How Hawaiian Homestead (DHHL) Homes Work in Hawai‘i: Rules, Eligibility, and Buying a DHHL Home on Oʻahu
If you’ve ever searched for homes on Oʻahu, you may have had this moment before. You’re scrolling through listings and suddenly see a single-family home priced under $500,000. Your first thought might be: “Wait… that can’t be right.” Then you open the listing and realize it’s a Hawaiian Homestead property through the Department of Hawaiian […]
What Are the Costs of Buying a Home in Hawai‘i? A Breakdown for Buyers
Buying a home in Hawai‘i is an exciting milestone, whether you’re a local family putting down roots or relocating to the islands for work or military service. Most buyers focus on the down payment and monthly mortgage payment, but there are several other costs involved in buying a home in Hawai‘i that can catch people […]
Buying a Home in Hawai‘i: A Complete Guide for O‘ahu Buyers
Buying a home in Hawai‘i is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a process that can look a little different compared to other parts of the country. From unique property ownership structures to the fast-moving local market, there are several things buyers should understand before starting their home search. Whether you’re born and raised in […]
Get Your Home Ready for the 2026 Hawai‘i Real Estate Market
A Step-by-Step Plan for Homeowners Planning to Sell or Rent After the New Year As the New Year approaches, many Hawai‘i homeowners begin looking ahead. Real estate activity has historically picked up after the holidays, making this a natural time to reassess plans and decide what makes the most sense for the year ahead. With […]
Should You Rent or Sell Your Hawai‘i Home in 2026?
If you’re a homeowner in Hawai‘i who may be moving next year, you might be asking yourself the big question heading into the new year: Should I rent or sell my property in 2026? Whether you’re relocating for work or military PCS orders, downsizing, upgrading, or just weighing investment opportunities, the decision between renting or selling […]
HARPTA & FIRPTA Explained: What Every Hawai‘i Home Seller (and Buyer) Should Know
When selling a home in Hawai‘i, two terms that often create confusion — even for experienced owners — are HARPTA and FIRPTA.They sound complicated, but understanding how these tax laws work can help you avoid delays, surprises, or unnecessary withholding at escrow. What Is HARPTA? HARPTA stands for Hawai‘i Real Property Tax Act.It’s a state law requiring escrow to withhold 7.25% of the […]
How Local Families Are Affording Homes in Hawaii: Creative Strategies That Work
It’s no secret that buying a home in Hawaiʻi isn’t easy. With some of the highest home prices in the nation and mortgage rates that haven’t come down much, many local families wonder if homeownership is even possible. The good news is—yes, it is. I’ve seen firsthand how families here are getting creative and making […]
Leasehold vs. Fee Simple: Understanding Hawaii’s Unique Real Estate Market
Hawaii’s real estate market is unlike any other in the U.S., and one of the biggest distinctions buyers encounter is the difference between leasehold and fee simple properties. When you’re looking to buy your first home, understanding these ownership structures is crucial. What is Fee Simple Ownership? The most common and sought after form of […]
Hawaii Property Tax Exemption: What Homeowners Need to Know
Owning a home in Hawaii comes with its share of responsibilities, and property taxes are one of them. The good news is that Hawaii offers a Homeowners’ Exemption that can help reduce the amount you owe each year. On top of that, if you are a veteran with a 100% disability rating, you may qualify […]
Selling a Home in Hawaiʻi: Hiring Family, Flat Fees, and What I Learned
Selling a home in Hawaiʻi is not just a transaction. It is often one of the largest financial decisions a family will make. It involves timing, preparation, negotiation, inspection oversight, and coordination — especially if you are both selling and buying at the same time. Several years ago, my wife and I chose to sell […]