Aloha:
Summer on
Kauai has been one with sunny days and temps in the mid 80’s.
Nights have been cool with light trade winds and a few showers.
No air conditioning is needed for sleeping.
Our summer
contentment was interrupted recently by a fire that destroyed
the Bali Hai restaurant at the Hanalei Bay Resort. No official
cause has been given, but it did start in an area undergoing
repairs. The Bali Hai and the Happy Talk lounge had been closed
with a scheduled reopening later this summer. Both the
restaurant owners and HBR management pledge a complete rebuild,
but it is too early to set a projected time frame. Guests at the
resort have not been affected. Most HBR rentals are enjoying a
near record occupancy.
The Prince
golf course which has been closed for a complete renovation of
the sand traps has extended reopening to November. Late in the
process, the decision to completely rebuild the greens was
added. These needed improvements should restore the Prince to
its #1 rating among Hawaii resort courses. Some careful readers
have noted that my recent newsletters have given some
construction schedules that proved too optimistic. Although I
rely on press releases and official statements, we all know that
“island time” may be a bit more difficult to judge than mainland
time
The new
Kukui’ula golf course at is now fully operational at Poipu.
Although private, some tee times are reserved for non-members.
Golf architects and players have given it great reviews.
Kauai is a
special place and its popularity is reflected in the number of
visitors to the island. 2011 may surpass the tourist record set
in 2007. There have been changes in visitor demographics. We
are seeing a drop in vacationers from the east coast, but a rise
in those coming from the west. Travel by Canadians is up by more
than 50%. Japan is down as expected after the Tsunami, but
Australia and New Zealand show a 41% increase. Kauai merchants
and realtors are quite happy as spending and buying from
Commonwealth visitors reflect their positive exchange rate.
Real estate
purchases are for the most part unchanged. Sales and prices are
down slightly from a year ago. Wealthy buyers who have always
coveted a piece of paradise are buying. Bargain hunters and
investors continue to pick up distressed properties. Local
owners who see good value have been moving up. But the visitor
who has yearned to own here is sitting on the fence despite some
tremendous opportunities.
Kauai’s
Planning Commission is not allowing uncontrolled growth. Most
new structures will be confined to designated areas allowing the
island to retain its rural character. The area around
Princeville is reaching controlled capacity. The next market
cycle will most likely reveal fewer listings and higher prices.
In short, if you can, buy now!
As a realtor
I often ask my clients what if anything they regretted about
buying property here. The most common response is “I wish I had
come sooner”. To check on the Kauai market, please log onto my
website
www.joewilliamshawaii.com.
Call or e-mail me, and we can discuss listings or some
properties that are not officially listed but are available.
Kauai’s diversity is reflected in oceanfront estates, charming
cottages, rustic cabins, fixer-uppers, and modern, luxurious
condos. There is something here for everyone if one knows where
to find it. As your realtor, I can help you find that perfect
place.
Enjoy your summer.

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