Kona Kohala Blog

In what appears to be a reversal of the sales numbers, Single Family Residences (SFR's) are now showing a seasonal increase where condos have historically prevailed.  To compound the reversal, looking back to the summer when SFR's would have shown the greatest increase in sales, condos led the way.

This could signal fewer investors looking for condos in the fall and winter and more of those considering retiring to Hawaii in the future buying retirement homes.  That doesn't explain the summer condo surge but as always with statistics, there may be no explanation.

One incentive for investors and almost all property buyers here, will be the upcoming "Cash for Caulkers" program.  I know I'm thinking about replacing some of my old jalousie windows with casement types if the government is going to pay me to do it.  I think it's a total waste of taxpayer money but since they're taking it anyway I might as well get some of mine back.

The presidents thinking would be sound if the U.S. government wasn't so far in the hole.  This program will generate sales of home improvement products and materials which may cause some rehiring at companies providing these goods.  Or not; it may be that these stripped down, lean and mean companies will continue to work with their smaller crews giving more overtime and not rehire anyone.

Sorry to keep singing the same old song but until the unemployment numbers turn around and we see some substantial rehiring there is not going to be a recovery.  Any positive signs we're seeing are transitory, here today, gone tomorrow.  All the smooth talk in the world isn't going to help until there are some serious tax cuts for individuals and for business.