At Maui Real Estate Search, we are the next generation of Maui Realtors. We are educated, hardworking professionals who understand the importance of trust and integrity in real estate transactions. We are not just agents. We are not just salespeople. We are Real Estate Consultants. The combination of unique market-knowledge and excellent negotiating skills enable us to get you the optimal price for any property you plan to sell or buy. We will represent your best interest, from intial consultation to the closing table. Discerning Buyers will rejoice with our representation, our negotiating skills are unmatched. And for the Savvy Seller, we will diligently work to get the best terms and price for your property. We adhere to strict codes of ethics and standards, both in our professional and personal life. Our objective is to build lasting relationships with our clients and to exceed all expectations. Please feel free to use our website as a resource for all your Maui real estate needs (we are iphone enabled as well), and if you have additional questions, do not hesitate to contact us. Maui Real Estate Search.

Buyers

Buying real estate can seem to be a daunting and difficult process, specially if not guided by educated realtors. After all, a house is not just a house, it is a home, it is an investment in the future. Many questions will arise, "How much can I afford", "Where is the best area for me", etc. and we are here to answer all your questions as well as assist you from initial consultation to the closing table. To research different areas of the Valley Isle, visit our Maui Communities section.

If you would like to search the most comprehensive listings on Maui, you can do so here:

Example: 3 rooms, 2 baths, kihei, HI

Please read the articles below to better prepare for one of the biggest accomplishments of your life, purchasing your dream property on Maui.

Buying Process

Buyer's Closing Costs

Tax Information

Canadian (Foreign) Buyers

 

Buying Process

No two real estate transactions are ever the same, encumbered with circumstances that are as different as the people conducting them. Nevertheless, you can better prepare by expecting this steps leading you to closing.

1- How much you can afford depends on your income, current monthly expenses, credit, prevailing interest rates, and down payment. Keep in mind that Hawaii has homebuying programs that can assist you partly with the downpayment and closing costs.
2- There are many rights of which a purchaser of real estate needs to be aware. These vary from equal opportunity, to protection from predatory lenders, to many federal and state laws enacted to protect the consumer.
3- Financing can be the most daunting task, yet for an informed consumer it can be the easiest phase of the process. Contact different lenders to compare interest rates and costs. Negotiate for better terms, as it can lead to significant savings. Contact us if you would like to be referred to a trusted local professional.
4- The step that can be the difference between a smooth transaction and a real estate nightmare is attaining the services of a qualified Realtor. A qualified buyer's representative is working for you and maintains your best interests at heart throughout the entire process. Contact us if you would like to be represented by the most diligent professionals in the area.
5- Make a list of needs (must haves) and wants (would be nice) of the qualities you aspire in a home. Be objective when visiting properties and visualize how it would complement your life.
6- Discuss the property with your Realtor. If the seller counters your offer, rest assured that the Realtors of Maui Real Estate Search will negotiate for the best possible terms on your behalf.
7- A home inspection conducted by a professional can save significant amounts in repairs. Be thorough to ascertain the true condition of a home and request an additional walk-through to take place prior to closing.
8- The day is upon us and you are ready for closing. Settlement can be a very complicated process and the helping hand of an experience real estate professional will make it much more expedient.

 

Buyer's Closing Costs

When a buyer applies for financing, lenders are required to provide them with a good-faith estimate of closing costs associated with such a transaction. The fees vary according to several factors, including the type of loan they applied for and the terms of the purchase agreement. Keep in mind that some of the closing costs, particularly those associated with the loan application, are paid in advance. Some typical buyer closing costs include:

* The down payment
* Loan fees (application fee, credit report fees, points if applicable)
* Prepaid interest
* Appraisal
* Mortgage insurance
* Hazard insurance
* Title insurance (40%)
* Documentary stamps on the note

For a closing cost estimator, please visit Title Guaranty

 

Tax Information

Tax rates are always of big concern when looking for properties, understandably so, as a high rate could make a home unaffordable. Important dates to keep in mind:

* Tax year begins July 1 and extends to the following June 30.
* Dec 31: Deadline for filing exemption claims and ownership documents.
* Jan 1: Assessments set for next tax year.
* Mar 15: Assessment notices mailed.
* Apr 9: Deadline for filing tax appeals.
* June 20: Tax rate set by County Council.
* July 1: Tax year commences.
* Aug 20: First half year tax payments due.
* Feb 20: Second half year tax payments due.

For current rates, please visit Maui County Property Tax

This article is for information purposes only. Consult an attorney or tax professional for advice on a specific situation.

 

Canadian (Foreign) Buyers   

For many foreigners, buying a property in Maui is not simply to beat the winter weather, but also to make a sound investment.  With a weak US dollar compared to many foreign currencies, combined with a real estate market that, although fluctuates with the economy, it is one of the most stable in the world, the opportunities to invest in Maui properties are unparalleled. However, there are a few issues that a savvy investor must keep in mind:

*  In the US, there is a mechanism to delay taxes on properties, it is called a 1031 Exchange.  It allows capital gains from the sale of a property (investment) to be deferred and used to purchase a similar type of property (i.e. a residential for a residential) if the transaction is completed within 180 days. This 1031 Exchange can be done several times allowing capital gains to be deferred until the property is finally sold and not be replaced.

*  In the US, there are hundreds of banks and lending institutions, who may differ greatly in their lending policies.  Be diligent and thorough in researching your financing options, and feel free to contact us if you need a recommendation or have questions.

*  Under the Hawaii Real Property Tax Act (HARPTA), the purchaser of Hawaii real estate is obligated to withhold and deduct a tax equal to 5% of the amount realized by the seller upon settlement of the transaction.

*  Under the Foreign Investors Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA), the buyer of real estate in Hawaii (and anywhere else in the USA) is obligated to withhold and deduct a tax equal to 10% of the amount realized by seller upon the settlement of the transaction.

 

Sellers

Selling a home can be an exciting time of high expectations and lofty dreams. However, there is no guarantee that a buyer will simply wander through the door and make a full-price offer. The Realtors of MRES can help in preparing an effective marketing strategy to ensure that your property garners maximum exposure.

The selling process has many facets that can not be ignored. How you present your home is critical in making a positive first impression to the buyer. How your home is marketed online is also key in whether a buyer will visit your house or go to the one down the street. And how aggressively your property is priced can be huge factor in receiving a full-price offer. Allow us the opportunity to represent you and your expectations will be exceeded.

Below please find articles that you will find insightful in the home selling process:

Selling Process

Seller's Closing Costs

Negotiating Closing Costs

 

Selling Process

The selling process can be intimidating and seem overly complicated. With so many real estate and legal terms being confusing, procedures and roles of participants vague, it can seem like a daunting enterprise. However, with the assistance of an diligent Realtor, an informed seller can have enjoyable (and profitable) experience. Below is an outline of what the process normally entails.

1- Obtaining representation by the RIGHT Realtor can be critical in maintaining a good working relationship and executing a successful transaction. At the listing appointment, the real estate agent will provide certain data on the market condition, such as how comparable (comps) active listings are priced and the final sales price of recently sold "comps". This is critical in establishing an asking price. As a rule of thumb, properties priced more than 5% above market value will not sell. Equally important is being represented by a Realtor who will aggressively market your home. Our team has years of experience in the fast-paced world of international marketing and the technical knowledge to successfully market your home, establishing maximum exposure in the market.
2- Your real estate agent will ask for a number of documents and information pertaining to the property. You will be required to disclose all information relating to the condition of your home and to the financial status of the title. Relevant information, such as amenities and assets, will be used to effectively market your home and garner the interest of buyers.
3- Make a lasting impression by preparing your home for showings. Start with curb appeal by making your yard well-maintained and ensuring the exterior is well-kept. An old real estate adage is that kitchen and bathrooms sell home, be sure these areas are particularly spotless. Maximize the assets and minimize the flaws by helping define the space for potential buyers.
4- You spent a good amount of time and effort preparing your home for buyers, however, your broker will be the one marketing and showing your home. It is best for a buyer to view the home without the owner or tenant present. And leave the negotiating to your Realtor.
5- Upon receiving an offer, your realtor will present the terms to you, to include the sales price and earnest money offered, proposed closing date and contingencies. At this juncture, the options will be to accept the offer as is, make a counter-offer, or reject it. Consult your realtor for professional advice on the negotiating of offers presented.
6- When the buyer and seller agree to terms on a contract, the sales process will proceed through various stages. Many more participants enter at this stage, such as escrow officers, house and termite inspectors, attorneys and appraisers. With the assistance of your realtor, you will obtain all documents required for closing and address all contingencies. Prepare your home for the buyer to make the final walk-through inspection and to take possession of the property.
7- The day of closing is a time for reviewing and signing numerous documents, to include settlement papers, financing documents, and deeds, as applicable. A breakdown of settlement charges will be provided and explained by your agent and title company rep. Upon disbursement of funds to the appropriate parties, ownership will transfer. You sold your home!

 

Seller's Closings Costs

If the seller has not yet paid for the house in full, the seller's most important closing cost is satisfying the remaining balance of their loan. Before the date of closing, the escrow officer will contact the seller's lender to verify the amount needed to close out the loan. Then, along with any other fees, the original loan will be paid for at the closing before the seller receives any proceeds from the sale. Other seller closing costs typically include:

* Broker's commission
* Inspection Fees
* Transfer taxes
* Survey of property
* Documentary Stamps on the Deed
* Title insurance (60%)
* Property taxes (prorated)

For a closing cost estimator, please visit Title Guaranty

Negotiating Closing Costs

In addition to the sales price, buyers and sellers frequently include closing costs in their negotiations. This can be for both major and minor fees. For example, if a buyer is particularly nervous about the condition of the plumbing, the seller may agree to pay for the house inspection.

Likewise, a buyer may want to save on up-front expenditures, and so agree to pay the seller's full asking price in return for the seller paying all the allowable closing costs. There's no right or wrong way to negotiate closing costs; just be sure all the terms are written down on the purchase agreement as such as to best protect your best interests.