Aloha,

We read the same news articles and hear the same dire economic reports that you do, but a recent presentation that we attended featuring Paul Brewbaker, Chief Economist for Bank of Hawaii, actually gave us a refreshing new perspective and suggested a "light at the end of the tunnel" on the Real Estate market here on Maui. Based on a series of charts and graphs that compare previous real estate cycles to the current one, Brewbaker feels that Maui may, in fact, have hit "bottom" and be relatively flat for the next 2-3 years. At first glance, that might suggest that the prudent buyer should wait to jump back into the market until prices begin to rise again, but there is a caveat to that strategy. All indications are that interest rates will rise over the next 6-12 months (they already have), and for every 1% increase in rates, your purchasing leverage declines by approximately $100,000! Inventories are high; sellers are motivated; perhaps it's time for the smart buyer to go shopping! For the complete 1 hr. video presentation by Paul Brewbaker, simply click on this  link: http://yourwebcast.com/ram/brewbaker08.htm 

And to jump-start that process, here are this month's Featured Properties and best buys:

MLS #328708--Looking for a popular vacation rental property? Maui Vistas has a long track record for accommodating visitors and is located across from one of south Maui's finest beaches, Charley Young. This 2BR/2BA upstairs unit with upgrades is value-priced at $475,000!!!

MLS #330478--A little further south than Maui Vistas, Kamaole Sands is located near the gateway to Wailea and within minutes of golf, dining, numerous beaches, and beautiful sunsets! This spacious 2BR/2BA unit has special "surfer" touches, and can be owned for $629,900!!!

MLS #332643--This custom-built (2006) 4BR/3BA elegant single-family home boasts over 2,000 square feet of living space and a floor plan that offers two master suites. Two years ago, this home was priced over $900,000 and is being offered today for $699,000 (seller motivated)!!!

MLS #331138--Step foot into Wailea with this fashionable 2BR/2BA ocean view unit at Wailea Fairway Villas, located near the pool pavilion/workout facility, with contemporary finishes including granite countertops, maple cabinets, and travertine floors, for $688,000!!!

MLS #331222--Wailea Ekolu, one of Wailea's original and most sought after complexes with rich Hawaiiana landscaping and sweeping ocean views, can be your Maui dream retreat or an income-generating vacation rental. Relax in the 2BR/2BA top floor unit, fully furnished, for $959,000!!!
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Remember, you can go to our fabulous new web site at www.TEAMWailea.com to view these and any other properties on Maui, with too many features to mention--you'll just have to see for yourself!

When you purchase a property on Maui, you're buying more than just a piece of Real Estate; you're buying a lifestyle; a sunset; a dip in the crystal blue ocean; a balmy tropical breeze; a Mai-Tai at your favorite restaurant. You owe it to yourself!

Warmest alohas,

Michael and Ceci