Basic Real Estate Terms to Know 

Buying and Selling a home can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t need to be! In addition to selecting a great agent, becoming familiar with the following words and terms can help boost your confidence, and your knowledge in the field of Real Estate.  

Appraisal by Market Comparison 

A licensed appraiser provides an estimate of the property’s market value. It is a thorough examination and comparison of actual sales of comparable properties.  Banks use this when making loans to home buyers.  It is also used with refinancing, and for settling estate values upon death.   

Comparable Market Analysis and Comparables 

Often used as a guide for pricing a property, a comparable market analysis…

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Our Favorite Maui Coffee Shops

Whether you are looking for ambiance, an incredible roast, or pure efficiency out of your coffee provider, we’ve got some great suggestions!

Akamai

A local favorite, featuring 100% Maui Coffees, and a rotating food menu.

Located: Kahului, Kihei, and Wailea

Extra Points Awarded For: Having a drive-through option in Kahului and Kihei

Follow Them At: @akamaicoffee 

Vida by Sip Me Maui

Known for their signature “Vida Rosa Latte” and sweet treats, it’s a place you have to check out when strolling through Makawao.

Located: Makawao

Extra Points Awarded For: Being a great space (with WIFI) to work in.

Follow Them At: @sipmemaui

Maui Coffee Roasters

A Maui classic, their Coffee Club…

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Home Renovations That Offer the Best ROI: Hawaii Edition

Flooring

While new floors offer a strong ROI across the U.S., making the change from carpet to hardwood is a good idea in Hawaii. Perhaps it has something to do with how often us residents walk around barefoot!

Before:     

After:

Pictures source: https://www.mauimagazine.net/maui-condo- 1 

Garage Door Replacement 

Between curb appeal and functionality, upgrading the garage door can literally pay off. Before you panic at the thought of a big project: remember that if the door works fine, a good power wash and a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. 

Kitchen and Bathroom

Enhancing the kitchen and bathrooms are known for having a stronger ROI over bedroom remodels.…

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What is it?

A temporary rate buydown creates an opportunity for a buyer to make lower monthly mortgage payments during the first 1-3 years. This is made possible by lowering the interest rate for that window of time. For example:

If the interest rate is currently 6.5%, the Seller could buy down the Buyer's interest rate on a new loan, say 4.5% for 24 months. 

Not only does the buyer have lower monthly payments for the first 1-3 years, but they also pay less in interest over the duration of the loan.

How does it happen?

When this incentive was initially developed, the buy down was paid for by the seller, who made up the difference to the loan company. These days, many lending companies themselves are offering this option to sellers…

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What You Need to Know About Taking Care of Your Corner of Paradise

One pro of living in Hawaii is the mild seasons. The lack of snow, sleet, and other freezing conditions remove some tasks from a home-owners annual to-do list.

But what sort of home maintenance do you still need to consider when living in paradise? 

Water Water Water

Keep an eye out for leaks, indoor and outdoor. This will save you time and money no matter what part of the country you live in. Also, according to Handy Andy Hawaii: The average lifespan of a water heater is roughly 15 years! Checking the pressure relief valve will help you get the most milage out of yours.

Clean Your Gutters

We don't get snow, but we do get rain! And with all the fresh foliage blooming…

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