Buying a Home

Aug. 5, 2024

The Rising Homeowner's Insurance Rates in Hawaii: Impacts and Legislative Responses

Homeowner's insurance rates in Hawaii have been on a steep rise, significantly affecting the real estate market, particularly for condominiums. This report delves into the reasons behind the increasing insurance rates, the impact on buying and selling homes, and the measures taken by the Hawaii legislature and governor to address …

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June 21, 2024

Understanding the New NAR Rules: Buyer Representation and Compensation Disclosure

The landscape of real estate transactions is constantly evolving

The recent settlement with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) has made significant changes in the regulations governing buyer representation. We want to provide you with the details of these changes, particularly focusing on the requirement for buyer representation and …

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April 30, 2024

Explaining the NAR Settlement: What It Means for Home Buyers and Sellers

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has reached a settlement that could reshape the real estate landscape in the United States. This settlement, announced on March 15, 2024, and expected to take effect in mid-July 2024, addresses claims brought by home sellers regarding broker commissions. Here's what consumers need to …

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Dec. 15, 2023

Navigating Financing Challenges: What You Need to Know Before Buying a Condo on Oahu

Buying a condo on the beautiful island of Oahu is a dream for many, but the reality of securing financing for such a purchase can be more challenging than one might expect. In this blog post, we'll explore some common reasons why individuals may face difficulties in obtaining financing for …

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Nov. 4, 2023

Navigating Hawaii's Real Estate Market: Why Now is the Perfect Time to Buy

As real estate brokers in Hawaii, specializing in residential properties on the beautiful island of Oahu, we are well aware of the unique challenges and opportunities the local market presents. The current market conditions, marked by higher interest rates, may initially seem discouraging to potential buyers. However, this is actually …

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Oct. 17, 2023

Sea Level Rise in Hawaii: An Impending Challenge for Real Estate Brokers

Living and working as a real estate broker in Hawaii, with a primary focus on residential properties on Oahu, we've witnessed the unique allure of this island paradise. The landscapes, the culture, and the tropical climate make it a desirable location for real estate investment. However, the very charm of …

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Sept. 7, 2023

A Quarter-Century of Real Estate in Honolulu County: Trends in Median Sales Prices

median sales vs interest rate

Chart Data updated as of December 10, 2025. Median Home Sales data from HiCentral MLS. Data deemed reliable but not guaranteed. InfoSparks (c) 2024 ShowingTime. Freddie Mac, 30-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage Average in the United States [MORTGAGE30US], retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis; https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/MORTGAGE30US, December 10, …
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Aug. 24, 2023

Navigating the Unseen: A Guide to Buying a House Remotely

In an era where technology and real estate expertise converge, the idea of purchasing a house sight unseen is no longer as daunting as it once seemed. Whether you're considering an out-of-state move or simply find yourself in a unique situation, teaming up with a reliable real estate agent and …

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Aug. 4, 2023

Embracing the Aloha Spirit: Being a Good Neighbor in Hawaii

Hawaii, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant culture, is not just a vacation destination but a close-knit community. As a resident or even a temporary visitor, embracing the Aloha Spirit and being a good neighbor is essential to fostering a harmonious and welcoming environment. In this blog post, …

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July 12, 2023

What Is A Leasehold Property?

Leasehold Properties

A leasehold property is a property wherein you own the structure (condominium, townhouse, or Single-Family home) but not the land on which the improved structure sits.

How Leasehold Works

When you purchase a leasehold property, you are buying the improved structure on top of the …

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