March 18, 2010
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Kona, one of the generally higher-priced real estate markets on the Big Island in Hawaii, has, like most every community in the island state, suffered ill effects from the crash of the housing market in the U.S. and though some signs recently have shown signs for optimism, the market still has a long way to go before it is totally out of the slump.
In 2009, the area saw a steady increase of sales activity in the first three quarters of the year before volume of Kona homes for sale closed upon finally fell again in the fourth quarter. The third quarter had the highest volume, with more than 150 sales, with the fourth quarter with less than 125 transactions.
The year saw prices continuing to fall. After rising slightly in the first quarter of 2009 from 2008’s Q4, the median price fell the next few quarters, down by almost $50,000 in the third quarter. The end of the year saw pricing pick back up slightly, with an increase in sales prices from the third quarter. In December of 2009, the median price for a home in North Kona was $425,000, one of the higher median prices on the island. http://pics4.city-data.com/ztrends/96740.png
The high number of foreclosures in Hawaii are attributed to the inability of Kona real estate prices to climb out of the hole. in February, according to the Honolulu Star Bulletin, Kona was measured to be the community in the state of Hawaii with the most foreclosures, not an encouraging sign for the market. Hawaii has continued to struggle with rising foreclosures. In February, there were 972 foreclosed homes in the state, an increase of 81% from a year earlier. In January, there were more than 1,300 and in December, there were more than 1,500, the most foreclosures in more than a year; there were only 337 in January 2009, showing that the foreclosure problem may not be going away for a while.
January 7, 2010
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Prospective visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii will face a difficult challenge: where to stay during their vacation. Temporary housing on the big island has become an increasingly popular alternative to hotels and resorts, especially in places off the beaten path. One option is to look at Kona vacation rentals. These properties often have direct access to the wonderful Big Island shores and feature spectacular views of the sunset due to Kona’s location on the western side of the island.
Another option is Hilo, on the opposite side of the island from Kona. Hilo is much wetter but also much greener. While most vacation homes in Hilo are not on the water, they do feature lush greenery, wonderful landscaping, and nice views down to the Pacific Ocean. Yet another possibility is living in the Kilauea and Volcanoes area. Similar to Hilo, these vacation properties are in the midst of deep forest but are much more convenient relative to the national park than most other hotels. There are also vacation homes in Kohala. This northern neighborhood is perfect for visitors in search of a paniolo, or cowboy, experience. Kohala is also attractive for visitors interested in ascending Mauna Kea.
September 29, 2009
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Kona Coffee, one of the most recognizable names in the coffee business, is one of
Hawaii’s most lucrative crops and is grown on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa in Kailua-Kona. As one of the most expensive and sought-after coffees in the world, only coffee actually grown in the area can be labeled with the name of the area. The coffee plant was first brought to Kona in 1829 but it wasn’t until 1899 that large-scale production of the export actually got into full-swing. An influx of immigrant workers helped to spawn what is one of today’s most popular industries. The process of growing coffee has been perfected in the region and even a quality grade comparison standard has been created to measure the products that come out of Kona. Due to Kona’s extremely productive climate, a large portion of Big Island Kona real estate has been dedicated to the farms that produce millions of pounds of the bean for export each year. Kona’s weather pattern of bright and sunny mornings, humid and rainy afternoons, and moderate evenings is favorable for growing excellent coffee. Hawaii is the only state in the nation to actually produce coffee.
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August 2, 2009
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Located on the east coast on the Big Island of Hawaii, Hilo is the largest community on the island and it the second largest in the state, with a population of about 41,000 residents. Hilo is the county seat of Hawaii County and is situated in the South Hilo District and overlooks Hilo Bay. Situated near two shield volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, Hilo is home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation, and is host to the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, which is a week long event that celebrates both ancient and modern hula. The town is served by the Hilo International Airport.
Like most other towns and cities in Hawaii, Hilo’s economy is based primarily on tourism. Hilo offers residents and tourists great shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities. The town is home to numerous hotels and contains movie theaters and a developed downtown area. Some of the popular sites of interest in Hilo include Haili Church, Hilo Tropical Gardens, Hilo Art Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, Pacific Tsunami Museum, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, Rainbow Falls, and the Wailoa River State Recreation Area.
September 27, 2008
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If you have visited the Big Island of Hawaii you know its like having a piece of paradise on earth. There is so much to offer those who work and reside here. For those who are looking to travel to this area for vacation will be amazed at the amount of activities, the scenery, and the overall feel of being there.
If this will be your first visit to the Big Island of Hawaii you can make a list of things that you would like to do beforehand so when you arrive you can have your concierge or hotel coordinator point you in the right direction. Regardless of what you enjoy doing there will be many things to keep you busy during your visit. Of course if you are looking to lounge that can be arranged too. The beaches here are absolutely gorgeous with the clear blue waters splashing against the sandy shorelines. You will be able to sunbathe on the many beaches while reading a good book and later enjoying a picnic under the stars. Pamper yourself with a day at one of the local spas enjoying a massage and receiving the royal treatment.
For those who are traveling here for adventure you can take up a new hobby including surfing, parasailing, wind surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, or even chartering your own fishing boat. If you are looking for more land activities you can participate in a variety including horseback riding, tennis, golf, or hiking. For those craving more views of this majestic land you will enjoy one of the tours that’s offered by land, ocean, or air.
Dining on the Big Island of Hawaii is beyond the expectations of most. The food found here ranges in cuisines and prices. Whether you are looking for a traditional Hawaiian meal, Asian, American dish, or other specifics it can be found here. Of course the price range will vary depending on what you choose to eat and how many are in your party. You can choose to eat indoors admiring the live music, or other forms of entertainment or many you prefer to eat outdoors so you can observe the amazing views over dinner. Most restaurants and eateries offer some type of lovely view whether it be of the water or the mountain tops.
There is a variety of shops found on the island that can keep you busy for days. Regardless of your reason or need to hit the stores you will find what you need and plenty of what you want. You can purchase everything from cheap toiletries and souvenirs to expensive art or clothing. There is a variety of specialty shops as well for those who are looking for something a bit more unique. If you have a desire to shop for foods instead of materialistic goods you will be happy to know there are many markets that sell fresh fruits and fish.
There is so much to share about the Big Island of Hawaii that as much as we boast about it the experience really should be seen first hand.
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