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If you just happened here by chance, this is paradise ... the Island of Hawaii (also known as "The Big Island").

Let Hawaii-Island.net be your guide for getting the most out of this wonderful experience known as visiting and/or living in Hawaii,

Welcome to HAWAII-ISLAND.net


  This is the "electro-metropolis" of the Big Island of Hawaii, 

  centered above Waikoloa on the leeward side, overlooking Maui 

  to the west. Not to be confused with Oahu (where Honolulu is 

  located), Hawaii is a rural island about the size of the state

  of Connecticut, but a population of less than 250,000. Whether 

  you are a visitor or a local, feel free to use the info here. 

 







 

Here's the latest on the real estate market:

After the wild-and-crazy winter of 2005, during which prices moved up rapidly, things cooled a bit. For the rest of 2005, the number of transactions slowed down, but closed-sale prices remained fairly strong. The peak of the market appears to have ocurred in late summer or early autumn (contract dates) for escrow closings in the fourth quarter of that year and/or recordations made in early 2006.

Activity was slow in much of 2006, through 2007 and mid-2008 as well. Serious sellers have reduced their asking prices to more realistic levels, sometimes dropping tens of thousands of dollars and more. Patient, prudent buyers have been poised to acquire bargains, plucking "plums". Buyers who are ready to act continue to be in positions of strength.

It seems as though blaming the stall in the market on 10/15/06 earthquake concerns is over. Stock market records brought some profit takers back into the real estate market, picking up bargains. However, recent stock market woes have taken their toll on investors of all types. The uncertainties of the mortgage markets have complicated matters further.

When considering the effect on real property, prices are now being supported by the weak position of the dollar. For example, even if prices remain stable, the real value of the investment drops. It is said that "cash is king", but cash, in and of itself, deteriorates in value over time, doesn't it?

Coupled with rising energy costs, uncertainty is widespread. Problems in the airline industry have caused many Americans to curtail travel plans. On the other hand, increased gasoline prices cause other to fly rather than drive for their vacations.

Meanwhile, the market receives a mixed bag when it comes to "vog", as well. Yes, vog is real, but the world seems to be overreacting. In actuality, the North Kohala District is relatively vog-free. Does this support an argument that prices should go up or down?

All said, buyers must ask themselves where else does their investment money go so far? With taxes as low as $100 per year and association dues of $238 per month, realty (there's nothing more real than land) can be warehoused for under $3,000 per year, the perfect investment for self-directed IRA's and other portfolios.

The selection of lots in Kohala Ranch is outstanding and it still remains a buyer's market ... but for how long?

Why you should consider a Realtor / Broker who is also a CPA

If you're looking to fall in love with the color of the kitchen curtains, then Jim Donovan is not your guy. Instead, you may prefer to fall in love with the financial aspects of the investment. You can always replace those kitchen curtains. If this second situation describes YOU, then you deserve wealth-accumulation real estate investment consultation services from your Realtor/Broker. You deserve the very best. You need to contact Jim at jd-cpa@kona.net.

(808) 883-3331 (home office land line)

(808) 987-2511 (cell phone)

(808) 880-9000 (Kawaihae Harbor office line)

Although not presently engaged in the professional practice of public accounting, Jim can give you the answers to the tough questions, not merely tell you to consult someone else. There's no need to be shy about or remain in the dark about the tax ramifications of any particular transaction. For example, many people misunderstand the provision of capital gains tax. And matters such as Section 1031 "tax free" exchanges, etc. can be quickly demystified by the right real estate professional. Feel free to visit Jim's personal home page at www.Jim.Donovan.net.

Big Island News - 01/23/09

The Super Ferry is

operating - due on Big

Island by May 1, 2010.

Volume II, Issue 38

News ... Sports ... Surf Report ... Classified

Mayor Harry Kim

The social calendar

Local News

Baseball in Hawaii

Triathlon news

Ask Miss Fortune

All I need is time

Hawaii Superferry

SOME OTHER FAVORITE LINKS:

DISCLAIMER: Links on this page are to informational sources operated by entities that may or may not be affiliated with the prinicpals of HAWAII-ISLAND.net.

Kona Web (has a cool camera at KK pier)

808 Stuff (an auction marketplace)

My Space (electronic hang out)

University of Hawaii at Hilo (NCAA school)

County of Hawaii (local government)

State Tax Office (state government)

Perhaps you'll enjoy the Ironman site