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quote:
Originally posted by robguz
....If I had to do it again, I would still build, because it's exactly what I want...John, you have built before and probably know what you can build at a bargain price, but most people building for the first time probably don't have that knowledge, and probably not those hiring a GC...
That is exactly what I meant Rob, if you want a certain kind of house you most likely will not find it on the market, so have it built. You certainly are right about the second part too, after building so many houses here, I got it right down to the point and most people don't have that experience. I sure don't need a lawyer to review my contract with the builder ][ ][ ]
Aloha,
John S. Rabi, GM,PB,ABR,CRB,CM,FHS
808.327.3185
johnrabi@johnrabi.com
http://www.JohnRabi.com
Typically Tropical Properties
"The Next Level of Service!"
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While we all want a big home, it is wise to take into consideration, the larger the home, the higher your taxes, the higher your electric bill. These expenses taken into consideration before buying or building will make an impact on your future ability to pay your mortgage or put food on your table. Our home is small, but comfortable for 2, our electric bill less than $150. Our tax $25 a year[  ]
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Whalesong: Could you indulge my curiosity? The last sentence, "Our tax $25 a year". How did you get it that low? My understanding is that the minimum property tax in Hawaii is $100 per year. I'm all for paying as few taxes as possible, so any tips would be much appreciated.
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We are going to build. Finding the "right" house on a large property was next to impossible for us. LOML and I are still discussing (arguing [ ]) over plans tho'.
Puna: Our roosters crow first
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Mike:
There are many properties, with homes, in Hawaii County that pay less than $100 tax per year. Many of my in town neighbors pay under $100.
Most are with senior locks.... Long term residents that passed the 'senior exemption age' decades ago. (although some do have the younger, working generation living in the home & listed on the taxes, along with the 'senior exemption age' parent.... )
I do have mixed feeling on that one... as I think that it is not truly 'in the spirit' of the senior exemption... but it is done a lot in this little town...
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John,
May I ask where you are building currently? Thanks!
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quote:
Originally posted by Dennis
John, May I ask where you are building currently? Thanks!
Sunset View Terrace subdivision in Kona. Oh, yes, I will flip it! [ ][ ][ ]
Aloha,
John S. Rabi, GM,PB,ABR,CRB,CM,FHS
808.327.3185
johnrabi@johnrabi.com
http://www.JohnRabi.com
Typically Tropical Properties
"The Next Level of Service!"
Posts: 286
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Joined: Jul 2009
Mike, We have a Clear title to our home and the land. The house is less than 600 sq.ft
Homeowners exeception, Only in Hawaii[ ]
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2 Points to make:
Whalesong is right about tax advantages on building small, but left out the biggest advantage over time: lower upkeep costs. Hawaii is hard on every part of modern household infrastructure and it sure is cheaper to replace a 1000 sq ft roof than a 3000 sq ft one, for example.
Point two: I know from personal experience that Oregon at times has had a homeowners exemption and I know there are other communities that give the same exemption on local property taxes. This is most common in places with lots of absentee owners who don't get to vote on local tax measures.
Carol
Carol
Every time you feel yourself getting pulled into other people's nonsense, repeat these words: Not my circus, not my monkeys.
Polish Proverb
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Lavalot asked: What's better net metering or going off grid. We are open to being off grid but the upstart price is 25,000? Any advice for newbies?
I'd check with HELCO [Helco net metering engineer for east Hawaii is Chen Wu] about the potential for any net metering. A couple of weeks ago there was a discussion on the local NPR station indicating that HELCO AND MECO [Maui's power] have or will shortly be asking the PUC to allow them to immediately cease NET METERING hook ups, allegedly due to infrastructure limitations. If you are looking at PV Solar and if you decide to go off grid, please do your research on the actual radiation factor for your lot location and plan for adequate storage. This past 7 months have been outstanding sun exposure, but it is atypical weather. Most of east Hawaii is considered to be in the 4.25-4.50 zone. [The past few months have been more like 6] Best way to handle your needs would be to make sure you have more than sufficient panels and ample storage. Hope this helps.
" The greatest distance in the world is the 14 inches from our minds to our hearts."
--Agnes Baker Pilgrim
"Q might have done the right thing for the wrong reason, perhaps we need a good kick in our complacency to get us ready for what's ahead" -- Captain Picard, to Guinan (Q Who?)
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