Hi Linda, I hope you will be able to make your dream of Maui come true. If you need help with questions about the north shore and upcountry, please don't hesitate to ask. Off'-grid properties are also a specialty of mine, if you are thinking about going "green". Search all Maui active listings from my site.. no registration needed.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Aloha from Maui - Georgie Hunter

People want to believe that moving to Maui is paradise. We moved here less than 2 years ago and it is a big move! The first step is deciding where you want to live. We live 1/2 mile from the beach and I love being able to run on the beach a few times a week. But the heat here sometimes makes me wish that we lived in upcountry. There are many options. Check out my website for a brief description of the areas. Under market trends, I provide detailed statistics and trend analysis for each area.

We bought right away and took advantage of "buying a second home" while still employed in CA. That was a wise move for us even though we had plenty of investment money. We then had the luxury of selling our CA home without pressure. We had our "furry children" so renting was going to be difficult.

A good REALTOR(R) can really help you make the right decisions and find a home that is right for you and make the move much easier. It is still a clear buyer's market here in Maui with prices down and inventory up. Let me know if I can help you.

Linda, if you like numbers and reports you will need info at the neighborhood level. Check out the latest Maui report from Prudential Locations, just released last week. The report track resales and median prices for single family homes and condos for each neighborhood in Maui. http://www.prudentiallocations.com/oahu-real-estate-report.asp

Several great areas in Maui to look at. Start with an internet search to get an idea of areas you may like. Contact a local Realtor in those areas for guidance.

I love Maui and I love my Job. I have all the shipping rates down, cars, household goods, animals, the care and need to set you free here on the islands. Working here as a broker on the islands gives me first hand real life experiences. I have done the move myself three times, hows that for experience.(?) It is really all about You, what climate You want to live in and what activities You will be participating in. Maui has 11 sub-climates. Renting is not such a bad thought, unless you have money now and want to start with the equity growth. The new sub divisions are giving away houses 100k less than last years prices. There are so many options to choose from. I also have a great builder construction family I work with that can build your dream home here on Maui. The Locals say - "Lucky You Came Hawaii" feel free to use my web site. Aloha ha ha

Take a couple of trips. Rent a house on different parts of the island to see a couple of different perspectives. Have 2-3 realtors send you some sample listings. Subscribe to the newspaper or some Maui internet sites and start getting a feeling for places you might want to live.

Maybe start your search on the internet to check on property prices in Maui to become more familiar with their market.

Lucky Ducks! I have no suggestions I just want to wish you well! I am about six years from having an empty nest!