Eco-Friendly Real Estate Buyers Plant Themselves in Hawaii

Business Wire,  May 20, 2008  

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Agri-Real Estate Communities on the Rise

KAUAI, Hawaii -- As part of the continuing green movement, consumers are showing an increased interest in agriculturally-focused real estate developments, creating an experience where they can set down roots, grow and thrive-literally and figuratively. As a key example, Kealanani is a sustainable, integrated residential community situated on 2,021 acres overlooking the northeastern shoreline of Kauai, where homeowners are required to farm a portion of their land. More than 20 buyers from the U.S. and Canada have purchased at Kealanani since sales began in November.

The rise in agri-real estate is a result of the recent popularity in agri-tourism both in Hawaii and on the mainland. In recent years, travelers have sought out vacation destinations where they can visit a working farm and participate in agricultural and horticultural activities. Now, buyers want to make this a part of everyday life, whether it is starting their own tea operation or growing cacao trees. Hawaii is leading the way.

Valerie Van Balen, a Kauai local, purchased a lot at Kealanani to contribute to the island's local food supply. She plans on growing tropical flowers and fruits including mangos and avocados. Andrew Lambden from Ontario, Canada bought four acres at Kealanani because it is "the prettiest place on earth." Owners Kate and Dean Sullivan wanted a home that encouraged their two young sons to spend time outdoors.

"We are seeing a growing interest from buyers who want to live a more sustainable lifestyle," says Paul Kyno, co-developer of Kealanani. "Kealanani's purpose is to preserve Kauai's rural heritage where homeowners can enjoy natural goodness from their own land in a beautiful and vast agrarian and equestrian community."

Kealanani residents have access to the 14-acre Rodeo Arena Park, nine valleys, waterfalls, Kapa'a's Stream and a 12-mile looped trail for hiking, biking and horseback riding. It will connect to a 2.5-mile pedestrian/equestrian path along the beach leading into the nearby town of Kapa'a.

Other examples of agri-communities in Hawaii include Ka'anapali Coffee Farm on Maui, where each lot is a working coffee farm and on the Big Island, Waiki'i Ranch dedicates 20% of its land to an agricultural easement for recreational purposes.

For Kealanani sales information, visit www.kealanani.com.

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