Aloha,

Well, as our summers go, this one hasn't been too bad so far, with high temperatures hovering in the mid 80's, which, with our dependable tradewinds, is actually quite pleasant. Our summer occupancy rate has been good, with the big hotels reporting consistent numbers in the 80-90%+ range. The beaches seem full, and there are waiting lists at many of our restaurants. I think Hawaii, and especially Maui, continues to be the vacation choice of many because it's a safe harbor, and the weather, beaches, and sunsets aren't too bad, either! Most airlines have lowered their fares compared to last summer, and there are many round trip flights from the west coast under $500.

What does this mean to you? For one thing, as occupancy stabilizes, daily and weekly room rates are beginning to inch back up towards their highs of 2007, so if you're thinking about a visit, I wouldn't wait too long if you want to still find some bargains. Secondly, with Real Estate prices holding at lows 30-40% under their peak of four years ago, this might be an ideal time to take advantage of a still-sluggish market and start searching for that perfect vacation--and ultimately retirement--"piece of the rock", as they say.

And to help you get those wheels turning, here are my "Featured Properties" of the month. Remember, the one in bold type is what I consider to be the "best of the best" buys out there--but then again, there are so many!

MLS #344040--This stunning home in one of Wailea's most prestigious gated communities (Wailea Kialoa) offers 3BR/3.5BA wrapped in 5,686 sq. ft. of interior elegance. Beautifully upgraded, the large outdoor swimming pool and lanai for entertaining, coupled with a fully-equipped media room, make this home the perfect choice for large families or corporate retreats. Priced at $2,390,000, the per square foot cost of $420 is less than half the average in Wailea!!!

MLS #343841--Yes, there are even bank-owned (REO) properties in Wailea! This could be the perfect starter/foot-in-the-door property to get you into Wailea for under $1 million!  With 3BR's and 3BA's, this 2,350 sq. ft home sits on a 1/4 acre lot in the gated community known as Wailea Pualani, and with a little TLC, could be a "diamond in the rough"! Priced $500,000 under recent comparable sales, own this home for $895,000!!!

MLS #343304--The Wailea Palms Residences still stands out as one of Wailea's most desirable condominium complexes, and this fabulous 2BR/3BA "D" plan exemplifies the best of the best! With over 1,500 sq. ft. of interior space, two master suites, and Italian tile and marble flooring accents, this island home will not disappoint at $1,175,000!!!

MLS #344002--Always a Wailea standout and winner of many architectural design awards, homes at Papali Wailea have their own special appeal. Designed to emphasize spaciuosness while maximizing natural light and our delightful tradewinds, this front row 3BR/3.5BA Developer unit has been reduced over $500,000, and is now being offered at $2,595,000!!!

MLS #342141--If exquisite design and amenities, combined with unobstructed ocean views and direct beachfront location is your thing, then don't miss this well-priced 4th floor Penthouse unit at the fabulous Wailea Beach Villas! Situated on one of Wailea's most desirable sandy beaches with the Shops at Wailea a stone's throw away, this 2BR/2BA unit boasts nearly 2,000 sq. ft. of interior elegance, and is priced under recent sales at $3,498,000!!!
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That should give you some excellent choices to start thinking about, but there are many more--so feel free to let me know specifically what you are looking for, and I'll reach into my magic bag and find the perfect property just for you!

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Mahalo nui loa,

Michael Blaz
(808) 283-9093