Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Top FAQs

1. Where can I get information on Kauai market conditions?
   • Ask for a copy of "Insider Guide to Kauai Real Estate" which is packed full of information on the Kauai real estate market.  It's a FREE, full-color booklet which will be mailed to your home or business.
     
     
2. How can I get information on properties for sale that meet my criteria including location, features, price, etc.
   • Just send me an email with the criteria important to you.  I will then enroll you in my automated alerts program which will send you an email with all matching properties with updates each time a new matching property comes on the market.
     
     
3. I found an interesting property on the web and need more information.  Can you help me?
   • I will be pleased to send you information on any listed property.  Additionally, if you are on Kauai (or coming to Kauai) I will arrange to meet you and take you to see properties of interest.  There is no charge for this and I do not ask you to sign anything.  If you plan to finance your purchase, I do ask that you consult a lender in advance so you will be ready to "pounce" once we find your dream home.
     
     
4. Is it necessary to work with a lender based in Hawaii?
   • It's not required but recommended as it can make the financing process go more smoothly.  I can give you contacts I have worked with before.  If you prefer your non-Hawaii lender, we can make that work too.
     
     
5. If I decide to sell my Kauai property, how much will I net?
   1. Give me the address of your property and the amounts owed so that I can prepare a net sheet for you.
      
      
6. What is the process for buying and/or sellilng a home?  What agreements and/or contracts are involved?  Will I be able to get out of any agreement if I can't get financing or if a home inspection shows major problems?  How do I sign things if I don't live in Hawaii?  What fees are involved?
   1. Buying and/or selling a home does involved many steps and working with multiple organizations.  The first step is to decide on a real estate agent and you have many good choices on Kauai with over 500 to choose from (2017 data).  I suggest you review my "AboutMe" page including my resume therein to see why I may be a good choice for you.  If you work with me, I make the process as easy & painless as possible, explaining as needed and taking care of most of the details myself.  You will still need to review documents, sign documents (electronically), and send $$$ if buying or receive $$$ if selling.  In Hawaii it is typical that the buyer does not pay a fee to his/her agent (ask about exceptions).  Sellers pay a fee which is negotiated between seller and seller agent.
      
      
7. I've heard that condos have monthly maintenance fees that can be quite high.  Who determines the amount and what is the money used for?  Can you give me a list of condos with low maintenance fees?
   1. Condo fees are set by the condominium board of directors based on forcasts for expenditures for the project.  In general, the more amenities associated with a project the higher the project expenses (and the fees to pay those expenses).  Location is a factor with an oceanfront location requiring more frequent maintanance and resulting in higher property taxes.  There are many other factors as well.  See below for a list of Kauai condominium fees arranged from lowest to highest.  Use for relative comparison and not current amounts because it's based on average fees for 2016 and 2017.  If a condo hasn't sold in that time then it won't show on the list.