Three Maui Homes Listed
At or Below the Median Price

Maui is Hawaii's second largest island and has more than 30 miles of beaches for surfing, snorkeling and sunbathing. It has seen home prices rise 24% within the past year, from a median price of $550,000 in October 2004, to $680,000 in October 2005. Below is a collection of three Maui houses priced at or below the current median price.

• Kihei, Hawaii/$680,000
• Kihei, Hawaii/$630,000
• Makawao, Hawaii/$585,000

PLACE/PRICE: Kihei, Hawaii/$680,000

PROPERTY TAX*: $1,039

THE PROPERTY: A single-story home in the residential community of Kihei that is less than a mile drive to Canoe Beach. The 1,556-square-foot house has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on .18 acres.

DESCRIPTION: The property looks out to the West Maui Mountains from the living room and front yard. A new roof was added last year. The residence has central air conditioning, insulated white vinyl shutters, a sunken living area with ceramic tile, a two-car garage and a fenced backyard.

NOTABLE: Kihei, located in South Maui, is a popular area with tourists for its beaches, resorts and golf courses, says listing agent Vicki Tabacchi of Century 21 All Islands of Kihei. The median selling price of a home in Kihei rose from $547,428 in October 2004 to $697,500 through October 2005, a 27% gain, according to the Realtors Association of Maui. Homes comparable to this property are priced from $600,000 to $700,000, while homes that have a rental unit (with a separate entrance), often referred to locally as an "Ohana" (the Hawaiian word for "family"), go for more, between $675,000 and $875,000, she says.

Note: *Current owner's payment

Sources: Century 21 All Islands, Aina Maui Properties, Landmark Maui Properties

-- Ms. Kim is a senior editor at RealEstateJournal.com.

Email your comments to lauren.kim@dowjones.com.