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.

Total Spending By Visitors To Hawaii Has Grown Every Month Since May 2010: Maui Visitor Spending And Arrivals Continue Growing

Maui Visitor Spending, Arrivals Continue Growing By Sonia Isotov Article From: Mauinow.com “Continued growth in visitor spending is a strong indication that Hawaii’s tourism economy is improving,” said  Mike McCartney, the president and chief and executive officer of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), in a  written statement today. For the state, visitor spending rose 15.1% to $11.3 billion during the first 11 months of 2011. On Maui, visitor  spending rose 12.9% to $249.5 million during the same 11 month period. Statewide, total visitor days for all visitors rose 4.9% and total arrivals remained ahead (+3.4%) of last year at  6,600,776 visitors, according to preliminary statistics released today by the HTA. On Maui, total visitor days  for all visitors rose 4% and total arrivals remained ahead (+4.2%) as well. The HTA expects to end this year  with year-over-year growth in visitor expenditures. Total arrivals in November 2011 rose 2.6% compared to last November to 566,672 visitors, and Maui  received 165,239 visitors compared to 162,153 visitors last November, or a 1.9% increase. For the month of November 2011 alone, total visitor spending grew 8.2% (up $73.5 million) from November  2010 to $972.5 million, while visitor arrivals were up 2.6% from a year ago. Total spending by all visitors has  risen every month since May 2010. Higher daily spending ($186 per person, up from $179 per person in  November 2010) contributed to the growth in total visitor expenditures. “The HTA’s focus on Asia and emerging markets is paying off with growth in visitor spending and arrivals  from Asia, including Korea, China and Japan. In November, air seat capacity from Japan increased 10.5%  due to increased service and an additional 5,796 charter seats to Hawai’i. The average daily spending from  Japanese visitors also increased, resulting in a 20% growth in visitor expenditures,” added McCartney. Total arrivals by air only in November 2011 increased 3.6% to 555,630 visitors. Japanese arrivals grew  4.7%, the third consecutive month of increases. Arrivals from Canada (+5.1%), US West (+0.6%) and US  East (+2.0%) were also higher compared to November 2010. Arrivals by cruise ships fell 32% from  November 2010 to 11,042 visitors. For the first 11 months of 2011, total expenditures by Canadian visitors rose 26.5%, supported by strong  growth in arrivals (+18.8%) and higher average daily spending. Total expenditures by US West (+6.9%) and  US East (+9.5%) visitors continued to increase while US West (+1.9%) and US East (+2.0%) arrivals remained  above year-to-date 2010. Total Japanese visitor expenditures increased 8.1%, even though arrivals were  lower (-5.4%) than the first 11 months of 2010. “The growth from these markets are helping to offset the drop in spending from the US West and US East  that may be attributed to an increase in prices, as well as a recovering US economy,” explained McCartney. November was also the month of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders’ Week (APEC) which the  HTA used to promote Hawai’i as a global meetings destination and highlight the Hawaiian Islands’  centralized location in the Asia-Pacific region. McCartney said, “As anticipated, overall arrivals during  November showed modest growth compared to 2010, but the recent increases in arrivals and spending  from Japan and other Asia are also indicators of the significance of the Asia-Pacific region and the potential  long-term impact that APEC will have on our community.” “It is also important to note that the visitor data for November 2011 does not include APEC attendees who  arrived via private planes or government transportation that is not captured by our research, as well as  ancillary business spending that includes security expenses, equipment rental fees, meeting rooms,  private parties and other expenses,” said McCartney. “As we head into 2012, we anticipate seeing an increased shift of our visitor profile with a growing number  of visitor arrivals from the Asia-Pacific region. With new flights by Air Australia and Asiana Airlines, as well  as increased service by Hawaiian Airlines to South Korea, we see potential to capitalize on opportunities  and will continue developing these markets while building on recent gains that will help to provide jobs  and stimulate our state’s economy.”

An Advanced Energy Storage System Will Be Installed At The MECO Substation In Wailea As Part Of The Maui Smart Grid Project

Wailea Substation Upgrade Supports Smart Grid Project By Wendy Osher Article From: Mauinow.com The Maui Smart Grid Project will demonstrate and evaluate new technologies that will help residents better  manage and reduce energy consumption during periods of high demand. It will also assist Maui Electric  Company (MECO) operate the electricity grid more efficiently. An advanced energy storage system will be installed at the Maui Electric Company substation in Wailea as  part of the Maui Smart Grid Project. Led by MECO and the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute, the Maui Smart Grid Project is designed to demonstrate  and evaluate new technologies for operating the electric grid more efficiently. The Grid Battery System is being provided by A123 Systems, a developer and manufacturer of advanced  lithium ion batteries and systems. It is designed to deliver one megawatt of power for a full hour, reducing t he peak energy load on the substation’s transformers. “We look forward to working with MECO to illustrate the value of our technology within the framework of  the next-generation electric grid,” said Robert Johnson, vice president of the Energy Solutions Group at A123. “A123′s advanced energy storage system has demonstrated the ability to shift peak energy loads when  demand is high to provide the consistent delivery of quality power, which is an extremely valuable service  that supports MECO’s ongoing effort to increase the reliability of the grid and maximize the generation  resources we have in place,” said MECO president, Ed Reinhardt. “The Maui Smart Grid Project will enable us to evaluate new technologies for enhancing our operations,”  said Reinhardt. He said the versatility of A123′s storage system will not only allow the utility to meet peak  load shifting requirements, but also perform additional services. Specific objectives include minimizing emissions, enabling greater utilization of renewable energy sources  and improving grid stability.

Incredible Opening Ceremony Scheduled For The 2012 Hyundai Tournament Of Champions

Aloha Kick-Off to 2012 Hyundai Tournament of Champions

By Wendy Osher
Article from: www.mauinow.com

Golfers and spectators will be treated to a special opening ceremony for the 2012 Hyundai Tournament of Champions on Friday, January 6, on Maui.

The Aloha Kick-Off will commence with a Hawaiian blessing by Clifford Naeole, cultural advisor for the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. He will be joined by famed Hawaii musician, Henry Kapono.

There will also be a special presentation by the Polynesian Cultural Center, featuring highlights from their latest production, “Ha-Breath of Life.”

This spectacular show is an ancient, yet universal tale of a boy, Mana, born in a distant paradise and nourished by a village. He learns the ways of his people, finds love, and defends everything with heart-stopping bravery.

The Polynesian Cultural Center is located on the island of O’ahu. The special appearance of performers from the PCC at the opening ceremonies of the 2012 Hyundai Tournament of Champions was organized in part by the Hawai’i Tourism Authority and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau.

The opening ceremony events are scheduled to take place 45 minutes prior to the first tee time at the Plantation Course in Kapalua.

For more information call (808) 665-9160.

Andaz Wailea Resort Update

Many clients ask what happened to the Renaissance Hotel? Or for those of us who are on island and see the  bustling construction near Mokapu Beach and across from the Wailea Fairway Estates and Wailea Blue Golf  Course: What will the new hotel be like? Will there be units for sale? For regular updates on these questions please call us directly at (808)280-2764 or 1-800-291-5535. In  the meantime here are some interesting articles: Click here for the Hyatt press release:http://www.hyattpressroom.com/content/hyatt/en/news_releases0 /2010/Hyatt-and-Starwood-Capital-Announce-Joint-Venture-to-Create-Andaz-Wailea-Resort.html Click here for yesterday’s article in the Maui News:http://www.mauinews.com/page/content.detail/id/ 556472.html As work on the project has gained momentum and with our South Maui market showing strong activity,  particularly in luxury property sales, reports are that there will now be multiple ocean front villas available  for sale. The prices and specs of these have not yet been made public, but please check with us for updates.  The Hansens represented the buyer and seller of the record sale in the Wailea Beach Villas and are always  available to discuss your Maui real estate goals.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Condominium Council of Maui Will Have Their Annual Meeting November 10th at the King Kamehameha Golf Club

Maui Condo Council Annual Meeting, Building Trade Show By Sonia Isotov Article from: Mauinow.com On November 10th, condominium managers, unit owners, property management firms, and building and  construction professionals will all gather for the 4th Annual Seminar and Trade Show of the Condominium Council of Maui (CCM). The theme of this year’s meeting is “Old Buildings-New Solutions: What Associations Need to Know” and  the seminar portion of the meeting will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the King Kamehameha Golf Club above  Waikapu. Alongside the seminar, a vendor’s trade show will run from 8:10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is provided. Guest speakers include: Colin Murphy, Trinity; Rick Tanner, The Whaler at Kaanapali, Robert Barrett, Coasta l Windows; and Christian Porter, Esq. and CCM Moderator, and others. Seminar topics will include: engineering, architectural, plumbing, windows, insurance, finance, and more.  Attendees will hear about some of the pit-falls of local association renovation projects, and how to protect,  preserve and enhance property assets now. A question and answer period will be made available. For more information, go to the Maui Condominium Council website.

Visitor Spending on Maui Continues to Grow~Momentum Is Anticipated To Continue Into 2012

Maui Visitor Spending Grows, Arrivals Flat By Sonia Isotov Article from: MauiNow.com Total expenditures by Maui visitors in the first nine months of 2011 increased by 15.1%, compared to the same  period last year, to $2,370.5 million, according to preliminary statistics released today by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Total visitor days for Maui visitors only rose 4.2% and total arrivals (+4.5%) continued to surpass last year at 1,640,498 visitors. For the month of September 2011, total visitor expenditures for Maui grew 16.4%  ($225.9 million) from September 2010 to $194.0 million. Contributing to the increase was higher daily  spending by all visitors ($194.9 per person, up from $176.2 per person in September 2010) and a 4.7%  growth in total arrivals to 159,359 visitors. “Visitor spending grew to more than $1 billion in September, an increase of 19.7%, with visitors from every  major market area spending more and staying longer than in 2010. We are also pleased that these increases  are being seen throughout all of the four major islands, with year-to-date total visitor expenditures reaching  $9.3 billion in 2011,” said Mike McCartney, president and chief executive officer, Hawaii Tourism Authority,  in a written statement. Total visitor days for all visitors rose 4.2% and total arrivals (+2.7%) continued to surpass last year at  5,446,393 visitors. Contributing to the statewide increase was higher daily spending by all visitors ($199  per person, up from $176 per person in September 2010) and a 4% growth in total arrivals to 560,707 visitors. After six straight months of losses, Japanese arrivals grew slightly by 0.8%. Arrivals from US West (+2%) and  US East (+4.4%) also increased following three months of declines. Continued McCartney, “September’s growth included the continued increase in Japanese visitor spending,  as well as an increase in visitor arrivals, the first of such increases in six months. And we are hopeful that  the uptick in arrivals is a sign of recovery of the Japan market.” Statewide, arrivals by air only in September 2011 rose 4.7% from last September to 553,068 visitors, with  increases from all top four visitor markets. Arrivals from Canada climbed 23%, the fifteenth consecutive  month of double-digit growth. “We anticipate this momentum to continue through the fourth quarter of 2011 and into 2012, with increases  in airlift out of Japan, Canada, Korea and Australia through new and established airlines. We are excited to  welcome Asiana Airlines with direct service from Honolulu to Incheon, Korea, Strategic Airlines servicing  both Brisbane and Melbourne to Honolulu, and Allegiant Airlines servicing the US West region, into the  Hawai’i market,” said McCartney. “We are very encouraged with the increases in visitor spending, arrivals and air seats as we head towards  the end of the year. Together with Hawaii’s visitor industry partners, we will remain vigilant and focused to  reach our targets, set at $12.6 billion in visitor spending and 7.5 million visitor arrivals for 2011.”

More International Exposure For Maui As The Maui Makani Windsurfing Classic Returns To Ho'okipa October 27th~November 1st

Boost Expected With Return of Maui Makani Classic By Wendy Osher Article from: Mauinow.com One-hundred world class windsurfers converge at Ho`okipa Beach Park next week for the championship leg of the  American Windsurfing Tour. The Maui Makani Classic kicks off on October 27 and runs until November 1, marking a  return of the sport to Ho`okipa, the international mecca of the windsurfing world. “There is no better place for windsurfing than right here on Maui, and we are proud to be hosting world class events  once more,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa. “What Halloween does for Lahaina, big windsurfing events will do for Paia.  We’re going to get our economy going one town at a time if we have to,” he said. Competitors will be traveling to Maui from more than 20 counties including Argentina, Chili, China, South Korea,  Morocco, Ireland and Japan. The event is also expected to attract hundreds of spectators from Maui and abroad. In an effort to help with traffic congestion, free event parking will be provided at the Old Maui High School in  Hamakuapoko, with free shuttle bus services provided by the Maui County Veterans Association and the Disabled  American Veterans. No parking will be allowed on the sides of the highway. In addition to the windsurfing competition, other Makani Classic events to include the following: ■Makani Classic opening night party at the Kahului Ale House, October 26, 8 p.m. ■Makani Classic Opening Ceremony, Ho`okipa Beach Park, Oct. 27, 10 a.m. ■Goya and Quatro Party, Pauwela Cannery in Haiku, 6 to 10 p.m. ■Fourth Friday in Paia, 6 to 9 p.m. ■Maui Ultra Lounge Party, Neil Pryde in Kahului, 6 to 9 p.m. ■Pizza with the Pros, Flatbread Pizza in Paia, 6 to 10 p.m. ■Makani Classic closing ceremonies, hosted by Maui Babe and held at the Maui Tropical Plantation, featuring  entertainment, food, cash bar and award presentations, Nov. 1 at 5 p.m., tickets $10 per person. For more information, visit: www.americanwindsurfingtour.com.

Show Support For Clint Hansen's Proposed Opening of Maui Paintball

Filed under: Uncategorized — Clint Hansen @ 4:48 pm On November 22, 2011 I am getting my long awaited (years in the making) meeting with the Maui Planning Department  for my proposed opening of Maui Paintball. To help show community and visitor support for this endeavor please  CLICK HERE and sign my on-line petition. In addition to my love of the sport I feel that opening this facility would be  of tremendous benefit to those of us who are fortunate enough to call Maui home and those who come to visit. This  will be a fully insured and properly supervised enterprise on approximately 10 acres in Olowalu. Thanks to everyone for their support and please feel free to call me at 808-280-2764 or email me at  Clinthansen33@gmail.com with any questions. Mahalo and Aloha, Clint Hansen, Realtor (S) The Hansen Ohana

Another Great Reason To Be On Maui In January~Watch The PGA Live At The Kapalua Plantation Course

Hyundai Golf: Charities Benefit From New Ticket Structure By Wendy Osher Article From: Mauinow.com The Hyundai Tournament of Champions revises its ticketing policy for 2012, and will be charging for adult entry this year,  with charity in mind. The event launches a new program in the coming weeks called Golf for Maui Charities. Under the program, 501-c3  non-profit organizations can promote the sale of tickets, with 100% of net proceeds going back to their charity. “The new ticket structure for 2012 allows the Hyundai Tournament of Champions to have significant impact on the  local economy and our charitable partners,” said Tournament Director Nancy Cross. “We are excited about the upcoming launch of our Golf for Maui Charities program. We hope charities will get involved  with this fantastic opportunity in a time when fundraising has become more difficult than ever,” said Cross. All 501-c3 organizations interested in being a part of Golf for Maui Charities, should contact the Hyundai Tournament  of Champions tournament office at (808) 665-9160 or toll-free at (888) 665-9160 for more information. In 2011, event organizers offered free admission in addition to a host of other complimentary activities. When the event returns in January of 2012, the free entry will be reserved for those 18 and under who are accompanied by a ticket-paying adult, as well as military (active duty, retired and reserve) personnel and their dependents. There will be an opportunity for all spectators to gain free entry on one day only, Thursday, January 5, 2012 for the  Pro-Am Round. The four rounds of professional competition run from Friday, January 6, through Monday, January 9 at the Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort, marking the official start of the PGA TOUR’s 2012 FedExCup season. In advance of this new program, general admission tickets for competition rounds on Jan. 6-9 are on sale now at  www.pgatour.com/Hyundai. Advance prices for single any-day tickets are $15 plus applicable fees with weeklong  grounds tickets selling for $40 plus applicable fees. ***For Military: Military tickets can be downloaded free of charge by visiting www.birdiesforthebrave.com and clicking on the Ticketing link. All military and their dependents will need to show their valid military ID along with their  downloaded ticket in order to gain complimentary admission.