quarter Zillow Market Report for Kailua

2008-08-26T14:30:57Z

According to the latest Zillow Real Estate Market Report, home values in Kailua decreased 3.80%% in the second quarter of 2008, compared to the second quarter of 2007. Nationally, home values decreased 9.9% during this same period. For more details, check Zillow.

"Hawaii Public Schools" Issue of Honolulu Magazine - Ratings for Leeward & Central Oahu Public Schools

2008-05-28T02:52:53Z

Out of the top 50 public schools in Hawaii, nine Leeward Oahu schools were listed in Honolulu Magazine's recent rankings. In fact, the #1 Top-rated School in all of Hawaii was a Leeward Oahu school. This is the list:

#1 Momilani Elementary

#9 Palisades Elementary

#28 Manana Elementary

#29 Leihoku Elementary

#33 Holomua Elementary

#35 Iroquois Point Elementary

#49 Pearl City Highlands Elementary

Now that I mentioned Leeward Oahu, I should probably list the Central Oahu schools, as well. Ten (10) central Oahu schools were named in the Top 50 for all of Hawaii in the Honolulu Magazine Report.

#2 Mililani Mauka Elementary

#8 Mililani Ike Elementary

#14 Pearl Ridge Elementary

#24 Nimitz Elementary

#25 Webling Elementary

#30 Moanalua Elementary

#37 Waialua Elementary

#39 Moanlua Middle School (this is the second best rated Middle School on Oahu)

#47 Moanalua High School (this is the top rated High School on Oahu)

See previous 2 posts for more Hawaii public school information and for the Honolulu and Windward Oahu lists. Mahalo!

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
www.yvonneahearn.com
808-721-8088

Contact me for Hawaii Real Estate | Oahu Real Estate
Honolulu, Kailua, Lanikai, Hillcrest, Norfolk, Kaimalino, Beachside, Kawailoa, Enchanted Lake, Kaopa, Kailua Bluffs, Keolu Hills, Bluestone, Kukilakila, Kalama Tract, Kuulei Tract, Kailua Estates, Koolaupoku, Maunawili, Kaneohe, Haiku Plantation, Lilipuna, Lulani Ocean, Matson Point, Waimanalo, Hawaii Kai, Portlock, Nawiliwili, Northshore, Diamond Head, Black Point, Kahala, Portlock, Hawaii Loa Ridge, Waikiki, Downtown Honolulu, Kapahulu, Kaimuki, Wilhelmina Heights, Manoa, Tantalus, Kaimuki.

Another Resource for Hawaii Public School Rankings

2008-05-07T04:47:01Z

I just posted regarding Honolulu Magazine's recent ranking of Hawaii public schools.

Another resource, Schooldigger.com, also has ranking the Hawaii public shcools. In this case, they don't use student, teacher and parents satisfaction scores to affect the rankings. They do use the same standardized test scores, however.

The rankings come out a bit different. For a comparison check out:

http://www.schooldigger.com/go/HI/schoolrank.aspx?Level=1&findschool=0003000183

Just enter the name of the school to find its place in the rankings.

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
www.yvonneahearn.com
808-721-8088

"Hawaii Public Schools" Issue of Honolulu Magazine on the Stand - Ratings for Hawaii Public Schools

2008-05-04T13:48:18Z

It's out again. The 4th annual list of Hawaii's top public schools. This is a report on 258 public schools in Hawaii using DOE data, as well as satisfaction scores from parents, teachers and children.

According to this report, the two top rated public schools in Hawaii were #1 Momilani Elementary School, located in the Pearl City area, and #2 Mililani Mauka Elementary School, in Mililani, Central Oahu. Mililani Ike Elementary ranked #8 and Palisades Elementary in Leeward Oahu, ranked #9.

The top public schools in Honoulu (all were among the top 50 for the state) were:
#3 Noelani Elementary School (Manoa Area),
#4 Aina Haina Elementary School,
#5 Waikiki Elementary School,
#6 Ma'ema'e Elementary School(Alewa Heights),
#11 Hokulani Elementary School (University/St Louis),
#13 Nu'uanu Elementary School,
#15 Manoa Elementary School,
#16 Lanakila (Kamehameha Hts/Liliha),
#17 Koko Head Elementary School (Hawaii Kai),
#18 Kahala Elementary School,
#16 Ali'iolani Elementary (Palolo/Kaimuki),
#20 Wilson Elementary School (Waialae Nui/Kalana Iki),
#26 Kaimuki Middle School,
#36 Liholiho Elementary (Kaimuki), and
#42 Wailupe Valley Elementary School (Aina Haina).

Honolulu Magazine's Top rated schools for Windward Oahu were:
#7 Sunset Beach Elementary School (Northshore),
#31 Kaelepulu Elementary School (Kailua)
#38 Enchanted Lake Elementary School (Kailua)
#40 Aikahi Elementary School (Kailua)
#44 Kainalu Elementary (Kailua) and
#46 Ka'a'awa Elementary School (Kaaawa/North Windward).

A link to the online article:
http://www.honolulumagazine.com/Honolulu-Magazine/May-2008/Grading-the-Public-Schools508/
you have to buy the magazine, however, to get the full story.

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
http://www.yvonneahearn.com/
808-721-8088

Shangri-La in Keolu Hills $780,000 FS (SOLD)

2008-05-03T21:40:15Z

Forget your troubles when you step inside the gate to this charming, beautifully landscaped 3BR, 2BA bungalow, with approx. 1457 sq. ft. living area. This enchanting home was rebuilt in 2004 with new electrical, plumbing, roof, siding and more. Upgrades include bamboo flooring, plantation shutters, crown molding, stained glass, rain chains, mahogany doors, and an art-glass chandelier. Enjoy the large kitchen with granite and slate, cooktop island, eating bar, vaulted ceiling and skylight. Pleasant nights await you in the breezy master suite, with French doors to a covered lanai that overlooks a tropical garden, and a large walk-in glass block shower. Additional features are a home security system, landscape lighting, sprinkler system, Phantom screens, solar attic fan and custom stamped and stained patio. A large garage, with a loft and extra storage, completes the package. Keolu Hills is located in Kailua, Oahu, 2 miles drive from famed Kailua Beach and just South of Lanikai. In this splendid location, you can walk to shopping and dining. This home is also located in the top-rated Enchanted Lake school district. Honolulu is less than 15 miles away, an easy and lovely commute.

Please call Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn for showings 721-8088

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
http://www.yvonneahearn.com/
808-721-8088

First Quarter 2008 Oahu Real Estate Statistics - Prices Stable for Now

2008-05-03T21:26:09Z

Oahu overall has seen no increase or decrease in the median price for single family homes between 1st quarter 2008 and first quarter 2007, remianing constant at $620,000. However the number of units sold has declined by more than 22%.

Oahu median condominium prices overall rose by just over 3%, going from $320,000 in Q1-2007 to $330 in Q1-2008. Number of condos sold also declined, however, by almost 24%.

Kailua went from a median price of $800,000 in 1st quarter 2007 to a median price of $799,500, making this area relatively stable, as well. Condo prices in Kailua went from a median price of $415,000 in Q1-2007 to $394,300 in Q1-2008, a decrease of approximately 5%.

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
http://www.yvonneahearn.com/
808-721-8088

Oahu Real Estate Gains - Not Too Shabby

2008-02-27T15:22:02Z

The Honolulu Advertiser reported today that Oahu 2007 4th quarter sales statistics were up 4.5% from 2006 at this time.

Out of 291 metropolitan areas, Honolulu/Oahu was ranked 56th nationally for 4th quarter 2007 price gains (as compared to 4th quarter 2006). This report was based on Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight Statistics.

For more details:
http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2008/Feb/27/bz/hawaii802270374.html

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
http://www.yvonneahearn.com/
808-721-8088

2007 Kailua Single Family Home Sales (Prices and Days on Market) by Neighborhood

2008-02-15T19:00:12Z

Compiled using statistics from the Honolulu Board of Realtors MLS.
SP is sale price. LP list price at time of sale. DOM is days on market.

Neighborhood	Year	Sold	Avg SP	Med SP	%SP/LP	Avg DOM	Med DOM	2006-2007 %Change Avg. Sold Price
AIKAHI PARK	2007	18	$909,255	$850,000	97.00%	36	15	2.24%
"	2006	14	$889,321	$875,000	97.89%	54	41
BEACHSIDE	2007	21	$2,938,714	$2,050,000	91.87%	82	80	-22.05%
"	2006	16	$3,770,062	$2,390,000	92.20%	84	30
CNTRY CLUB KNOLL	2007	2	$1,087,500	$940,000	98.86%	63	230	2.92%
"	2006	3	$1,056,666	$950,000	99.69%	22	7
COCONUT GROVE	2007	47	$687,351	$662,500	97.29%	62	53	5.56%
"	2006	56	$651,151	$625,000	97.27%	54	46
ENCHANTED LAKE	2007	41	$822,114	$775,000	97.70%	72	57	-4.88%
"	2006	43	$864,302	$840,000	97.95%	68	54
HILLCREST	2007	2	$987,000	$160,000	97.53%	112	135	-15.66%
"	2006	4	$1,170,200	$885,000	96.60%	83	1
KAILUA BLUFFS	2007	12	$845,416	$810,000	95.78%	55	28	29.57%
"	2006	12	$652,458	$549,000	97.77%	58	20
KAILUA ESTATES	2007	8	$1,076,750	$876,000	97.29%	66	18	-5.47%
"	2006	6	$1,139,000	$1,040,000	97.25%	76	29
KAIMALINO	2007	6	$1,288,333	$1,180,000	94.73%	120	56	-4.10%
"	2006	5	$1,343,400	$1,350,000	94.77%	82	81
KALAHEO HILLSIDE	2007	19	$756,597	$775,000	97.85%	46	27	-19.04%
"	2006	11	$934,545	$820,000	96.05%	49	41
KALAMA TRACT	2007	14	$1,119,535	$1,085,000	95.80%	77	29	0.06%
"	2006	10	$1,118,850	$1,045,000	95.92%	84	30
KALAMA/CNUT GROV	2007	9	$852,583	$800,000	97.01%	33	22	22.30%
"	2006	5	$697,100	$780,000	97.99%	45	53
KAOPA	2007	10	$832,550	$729,000	97.66%	57	58	3.94%
"	2006	10	$801,000	$730,000	98.57%	47	36
KAWAILOA	2007	6	$1,928,333	$1,175,000	86.15%	194	45	-20.64%
"	2006	6	$2,430,000	$780,000	93.08%	36	42
KEOLU HILLS	2007	25	$713,045	$686,000	98.22%	39	24	-0.96%
"	2006	34	$719,941	$699,000	96.51%	62	41
KOOLAUPOKU	2007	16	$907,281	$765,000	94.86%	83	58	8.65%
"	2006	23	$835,082	$730,000	95.32%	70	60
KUKANONO	2007	2	$776,000	$1,430,000	100.19%	190	346	2.11%
"	2006	2	$760,000	$1,470,000	99.36%	29	82
KUULEI TRACT	2007	6	$1,434,666	$1,280,000	95.19%	56	20	13.36%
"	2006	5	$1,265,600	$1,250,000	99.84%	41	12
LANIKAI	2007	13	$2,544,692	$2,275,000	95.57%	121	60	9.74%
"	2006	14	$2,318,857	$1,750,000	94.11%	74	33
OLOMANA	2007	5	$780,800	$789,000	99.04%	69	7	8.87%
"	2006	6	$717,166	$620,000	99.35%	31	5
POHAKUPU	2007	8	$656,875	$635,000	96.96%	40	4	-5.32%
"	2006	4	$693,750	$675,000	99.29%	25	12

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
http://www.yvonneahearn.com/
808-721-8088

Honolulu is Rated in Top 10 of Most Secure Cities to Live in US

2008-02-10T02:48:47Z

In a recent report of Sperlings Best Places, which ranked the "Most Secure" large metropolitan areas in the US, our lovely city of Honolulu was ranked right up there.

This ranking system is based on crime statistics, extreme weather, risk of natural disasters, environmental hazards, terrorism threats, air quality, life expectancy and job loss numbers. 379 municipalities were rated. Honolulu received a rating of #10 of metropolitan areas with 500,000 or more residents and 44th overall.

For more information about living in Honolulu, please contact me at 721-8088 or yvonne@worrall.com.

Gorgeous, Remodeled Condo in Premiere Honolulu Building - SOLD for $405K Leasehold w/Fee Available

2007-12-11T16:19:00Z

The Royal Iolani, Diamondhead Tower #2605

FEE AVAILABLE for $249,250 (together $654,250)

Interior Features	Incredible Diamondhead and City/Ocean views from Living Area, kitchen and both bedrooms, Oak laminate flooring, granite counters and ceramic tile in KI/BA. Master suite with 2 large closets, double vanity and dramatic sunken shower/tub and large, separate tiled shower. Stackable W/D in unit, maintenance fee covers all basic utilities and A/C!
Exterior Features	Only unit for sale in this tower with 2 PKG! 2BR unit in the preferred (because of the better views) Diamondhead Tower of the Royal Iolani. This is a premiere Honolulu building with 24/7 security, landscaped park-like grounds, pool, whirlpool, sauna, BBQs, fitness room, 2 recreation/party areas each with full kitchen. Some pets permitted. One of the best managed and maintained buildings in town. This corner unit does not face the street, but faces greenbelt of Iolani school, Ala Wai golf-course and the Ala Wai canal, so has a quieter and cleaner environment than most condos. Windows DO open. No lanai - BONUS for those afraid of heights, with pets or children, or who like to keep the outside out.
Additional Features and Amenities	2 Tandem Parking Spaces in Garage, near elevator. Plenty of guest parking. Elevator and security system have back-up power generator in case of outage. Garbage chute.

Spacious living area with oak laminate flooring

Another view of living space

Remodeled kitchen with new sand-colored granite counters/backsplash & ceramic tile, lighting, and stainless accents.

Good-sized guest bedroom with adjoining Jack-n-Jill style bath and sweeping Diamondhead & ocean views.

Master bedroom with city and ocean views, walk-in closet and double-sized mirrored clost.

Large Master bath with double vanity, new tile floors and faucets, and teak cabinets.

Master bath includes a large walk-in shower, as well as a spa-like sunken tub/shower combination.

Gorgeous, Jack-n-Jill style remodeled guest bath - one entry to guest bedroom, one to hallway.

View from living room window in afternoon.

Building exterior. Diamondhead Tower is on the right.

The Royal Iolani is situated on over 2.5 acress of park-like, landscaped grounds, with lawn area, dog run (some small pets allowed), benches and sculptures.

The Royal Iolani offers residents the use of 2 outdoor, covered recreation/party areas, complete with full kitchens, and tables and chairs. BBQ grills, whirpool, fitness room and pool area are nearby.

Please contact me at yvonne@worrall.com or 808-721-8088 if you are interested in seeing this amazing condo, or with any questions. Thanks!

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
http://www.yvonneahearn.com/
808-721-8088

Highest 2007 Sale on Oahu Records - Portlock Road Home, Sold By Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty

2007-10-15T19:33:05Z

I'd like to congratulate Mary Worrall, the principal broker of Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty, on the sale of her listing at 530 Portlock Road in the Hawaii Kai region of Honolulu. At $15,900,000, this property is the most expensive sold (so far) in 2007, topping the $11 million dollar beachfront lot on Kailuana Place, which was sold earlier this year in Kailua.

This custom-built (in 2005) beachfront property has 4BR and 5BA, a roofed living space of over 10,000 square feet, lanais of over 2,000 square feet, and is situated on almost two acres of private, beautifully landcaped grounds. With too many gorgeous custom features to mention, including amazing views of Diamondhead, this is a truly spectacular property. Congratulations, Mary!

If you are interested in buying another unique custom home in Hawaii, please contact Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn at 808-721-8088. Thanks!

Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn (RA)
Mary Worrall Associates | Sotheby's International Realty
yvonne@worrall.com
http://www.yvonneahearn.com/
808-721-8088

September 2007 Market Data Released by Honolulu Board of Realtors - Island of Oahu, Hawaii

2007-10-15T18:10:30Z

September 2007 Market Data from Honolulu Board of Realtors

Median Single Family Home Price for September 2007: $650,000
No change from August 2007 (also at $650,000)
Up 4.8% from September 2006 (was $620,000)

Median Condo Price for September 2007: $335,000
Up 3.1% from August 2007 (from $325,000)
Up 4.7% from July 2006 (from $320,000)

Seems that prices are still holding steady and rising slightly in most areas.

Number of units sold declined sharply in September 2007, when compared to Sept. 2006: single family down 29% and condos down 13.9%.

Still a good time to buy or sell! Contact me at (808) 721-8889 if you need help.

Koolaupoku Gem - Kainui Drive/Duck Road - Elegant Remodeled Home, Walk to Kailua Beach - $1,158,000 (SOLD)

2007-09-27T00:55:36Z

1206 Kainui Road, Kailua, HI 96734

4BR/3BA, 2249 sq ft. Prime Kailua Location, Walk to Kailua Beach (4 blocks).

     Picturesque home on 'Duck Road' a short walk from Kailua Beach. Open floor plan
     flows out to park-like tropical garden, covered lanai & 35-ft lap pool. Recently
    painted int/ext in decorator colors, high-tech alarm system, wired for integrated
     home theater/computer system, gourmet eat-in kitchen, granite counters, wood &
     quartzite flooring, 2 masters, extra storage. Garage, sprinkler system, home warranty.
     MUST SEE!!
                                                   Call Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn to see this gorgeous home! 808-721-8088

Front of Home. Walk to Kailua Beach from this Lovely Neighborhood.

Immaculate Tropical Landscape in Backyard, as well as Side Yard.

Gorgeous Remodeled Eat-in Kitchen Opens up to Main Living Areas.

Family Living Area, open to kitchen and with vaulted ceilings, leads out to the Backyard Lanai and Pool.

Spacious Bedrooms with Plenty of Storage.

Adorable bedroom, perfect for nursery or office, with lovely window seat.

Formal dining area and living room at entry of home.

Call Yvonne Jaramillo Ahearn at 808-721-8088 to see this home. www.yvonneahearn.com

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Maunawili

2007-09-26T22:07:41Z

Data current as of September 2007.

Maunawili is one of Kailua's best kept secrets. Maunawili is lush and green, and as would be expected, a bit rainer than some other areas of Kailua. A tranquil bedroom community, Maunawili is only 10 minutes (or less) from Kailua Town. Living here also shortens your commute to downtown Honolulu, as it is located off Auloa Road, turning South from the Pali Hwy (61) and heading into the country. This area is very convenient to Le Jardin Academy and Trinity Christian School, and to H-3. Maunawili has many beautiful homes with spectacular mountain views, including some large estates on huge lots. With hiking trails and a waterfall nearby, Maunawili home prices range from $700K to $1.3M and up, depending upon lot and home size which vary greatly. There are really two sections of the community, one upper and one lower (closer to the Pali) and the home prices vary between these two areas, with the closer to the highway being less expensive. Most homes were built in the late 60's, 70's and 80's, but there are some homes of newer construction, as well.
Maunawili Homes and Koolau Mountain Views Maunawili Neighborhood

Maunawili Valley, Along Hiking Trail. Maunawili Homes in Kailua

Maunawili Falls, Just a Short Hike From the Road and Neighborhood.

Kailua Real Estate. Buy or sell real estate on Oahu. www.yvonneahearn.com

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Kukilakila

2007-09-26T21:41:44Z

Data Current as of September 2007

Kukilakila is a nice condominium development in Kailua, off of Keolu Drive, on the Northwest side (Mauka side) of the loop. Townhomes in this complex were built in 1973-74 and many have great views of Kaelepulu Pond (aka Enchanted Lake), where it is located. Fee simple properties range from about $550K to $800K, depending upon size and other features. Units typically come in 3 sizes: 931 sq ft (2/1 or 2), 1380 sq ft (3/2), and 1625 sq ft (3 or 4/2 or 3), though I have seen lanais enclosed to add square footage. These are double-wall construction. Amenities include a club house, boat dock, pool, tennis, BBQ, and a walking/running path. Units have garages and there is also guest parking.

Kailua Real Estate. Buy or sell real estate on Oahu. http://www.yvonneahearn.com/

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Kukanono

2007-09-26T21:14:35Z

Data Current as of September 2007

The Kukanono neighborhood in Kailua is very small and consists of only a few streets. It is located between the Pali Highway and Kawainui Regional Park. Homes rarely become available in this area, but if listed would probably be priced between $600K to $850K. Kukanono lot size varies from about 3,500 to 11,000 square feet and some lots have been split, with two homes. This neighborhood is conveniently located for commuters to Honolulu, and there are nearby walking and running trails at the Kawainui Marsh. Castle Medical Center is also next door and Kailua Town is a short drive.

Kailua Real Estate. Buy or sell real estate on Oahu. http://www.yvonneahearn.com/

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Pohakupu

2007-09-26T20:08:19Z

Data Current as of September 2007

The Pohakupu neighborhood is a relatively small subdivision in Kailua. It is bordered to the Northwest by the Pali Highway and to the Southwest by the Kalanianaole Highway. Great for families, this neighborhood features a large park with a playground for kids. Pohakupu homes were built in the late 1950's and early 1960's, and are among the most affordable in Kailua, selling usually between $625K and $800K. Lot sizes in the Pokakupu subdivision mostly range from about 7,500 to 8,600 square feet. Homes are 3 bedroom and up, usually ranging from 1,100 to 2,400 sq ft. Like nearby Olomana and Kukanono, the Pohakupu neighborhood is great for commuting to Honolulu, as it has great highway access. Some of these homes may have very nice mountain views.

Kailua Real Estate. Buy or sell real estate on Oahu. http://www.yvonneahearn.com/

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Olomana

2007-09-26T19:46:29Z

Data current as of September 2007

The Olomana neighborhood in Kailua is relatively small and houses do not come available here too often. A nice family neighborhood, it is relatively affordable, and includes convenient access to the Pali Highway and proximity to Castle Medical Center. Some of the homes here have great views of the Koolau Mountain Range and the neighborhood, itself, is named after Mount Olomana, the unique three peaked mountain in near proximity and view. Lot size in this area is generally between 7,500 to 8,500 square feet, with a few larger exceptions. Most homes range from 1,000 to 2,500 sq ft, and are of slab construction, built in the early 1960's. Homes are priced, usually, between $725K and $825K and tend to go quickly. The neighborhood is bordered by the Kalanianaole Hwy to the Northeast and the Pali Highway to the Northwest. It is backed to the South by natural wilderness. Olomana is near Maunawili, Pohakupu and Kokonono neighborhoods, and is near private schools, Le Jardin Academy and Trinity Christian School.

Kailua Real Estate. Buy or sell real estate on Oahu. http://www.yvonneahearn.com/

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Lanikai

2007-09-17T03:35:35Z

Data Current September 2007

Lanikai means "heavenly seas" and is one of the most desired, prestigious, and expensive areas of Kailua. Home or vacation spot to many local and national celebrities, such as the beloved late Don Ho, you will find multi-million dollar mansions and modern architechtural masterpieces mingled with plantation style homes and shabby beach cottages. As one of the first and oldest areas of Kailua, there are more very old (incl. 20's & 30's) homes left in this area of Kailua than any other, some beautifully restored. The beach, with it's soft white sand is world renowned and many homes are either beachfront or have a views of the ocean and nearby Mokulua islands, a wildlife preserve, to which people take out kayaks. It is very, very expensive and you really can't even buy a tear-down for much less than $2M. Prices range up above $10M, depending upon the property. It is located at the South end of Kailua Beach Park, up the Lanikai Hill (Alala Street). Homes start on a realtively flat loop road and branch out up the hills from there. The Mid-Pacific Country Club and Golf Course is located in Lanikai. Commuting out of Kailua to town is not as easy from this area, as there is only one road in and out. Bellows Air Force Station recreation Area is located directly South of Lanikai and the Bluestone condominiums and Keolu Hills neighborhoods are on the backside of Lanikai's hills.

The Lanikai Hill, entrance to Lanikai (at right), viewed from Kailua Beach.

Lanikai Beach Access - Mokulua Islands, Lanikai, Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii

Lanikai Hillside Homes, Lanikai, Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii

Lanikai Beachfront Homes, Lanikai, Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii

Kailua Real Estate. Buy or sell real estate on Oahu. http://www.yvonneahearn.com/

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Ku'ulei Tract

2007-09-17T03:30:06Z

Data Current September 2007

This is a very desirable family neighborhood with areas very close to the Kailua Beach Park/Kailua Beach, and Kailua District Park. It has many cul-de-sac streets. It is bordered approximately by Kuulei Road to the Northwest, the odd-numbered 0-200 blocks of S. Kalaheo on the Northeast, the even-numbered 100-200 blocks of Kailua Road on the Southeast, and the even-numbered side of the 400 block of Kailua Road & the East side of Kailua Intermediate School & the 0-200 blocks of S. Kainalu Drive on the Southwest. Homes are mostly original to the 1970s, but there are some fabulous remodels, causing prices to range from about $1.1-$1.8M, depending on size and proximity to the beach. These are slab foundation, ranch style homes and lots are usually over 10,000 sq ft. There is a small shopping strip in this neighborhood, with a convenience mart, kayak rentals, bakery, and a pizzeria, and the Kalapawai Market is across the street. Walk to the windsurfing/kitesurfing launch part of Kailua Beach or Kailua Town from this neighborhood!

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Keolu Hills

2007-09-17T03:24:23Z

Data Current September 2007

This Kama'aina family neighborhood is bordered by Keolu Loop to the West & includes Ku'upau street to the North. It ends East at the hills located above & behind Lanikai and Bellows Air Force Station. The Southwestern border is approximately at Akamai Street (Kailua Bluffs), and the Southwest border is Keolu Drive Loop (Enchanted Lake). The lower part of Keolu Hills is comprised mostly of bungalow-style homes original to the early 1950s, most in various stages of remodel. Some are have been completely torn down and rebuilt, some are tear-downs. These start at around $700K, with tear downs in the $600K's, making this area one of the more affordable areas of Kailua. Homes are usually post & pier, with single wall construction and no garage (most have added carports), unless there has been a remodel. Square footage starts around 900, with the original floorplans, and goes up to over 3,000 from there, depending upon the remodel. The upper, very hilly, part of Keolu Hills, with its newer "executive homes" is more expensive, up to $1.2 million, often with very nice ocean and/or mountain views, larger sqare footage and larger lot sizes. This area is very convenient to shopping at the Enchanted Lakes Center (Safeway, Starbucks, Ben Franklin), and is just a few miles, by street, from Kailua Beach Park and Kailua Town. (See also Hillcrest & Kailua Bluffs, which are nearby.)

Kailua Neighborhood Series: Ko'oluapoku

2007-09-17T03:14:23Z

Current September 2007

This is a charming Kailua family neighborhood, with wider streets, and some areas quite close to the beach. Named after the Koolau Mountain Range, which you can view from many properties, it is the location of the famed Duck Road (Kainui) Road. A very wide street, it is lined in the center isle with palms, where ducks wander up from the part of the Kawainui Canal that ends at Kailua Bay in the Kaimalino/Beachside neighborhoods. Lot sizes vary widely, getting larger as you get closer to the beach, up to about 13,000 sq ft. and prices generally range from $700K-$1.8M, getting higher the further East you go, particularly East of Kainalu Street and on Kalaheo Ave. Canalfront homes are also available and are on the pricier side. Koolaupoku is bounded on the North by Mokapu Road (Kalaheo Hillside), on the East by the 700-900 blocks of North Kalaheo (Beachside), and on the South by Kaha Street (Coconut Grove , Kalama/Coconut Grove & Kalama Tract). Following Kaha street West, it is bounded by the Kaiwanui Marsh. Home styles and construction, as well as size, vary greatly. This neighborhood is conveniently located near the Aikahi Park Shopping Center, Pinky's Grill and Marine Corps Base Hawaii, and not too far from the entrance to H-3.