Lahaina News

For the past 4 years, Rohn Stark has served as the principal broker of Kaʻanapali Coffee Farms (KCF) in West Maui. This true agricultural community located just four minutes from the Kaanapali Beach Resort is not only one of the most breathtaking properties available on the market today, but owners are playing an active role in preserving our island’s agricultural heritage. Recently, we spoke with Rohn about this unique property.

What are the top reasons why people purchase at KCF?

Location. Views. Lifestyle. These are the words I hear most often when owners describe the KCF community and why they decide to purchase here. When you visit the KCF community you can’t help but feel you’ve arrived at someplace very special. It’s like having your own piece of Napa, but with a tropical climate year-round.

How is sales activity at KCF?

Since the real estate market turned in 2013, lot sales at KCF have never let up. Discriminating buyers and investors of real estate recognize the exceptional value of KCF’s 4- to 7-acre estate lots. The proof is in the 21 sales in the last 2 years! We currently have only 16 lots remaining so now is the time to buy! Many of the best lots in the community are still available. Offering prices start at $795,000.

Are there home resales at KCF?

In the past 18 months, there have been 3 resales of homes. All for them have sold for over $3M. KCF continues to be a solid investment. There have also been 2 lot resales in which the sellers have taken advantage of an appreciating market!

Is there a lot of home building activity?

Absolutely! New homes continue to be built at KCF. Currently there are 6 completed homes, 5 under construction and 6 in design review. The community’s Design Guidelines encourage plantation-style architecture which is in keeping with the area’s deep agricultural roots.

Do all new lot owners build homes right away?

Not all. While several owners have chosen to build immediately, there are others who plan to build later. And, these days there’s no reason to hurry. Today, you can purchase lots at historically low prices. Carrying costs for a lot over the past two years on an undeveloped lot has been only $250 per year for property taxes.

The coffee plantation seems to be thriving. Do homeowners also benefit?

The continued success of the coffee operation, sold under the MauiGrown Coffee (MGC) brand, is definitely a perk for homeowners. Not only can owners boast that their coffee orchard is producing some of the finest coffee in the world, but they also benefit financially. For the second year in a row, KCF has refunded all annual association dues paid by lot owners. This is because of the coffee operation profits.

How popular is the MGC brand and products?

The coffee varietals grown and harvested at KCF are sold around the world and are sought after by coffee connoisseurs and roasters alike. Today, MGC is one of the largest commercial coffee growers in the U.S. and the original and only major producer of 100% MAUI Origin Coffee in the world. There are four coffee varietals grown and harvested at KCF – Maui Mokka®, Red Catuai, Yellow Caturra, and Typica. The future definitely looks bright for coffee in West Maui.

How can I learn more about KCF and/or visit the property?

I’ll be happy to provide a personal real estate showing of the KCF community. You can contact me at (808) 870-5571 or email rohn@PlatinumPropertiesHI.com. You can also visit www.KaanapaliCoffeeFarms.com and/or follow us on Facebook.