Marvelous Maui Moon

Another magnificent moon over the west Maui mountains!

Testimonials From Our Clients

A few days ago clients whom I had represented in their purchase of a beautiful Pukalani home sent me a gorgeous floral arrangement and kind note of appreciation. I was really touched and got to thinking that other potential clients might like to hear what others who have worked with us had to say about their experience. Please read on for just a few testimonials that clients have recently written:

Clint, We just wanted to take a minute to thank you and let you let you know how happy we were to have you working with us to find our dream condo. Your casual yet professional approach, and your honesty made us feel at ease from the very start. As Canadians buying in the US real estate market for the first time, we were often anxious through the process and had many questions, but you patiently answered every single one of them, and always in a timely manner, most often within minutes of an email or a phone message. We also appreciate that you really listened to what we wanted and you always went the extra mile to send us videos of prospective properties, since we were thousands of miles away for most of our search. Although we are so happy that our search is over, we will miss a friendship. All the best to you. Mahalo!

Sincerely,
Frank and Angie

Clint, We would like to thank you again for the wonderful job that you and your wife have done to help us buy the condo in Maui. With out you folks, it would be hard for us to acquire this a little piece of paradise. We were lucky to find you and your company. Not living on the island along with very little buying experience from us, you have made it comfortable to build the trust that made the transaction easy and possible. Your friendliness has made me feel comfortable, and I hope to have you as a friend in the real estate business. Our family is coming in April to Maui and I hope to have a chance to have yours family and mine meet to mingle and say our thank you face to face.
Sincerely,
Quoc & Annie

My husband, Jeff, and I recently had the pleasure of purchasing a condo on Maui with the guidance and assistance of Clint Hansen. We had been yearning for a home on the island. When we found a condo in the complex that we were familiar with, we called Clint and requested he look at it for us. Not only did he check it out, he sent us video! Clint’s friendly professionalism coupled with that of Noreen Koki, Escrow Officer with Fidelity National Title and Escrow of Hawaii, made buying our condo sight-unseen from Alaska a breeze. Both Clint and Noreen are technologically savvy. Most of our transactions were conducted electronically. We finally met Clint face to face when he brought the keys and met us at our new Maui home. We not only have a new island home, we have a new friend in Clint Hansen!

Mahalo, Marty

If you or someone you know is considering buying or selling a property here on Maui please call me at 808-280-2764 or email me at Clinthansen33@gmail.com any time.

Realtors Association of Maui December 2011 and Year End Stats

The December 2011 and Year End Statistics are now available from the Realtors Association of Maui (RAM):

Click here: RAM Stats

To discuss the Maui market in more detail, including specific market segments, areas, or price ranges please call us directly at 808-280-2764 or 1-800-291-5535.

If you or someone you know are considering buying or selling a property on Maui, call or email The Hansen Ohana, Maui’s Top Producing Real Estate Team for Three Consecutive Years.

Hyundai Tournament Of Champions At The Plantation Course In Kapalua Tentative Schedule And Pro Am Results

Hyundai Tournament of Champions / Pro Am Gallery By Rodney S. Yap Article from: Mauinow.com Thursday’s Pro-Am Gallery Results First Place Pro-Am Team — Gary Matern, Del Farmer, Jason Day, Jim Falk, and Scott Marhofer. Golf Channel Show featuring TOUR Professionals paired with a Maui Charity in a closest-to-the-pin contest on 11 Green. • Keegan Bradley – Lahainaluna H.S. Foundation • Webb Simpson – Hawaii State Jr. Golf Association • Nick Watney – Boy Scouts, Maui County Council • Steve Stricker – Friends of the Children’s Justice Center The Par-3 Closest-to-the-pin Contest Results • First Place: Keegan Bradley, 11 feet 9 inches $15,000 • Second Place: Steve Stricker, 43 feet, 3 inches $7,000 • Third Place: Webb Simpson, 51 feet $5,000 • Fourth Place: Nick Watney, 53 feet $3,000 2012 Tentative Tournament Schedule FRIDAY, January 6 8:00 am, Gates Open to the General Public 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Fan Zone Activities including swing analysis, putting green, interactive expos, etc. 9:40 am, Aloha Kick-Off Opening Ceremonies featuring a Hawaiian blessing from The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Cultural  Advisor Clifford Naeole and famed musician Henry Kapono. Following the blessing, performers from the Polynesian Cultural  Center’s “Ha: Breathe of Life” will do a special presentation to kick-off the professional competition with Hawaii’s island spirit.  Spectators are urged to arrive early and experience a truly special opening ceremony. Polynesian Cultural Center’s “Ha: Breathe of Life” presentation will showcase an ancient tale of a Hawaiian boy who goes  through a journey that embodies the Hawaiian spirit. Approx. 10:30 am, First Round of Professional Competition at The Plantation Course SATURDAY, January 7 8:00 am, Gates Open to the General Public 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Fan Zone Activities including swing analysis, putting green, interactive expos, etc. Approx. 9:30 am, Second Round of Professional Competition at The Plantation Course SUNDAY, January 8 8:00 am, Gates Open to the General Public 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Fan Zone Activities including swing analysis, putting green, interactive expos, etc. Approx. 9:30 am, Third Round of Professional Competition at The Plantation Course MONDAY, January 9 7:30 am, Gates Open to the General Public 7:30 am – 4:30 pm, Fan Zone Activities including swing analysis, putting green, interactive expos, etc. Approx. 8:00 am, FINAL Round of Professional Competition at The Plantation Course

Unprecedented International Exposure For Christie’s International Real Estate Exclusive Affiliates

As previously proudly announced by The Hansen Ohana, Christie’s International Real Estate, the world’s leading luxury real estate network, has awarded Affiliate status to our brokerage firm Maui Estates International LLC. Wholly owned by Christie’s, the world’s leading art business, Christie’s International Real Estate is represented in more than 40 countries. Maui Estates International LLC joins this carefully selected organization of brokerages with proven records of success in both high-end property sales and exemplary client service.

The additional exposure and contacts provided by this exclusion affiliation are unprecedented as evidenced in the following article.

MOST VALUABLE SALE OF JEWELRY IN AUCTION HISTORY

MOST VALUABLE PRIVATE COLLECTION OF FASHION EVER SOLD AT AUCTION

CHRISTIE’S FIRST EVER ONLINE-ONLY AUCTION – CONDUCTED IN PARALLEL TO LIVE AUCTIONS – FETCHES OVER $9.5 MILLION

26 ITEMS SELL FOR OVER $1 MILLION; 6 ITEMS FOR OVER $5 MILLION

New York – The landmark auctions of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor at Christie’s New York from December 3-17 realized a combined total of $156,756,576 (£100,324,209/ €120,702,563) with every single item sold. The sale drew unprecedented interest from bidders throughout the world, with 36 different countries represented during the four days of live auctions. Christie’s flagship Rockefeller Center saleroom was abuzz with people competing in person, on the phone, on-line and by absentee bid to win one of the Collection’s 1,778 lots of jewelry, fashion, decorative arts and film memorabilia. The total far exceeded Christie’s pre-sale expectations for the sale as a whole and for individual items, which were frequently hammered down for five, ten, or even 50 times their estimate.

Steven P. Murphy, Chief Executive Officer, Christie’s International, commented, “The exhibition and sales of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor in New York have been the crowning achievement to a very strong year at Christie’s. The success of these sales, with bidders participating from all over the world, demonstrated not only a recognition of the taste and style of Miss Taylor, but also the convening power of Christie’s.” This historic sale set a world record for the most valuable sale of jewelry in auction history, and set a new bar for the most valuable collection of fashion ever offered at auction. It also marked the company’s first-ever Online-Only sale, which ran in parallel to the live auctions at Christie’s New York and generated over 57,000 bids and $9.5 million in additional sales. In total, 26 items sold for over the $1 million mark, and numerous new world auction records were achieved – a testament to Miss Taylor’s expert eye for craftsmanship, rarity, and quality in all of the items she chose for her personal collection.

During this four-day event that captured headlines worldwide, record numbers of auction attendees were exposed to the Christie’s International Real Estate Bespoke Marketing Program through the prominent exhibit of property brochures on display in the lobby.
Article from: Christie’s International

Christie's International Real Estate Exclusive Affiliates

As many of you know, we proudly announced earlier this year that Christie’s International Real Estate, the world’s  leading luxury real estatenetwork, has awarded Affiliate status to our brokerage firm Maui Estates International LLC.  Wholly owned by Christie’s, the world’s leading art business, Christie’s International Real Estate is represented in  more than 40 countries. Maui Estates International LLC joins this carefully selected organization of brokerages with  proven records of success in both high-end property sales and exemplary client service. Christie’s Elizabeth Taylor sales, which have captured headlines around the globe, kicked off yesterday, Tuesday,  December 14, with the Legendary Jewels Evening Sale in New York. The ensuing four days of sales, in addition to  the Online-Only Auction, illustrate the historic exposure and global esteem for the Christie’s brand. This proud affiliation is an invaluable benefit to our many Maui real estate clients and friends.

Weekend Round-up: Fantastic Events Across Maui This Weekend

Weekend Round-Up: Boyz II Men, Steve Miller Band By Madeline Ziecker Article from: Mauinow.com BOYZ II MEN IN CONCERT Saturday, December 10 at the MACC at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $45, $60 and $75. Four-time Grammy-award-winning a cappella R&B vocal group Boyz II Men will perform live, celebrating their  most recent album, Twenty. Boyz II Men will perform a concert blending vocals, effects, and elements of classic R&B, as they have been  doing for twenty years as the best selling R&B group of all time. The group has had a steady fan base since their debut in the 1980s, even through several member changes. The secret to their lengthened success may be their ability to adapt with changes in R&B, music technology,  and in the music industry over time. Tickets can be purchased by calling the MACC Box Office at 242-SHOW or online at MauiArts.org. STEVE MILLER BAND WITH DAVE MASON Sunday, December 11 at the MACC at 7 p.m. Tickets $55, $65,  $85, and $125. The renowned Steve Miller Band who has brought over four decades of hit classic rock and blues music  will perform for one night at the MACC for loyal fans on Maui. Dave Mason, who holds a similar status as a classic rock king, will join the band as a special guest to  enhance the show even further. Steve Miller Band sells out shows every year playing hit songs from their 30 million records recorded  over the past 40 years. Tickets can be purchased by calling the MACC Box Office at 242-SHOW or online at MauiArts.org. MAUI STAND-UP COMEDY SHOW Saturday, December 10 at Stella Blues at 10 p.m. Tickets $10 at  the door. A relatively new group of hilarious Maui stand-up comedians, Power Up Comedy, will perform their  best jokes in Kihei on Saturday night. The line-up for the evening is as follows: ■Host: Jose Solorzano ■Corky Gardner ■Doug Wyckoff ■Teresa Sickels ■Ray “Boom Boom” Chavez ■Feature: Chino LaForge ■Headliner: Sunny Dennis FREERADICALS PROJEKT LIVE AT PICNIC IN PARADISE BENEFIT Sunday, December 11 from 12-10 p.m.  at the Sugarman Makena Estate. Tickets $15 pre-sale and $20 at the door. Freeradicals Projekt will play live at a benefit supporting Prayer Rock Foundation and “Source V: Circus  of Dreams” on the oceanside Sugarman Estate. Prayer Rock Foundation is an educational, non-profit, public charity organization dedicated to sustaining  the Prayer Rock Sanctuary located in Kula. The organization caries the mindset of “Supporting the path,  caring for the Earth.” Source is Maui’s own annual multi-media arts and music festival. For their fifth year festival, the theme will  be “Circus of Dreams,” likely to bring and inspire several talented artists to Source V. The festival event holders will be holding and participating in several fundraising events, including Picnic  In Paradise, before the start date of Source V on February 17. The Picnic In Paradise event will include local food vendors and live DJs sponsored by Kona Red. Shuttle service will be provided for ticket holders along with offsite parking at Mulligan’s On The Blue. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Wine Corner in Paia, Request Records in Wailuku, and The Tiki  Lounge in Kihei.

Approvals Sought For 65 Acre Central Maui Park In The Master Planned Waiale Community

Approvals sought for 65 Acre Central Maui Park By Wendy Osher Article from: Mauinow.com The state Board of Land and Natural Resources will review a request this Friday for the acquisition of land for park use in  Waikapu on Maui. The park would be part of the 2550-unit master planned Waiale community, proposed for development along the  Kuihelani Highway, west of Pomaikai Elementary School, the Legends, and Na Hoku Subdivision. The 65 acre parcel is currently owned by Alexander & Baldwin and consists of unimproved fallow land. The company  has submitted a request to the State Land Use Commission for re-classification of the property from agricultural to  urban use. A $9 million appropriation was made by the 2011 State Legislature in general obligation bonds for acquisition and  development of the park. Improvements envisioned for the property include the development of a variety of playing fields, parking, restrooms, and other facilities.

Reminder: Na Hale O Maui Homebuyer Seminar Saturday December 3rd

Just a Reminder….
Na Hale O Maui Homebuyer Seminar
When: Today, Saturday December 3, 2011 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Where: Good Shepherd Church Parish Hall, Wailuku
This is a great opportunity to learn some of the basics of getting the right mortgage for you and you family. `

Strong Growth Continues As Total Expenditures By Visitors To Maui Grew 13.1% For The First 10 Months of 2011

Strong Growth Continues in Visitor Spending and Arrivals| By Sonia Isotov Article from: MauiNow.com Total expenditures by visitors who came to Hawai’i in the first 10 months of 2011 grew 14.8%, compared to the  same period in 2010, to $10.3 billion, according to preliminary statistics released today by the Hawaii Tourism  Authority. On Maui, total expenditures by visitors in the first 10 months of 2011 grew 13.1%, compared to the same period  in 2010, to $2.5 billion. Visitors in October 2011 spent $20 more per person per day than last October. Visitors to Maui actually spent $6  less per person per day than last October. Total visitor days for all visitors increased 4.1% and total arrivals (+2.6%) continued to exceed last year at  6,034,104 visitors. On Maui, total visitor days for all visitors increased 3.6 % and total arrivals (+3.8%) also exceed  last year at 1,808,350. Total arrivals to Maui in October 2011 dropped 2% compared to a year ago. Growth in arrivals to Maui from  Canada (+3.2%) and Japan (6.9%) were offset by lower arrivals from US West (-7.1%) and US East (-1.1%). For the  first 10 months of 2011, arrivals to Maui from Canada (+17.2%), US East (+1.3%) and US West (+0.8%) increased,  but arrivals from Japan (-3.1%) declined compared to year-to-date 2010. “We are also pleased with continued growth from our international markets, including the second positive month  of arrivals from Japan since the devastating earthquake and tsunami,” said Mike McCartney, president and chief  executive officer of the Hawaii Tourism Authority today in written statement. “New and additional airlift through 2012 also demonstrates that demand for travel to the Hawaiian islands  remains high, and is a good indicator of momentum for the visitor industry in the coming year.” More detailed October and 2011 year-to-date statistics for individual islands and the state, can be found on the  Hawaii Tourism Authority website.

Update On The Proposed Downtown Kihei Project Makai Of The Existing Pi'ilani Village Shopping Center

Developer Plans Downtown Kihei Article From: The Maui Weekly Article By:Tom Blackburn-Rodriguez Imagine South Maui developers getting applause at a community meeting when they proposed a 150-room hotel, a  state-of-the-art HD movie theater, restaurants, retail shops and a pedestrian plaza. In what may have been a unique moment in the history of development in Kihei, that is exactly what happened at the conclusion of a presentation at a Kihei Community Association (KCA) meeting by Jay E. Krigsman, executive vice president  of Krausz Companies Inc., after he provided an update on the company’s proposed Downtown Kihei project makai of  the existing Pi’ilani Village Shopping Center, which is also owned by Krausz. He said the goal of the company was to “Create a fun and exciting place to work, shop and play.” The Downtown Kihei project will be located on both side of Pi’ikea Street, bordered by South Kihei Road and Lipoa Drive. The anchors for Downtown Kihei will include a “Cinetopia” movie theater, where all screens will be digital with living room  La-Z-Boy-style theater seating, a sit-down restaurant, wine bar, live music, local musicians and local art displays. In addition, the project is planned to incorporate a hotel that will serve both locals and the businessperson who may be  in town for a few days. Because the hotel is incorporated into the Downtown Kihei design, hotel guests will be able to walk  to the shops, theater and restaurants. When it comes to traffic and streets, Krigsman said that Downtown Kihei will consist of a series of streets and a plaza to  create a place where one can spend family time. The design offers wide sidewalks, seating areas, a stage and a few vertical  streets not necessary for traffic flow, which can be closed off for farmers’ markets, health fairs and other community functions. Parking is primarily in the back of the buildings in shaded areas not visible or prominent from the street. The goal, said Krigsman, is “to create streets where people can walk.” Following Krigsman’s presentation, KCA President Jon Miller moderated and participated in a panel with the developer and  South Maui County Councilmember Don Couch. Couch reported that he supports legislation that would give the Urban Design Review Board (UDRB) expanded authority in  reviewing development projects, including Special Management Area (SMA) permits. Currently, the requirement for an SMA permit for development makai of Pi’ilani Highway gives groups like the KCA more  opportunity to weigh in, because projects are proposed in the SMA area. The same clout does not apply for projects mauka of the highway, unless zoning changes are requested. Couch would  end that distinction and require all projects to receive UDRB approval. Miller agreed, saying, “The issue now is there is very little protection above the SMA project area.” When questioned about opportunities for locally owned businesses to locate shops in Downtown Kihei, Krigsman said  that costs for the project continue to grow as delays in the permit and approval process drag on. “The intent is to have an eclectic mix of national and local stores,” he said. “The county is making it so expensive to turn a  shovel of dirt, that we have to reflect it in the rent.” With a solid audience turnout, the KCA moved briskly to provide an opportunity for state Rep. George Fontaine to present  an overview of activities he has been involved with since the last month’s meeting. These included a meeting with Ed Reinhart, president of Maui Electric Company (MECO), to advocate for an alternate plan  for the utility’s proposed 70-foot metal poles along the mauka side of Pi’ilani Highway from the new power substation near  the intersection of Ke Ali’i Alanui Road. Fontaine reported that MECO is now reconsidering that plan and will hold a community meeting in Kihei in the near future to  discuss potential alternatives. At this last meeting of the year held on the Lipoa Street campus of the Kihei Charter School, the KCA also unanimously elected  its new board of directors for 2012. Those elected were Andrew Beerer, Steve Cordova, Michael Di Bella, Daniel Kanehele, Jon  Miller, Mike Moran, Bob Richardson, Patricia Stillwell, Greg Straton and Jorge Tioga. For more information about future KCA meetings and activities, visit gokihei.org.

Clint Hansen Receives Unanimous Approval for Maui Paintball

Tuesday was a very special day for Clint Hansen as the Maui Planning Department gave unanimous  approval granting his special use permit for Maui Paintball. Click here  http://www.mauinews.com/page/content.detail/id/555590/Planning-commission-approves-permi t-for-paintball-facility.html?nav=10 for the article published in yesterday’s Maui News. Mahalo Nui Loa to everyone for their ongoing support. Happy Thanksgiving from our Ohana to Yours.

Hawaii Hotel Room Revenue 12.8% Better Than The Same Period Last Year

Hotels see increase in room rates Article From: The Maui Weekly The Maui News – Maui’s hotels were two-thirds full in September, not unusual for one of the dullest months of  the year in the visitor industry, but hotel operators were able to boost their rack rates by more than $15 a night. That contributed to a sizable increase in the amount of money coming in. So far this year, and despite some  slackness in arrival numbers, Hawai’i's lodging business is doing better than last year, and much better than it  was in 2009. The Hawai’i Hotel Flash Report released by Hospitality Advisors last week said that through nine months of 2011,  island hotels have reaped room revenue of $2.14 billion. That is 12.8 percent better than in 2010 and 20.9  percent better than in 2009. But it was not equal to the $2.41 achieved in the first three quarters of 2006. For the year-to-date, Maui had the highest average daily rate ($246.52), up 9.3 percent. Occupancy rates are  up about the same amount in each county so far this year, a somewhat surprising result considering the turmoil  caused by Japan’s earthquake in March and the continuing uncertainty in general economic terms. Each county is up around 3 percentage points in occupancy. Maui is up to 71.2 percent from 68.8 percent last  year.

Hawaiian Airlines Launches Daily Direct Flights New York to Honolulu~Introductory Rates As Low As $212 Each Way

Hawaiian Launches Nonstop Daily New York To Honolulu Hawaiian Airlines will operate the its newest and largest aircraft, the Airbus A330-200, seating 294 passengers,  on its new Honolulu to New York daily nonstop service. By Sonia Isotov Article From:Mauinow.com Hawaiian Airlines announced today that it will launch a daily nonstop service between New York City’s John F.  Kennedy International Airport and Honolulu starting June 4, 2012, and is promoting the new service with  introductory fares. Starting June 5, 2012, Hawaiian Flight 51 will depart JFK daily at 10:00 a.m. and arrive at Honolulu International  Airport at 3:00 p.m. The new route will be inaugurated from Honolulu the day before on June 4, with the departure of Flight 50,  familiarly known as “Hawaiian 5-0″. Flight 50 will depart Honolulu daily at 3:05 p.m. and arrive in New York  City at 6:55 a.m. the following morning. Hawaiian’s new flights from New York will add more than 107,000 new air seats annually to Hawaii’s tourism  industry from the Eastern US, the state’s second-largest geographic source market for visitors. “New York is an important part of our growth strategy. Hawaiian is the leading airline in Hawaii’s largest  tourism market, the US West Coast, and we are expanding in Hawaii’s third largest market, Asia. Adding  service to the largest market in the Eastern US, Hawaii’s second largest tourism market, was a logical step,”  said Mark Dunkerley, Hawaiian’s president and chief executive officer, in a written statement. “Hawaiian’s new service will generate an estimated $156 million in direct visitor spending and $17 million in  state tax revenue annually for our tourism economy and will provide much desired direct air service to New  York City making it more convenient and accessible for travelers from the East Coast. This flight is of strategic  importance to promoting the Hawaiian Islands brand to our second largest market, and we look forward to  welcoming our guests,” added McCartney. Hawaiian will operate its New York-Honolulu route using its growing fleet of new Airbus A330-200 aircraft  that seat 294 passengers, with 18 seats in First Class and the remainder in Economy Class. In celebration of its new service, Hawaiian is offering special introductory fares of $212 each way in Economy  Class and $808 each way in First Class (212 and 808 being the area codes of New York City and Honolulu,  respectively). The introductory fares are available for purchase from today through November 20, 2011 and  are valid for travel between June 4 and June 30, 2012.

Homes For Sale in Maui Meadows

Filed under: Uncategorized — Donna @ 2:28 pm Don’t forget about this lisitng on Akala.  It’s a fabulous house in Maui Meadows.

Hawaii Holiday Travel Poll~What Are Your Plans For This Holiday Season?

Hawaii Holiday Travel Poll: Lower Travel, More Spending By Sonia Isotov Article from: MauiNow.com Local consumers will spend more on holiday trips this season, but slightly less likely than last year to take at least one  overnight trip for the holidays in November/December, according to AAA Hawaii’s 3rd Annual Winter Holiday Travel Poll. 39% of polled local residents said they plan on one or more holiday trips, compared to 42% last year, while 50% definitely  won’t take a trip (48% last year) and 11% are undecided (10% in 2010). The 50% not taking a holiday trip cited several reasons, including: ■Too many other expenses (43%) ■Rising prices for travel (38%) ■Rising household expenses for items other than gas (30%) ■High gas prices (29%) Of those who will be traveling in November and December, 77% plan to spend more than $1,000 on their getaways,  compared to 69% last year who said they would spend more than $1,000. 64% of surveyed holiday travelers will take one trip in November or December, 29% will take two, and 7% will take three  or more. Last year, 65% said they would take one trip, 30% were taking two, and 5% were taking three or more. Many more Hawaii residents plan to visit family over this holiday season compared to last year (56% compared to 44%  in 2010), while fewer local travelers will be shopping (46% vs. 58% last year) or sightseeing (40% vs. 49% last year). “We are definitely seeing some price sensitivity on the part of travelers because of the economy and high gas prices, but  we also see that travel is viewed as a high priority and people will continue to fit trips into their budgets however they can,”  said Diane Peterson, AAA Hawaii regional manager, in a written statement. “Fortunately, travel providers are recognizing  this also and are offering many family budget-friendly deals and significant discounts for early bookings.” Of those polled who indicated they would travel this holiday season, 36% will take at least one trip within Hawaii, while 42%  plan to visit Nevada, and 33% will visit California. AAA Hawaii offered the following tips for saving on holiday travel: ■If you fly to your destination, consider mailing holiday gifts ahead of time to avoid high baggage fees. Also, wrapped gifts  can cause problems with the TSA screening process, so if you do bring gifts on the plane, wrap them at your destination. ■The last-minute holiday deal is back for many travel providers because of lower demand due to the economy. To take  advantage, do some online research or let a travel agent do it for you. Travel agents don’t charge for their services, so you’ll  get the same price on the deal and also save time. ■For long-distance road trips, plan your stops for gasoline with a tool like the AAA TripTik app for smartphones, which lists  gas prices at stations all along your travel route. Price differences can be as much as 50 cents per gallon because gas stations  near airports and key freeway locations may charge much higher prices, so it’s worth it to shop around first. ■Avoid speeding. It’s tempting to drive 75 miles an hour or more on an open highway, but doing that on a long-distance  road trip could cost you $20 to $30 more per day in wasted fuel. AAA Hawaii’s Holiday Travel Poll was conducted online by the AAA Marketing Research Department along with the Holiday  Shopping Poll, which was released last week. The poll surveyed 361 AAA Hawaii members between Oct. 4 and Oct. 20. It has  a margin of error of +/-5% and the differences between 2011 and 2010 results were tested for statistical significance at a  95%  confidence level.

Foreclosures in Hawaii Down 66% Compared to a Year Ago Under New State Law

Foreclosures down 66% under new state law By Andrew Gomes Article from: Star-Advertiser A 6-month-old Hawaii law continued to constrain the flow of foreclosures statewide in October, as a relative  trickle of cases were initiated mainly through Circuit Court instead of a nonjudicial process through which  most cases had been pouring prior to the law’s enactment. Real estate research firm RealtyTrac counted 427 Hawaii foreclosure filings last month, which was 66 percent  fewer than 1,271 filings in October 2010. Last month’s count was the highest since the new law took effect May 5, but not by much. There were 414  cases in September, 413 in August, 390 in July and 344 in June. The law initially prohibited lenders from proceeding with nonjudicial foreclosure against owner-occupants  until a mediation program was available to borrowers. That program launched Oct. 3, but lenders as of  Wednesday had yet to use the new nonjudicial process administered by the state Department of Commerce  and Consumer Affairs. The new nonjudicial procedure forces lenders to participate in a mediation program with qualified borrowers  if borrowers so choose. Qualified borrowers are mainly homeowners who have resided in their homes for a  minimum 200 days. Excluded from mediation are foreclosures brought by homeowner associations or  brought against investors. Local attorneys representing lenders say the law is flawed and that the new nonjudicial process won’t be  used because it provides for punitive penalties for even the most minor infractions. The result has been more lenders — but not an overwhelming number — pursuing foreclosures in state  court. According to the state Judiciary, 338 new foreclosure cases were filed in court last month, about triple the  108 cases filed a year earlier. Judicial cases have roughly been between 200 and 300 per month since June,  up from closer to 100 in the same months last year. Historically, nonjudicial foreclosures represented an estimated 90 percent of foreclosures in Hawaii because  they were faster and cheaper. The Judiciary counts new cases filed. RealtyTrac counts new case filings as well as auction notices and lender  repossessions. But because RealtyTrac collects its data from a variety of sources, it appears to undercount  new judicial cases. Under RealtyTrac’s methodology, 31 other states had higher, or worse, foreclosure rates than Hawaii, which  had 1 filing for every 1,208 homes. The national rate was one filing for every 563 homes. Nevada had the worst rate at 1 foreclosure filing per  180 homes. Vermont had the best rate based on 1 filing per 12,570 homes. The year-over-year decline in foreclosure filings for Hawaii has conformed with a trend nationally that has  existed for about a year after major national lenders were forced to review and revise the way they were  processing cases and handling documents. James Saccacio, RealtyTrac’s chief executive officer, added that  state law changes and court rulings also have upset the pace of foreclosures. In Hawaii, there is a push for the Legislature to amend the law next year to make it more palatable to lenders  while still protecting homeowners. A task force representing the mortgage industry and consumers is  expected to release recommendations to the Legislature on ways to improve the foreclosure law by the  end of the year.

According to the Global Wealth Monitor Report 7.21 Percent of Hawaii's Households Are Millionaires

Maryland tops Hawaii for millionaires By Star-Advertiser staff Article from: Star-Advertiser You’re slightly more likely to meet a millionaire in Maryland than Hawaii, according to Phoenix Marketing  International, a global marketing services firm. The company issued its annual Global Wealth Monitor report that tracks affluent and high net worth households  in the U.S., Canada and Europe. The reports shows that about 7.22 percent of Maryland’s households are millionaires, compared to Hawaii’s  7.21 percent. Hawaii had led the rankings since 2008. Phoenix defines a millionaire household as one with  $1 million or more in investable or liquid assets (excluding sponsored retirement plans and real estate). Rounding out the top ten states in millionaires per population are New Jersey (7.19 percent), Connecticut  (7.13 percent), Massachusetts (6.41 percent), Alaska (6.39 percent), Virginia (6.26 percent), New Hampshire  (6.06 percent), California (6.01 percent), and the District of Columbia (5.88 percent). “A few things are noteworthy from this year’s millionaire rankings,” said David Thompson, Managing Director  of the Phoenix Global Wealth Monitor said in a news release. “First, this is the closest it’s ever been between the  top two states. Second, all of the top ten states increased their millionaire ratios during the past year, which  underscores that the richest states keep getting richer.” Phoenix computes its data on the size of affluent and high net worth U.S. households on a mid-year to  mid-year basis. As of the end of June, 2011, Phoenix estimates that the number of millionaires in the U.S.  grew by 6.9 percent from the previous year, numbering some 5.9 million households.

Restaurant Week in Wailea is Back~November 6-12th

Restaurant Week Wailea Returns November 6 – 12, 2011 Back by popular demand, Wailea Resort is proud to announce the return of its very successful dinner promotion, “Restaurant Week Wailea”. This celebration of Wailea’s finest cuisine will take place at 16 participating resort  restaurants throughout Wailea starting Sunday, November 6th, through Saturday, November 12th. Wailea Resort has long been known for its award winning culinary talent, delectable restaurants and celebrity  chefs; and have once again created some remarkable three course, pre-fixe menus for just $29*, $39* or $49*  per person (*depending on the restaurant – beverages, tax and gratuity not included). Some restaurants have  enhanced this promotion, by creating wine pairings to enjoy with your meal, at a very special price “Restaurant Week Wailea continues to be a popular promotion for the restaurants and diners”, said Bud Pikrone,  General Manager, Wailea Community Association. “Earlier this year in May, over $4,800 was raised from  Restaurant Week Wailea for the Maui Food Bank and having it again this November is perfect timing to raise  more money for the Maui Food Bank as the Holidays approach” said Pikrone. Each participating restaurant has agreed to make a contribution to the Maui Food Bank for every pre-fixe  entrée sold during Restaurant Week Wailea, as part of the resorts community giving. This pre-fixe menu is not valid with any other discount, coupons or promotion being offered at participating  restaurants. Diners may contact each restaurant direct for reservations, as advance reservations are strongly  recommended or visit www.opentable.com for select restaurants* which offer online dinner reservations. No tickets, passes or coupons needed ~ simply make your reservations and enjoy! 16 Wailea Resort restaurants are participating: Capische?* (Hotel Wailea) (808) 879-2224 DUO Steak and Seafood (Four Seasons) (808) 874-8000 Gannon’s (Wailea Gold & Emerald Course) (808) 875-8080 Humuhumunukunukuapua’a (Grand Wailea) (808) 875-1234 Joe’s in Wailea (Wailea Tennis Club) (808) 875-7767 KAI Wailea (808) 875-1955 Kō* (Fairmont Kea Lani) (808) 875-4100 Longhi’s* (The Shops at Wailea) (808) 891-8883 Mala Wailea* (Wailea Marriott) (808) 875-9394 Matteo’s (808) 874-1234 Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman (808) 891-2322 Mulligan’s on the Blue (Wailea Blue Course) (808) 874-1131 Nick’s Fishmarket Maui* (Fairmont Kea Lani) (808) 879-7224 Pita Paradise Bistro Wailea (808) 879-7177 Ruth’s Chris Steak House* (The Shops at Wailea) (808) 874-8880 Tommy Bahamas* (The Shops at Wailea) (808) 875-9983 OR visit www.opentable.com to book reservations with participating restaurants* * Participating restaurant offers online reservations through OpenTable.com. Reservations are free and  confirmed instantly 24 hours a day. No phone calls, no waiting. ***Information courtesy of the Wailea Community Association

Island Wide Halloween Events For All Ages Saturday Through Monday

Halloween Round-Up: Saturday Through Monday By Madeline Ziecker Excerpt of Article from: Mauinow.com SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 Paia Maui Pranksters Costume Ball at Charley’s Restaurant. The ball starts at 10 p.m. Entrance is $5 with a costume and $10  without. Best his and hers costume will win $100 each. Kihei Devil’s Night Party at Ambrosia Martini Lounge. Starts 10 p.m. No cover for those in costume with music by DJ Decka, $2 off of all tequila and costume prizes. Kahului 3-Night Halloween Party: Glo & GOREfest Costume Contest at Kahului Ale House. Starts 10 p.m, no cover. Glow sticks and  glow-in-the-dark clothing encouraged. Scary movies will play on 30 TVs as fog layers the floor. Winner of the Kahului Best Costume Contest will collect $400. Halloween drink specials include $7 Glowing Ghost drinks, $5 Graveyard shots, $4  Candy Corn shots, $3 Freddy Krueger shots and $2 Trick-or-treat shots. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Kihei Wild + Wicked Art Show & Costume Party at the Tiki Lounge. Starts 8 p.m. Art pieces will be sold in support of Plant A  Wish Foundation. Kahului 3-Night Halloween Party: Anythig GLOWS Masquerade Party at Kahului Ale House. Starts 10 p.m. $10 cover after  10 p.m. Featuring DJ Jamn J and DJ Blinky. Free body painting from 9-11 p.m. Halloween drink specials include $7  GHOSTinis, $5 Fried Brain shots, $4 Candy Corn shots, $3 Freddy Krueger shots and $2 Trick-or-Treat shots. MONDAY, OCTOBER 31 – HALLOWEEN NIGHT Paia The New Mastersounds, Freeradicals Projekt, and DJ Boomshot at Charley’s Restaurant & Saloon. Starts 9 p.m.  Sell-Out Expected – Buy Tickets In Advance. Howl 1031 at Moana Bakery & Cafe. Starts 9 p.m. $20 cover. Costume and all-night DJ dance party. Cash prizes  will be offered to the best dressed. Kihei Sexy & Scary at Ambrosia. Starts 10 p.m. DJ CIA, $4 “brain hemorrhage shots” and “spooky juice drinks” in house. Halloween Night With DJ Slackin’ at the Tiki Lounge. Starts 10 p.m. will drink specials all night. Halloween With MOTHxp at Three’s Bar & Grill. Starts 8 p.m. for all ages and at 10 p.m. for 21 & over. Lahaina Halloween “Back on Front” Keiki Costume Parade on Front St. Parade starts at 4:30 p.m. with Maui’s keiki in their best  costumes. Comments Off