Green Your Lifestyle

May 22 

Written By Wendy Ruppenthal

6 Simple Shifts That Actually Make a Difference

I’m writing this after completing a two-day GREEN Designation course for real estate—and I have to say, I’m feeling incredibly inspired. There was so much valuable information about energy efficiency, sustainability, and how we can build and live in ways that better support both our health and the environment. So, I’ve decided to start sharing some of it here in my blog section—practical, approachable ideas that we can all start using.

So here we go.

Living more sustainably doesn’t mean going completely off-grid or overhauling your whole home. It’s often the small, consistent changes that create the most impact—on your energy use, your health, and the land we all share.

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just trying to live more intentionally on Maui, these are a few simple ways to lighten your footprint and create a more mindful living environment.

1. Recycle—But Go Beyond the Basics

Most of us recycle plastics, paper, and glass—but that’s just scratching the surface. Take a look at what you’re bringing into your home in the first place. Can you choose products with less packaging or made from recycled content? Can you safely dispose of household chemicals, batteries, and electronics instead of tossing them in the trash?

2. Rethink Kitchen Waste

Food waste is one of the easiest things to reduce. Instead of sending scraps to the landfill, compost them. Even things like wooden spoons, paper towels, and cardboard Q-tips are compostable. You can start with a simple countertop bin or go full backyard compost pile—whatever fits your lifestyle.

Check out mastercomposter.com or epa.gov if you want to learn more. It’s way easier than it sounds.

3. Cut Back on Everyday Toxins

I’ve worked in a lot of homes, and I can tell you—what’s inside matters just as much as what’s outside. From cleaning products to furniture and cookware, so many items off-gas chemicals that impact your indoor air quality and your health.

Look for non-toxic or low-VOC options when buying new. Skip the synthetic materials where you can. And read the labels. If you don’t know what’s in it, maybe rethink bringing it into your home.

4. Clean in a Way That’s Safe for You and the Island

We’ve all been trained to associate a lemony scent with “clean”—but often, those products are loaded with harsh chemicals. A lot of what’s under the sink isn’t good for you, your pets, or the planet.

Try mixing your own cleaners with baking soda, vinegar, and lemon. Or look for green-certified products that work just as well without the toxicity. I have seen great cleaning videos on instagram !

5. Be Smart About How You Get Around

Let’s be real—Maui is a driving island. But that doesn’t mean we can’t be more mindful. Can you combine errands, carpool, or ride your bike when it makes sense? Even cutting out a couple of trips each week helps.

6. Water Smarter

If you’re caring for a yard or garden, drip irrigation is a game changer. It delivers water right to the roots where plants need it most—reducing evaporation and runoff. Adding timers, sensors, or rain shutoff devices can help you avoid watering when it’s not needed.

It’s not only better for the environment—it saves you money and keeps your plants healthier.

Living lighter doesn’t mean doing everything perfectly. It just means being intentional—thinking about the long-term impact of our choices and doing the best we can with what we have. This is barely scratching the surface, but maybe we can all pick one thing to work on. Everything affects everything, and choosing a place to start is powerful.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling and want to explore homes with sustainable features—or how to make your own home more energy-efficient—I’m always happy to talk through the options.

Wendy Ruppenthal

Realtor® RS-86378

Coldwell Banker Island Properties

| 808.280.9991

🛠️ Should You Renovate Before Selling?

May 17

Written By Wendy Ruppenthal

Here’s What Actually Pays Off in Hawai‘i

One of the most common questions I get from sellers is:

“Should I fix it up first—or just sell it as is?”

And the truth is… there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on the house, the location, and what kind of buyer experience we expect—whether they’re looking for something move-in ready, a project to make their own, or a rare piece of land with big potential.

Here on Maui, every property is different. An oceanfront cottage in Kuau is a totally different conversation than a home in a residential neighborhood in Kula or a private estate in Makena. But there are some things we always look at to make the smartest call.

1. What Are You Really Selling?

Let’s get honest: Are buyers going to fall in love with the house or the location?

If your property has a killer ocean view, acreage, or a rare spot in a tight-knit neighborhood, you might not need to do much at all. Sometimes the land and setting are the real value—and buyers will want to make it their own anyway.

But if the home is likely going to be someone’s primary residence, especially in areas where there’s more inventory, we might want to make it feel a little more fresh and inviting. It doesn’t mean a full renovation—but a few thoughtful updates can go a long way.

2. Who’s the Likely Buyer?

This is where local experience really helps. We look at who’s buying in your area—and what they expect.

• Are we appealing to someone looking for a home they can live in right away?

• Or will this be an investor or second-home buyer who plans to remodel anyway?

• Is the home financeable in its current condition, or does it need some repairs to even get a loan?

If it’s clean, safe, and functional, you don’t always need to go big. Sometimes it’s better to leave the bigger changes to the next owner—especially if it’s priced accordingly.

3. What Actually Makes a Difference

Here are the things that consistently make a home feel more appealing—without spending a ton:

✔️ Fresh coat of neutral paint

✔️ Updated light fixtures or cabinet hardware

✔️ A little love to the front entry or landscaping

✔️ Minor bathroom refreshes—think mirrors, faucets, or new towels

✔️ Staging + intentional styling ….. If you know me than you know how important this is !!

4. It’s Not Always About the Renovation—Sometimes It’s the Energy

Honestly, some homes just need a shift in feeling more than a new kitchen.

That’s where a trusted styling company comes in. A little intention, some rearranging, maybe a few curated pieces—it can change everything. Buyers walk in and feel like they belong there. That connection is what sells homes.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need to renovate to sell well—but you do need a clear plan.

If you’re not sure whether to update, touch up, or simply tidy and list—let’s walk through it together. I’ll give you honest advice, tell you where to focus—and where to skip the stress.

Every home is a little different. And together, we’ll figure out the best way to tell its next story.