Steven Nickens Maui Real Estate Blog

I was talking to a Canadian visitor at one of our sale offices in Wailea Maui.  He was sharing how the Dollar gained against the Canadian dollar.  The Canadian dollar is around 80 cents to the Dollar now.  With oil at $67 a barrel and the cost to produce oil in Canada at about the same dollar amount. The run on oil profits I believe will be slowing down in Canada. I think we will see a slowing of Canadian buyers in the U.S. for a while. Now if you turn the tables it is actually a great time for Canadians to sell in the U.S.  So will the dollar remain strong for a while, time will tell.  For now It might be a great time to get in touch with your Canadian sellers.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

I had the day off yesterday, So I headed up to Kula Maui to pick up a load of manure.  I am working on making raised beds for herbs and vegtables.  I am putting together redwood raised boxes, this will limit the up keep and keep is weed free. So I was driving up to Kula and thought I would take a few pictures along the way. My first stop was through Makawao Town.

This is Polli's Mexican restaurant a local favorite.

This use to be the fireplace store. Now it is a collection of gift items

This is the Viewpoint Gallery. The former owner was a good friend of mine and passed away. He also was the owner of the Makwao Steak House for years.

Goodies is a local favorite for womens clothing.

The Matsui Store was once a retail store for Nickens Interiors. That was my business before I went into real estate fourteen years ago. I was a licensed contractor on Maui for 18 yrs. It was a great experience that has followed me into real estate. Okay now I am heading up to Kula.

I love looking out over the island. People say do you ever get tired of living on Maui. I have lived here 36 years and raised my family here with my lovely wife. That answer is always no. I was out surfing early this morning and talking to couple of the boys that have been here as long as I have. We were talking about how blessed we are living here as we got clean up by a outside approaching set. So life on Maui too me gets deeper and better as the years go on.

So finally I arived at the ranch for some seasoned horse crap. You have to love the country life to appreicated hauling manure.

Its a home run and a great day. Now I am loaded and ready to deliver 2 year old horse crap to my Garden. Maui offers such a diverse life style.  You may want to live in Beautiful Wailea or enjoy the country life. Maui has a little bit of everything for everyone. Well gotta go. If you have any questions on Maui real estate of Maui Condos for sale drop me a line.

Later,

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea Maui, Hawaii 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

Okay I am sick of the news and sick of this presidential race. Is there anyone with any common sense in the gov't.  I once heard a joke that all the good people that should be running for office are either surfing or backpacking. So we deal with what we have for now.  My question is do people just stop living because Congress and Wall St. are so busy looking after their own Ass. No, as hard working honest Americans we do what we know how to do.  Put our heads down and work hard.  We also adjust in any way to get through this mess. So I am saying it's business as usual.  People have changes in their lives. They need to sell their homes and move to a different town. They might have sold a 1031 exchange property and need a replacement property, etc, etc, etc.  So the way I see it is we work a little harder but business is going to keep going. So be encouraged work hard there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea, Group LLC.

3750 Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

I work a lot in the Shops at Wailea.  That is where our main office is located.

Wailea is actually a beautiful place to work. I still work island wide being that I live on the northshore of Maui. The Shops is actually a very cool place to work. You have a certain clientele that visits Wailea from all over the world.  Its interesting when you meet people everyone has a different story to tell. People come through here from Canada or they might be from South Carolina. Any way here is a few pictures of the shops.

 This is Wailea Beach Villas that is directly behind the Shops at Wailea.  We have an office in the lobby that has incredible views of the property. Well today is actually a day off work. Had a early surf session answer a few emails. I am done blogging. Now its time to head up country to Kula for a load of manure and check out a nursery for some grafted avocado trees. Life is good on Maui.  If I may be of any help in your journey to Maui drop me a line.

Steve Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Okay it is Sunday morning and I have to head to Wailea by  10 o.clock to work on Papali Wailea project.  Before I head to work I am going to grab a cup of coffee and head to Hookipa Beach Park on Maui northshore for a surf check. So when I pull up it's looking pretty fun.

Looks good I am out there.

Here is a shot of a friend of mine.

There was lots of waves to be had. Well time to get home and get ready for work.

One last look.

I have a hard time walking by my garden.  It is another passion.

So it's time to hit the road for Wailea. A quick stop for a cup of coffee is a good thing.

It was such a clear day I thought I would get a shot of the sugar cane mill. Sugar cane has all but disappeared except for on Maui.

So it's time to pull into Papali Wailea and get to work. So far it has been a great day. I am going to get some farm material together and make the most of the day. This is our slow season up to the holidays. Well I hope you enjoyed a little of my world on Maui.

Steven C. Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

I love the different colors in this Maui sunset sky.  When they are burning sugar cane you get a blood red. This shot is just beautiful  from a couple nights ago.  This is setting over the West Maui mountains.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui,Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

The Back up offer works!

You would never think that in a slow real estate market you would have to deal with multiple offers.  I was working with my client on an offer and thinking we were looking good.  Then out of know where another offer and we lose this great property.  So I encouraged my client's to put in a back up offer which was accepted.  The offer that was in first position canceled for what ever reason.  Guess what we are in escrow and my clients are stoked.  There was other interest in the property being that it was a really nice 4-acre piece of property in Haiku Maui. The good news is we closed yesterday and everyone was a winner.  I always encourage my clients to work with back up offers if they really like the property.  Sometimes they don't come through.  Then again this time it was a home run.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

Experience that makes a difference

If you happento be in the market for a Kihei Maui condo for sale there is a wide variety of prices. There are currently 495 condos on the market in Kihei. The least expensive condo starts at $155K for a 1BR unit in Wailaka Apts. Moving to the most expensive condo would land you on the beach. The Lokehale has a 2BR unit available for $1,795,000. for a luxury Kihei Maui oceanfront unit. To view Kihei Maui condos for sale check this link for all current Kihei Maui condos.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5 WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

Kihei Maui Condominiums

If you were thinking of owning a condos in Hawaii under a million dollars.  Then I would recommend Kamaole Sands Condominium in Kihei Maui.  It is a great place to vacation rent to Maui tourist.  What makes it so great is location, location, location.  It is right across from Kamaole III Beach Park.  It is a great place to hit the beach and catch the evening sunsets.  It is also a stones throw from Wailea Maui which has world class beaches. Kamaole Sands condominium is also a well kept condominium and has a great pool and barbecue area.  Prices run from $400K up to $800K for a ocean view unit. So if you have any questions on Kamaole Sands drop me a line. Also check this link for Maui Condominiums.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net 

Commercial Property Haiku Maui

Two Lots located in the heart of Haiku Maui.  Right across the street from the Haiku Town Center.  Two TMK's and two water meters located right on the main street for easy access.  Both lots are M-1commercial zoned and are almost an acre of vacant land.  This is the center of Haiku business center with grocery stores, restaurants, fitness centers, doctor's offices, bike shops and more. Price is $1,899,000.  For more information on this property or other Maui real estate properties check my site at.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui. Hawaii 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

email: nickens@maui.net

Cell: 808-280-2208

Winter in Maui!

 I would have to say that winter time is my favorite time in Hawaii.  This year we have been having a beautiful fall.  The wind has been mild and the days have been sunny.  Maui offers many things to different people.  If you are a diver winter is the beginning of lobster season and getting out between swells and scoring some lobster for dinner is a winner.  As I was driving home past the Spreckelsville golf course.  I was watching some men walking the last lap of the day on the course.  They look like they were really enjoying themselves. 

 When I am working in Wailea and I pull into town in the morning.  Wailea is just one of the most beautiful places you would ever want to visit.  I always notice visitors out for a morning run through town or on the beach.  Getting out on the ocean is always a winner.  That could be surfing or taking a snorkeling boat trip to Molokini. 

A favorite for many visitors is taking the day trip to Hana.  A lush tropical setting with countless water falls.  Stop on your way and go for a swim in one of many pools on the way.  Winter time visiting upcountry Maui is well worth the drive.  How about an early morning sunrise trip to the crater.  Just make sure you bring a jacket.  On your way down stop by the Lavender Farm in Kula.  Very beautiful setting with Lavender gardens and incredible bi-coastal views.  So what ever interest you there is something for everybody on Maui.  You might even consider making Maui your home. If you are interested in Maui real estate contact Steven for more information..

Aloha,

Steven Nickens R(S)  GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

This looks like a hot buy in Haiku, Maui Hawaii. This is located on Kauhikoa Rd right down the street from my own home.  This is a great neighborhood located close to  shopping and 10 minutes to Hookipa Beach Park.  The main house is 1472 sqft and the cottage is 662 sqft of living space.  There is  a riding arena if you are into horses on 2-acres of property.  For more information on this property email me for pictures and additional information. Steven can represent you as a Buyer's agent on this property or any Haiku Maui real estate for sale.

Steve Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

email: nickens@maui.net

I was going brain dead with the prices of gas.  Now I am excited to see $4.12 gallon. What if it drop below $4 gallon.  It's amazing how we come to accept change and I would have been appalled if I ever thought I was going to pay $4.12 gallon.  There is all kinds of change we are experiencing now.  Will we be paying higher taxes as a result of the bailout. 

At first we might scream a little bit but in the long run it becomes a way of life. The world is changing around us like never before.  So in a changing world today I am going to hang on to the good things in life that make you happy. Don't let change rip you off. Yes we need to adjust the way we live, but not who we are. So today is a great day.  I am going to fill my tank up at $4.12 gallon and life if good.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea GroupLLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Eamil: nickens@maui.net

I have notice that we all write about the changing seasons. This year has been different with a couple airlines going under and the economy.  As I mention in past blogs it has been real quiet so far this year with the tourist industry and Maui real estate sales. A gage for me has been the airport in Kahului Maui. I had a day off today and spent the morning working in my garden.

Around 1:o'clock I headed to Kanaha Beach for a windsurf session. As I headed around the airport you always notice how many private jets are in town.  There was a few jets not like there will be in the holidays.  As I drove through the airport heading to the beach I was really glad to see that the airport was busy. It has been a while since I have seen a lot of bodies at the terminal.  I was talking to my daughter in-law who manages Chico's in The Shops at Wailea.  She mention that business has pick up.  Also that there are a lot of Canadians in town. If any Canadians are reading this we really appreciate your Aloha to the islands.  So this is a sign along with the surf arriving on the north shore that winter has arrived. With that brings hopes of a busy winter for Maui real estate sales.

Aloha,

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

The last couple months the hotels have been slow on Maui. I do believe it is a result of losing a couple airlines and the economy tanking.  The good news is the hotels are picking up. Talking to a friend of mine this morning. The Fairmont Kea A Lani Hotel has been busier and going into the winter is booking up. I was surfing this morning on Lahaina side trying to get some of the last south swell for the year.  A good friend of mine works at the Four Seasons Hotel.  They have been up to 80% occupancy rate and looking to be pretty busy for the season.  So hopefully this  will carry over into the Maui Real Estate market this winter season.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, MAui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

It has been a busy week. Yesterday Walter an associate with The Wailea Group which I work for said Steve lets do a morning paddle.  Walter is the rep in our company for the new Baccarat Wailea Resort and Residences.  This is a new project coming on line 193 Wailea oceanfront units.

They are offering 1,2,3 and four bedroom luxury ocean front units. So the baccarart has a beach conscession with standup surfboards and beach gear.  Walter has a new 18ft Angolu stand up board and I borrow a 12 ft Laird stand up board.  We launched from the Baccarat site and headed towards Makena Beach.  It was a beautiful morning with Hugh turtles every where. 

By the time we reach Makena Surf condominiums it was time to head back. What a beautiful site paddling looking at Wailea with Ululpalakua Ranch in the distance looking majestic and lush green. Like I said it was time to head back to work at Wailea Beach Villas office.  So it was sprint time to get back. Walter took off to sea in his sleek 18ft race board.  There is know way I can keep up with him so I set a line towards the Baccarat thinking maybe I could beat him back.  No way, Walter comes gliding in on his 18 foot race board making it look easy. Well by the time I arrived at shore my legs had a great work out. A quick shower and off to work.  Did I mention that I love my job.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

Commercial Property Haiku Maui

Two Lots located in the heart of Haiku Maui.  Right across the street from the Haiku Town Center.  Two TMK's and two water meters located right on the main street for easy access.  Both lots are M-1commercial zoned and are almost an acre of vacant land.  This is the center of Haiku business center with grocery stores, restaurants, fitness centers, doctor's offices, bike shops and more. Price is $1,899,000.  For more information on this property or other Maui real estate properties check my site at. www.nickensmaui.com

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui. Hawaii 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

email: nickens@maui.net

Cell: 808-280-2208

I read this article on CNN.com this morning.  The article was stating that Obama and McCain are spending $300 million a week on negative campaign ads.  On top of that they are not working. So the article was saying that instead of spending all that money on negative ads that are not working give it to the homeless shelters to help people who are out of work from losing their jobs. What a great idea, then they could really show the American people how much they care.  Here is the link.http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/16/campbell.brown.negative.ads/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email: nickens@maui.net

I have been working in Wailea Maui and it does seem there is a little more activity here now.  I know the Grand Wailea Hotel and Spa has pick up on reservations.  Working at Hoolei Wailea Town-homes their occupancy has pick up. So while I don't think we will set any records.  I do think this winter will be okay.  I do feel that will also reflect the activity in Kauai,Big Island and Oahu. Gas is finally coming down at the pumps so this should relect in lower airfare. Even know this summer was real sluggish I am hoping for a busy winter.

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite 5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 976753

www.nickensmaui.com

Email:nickens@maui.net

Life is good at Kanani Wailea's prestigious upscale gated community.  With only 38 homes, Kanani offers Quiet Island living with ocean views for your enjoyment.  This 4BR/4BA island home offers 2,242 sqft of living space with great flow through out the house.  Enjoy this Hawaiian designed floor plan that compliments the surrounding landscape and ocean views. Cooking will be a delight with this gourmet kitchen featuring Leicht European cherry cabinets, granite counter tops, Wolf, Sub-Zero, Bosch appliances, Bon Appetite!

Enter into the Japanese courtyard entry that has a separate guest room or for the artist or writer studio. Other features include Bamboo floors, Monier tile roofs, 2-car garage; custom designed bathrooms, security system, 9ft walls and vaulted ceilings. The community recreation center features a fitness center, sun deck, hot tub, business center, infinity pool and clubhouse for evening barbeques.  So come by and experience Kanani Wailea for Island living.

Aloha,

Steven Nickens R(S) GRI ABR

The Wailea Group LLC.

3750 Wailea Alanui, suite5WE

Wailea, Maui, Hi 96753

www.nickensmaui.com

email: nickens@maui.net

cell: 808-280-2208