Betty Sakamoto: Aloha, and welcome to Betty’s Real Estate Corner, brought to you by Coldwell Banker and Roy & Betty Sakamoto. Here we are again—Roy and Betty in the studio.
Roy Sakamoto: In the studio, and live.
BS: Live in the studio—and alive, both. That’s a good thing. And live! We just had a nice ride over here from Kapalua. It was fun. We tend to try to figure out what we’re going to talk about on the way, but we don’t always do that good.
RS: Let’s talk about the show we saw last night. That was a great show.
BS: It was spectacular.
RS: George Kahumoku, Edward Kaanapana & Slack Key gang at the Napili Kai Resort. Fantastic show.
BS: It was totally sold out. The music was really great—it brought tears to your eyes. Some parts were emotional, then happy. It was perfect. Really wonderful.
RS: It was awesome. Really, really good.
BS: And wait a minute—joining us were Roy’s oldest son, Mark Sakamoto, and his wife, Debbie. We tried to get them to join us on the radio show today. They’re now officially committed to doing it next time they’re here, because it would be so much fun.
RS: Now it’s on the air and public.
BS: Exactly. I figured if I mentioned it, they’d have to come through. We could’ve given them a call-in number, but we didn’t—and we’re not going to now. Hopefully, they’re listening and know how thrilled we are to have them here anytime. It’s been great.
RS: They’re on their way. They’re doing some holo holo today.
BS: They’re heading to lunch—it’s a favorite spot for a lot of people.
RS: The Paia Fish company.
BS: Yes! They’re excited about that. Then they’re going to the Original. So that’s great. We’re going to keep going here—talk a little bit of real estate.
RS: A little bit of everything. We often talk about charities and giving. One of the great causes here on Maui is the Maui Food Bank. We’ve mentioned it many times. Every dollar donated provides four meals. So $10 equals 40 meals. There’s a real need here—many people are struggling with food insecurity. Contribute what you can. The Maui Food Bank is a great cause.
BS: And think about it—most people on Maui have probably had a time when they were short on funds or lost a job. So much has changed here. Some people may be homeless today or just have a hard time keeping things together.
The work the Maui Food Bank does is amazing, and the food is really good. If you need help, don’t hesitate—call them. I don’t know their number off the top of my head, but—
RS: You can go to mauifoodbank.org for all the info on how to contribute. We’ve had clients and visitors ask us how they can help Maui, and while there are many causes, Maui Food Bank is a great one. Another is Hale Makua—go to halemakua.org.
They’re part of Maui’s healthcare system, with nursing homes in Wailuku and Kahului. And there’s still big news coming about Hale Makua.
BS: Sounds like there’s some exciting stuff ahead. That’ll be perfect—hopefully!
RS: Yeah. But coming back to music for a second—stepping away from Hawaiian music—we’re one of the sponsors of the Maui Jazz and Blues Festival, coming up in October. I think it’s October 23rd through the 26th.
BS: It’s going to be absolutely exciting.
RS: The grand finale will be at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, in the pavilion. We’re really glad to be one of the sponsors. It’s a great event—jazz artists from all over the world will be there. Stay tuned for more news on that.
BS: It really will be great. Like you said, jazz musicians from around the world, and definitely some amazing blues too. It’ll be a lot of fun for everyone involved. And it’ll be televised, won’t it?
RS: Probably at least videotaped. Yeah, I’m sure.
BS: That’s great, because it’ll eventually reach everyone. If someone’s looking for tickets, they should probably call the Ritz-Carlton?
RS: Yes, and there’s a website being put together now.
BS: We’ll get that.
RS: With ticket info and all the details.
BS: We’ll have it by next week and make sure to share it.
RS: October 23rd to 26th.
BS: It’s going to be amazing.
RS: Last year, the organizers used proceeds to help Lahainaluna students who lost their musical instruments—guitars and so on—in the fire. I’m sure another great charitable cause will be chosen this year.
BS: I think so. The Lahainaluna High School Foundation may have helped out with that too. They worked hard to get resources together. I’m not totally sure, but I know they were really involved. It was so hard on all the kids, and so many lost their instruments—it was heartbreaking.
RS: Maui really is a village. I remember not long after the fire, Lahainaluna played Baldwin in a football game, and the Baldwin High School Band presented the Lahainaluna Band with a check to help replace their instruments. I forget the amount, but it was meaningful. And the Maui High School Band did their own fundraiser too as well as King Kekaulike High. It’s a great community we have here.
BS: It really is. When it comes to football, there’s no bigger competition on Maui. The excitement when teams make the state finals is amazing. The band’s playing, the kids are on fire, the stands are packed—it’s just so much fun. Lahaina is one of the greatest communities for sports.
RS: And really, all of Maui rallies around each other. When Lahainaluna was in the state finals, people from Maui High, Baldwin—everyone—were cheering them on. And when Baldwin made it to the finals, Lahainaluna did the same for them.
BS: That’s what’s great about this island.
RS: It’s a small community.
BS: And you’re right—people come together. Roy is a Lahainaluna graduate, class of 1960?
RS: Yep.
BS: And those classmates—okay, maybe not kids anymore—but they’re out there at almost every football game. Men and women cheering, supporting. You can tell who’s who, even if they’re not holding signs. You just know they’re all graduates. It’s fantastic.
RS: You’ve got to wear red, too.
BS: Yes, red is required! I wear red.
RS: The red tide from the west side.
BS: And then there’s Julie, my daughter—red hair, red shirt, red everything. She’s also a Lahainaluna graduate, class of ’82?
RS: ’82.
BS: Yep. And whenever she’s back, nothing makes her happier than being with her classmates.
BS: Anyway, we’re supposed to be doing a radio show here. Do you think we should talk a little about real estate?
RS: Well, yeah.
BS: Seems like a good idea. We’re hoping Mark and Debbie Sakamoto are listening—and that next time they’re in town, they’ll come in and do the show with us. Hopefully, now they realize it’s a little different than they thought—here we are rambling about high schools and football. But these things matter—to us, to Maui, and yes, even to real estate. They’re important to everything.
RS: Oh, absolutely. This is a real estate show, but we also like to talk about Maui—what’s going on, what people care about. We’re still recovering from the fire, and doing a good job, but there’s a long way to go. There will be some upcoming workshops offering advice and constructive input on rebuilding the commercial areas in Lahaina.
The Lahaina Town Action Committee is really publicizing this. For anyone listening who’s concerned about how to rebuild Lahaina’s commercial core, the Lahaina Town Action Committee is leading the charge and encouraging people to get involved and share their ideas.
BS: It’s going to be really hard. Even Roy and I—although we think alike in a lot of ways—we have some differences of opinion on what should or shouldn’t be done, and what’s fair to the people who were there before. Should they be pushed out? I don’t think so.
But let’s not go there right now. Let’s show up to the meetings, talk to people, and be part of the process. We all have to adjust our thinking to make this work. It’s been almost two years—it shouldn’t still be like this. Lahaina should be cleaned up and rebuilt by now.
RS: We’re getting there. As long as people stay calm, keep an open mind, and really listen—even if they don’t agree—we can move forward. And it’s important that everyone is also heard.
BS: You went to one of the first visits to the Front Street properties after the fire, didn’t you?
RS: Yeah. The fire was in August, and we were part of a group that went in October.
BS: In hazmat suits, basically.
RS: Just about, yeah. It was pretty horrific. Being born and raised in Lahaina, I had certain landmarks I always used to get my bearings. When those are gone, you’re not even sure where you are.
BS: You have no clue.
RS: No clue at all. We were in three or four vans, and I don’t think there was a dry eye in any of them.
BS: I’m sure there wasn’t. It’s still hard. Even now, when you go down Front Street, it’s devastating. I thought I’d know where I was; I’ve been there so many times. But there’s nothing left. Even if you see a street sign, it doesn’t feel the same. You can’t tell where you are or what used to be there.
RS: We’ve got one chance now. It’s a clean slate. Whatever we build has to be lasting, meaningful, and for the whole community.
BS: And we have to take care of the people who built their lives there. Many had leased or owned their businesses. I don’t know what the fair solution is. Like you said, we need to keep an open mind. I don’t have any authority—I just have opinions. Roy might have stronger opinions than I do. Maybe not better, but he’s got more reason to be involved.
RS: We all need to express our thoughts—and listen. We can’t let these meetings turn into shouting matches. Everyone should have a chance to speak and be heard.
BS: And let others talk, too. Some people are so sure they’re right—100% right—but so is the next person. And somewhere in there, there has to be a blending of ideas. Let’s should talk about real estate. What do you think?
RS: Yeah, there’s a realization—this is a real estate show.
BS: Yes, it is. Too funny.
RS: Yeah.
BS: But what’s—
RS: Coming back to real estate, the easiest way to look at all the listings on Maui, Molokai, and Lanai is to go to our website: SakamotoProperties.com.
BS: Absolutely.
RS: We had Sakamoto Properties for over 40 years.
BS: Yes, we surely did.
RS: We merged with Coldwell Banker Island Properties—
BS: Almost five years ago.
RS: —and we’re still very happy. We love what we do and remain very involved.
BS: Coldwell Banker is a great company with amazing agents. They work hard to find the best in the business, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s a perfect fit.
RS: Speaking of great agents—Jennifer Edwards just joined our team.
BS: She’s amazing. Really, really great.
RS: She handled the original sales at the Ritz-Carlton Residences and Montage, and now she’s with us. So, welcome aboard, Jennifer.
BS: That’s a great addition. If you search Coldwell Banker Kapalua, you’ll see a list of truly first-class agents.Â
RS: No question. Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s not quite a seller’s market right now—but properties are moving. There are over 300 properties in escrow right now on Maui, and that’s pretty significant.
BS: It is. Especially considering where things stood after all that’s happened in West Maui, it’s a big improvement. The market has definitely shifted.
RS: Absolutely. Let’s talk about a couple of listings.
BS: One I like is 23 Pohaku Aeko Street on Kahana Ridge. It’s a smaller home—three bedrooms, two baths, about 1,400 square feet, nice lot. It’s really a great property, listed at $1,495,000. It’s being sold as is, so they’re looking for an “as-is condition” addendum in the purchase contract.
But it’s priced right for today’s market. I saw it a while back, and it’s a great West Maui location. Definitely one to consider.
RS: Great location, great price. Another one is 3808 Lower Honoapiilani Road—three bedrooms, two baths, just under 1,000 square feet. Basically, across the street from the ocean. Listed at $1,490,000. Listed by Mihaela Stoops from our office. You can find details on this and all listings at SakamotoProperties.com, or feel free to call me at 808-870-7060 or Betty at 808-870-7062.
BS: Here’s another one. Ray Chen from Coldwell Banker has some of the top listings on the island—including some of the most expensive—but also more affordable ones. There’s a listing at Papakea for $499,000. A studio unit, but a fantastic property with beautiful grounds. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a starter condo. Give us a call, and we’ll connect you with the right agent.
RS: Or just head to SakamotoProperties.com.
BS: That’s the easiest way. Definitely worth a look.
RS: And on the higher end, Ray Chen has a phenomenal home at The Plantation Estates, listed at $16 million. It’s located right on the 17th tee of the Plantation Course, home of the Sentry Tournament of Champions. Amazing views. It’s a fairly new home with a putting green and its own practice area—unreal.
BS: Here’s another Ray Chen listing: 710 Mokuleia Place. Eight bedrooms, seven and a half baths. Listed at $6.9 million. Beautiful land, absolutely incredible property. Ray covers the full spectrum of the market, and he works hard. He’s a top-tier agent.
So again, we’re covering everything—from entry-level to ultra-luxury. Maui has a wide price range, and while it can feel overwhelming, there are entry points—whether it’s a starter home or condo.
RS: People hear that the average home price on Maui is over a million, maybe $1.1 million—but “average” means there are homes both below and well above that. At Coldwell Banker Island Properties, we have offices in Kihei, Wailea, Upcountry, and our Kapalua office is very active.
So if you’re in West Maui and looking at properties Upcountry or anywhere else, come visit us. We’ll connect you with an agent who knows that area well.
BS: You know, for just places here, Hale Royale has been a really great place to live. And pricewise, it’s reasonable. There’s a unit listed by Juliette Le Heron. Listed at $579,000. It’s a second-floor unit, one bedroom, two baths, about 790 square feet. Nice place. Easy living. I remember when Hale Royale was brand new. It’s a great piece of land with lots of amenities and close to the ocean. It’s really amazing.
RS: And it’s mainly owner-occupied. No short-term rentals allowed. Whatever rentals happen are long-term, but a lot of people live there full-time, which is great. It’s kind of a hidden gem—not many people know about it. It’s just across the street from the ocean. You can walk to Times Market, and a lot of nearby shops and restaurants.
BS: And it also has a pool?
RS: Yep.
BS: And isn’t there a tennis court too?
RS: There’s a tennis court up above.
BS: That’s great by itself. The units have ceiling fans, dishwashers, disposals, dryers, microwaves, ranges, refrigerators, cable TV, and washer-dryers. It has everything.
RS: Here’s another one—at Kahana Manor in Kahana. One bedroom, one bath, listed at $480,000, which is a great price. Again, mostly owner-occupied. It’s across the street from the ocean—just a short walk if you want to take a dip. Listed by Robert Ryan from our office. And again, you can check it out at SakamotoProperties.com.
BS: The site’s pretty easy to use. Look around, search by price, size, area. Give it a shot. If something’s not working right, let us know—we’ll tighten it up and make sure you can get the info you need. I think we’re coming down to the end of our time. We’re at the two-minute warning, all of a sudden.
RS: We’ve got time for one or two more. Here’s a great one—an oceanfront complex, right on Napili Bay. It’s a studio at Napili Bay Condominiums, second-floor unit #214, listed at $679,900. Listed by Elizabeth Quayle from our office—she’s one of our best agents. Elizabeth handles properties at all price points, all across Maui.
BS: She really does. She’s given me some of the best insights into properties I wouldn’t have considered before. She works hard and cares about her clients. You can find her listings through SakamotoProperties.com—just search her name.
RS: And here’s one more—The Ridge at Kapalua. One bedroom, two baths, great ocean view. It’s a second-floor unit listed at $1,395,000 by Mary Anne Fitch from our office. Again, visit SakamotoProperties.com for details.
BS: And come listen to our show again next week—same time, same station – KAOI.Â
RS: They’re the best! And here’s Danny Couch. Aloha!
BS: Aloha!
