For Sale By Owner, Don't Try This at Home.

"Should I sell my home on the Big Island myself? It's a question thousands of homeowners ponder each year, and the majority is motivated by a perception that the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) process saves sellers time and money.

"FSBOs often make the decision to sell their houses on the Big Island themselves because they think it is easy, and the home will sell quickly," says Howard Dinits, CRS, of RE/MAX Resort Realty in Wailea Maui Hawaii 96753 "Certainly, they want to save the commission and quite honestly feel the soft market makes it hard to break even."

Unfortunately, the do-it-yourself approach doesn't always end successfully. Before making a decision, here are a few things to consider.

1. Howard Dinits RS CRS sells homes for more money.
Some 61 percent of FSBOs sell their homes themselves to avoid paying the commission fee. However, the typical FSBO home sold for $25,200 less than an agent-assisted home. That's $163,800 for FSBOs, compared to $189,000 for agent-assisted homes.

2. Howard Dinits understands the ins and outs of the complicated Hawaii Real Estate transaction process.
It is a Realtor's job to guide and support clients during the sale of a home. They also help mitigate the overwhelming and time-consuming contracts, forms and disclosure statements required throughout the process. The most challenging tasks for FSBOs include: preparing/fixing up the home for sale; getting the price right; understanding and completing paperwork; selling within the time planned; and attracting potential buyers.

In addition to their deep knowledge of the real estate process, Dinits reminds FSBO sellers that CRS-designated REALTOR's care about where and when they want to move, as well as how much money is needed from the transaction. "CRSs demonstrate client service by involving sellers as much as they'd like. On the front end, agents know that marketing the home effectively leads to broader exposure. They appropriately follow-up with each prospect and alleviate a common FSBO fear of missing out on reaching the right people."

3. Howard Dinits CRS knows how to market your Big Island home effectively.
Getting the word out is essential for a successful and timely sale, so agent-assisted sellers benefit from frequent use of a wide array of marketing tactics. FSBOs rely mostly on yard signs, newspaper advertisements and open houses to incite buyer interest. Only 24 percent use the Internet to market their homes, while 72 percent of agents do.

"The biggest challenge for FSBOs is getting enough exposure for their home," Howard continues. "The Big Island newspaper captures only 1 percent of potential buyers, the Internet captures 32 percent, and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) captures 51 percent.

"When FSBOs convert to listing with a REALTOR?, they find the tools Howard uses to reach potential buyers very valuable. We go beyond the MLS by reaching buyers who visit www.REALTOR.com, AOL, Yahoo! and MSN. CRS-designated REALTORs? in particular enjoy extensive relocation networks that bring in buyers from all over the country."

4. Howard Dinits is trained to overcome objections, negotiate and remain impartial.
Selling and buying real estate is an emotional process for homeowners. When its time to negotiate price, Howard Dinits is his clients' advocates and can compile statistics and research, balance offers and counteroffers, and handle many of the contingencies that can be frightening and frustrating for buyers and sellers working alone.

"FSBOs in Hawaii underestimate the amount of follow-up required," Howard says. "Potential buyers tour their homes, but the owners typically are not sales people and end up telling more than selling. The pride of ownership doesn't translate into a sale follow-up does. When Howard Dinits, instead of owners, works with buyers, it helps shield the emotion of buying and selling away from the negotiation."

5. Howard Dinits' clients are satisfied.
  Since 2005, 83 percent of sellers worked with a real estate agent. The majority of sellers who work with Howard Dinits believe they benefited from his experience and knowledge of the real estate market, and 95 percent report they would use Howard again or recommend him/her to others.

Not convinced and you still want to sell your house on your own?
There's a FREE service http://fsbohawaii.info/

provided by Howard Dinits RS CRS
RE/MAX Resort Realty
http://www.BigIslandRealEstate.com
877-434-6487

In addition to striving to be the Best Real Estate Agent on the Big Island, Hawaii. Howard Dinits is also an innovator with the first Big Island Real Estate Agent Site with an iPhone application allowing you to search for REO's, Bank Owned Properties, and Foreclosures with your iphone for Big Island Real Estate, Homes in Hilo, Pahoa, Hamakua, Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa all can be searched on your iPhone.

In the near future http://www.BigIslandRealEstate.com will have aps for the new Droid and Blackberry mobile phones

4691

Big Island Real Estate Sales
Hawaii Home Sales

For the week of Sept. 28-Oct. 2

Extending Homebuyer Tax Credit Best Tool for Sustaining Big Island Housing Recovery

The best available tool for sustaining the still-fragile housing market is the $8,000 homebuyer tax credit, and it is essential that Congress extend the credit into 2010, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) testified at a hearing of the U.S. House Small Business Committee in October. Keywords, extending, homebuyer, tax, credit, housing, recovery, big, island, real, eastate

It’s increasingly likely that Congress will extend and expand the popular home buyer tax credit, which will expire at the end of this month.

NAR Regional Vice President Joseph L. Canfora, also told the panel that a major stumbling block for consumers has been the implementation of appraisal processes spurred by the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC), which is causing delays in closings, as well as cancelled sales that led to artificially low existing-home sales numbers for August, reported last month.

"The credit is working," Canfora said, pointing out that the 355,000 to 400,000 transactions directly attributable to the credit made a significant dent in the housing inventory and will help to stabilize home prices. Further, the credit has provided a huge indirect benefit to local governments, shoring up property tax bases in particularly hard-hit areas.

Further, NAR data has estimated that every home purchase pumps into the recovering economy about $63,000 – the equivalent of one new job added to the employment figures.

But, Canfora said, the threat of more foreclosures coming to the market caused by mortgage rate resets, job losses, and by lender’s unburdening themselves of additional properties to take advantage of today’s more stabilized prices could disrupt the fragile recovery.

In a "normal" market, optimal housing inventory is about six to seven months, he said. When the tax credit was enacted in February, inventory was 9.1 months. Because of the spurt in homes sales since then due to the tax credit, inventory declined to 8.2 months in August, closer to "normal" than at any time since 2007.

In urging Congress to extend the credit, Canfora said, "The more robust the credit and the greater its duration, the greater the chance that the housing market can perform its traditional role of helping the economy move out of a recession."

"But problems arising from the implementation of the HVCC may reverse the market’s positive momentum at a time when the real estate industry is just starting to show signs of a rebound in many markets," Canfora said. According to an NAR survey of its members, approximately 40 percent of Realtors report having lost at least one sale since May 1 because of appraisal problems due to the HVCC rules. Twenty percent say they have lost more than one sale.

The culprit, he said, was that appraisal management companies, which have gained prominence because of the HVCC, have assigned appraisers to areas where they lack geographic competence. That has resulted in unreliable appraisals. It is not uncommon that second and third appraisals have to be done to ascertain fair market value. Appraisal fees have also risen and are being passed on to consumers.

Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have issued guidance on appraisals, but NAR is calling upon the mortgage giants and the Federal Housing Administration to issue a consolidated guidance that should be codified and incorporated into the existing policy to ensure proper information on appraisals is available to the real estate industry.

FHA Commissioner David H. Stevens has asked FHA staff to explore that recommendation with Fannie and Freddie. Last month, Stevens reaffirmed FHA appraisal policy, taking into consideration the unintended consequences that have burdened Fannie and Freddie, and issued two Mortgagee Letters focusing on appraisal changes. The policy reaffirms appraiser independence and geographic competence.

The FHA announcement also included timely steps to protect taxpayers: implementing credit policy changes to enhance risk management; hiring a chief risk officer for the first time in the agency’s history; and shifting responsibility for mortgage brokers away from taxpayers to the lenders who use mortgage brokers.

Canfora told the committee that FHA has performed remarkably well through the housing crises, compared to Fannie and Freddie. "That’s because FHA has never strayed from the sound underwriting and appropriate appraisals that have traditionally backed up their loans."

"The reason the FHA capital reserve ratio fell below 2 percent had nothing to do with FHA’s current business activities. It is simply a reflection of falling housing values in their portfolio." He cited an FHA announcement that a 2009 audit will show that even if FHA does nothing, the cap reserves are expected to rise back to that required level within a few years. He also pointed out that FHA total reserves are not in as dire straits as some have reported since the cap reserve fund is not the only FHA reserve fund – FHA also has a separate cash reserve that is higher that it has even been – and the combined assets total $30.4 billion.

extending, homebuyer, tax, credit, housing, recovery, big, island, real, eastate

How Not To Pay Too Much For Your Home
on the Big Island of Hawaii

by Howard Dinits

Whether you are buying your first home, or your fifth, the process of buying a home is a detailed, time-consuming venture. At the same time, it’s an emotional period laden with difficult choices. You want to ensure that the home you purchase in Pahoa, Kaliua-Kona, Waikaloa, Keaau or Hilo Areas meet your family’s needs now, and in the future.

Each of these decisions often involves money. When you consider all that money represents, you’ll want to ensure that you don’t pay too much. This article helps you become a savvy buyer, by pointing out some of the pitfalls inherent in the home-buying process. These include such things as knowing what you want before you begin shopping, taking your time to shop, choosing the right realtor, and remaining objective while viewing potential homes. With this information, you’ll be closer to finding your ideal home and purchasing Big Island Real Estate.

#1 Before you shop, develop a needs vs. wants list
Everyone has a picture of an ideal home in Hawaii. This would include all the features you not only need, but have long desired. However, when it comes time to buying a home, the desires cost more. While it’s nice to think about having a beautifully landscaped backyard, or a solarium, perhaps even some built-in appliances, these are usually considered luxury items, which can add considerably to the price of your home.

That’s why it’s a good idea to develop a needs and wants lists. With this list, begin with items you really need like adequate space, garage and number of bedrooms. For most people, basic needs should be considered first. After that, you could consider additional desires, if you can manage these benefits financially.

With such a list in your hands, you’re less likely to be caught up in the excitement of the pursuit. You’ll have a good idea of what you want, within you price range, and if you can afford those additional items.

#2 Get pre-approved prior to shopping
Visit your financial or lending institution prior to home buying. Quickly, you’ll know the amount of mortgage you’ll receive. Be sure to get a mortgage commitment in writing. Most importantly, you’ll tell sellers that you are a serious prospect. Depending upon market conditions, a seller may lean towards an unconditional offer. You’ll have less negotiating power if you have to wait for mortgage approval.

Banks and financial institutions have developed many programs especially for home buyers, be that first-time buyers or those with equity in their homes. When you review your needs and objectives with a lending officer, you’ll be one step closer to purchasing your home.

#3 Choose your winning team
Buying a home on the Big Island is a complicated process, with many people involved. From choosing the right mortgage, to finding a home inspector, to viewing available properties, there are many steps involved for even the hardiest person. With a professional realtor on your side, you’ll have access to these services, already in place, and highly recommended. A good agent has the knowledge and experience developed from many years of helping both buyers and sellers. During this time they have developed a network of people, from lenders, lawyers, home inspectors and movers, to assist both home buyers and sellers.

#4 Communicate clearly with your Realtor
Spending time with your Big Island Realtor will reap huge dividends. When you have a clear picture of the type of home you’re looking for, your Realtor can come closer to finding the home you want. You won’t waste time looking at homes that don’t match your needs.

#5 It’s still true – location, location, location
You’ve heard it so many times, that it’s probably starting to sound like a broken record. That’s because it’s true! A home is not a stand alone item. Rather the value of a home is greatly affected by the surrounding homes. Don’t let your emotions determine your purchase. Think resale. The desirability and resale value of your home depends largely on location more than any other factor. People want a desirable community that includes character, quality of schools, access to work, major transportation arteries, recreational facilities, etc.

On your viewing trips, take a careful look and ask the following questions: How does this home compare to others in the neighborhood? Are yards fenced? Are there many children playing in the streets? Are front and backyards and the exterior of the homes properly maintained?

Walk around the neighborhood and get a feel for the people living in the area. You may want to speak with a few neighbors to get their comments. If you like the community, carefully examine the home you like. Generally speaking, extremely large homes surrounded by smaller homes tend to appreciate less than a large home among other large homes. Alternatively, the smallest home in the neighborhood tends to stand out by the other homes on the block. Sometimes, it could take a bit longer to sell a smaller home, as some people are reluctant to pay extra for the neighborhood.

Additional factors that affect the property value of a home include traffic, sounds, smells, zoning bylaws. Be objective. Don’t rely too heavily on your emotions. Be sure you are completely satisfied with the neighborhood. If you choose a neighborhood with problems, you likely won’t get as much as you hoped with it comes time to sell.

#6 Use your Realtors’ knowledge of the community
Your Realtor is trained in all aspects of Real Estate, including understanding supply and demand, economics and the neighborhoods of the city in which they practice. As they regularly view homes as they are placed on the market, they are at the heartbeat of knowledge and information about housing trends and prices. They can save you time and money, by narrowing your prospects to only those that meet your requirements. It is a very time consuming process to view every home available that meets your needs. A professional Realtor can do much of the work for you, by reviewing your needs, reviewing the properties and then hopefully, advising you of a potential match. A comprehensive knowledge of the available homes in your neighborhood is one of your Realtor’s strongest assets. With the aid of computerized systems, a Realtor is notified within hours when a home becomes available.

#7 Check your emotions, and shop with your head
When people purchase a home on emotion, without an objective view of the property, problems may develop later. Shopping for a home is an emotional process. It could be costly. Using your head, along with asking for an objective opinion (from your Realtor) could help you avoid costly errors.

#8 Pay attention to “red flags”
When evaluating a home, be sure you know the difference between acceptable and unacceptable problems. Cosmetic items like peeling paint, worn carpeting, unattractive wallpaper can be easily remedied. You could use these as negotiating items, as there will be costs involved in updating the home.

Major problems, however, are clearly “red flags.” Look for items such as major foundation cracks, water damage, outdated electrical systems, and inadequate plumbing. These items could cost you dearly in the future.

#9 Hiring a home inspector is a wise investment
A home inspection is an inexpensive way to gain peace of mind, and guard your pocket book. A proper inspection will cover all areas of the house including foundation, electrical, heating, plumbing, floors, walls, ceilings, attic, roof, siding and trim, porches, patios, decks, garage and drainage. A professional inspector can give you an objective view of the property, with a written report, indicating the present condition and items that will need repair.

#10 Be cautious with fixer uppers
Some people may be inclined towards purchasing a home that needs some work. This could be a challenge and an opportunity to make money. Sometimes, a fixer-upper can be purchased below market value, and sufficient repairs made to bring it to a good sale condition with a profit realized. However not all fixer uppers will bring in the profits you might expect. It depends upon the price of the home, the amount of repairs needed and the market conditions at the time of sale. If the home is not priced low enough, you may not recover your investment of time, trouble and money. Before you purchase what looks like a quick way to profit, carefully consider the condition of the home and ALL the repairs that need to be made. Get several estimates. Complete a comprehensive budget. Also consult with your Realtor. He or she can give you an idea of what you can reasonably, expect to recover when the home is put back on the market.

#11 Consider your future needs
Take a look at your lifestyle now and in the future. Will you need extra space for a home office, a child, or perhaps a child moving back home? Perhaps it may be easier and less expensive if you purchase a home that can meet these needs now, rather than moving up to a larger home a few years later.

#12 Proceed quickly
When you’re ready to buy, move fairly quickly. That’s because good properties usually sell fast. This is especially true when there is a shortage of homes available. However, when you work with a Realtor, you have access to the most current technology. As part of the MLS network, a Realtor has access to properties within hours of when they are listed. Technology works to your advantage. When a Realtor knows your needs, they will notify you when properties that meet your criteria become available. Many Realtors now have personalized web sites which allow you to sign on a client, and receive notification of these listings via email. You save time and effort, and you can view only those homes that come closest to your needs.

#13 Clarify relationships
In any real estate transaction, be very clear about who is working for whom, and what the relationship represents. Many people believe that the agent they are working with automatically represents them and their interests. Yet, without specific disclosures this is not true. Unless otherwise stated, the agent represents the seller in transactions for the sale of a home. This agent, as part of his or her fiduciary duty, must ensure his loyalty protects the seller’s position throughout the entire process.

#14 Ask for a written CMA
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is an analysis of comparable homes in the neighborhood. It shows you the sale prices of comparable homes in the neighborhood, along with asking prices of other homes in the area currently on the market. A Realtor can request this report for any home and neighborhood in Hawaii. Ask for this report in writing. With this valuable document, you’ll have the appropriate evidence for either a too-high asking price, or one that is a bargain.

#15 Investigate the seller’s situation
Knowing about the seller’s reasons for moving could work to your advantage during negotiations. For instance, a seller who has been transferred to another city, may be more motivated to sell rather than someone who is still shopping for a new home. A vacant house, a house that has been on the market for several months and reduced in price, could also be indications of a motivated seller.

#16 Keep personal information to yourself
Conversely, information could be used to your detriment. Information about your mortgage, size of down payment, move-in deadline, or circumstances for buying, could be negotiating factors. While you want your Realtor to know these details, don’t reveal any of this information to the seller.

#17 During negotiations, keep your emotions in tact
In certain situations, emotion could cost you money. If you let the seller know how interested you are in the property, this might be seen as a financial opportunity. Recognizing that you are highly motivated, you could an easier target for a higher price. If you absolutely love the home, keep it to yourself. This is a definite advantage of working with a professional Realtor. Trained to be non-emotional, he or she can ensure you get the best price.

#18 Ensure the deal is right before you sign
While you definitely want to move quickly, once you’ve made the decision to purchase, you don’t want to cave in to pressure for a quick close. Someone who is trying to pressure you into buying a home, is doing so for a reason. This could involve money, or a multitude of other reasons.

#19 Exercise your negotiating skills
Even if you prefer not to haggle, it’s worth it, especially when it’s your home and your future. Most people expect to haggle over the price. That’s often why the price is set a bit higher than the actual selling price. There is always room for negotiation. If you want to get the best home possible for the least amount of money, then negotiation is the only way to get a good deal.

#20 Avoid bidding wars
In some cases, the seller’s Realtor may use scare tactics to rush the sale or increase the price. Falling for this trap could cost you money. If there is another buyer, or some other reason this pressure is being applied, whoever wins also loses because they overpay. If there really isn’t another buyer, then it’s likely that the deal with fall through.

#21 Insist on a written disclosure of all known defects
Legally, sellers must disclose all known material defects of a property. Ask for this in writing. Also be sure to consider the ramifications of these defects. Will it be costly down the road? Are they “serious” defects?

#22 Be aware of your hidden costs
There is more to a home than simply the mortgage. You will be responsible for other items including mortgage insurance, appraisal fees, legal fees, inspection fees, transfer taxes, title insurance, inspections, etc. Your Realtor Howard Dinits can give you a good idea of the costs associated with buying a home that are beyond the final negotiated price of your home.

Now you know some of the secrets, but nothing will replace the expertise of Howard Dinits RS Certified Residential Specialist. Howard Dinits Specializes in the Big Island and Maui. Please call Howard at 808-874-0600 or 877-434-6487

or go to http://www.BigIslandRealEstate.com

HOW 2 BUY BANK OWNED PROPERTIES on the Big Island of Hawaii

There is a lot of people talking story about buying bank owned properties in Hawaii.  There’s lot of information being shared some good and some bad.  You’ll even find infomercials & seminars that will tell you how to get rich. (once you pay  for their “secret formula”).  The fact is, that there are no secrets, and to make money requires plenty of effort.

What’s an REO?

REO stands for “Real Estate Owned”.  These are properties that have gone through foreclosure and are now owned by the bank or mortgage company. The REO property did not find a buyer during foreclosure auction and the bank now owns it.  The bank will see to the removal of tax liens, evict occupants if needed and generally prepare for the issuance of a title insurance policy to the buyer at closing.  Do be aware that REO’s may be exempt from normal disclosure requirements.  In Hawaii, for example, banks are exempt from giving a Seller’s Disclosure Statement, a document that normally requires sellers to tell you about any defects they are aware of.

Is it a Bargain?

It’s commonly assumed that any REO must be a bargain and an opportunity for easy money.  This simply isn’t true.  You have to be very careful about buying a REO if your intent is to make money off of it.  While it’s true that the bank is typically anxious to sell it quickly, they are also strongly motivated to get as much as they can for the property.  When considering the value of a REO, you need to look closely at comparable sales in the neighborhood and be sure to take into account the time and cost of any repairs or remodeling needed to prepare the home for resale.  The bargains with money making potential exist, and many people do very well buying fixers.  You also need to remember there are also many REO’s that are not good buys and not likely to turn a profit.

Ready to Make an Offer?

Before making your offer, you’ll want to contact your Realtor to find out as much as you can about the property and what the banks process is for receiving offers.  Since banks almost always sell REO properties “as is”, you’ll want to be sure and include an inspection contingency in your offer that gives you time to check for hidden damage and terminate the offer if you find it.  As with making any offer on real estate, you’ll make your offer more attractive if you can include a pre-approval letter from a local lender.  After you’ve made your offer, you can expect the bank to make a counter offer.  Then it will be up to you to accept their counter, or offer a counter to their counter offer.  Realize, you’ll be dealing with a process that probably involves multiple people at the bank on the mainland in different time zones and they don’t work evenings or weekends.  It’s not unusual for the process of offers and counter offers to take days or even weeks and sometimes these transactions can take several months to close.

Now you know the Secret to Buying REO’s. It is hard work and can take a lot of time.  If this type of challenge doesn’t scare you, then maybe investing in REO’s is for you.

For more information contact:

Howard DInits (R)S at RE/MAX Resort Realty

877-434-6487  or via e-mail Howard@HowardDinits.com

How 2 Qualify for a Home Loan.
 
Thinking of Buying a Home? It’s easy to Qualify for a loan in Hawaii, if you come prepared. It may take a few days to get all of your stuff together, but without them it can be near impossible to get a loan. Plus if you haven’t owned a home or condo in the last 3 years, our bruddah, President Obama, has a deal for you. What? You ask? A $8.000.00 tax credit if you buy a home in 2009.
 
As grandma always said, “Hard work pays off”, so make sure you have all of the necessary items organized and easily accessible in one folder.
 
            In general, the documentation you will need to qualify includes:
 
            Income & Assets
            Pay stubs for the last 60 days.
            
            For the past two years:
              Names and addresses of each employer.
W-2s, Statements for each bank, mutual fund,
            and/or investment account for the last three months.
            Estimated value of personal property and furniture.
            
 
            If you have made any large deposits to your accounts:
            Explanation and source for deposit.
 
            If large deposit was a gift:
            Signed gift letter (lender can supply).
             Copy of gift check & Copy of deposit receipt.
            
            If you own more than 25% of a business:
              Corporate or partnership tax returns.
            
            If self-employed:
              Tax returns for the last three years (with schedules).
 
            Year-to-Date Profit and Loss Statement prepared by an accountant.
            
            If you own rental property:
            Tax returns for the last two years and current rental agreements.
            
            If you are retired:  Pension Award Letter.
 
              If you receive Social Security:  Social Security Award Letter.
 
              If you are counting child support as income:
            Copy of divorce settlement.
            Copy of twelve months of cancelled child support checks.
 
          
            Debts
            Names, addresses, account numbers, balances and monthly payments on all current loans.
 
            Explanation of credit report anomalies, including: Late payments, credit inquiries in the last 90 days,             charge-offs, collections,  judgments and/or liens.
 
            Bankruptcy filed within last seven years (bring a copy of your bankruptcy papers).
 
            VA Loans
            Copy of DD Form 214, Report of Separation.
 
            Other Important Items needed:
            Photo ID and proof of Social Security number.
            Residence addresses for the past two years.
            If applicable, a copy of your divorce decree.
            If you are not a citizen, a copy of the front and back of your green card.
 
Now that you are prepared and have all of the necessary items to get approved for a loan, take your information to a reputable lender. The lender will key in your information in a computer and get you an online approval. Once approved, you know what you can afford and are ready to go shopping.  Want to get that $8,000 credit? The good news is that it's easy to claim your tax credit. Buy and close on a new, "main" home before December 1, 2009 and Submit IRS Form 5405 with your 2009 tax returns in April 2010. That's it. Your next step, is to call a knowledgeable Realtor, a Certified Residential Specialist, to go shopping for your new home or condo.
 
Howard Dinits RS CRS
RE/MAX Resort Realty
808-874-0600 877-434-6487
http://www.BigIslandRealEstate.com

Foreclosures hit Hilo & Puna hard

http://www.BigIslandRealEstate.com

The Hilo/Puna region had one filing per 88 households in the first half of 2009

By Allison Schaefers

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Jul 30, 2009

Maui's main metro area was worse than the national foreclosure rate average while Honolulu appeared in the bottom half of nationwide rankings released today by RealtyTrac.

In the midyear data, there was one foreclosure filing for every 81 households in Kahului/Wailuku, Maui, which would have ranked No. 63 if the region had been considered urban enough to be included in the city listing, said Daren Blomquist, RealtyTrac's marketing manager.

In Honolulu, one in every 207 Honolulu homeowners was in foreclosure, earning the city a rank of 143 out of 203 cities, according to Irvine, Calif.-based RealtyTrac, an online foreclosure marketplace.

By midyear, 1,616 Honolulu homeowners had received a foreclosure notice, a 276 percent increase from the same period a year ago and a 31 percent increase from the prior six months.

But while Honolulu foreclosures are growing, overall the city has a limited foreclosure footprint as compared to the nation. RealtyTrac reported 1.5 million foreclosures in the nation during the first six months of the year, an average of one in every 84 U.S. households.

"We are seeing huge increases in activity in Honolulu, but it's still at a point where there are a lot of other cities that are worse off, Blomquist said.

The same could not be said for the neighbor islands, which have been harder hit by economic recession and had experienced higher price swings during the last real estate boom, said Howard Dinits, a Realtor with RE/MAX Resort Realty in Wailea, who specializes in Big Island and Maui sales.

"It's hard to know exactly what is going on in the neighbor islands and why those areas have significantly higher foreclosure rates than Honolulu, but they have less economic diversity and are more susceptible to changes in the economic climate," Blomquist said.

Declining real estate values and increased joblessness, combined with a tighter lending market and a depressed economy, have created the perfect neighbor island storm, said Dinits, who has had to switch real estate firms twice this year due to office closures.

"Get ready, it's just going to get worse," Dinits said. "California was littered with foreclosures last year and we tend to lag that market by six to nine months or more."

Hilo, which had one filing for every 88 households during the same time period, would have ranked No. 65 if it had been considered urban enough, he said.

Kapaa, Kauai, where one in every 98 housing units received a foreclosure filing during the first six months, would have been ranked No. 72, Blomquist said.

Phil Fudge, principal broker of Kauai Landmark Realty, said that the distressed market is driving Kauai sales.

The continuing drop in tourism has deeply affected Kauai's entire economy, he said.

"With our hotels running slow, many people are getting laid off," Fudge said. "We don't have any other major employers."

Kauai real estate agents are feeling the pinch, too, he said. Out of 650 agents, only 200 have made a sale through July, Fudge said.

"And, only 33 agents have sold the $2 million in real estate that it takes to earn at least $60,000," he said.

While Maui and Big Island agent rosters have gotten shorter, Dinits has survived by focusing on distressed sales, he said.

"My list of cute little old ladies with equity that want to sell is very short," Dinits said.

Maui's main metro area was worse than the national foreclosure rate average while Honolulu appeared in the bottom half of nationwide rankings released today by RealtyTrac.

BLOOMBERG NEWS

The average foreclosure rate per household in the United States during the first half of this year was one out of 84. Above, a foreclosure sign stood outside a home in Winchester, Va. Honolulu ranked No. 143 during the period, with a 1/207 ratio.

View Large Version >>

In the midyear data, there was one foreclosure filing for every 81 households in Kahului/Wailuku, Maui, which would have ranked No. 63 if the region had been considered urban enough to be included in the city listing, said Daren Blomquist, RealtyTrac's marketing manager.

In Honolulu, one in every 207 Honolulu homeowners was in foreclosure, earning the city a rank of 143 out of 203 cities, according to Irvine, Calif.-based RealtyTrac, an online foreclosure marketplace.

By midyear, 1,616 Honolulu homeowners had received a foreclosure notice, a 276 percent increase from the same period a year ago and a 31 percent increase from the prior six months.

But while Honolulu foreclosures are growing, overall the city has a limited foreclosure footprint as compared to the nation. RealtyTrac reported 1.5 million foreclosures in the nation during the first six months of the year, an average of one in every 84 U.S. households.

"We are seeing huge increases in activity in Honolulu, but it's still at a point where there are a lot of other cities that are worse off, Blomquist said.

The same could not be said for the neighbor islands, which have been harder hit by economic recession and had experienced higher price swings during the last real estate boom, said Howard Dinits, a Realtor with RE/MAX Resort Realty in Wailea, who specializes in Big Island and Maui sales.

"It's hard to know exactly what is going on in the neighbor islands and why those areas have significantly higher foreclosure rates than Honolulu, but they have less economic diversity and are more susceptible to changes in the economic climate," Blomquist said.

Declining real estate values and increased joblessness, combined with a tighter lending market and a depressed economy, have created the perfect neighbor island storm, said Dinits, who has had to switch real estate firms twice this year due to office closures.

"Get ready, it's just going to get worse," Dinits said. "California was littered with foreclosures last year and we tend to lag that market by six to nine months or more."

Hilo, which had one filing for every 88 households during the same time period, would have ranked No. 65 if it had been considered urban enough, he said.

Kapaa, Kauai, where one in every 98 housing units received a foreclosure filing during the first six months, would have been ranked No. 72, Blomquist said.

Phil Fudge, principal broker of Kauai Landmark Realty, said that the distressed market is driving Kauai sales.

The continuing drop in tourism has deeply affected Kauai's entire economy, he said.

"With our hotels running slow, many people are getting laid off," Fudge said. "We don't have any other major employers."

Kauai real estate agents are feeling the pinch, too, he said. Out of 650 agents, only 200 have made a sale through July, Fudge said.

"And, only 33 agents have sold the $2 million in real estate that it takes to earn at least $60,000," he said.

While Maui and Big Island agent rosters have gotten shorter, Dinits has survived by focusing on distressed sales, he said.

"My list of cute little old ladies with equity that want to sell is very short," Dinits said.

FORECLOSURE RANKINGS

RealtyTrac's midyear foreclosure rankings of cities nationwide:

Source: RealtyTrac

Neighbor isle home prices drop

http://www.BigIslandRealEstate.com

Mainland investors are showing more interest in properties on Kauai and the Big Island

By Allison Schaefers

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Jul 07, 2009

The quest for short sales and foreclosure properties dominated real estate activity on the Big Island and Kauai last month and continued to drive property prices down in most categories.

Falling prices, which dropped 13.5 percent for single-family homes on the Big Island and 36 percent for single-family homes on Kauai, created more interest in the market.

"Somebody who didn't jump in the pool just because everyone else was jumping now has a golden opportunity," said Howard Dinits, a Realtor with RE/MAX Maui, who also sells property on the Big Island. "Never have we seen a market where you can buy a house so cheaply and get an interest rate for less than 6 percent."

The median price paid for a single-family home on the Big Island dropped $44,285 to $285,000, according to statistics released yesterday by Hawaii Information Service. However, the median price paid for a Big Island condominium rose 2.9 percent to $310,500.

In Puna, where Dinits sells the bulk of his properties, the median price paid for a single-family home had dropped to $163,000. While foreign activity has slowed with the Big Island's real estate market, Dinits said mainland investors from California, Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, New York and New Hampshire have re-entered the market.

"Consumers are looking for deals," Dinits said. "There is a lot of demand and a lot of competition in the $100,000 to $175,000 range. And, yes, these days, that will get you a house."

Dinits just sold a bank-owed property in Hawaiian Paradise Park, which has been plagued by distressed sales, for slightly more than $109,900, he said. That same property traded for $260,000 in 2006, Dinits said.

Prices also have dropped steeply on Kauai, said Phil Fudge, principal broker of Kauai Landmark Realtor.

The median price paid for a single-family home on Kauai dropped to $440,000, a $247,500 decline from the prior year, according to Hawaii Information Service. Similarly, the median price paid for a condominium on Kauai fell 46 percent to $375,000 from the year-prior $695,000.

"We are seeing activity, and it seems like the short sales and the foreclosures are driving the market," Fudge said. "Prices for properties that are not in short sale or foreclosure are being driven by the distressed market."

Fudge said Kauai's market has dropped so much that sellers are sometimes considering offers that fall more than $100,000 below the list price.

The market has fallen so much it's not unusual to see properties that sold for $750,000 a few years ago now listed for $559,000, he said.

"Our market is down to 2004 levels for residential and 2003 levels for condos," Fudge said.

As a result, Fudge said the number of offshore investors coming to Kauai from the West Coast to view and purchase properties has begun to rise.

"They've been looking for a while, but prices have finally fallen to a point that many are just now thinking that it's the time to act."

But even with bargain-hunters out in full force, single-family home and condominium sales on the Big Island and Kauai continued falling last month.

Single-family home sales on the Big Island fell 8.3 percent and condominium sales fell 12.5 percent, according to data from Hawaii Information Service. Likewise, single-family home sales fell 25 percent on Kauai, and condominium sales fell 37.5 percent.

Home sales

The median price and percentage change from the same month last year for homes sold on the Big Island and Kauai:

Source: Hawaii Information Service

The quest for short sales and foreclosure properties dominated real estate activity on the Big Island and Kauai last month and continued to drive property prices down in most categories.

Falling prices, which dropped 13.5 percent for single-family homes on the Big Island and 36 percent for single-family homes on Kauai, created more interest in the market.

"Somebody who didn't jump in the pool just because everyone else was jumping now has a golden opportunity," said Howard Dinits, a Realtor with RE/MAX Maui, who also sells property on the Big Island. "Never have we seen a market where you can buy a house so cheaply and get an interest rate for less than 6 percent."

The median price paid for a single-family home on the Big Island dropped $44,285 to $285,000, according to statistics released yesterday by Hawaii Information Service. However, the median price paid for a Big Island condominium rose 2.9 percent to $310,500.

In Puna, where Dinits sells the bulk of his properties, the median price paid for a single-family home had dropped to $163,000. While foreign activity has slowed with the Big Island's real estate market, Dinits said mainland investors from California, Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, New York and New Hampshire have re-entered the market.

"Consumers are looking for deals," Dinits said. "There is a lot of demand and a lot of competition in the $100,000 to $175,000 range. And, yes, these days, that will get you a house."

Dinits just sold a bank-owed property in Hawaiian Paradise Park, which has been plagued by distressed sales, for slightly more than $109,900, he said. That same property traded for $260,000 in 2006, Dinits said.

Prices also have dropped steeply on Kauai, said Phil Fudge, principal broker of Kauai Landmark Realtor.

The median price paid for a single-family home on Kauai dropped to $440,000, a $247,500 decline from the prior year, according to Hawaii Information Service. Similarly, the median price paid for a condominium on Kauai fell 46 percent to $375,000 from the year-prior $695,000.

"We are seeing activity, and it seems like the short sales and the foreclosures are driving the market," Fudge said. "Prices for properties that are not in short sale or foreclosure are being driven by the distressed market."

Fudge said Kauai's market has dropped so much that sellers are sometimes considering offers that fall more than $100,000 below the list price.

The market has fallen so much it's not unusual to see properties that sold for $750,000 a few years ago now listed for $559,000, he said.

"Our market is down to 2004 levels for residential and 2003 levels for condos," Fudge said.

As a result, Fudge said the number of offshore investors coming to Kauai from the West Coast to view and purchase properties has begun to rise.

"They've been looking for a while, but prices have finally fallen to a point that many are just now thinking that it's the time to act."

But even with bargain-hunters out in full force, single-family home and condominium sales on the Big Island and Kauai continued falling last month.

Single-family home sales on the Big Island fell 8.3 percent and condominium sales fell 12.5 percent, according to data from Hawaii Information Service. Likewise, single-family home sales fell 25 percent on Kauai, and condominium sales fell 37.5 percent.

Home sales

The median price and percentage change from the same month last year for homes sold on the Big Island and Kauai:

Source: Hawaii Information Service

http://www.BigIslandRealEstate.com

I'm often asked if this is a good time to buy a home. Some clients are concerned that home prices may fall further than they have already. They are assuming that the best course of action is to wait for the bottom in the market and then buy. The problem with this approach is that you don't know where the bottom is until you see it in the rear view mirror, meaning until you've missed it!

Home prices are one factor in determining your cost of ownership, but so are interest rates and financing availability. Even though interest rates have gone up in the last six months, they are still near historic lows. Since your monthly mortgage payment is a combination of paying down your principal and paying the interest owed, if home prices come down a little further but interest rates go up, it could cost you even more to service a mortgage on an identical home!

While a home is a major investment, it is also the center of your personal life. It's important to live in a home that reflects your taste and values, yet is within your financial "comfort zone." To that end, it may be more important to lock in today's relatively low interest rates and low home prices, rather than to hope for a further break in prices in the future.

Please give me a call if I can be of any assistance in determining how much home you can afford in today's market.