Buying Real Estate in Hawaii

What do you need to know about buying real estate in Hawaii?

Buying Real Estate in Hawaii

The Right Agent

One of the dilemmas you may face when buying a house in Hawaii is whether to have a local real estate agent represent you or to hire the listing agent of the property that represents the seller. Not every real estate agent in Hawaii knows all of the neighborhoods on each island, and listing agents typically need to attend showings in different parts of Hawaii anyway. 

It is generally a good idea to have your own representation during the homebuying process. Given Hawaii's distance from the rest of the country, you may have to rely on your agent a lot more than you would when purchasing a house on the mainland. For example, you might have the agent do the final walkthrough of the home before closing if you're living on the mainland while buying a home in Hawaii.

As you consider different properties, here are some topics to discuss with your agent, the listing agent, or both. Some are typical topics to consider as part of the home buying process, while others are unique to buying a house in Hawaii.

Buying Real Estate in Hawaii

Why is the Seller Selling?

You may need to get information about how the seller is treating upgrades to the home and negotiate for terms that are more favorable to you. Sellers are known for trying to get back the full price of any improvements they make. In reality, that may not happen. 

By having your own agent rather than hiring the listing agent used by than seller, you're more likely to get terms favorable to you.

Furnished?

Many homes and condos in Hawaii come furnished so it's important to know what comes with the property. 

Separately, you may also need to negotiate furnishings and appliances. You will not be able to haul a sofa or other big furniture on a plane with you to Hawaii. Shipping is expensive, as are the local prices for furnishings (the cost of island life, where so much has to be imported). Negotiating for furniture and commodities to be included in the purchase price is not uncommon.

Related: Cost Of Living In Hawaii

Buying Real Estate in Hawaii

Hawaii HOA

If you're moving into an area with a homeowner's association (HOA), try to get a complete understanding of how it operates. Use the information you discover to inform your decisions.

Many homeowner's associations in Hawaii have restrictions on what owners can and cannot do. For instance, they may have rules about pets, rules about what plants are allowed, and rules about what color your property can be painted.

HOAs also provide benefits to owners. For instance, in condominiums, these associations are often responsible for maintaining the exterior and front yard of the residence. They may also handle maintenance issues. If not, you should make sure to line up the needed services to help cover you if you're not planning to live on the island full-time.

Check out the newest developments on Oahu

There are a few different factors to consider when buying in Hawaii vs. the mainland. The key is using and enlisting the help of a qualified, full-time Oahu Real Estate Agent that knows all the details to the transaction. Contact me below at any time!

More Tips for Hawaii Home Buyers:

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194 Properties
Page 1 of 17
Open 5/29
99-573 Hokea Street Aiea,  HI 96701
$885,000
Neighborhood: Halawa
3
Beds
2F11/2
Baths
1,595
Sq.Ft.
1963
Year Built
1
Day on Site
202311641
MLS
Great opportunity to turn this one into your dream home in a well established Halawa Hill Estate. Original owner family trust sale.
Single level dwelling with vaulted ceiling in the living room,...
$1,299,000
Neighborhood: Mahinui
4
Beds
3
Baths
1,728
Sq.Ft.
1965
Year Built
1
Day on Site
202311623
MLS
Welcome to Kane'ohe! BEAUTIFUL home with majestic Ko'olau mountain in the backdrop. Zen like environment of location of home will sure to offer you a happy and healthy life living in this home....
$342,000
Condo: Kapiolani Manor
1
Beds
1
Baths
484
Sq.Ft.
1970
Year Built
1
Day on Site
202311581
MLS
KAPIOLANI MANOR is very popular and stunning high-rise building, located in the heart of Honolulu. Located just a short distance from the world famous ALA MOANA SHOPPING CENTER, and the beautiful ALA...
Open 6/3
87-1068 Anaha Street Waianae,  HI 96792
$715,000
Neighborhood: Maili Sea-Nohokai
3
Beds
2F11/2
Baths
1,363
Sq.Ft.
2008
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202311557
MLS
Experience the best of beach and country living in this beautiful move-in ready 3 bed, 2/1 bath home in Sea Country. Enjoy the quiet of the countryside and the convenience of being just minutes away...
$1,650,000
Neighborhood: Haiku Park
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,234
Sq.Ft.
1978
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202308834
MLS
Your opportunity to own your piece of paradise on the sought after Kalali Street cul-de-sac. Enjoy the magnificent views of the Ko'olau from your front door. Large living room and extended family...
$1,499,000
Neighborhood: Waikalua
5
Beds
4
Baths
2,335
Sq.Ft.
2022
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202311609
MLS
Open House Sunday 5/28 1-5pm. This brand new construction with the Ko'olau Mountain backdrop is calling you home! Built with large bedrooms, potential multi generational layout, garage, enclosed...
$1,499,000
Neighborhood: Waikalua
6
Beds
3F11/2
Baths
2,012
Sq.Ft.
2022
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202311610
MLS
Open House Sunday 5/28 1-5. This brand new construction with the Ko'olau Mountain backdrop is calling you home! Built with a multi generational layout or income opportunity in mind, garage, enclosed...
1
Beds
1
Baths
662
Sq.Ft.
1994
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202311392
MLS
Discover this hidden gem of a condo in the desirable gated community of Kulana Knolls. This one bedroom condo with its large, generous and well shaded lanai, fronting a peaceful park with lush and...
$798,000
Condo: 801 South St
2
Beds
2
Baths
876
Sq.Ft.
2017
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202309512
MLS
This is it, look no further! Beautiful brand new flooring just installed! New Price to sell! Amazingly cool with no afternoon sun, on high-floor and desirable corner unit, built in 2017 (Building B)....
$350,000
Condo: Island Colony
1
Baths
297
Sq.Ft.
1979
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202311635
MLS
The unit is under a month-to-month long-term lease. The famous Island Colony unit is a great property for any type of use such as vacation rental, long-term rental, hotel rental program, or as your...
Open 6/3
91-1229 Kaimalie Street Ewa Beach,  HI 96706
$1,450,000
Neighborhood: Ocean Pointe
5
Beds
4
Baths
2,043
Sq.Ft.
2006
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202311633
MLS
***Sellers are offering $20,000 credit to Buyers to help lower the interest rate*** Stunning executive style pool home features a bedroom/office space w/high ceilings & full bathroom on the 1st floor....
Active Under Contract
99-398 Hakina Street Aiea,  HI 96701
$800,000
Neighborhood: Aiea Heights
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
Sq.Ft.
1951
Year Built
2
Days on Site
202310769
MLS
This well-priced property is a great opportunity for someone willing to put in a little elbow grease. The front Lanai is a cozy space to sit and enjoy the wonderful views of Aloha Stadium and Pearl...

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