Get Your Home Ready for the 2026 Hawai‘i 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 […]
From Guam to Hawai‘i Real Estate: A Life Rooted in Service
Hawai‘i is more than where I wrapped up my Coast Guard career — it’s where I met my wife, started our family, and found my next calling as a REALTOR®. My journey from being born and raised on Guam, to serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, and eventually stepping into real estate has taught me […]
Military PCS FAQ: Buying a Home in Hawaiʻi
Military relocations add an extra layer of complexity to buying a home—especially in a market like Hawaiʻi. Below are some of the most common questions service members and their families ask when PCSing to Oʻahu and considering whether to rent or buy. When Does PCS Season Typically Start in Hawaiʻi? PCS activity in Hawaiʻi usually […]
VA Loan Assumptions: What I’ve Learned From Closing 4 of Them
As a retired Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer turned Realtor®, I’ve had the opportunity to guide clients through all kinds of transactions. One of the most unique (and often misunderstood) is the VA loan assumption. While many agents may never touch one, I’ve successfully closed four — two representing sellers and two representing buyers. And […]
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 […]
Is Now the Right Time to Buy a Home on Oahu?
This is a common question that buyers ask, especially first-time home buyers. The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The answer to this question is dependent on your financial situation and long-term real estate goals. Since the Covid-19 pandemic we have seen single-family home prices increase by approximately 35%, while condo/townhome prices […]
Should You Renovate Before Selling? What Adds the Most Value in Hawaii
Is Renovating Before Selling Worth It? Will you recoup your costs during the sale of your home? These are common questions that come up prior to selling a home that may be outdated. Making a decision on this comes down to several factors, such as market conditions, your home’s current condition, and your budget. There […]
Should I Buy a Home in Hawaii with My BAH?
Receiving Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to Hawaii is an exciting opportunity, and many military members consider purchasing a home instead of renting. One of the most common questions I get is: Should I use my Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to help pay for a mortgage? As with any real estate decision, there’s […]
What Hawaii Home Buyers Are Looking for in 2025: Seller Trends to Watch
As Hawaii’s real estate market evolves in 2025, sellers must stay ahead of shifting buyer preferences to maximize their home’s appeal. While demand for living in Hawaii remains strong, affordability concerns, sustainability, and convenience are playing a bigger role in homebuying decisions. Whether you’re thinking of selling soon or just preparing for the future, here’s […]
Best Time of Year to Sell a Home in Hawaii (What Sellers Should Know)
Although Hawaii does not experience the four seasons, timing still matters! Understanding the most ideal time to list your home can maximize your home’s exposure, attract serious buyers during the peak season to foster competition, which in turn may secure the next price. Peak Selling Seasons in Hawaii There are two peak seasons in Hawaii […]