Can a young local professional come home and buy a first home in Hawai'i? Yes. Kyra, a Queen's Medical Center nurse who grew up here, just did it. After six years on the mainland, she came home, landed a Surgical ICU position, and bought her first home in town, just minutes from work, with her mom and dad by her side.
Six years away, and Hawai'i kept calling
Kyra graduated from Kamehameha Schools and left the islands to earn her nursing degree at Creighton University in Nebraska.
"I was only supposed to be in Nebraska for four years."
After graduation she stayed two more years to complete a nurse residency in Omaha and gain hospital experience. When the residency ended, she was ready to come home.
Bringing her skills home to Queen's
Knowing Hawai'i needs more nurses, Kyra applied to The Queen's Medical Center. Her two years of experience paid off, and she was hired into the Surgical ICU.
"Which is nice, because they don't hire new grads. My two years was enough for them."
She is also continuing her education with a master's program at Hawai'i Pacific University.
A first home close to work, with family every step of the way
Kyra had one clear goal for her first home: live close to work, so long shifts in the ICU end with a short commute. Her mom and dad helped her through every step of the process. When it got overwhelming, she leaned on them.
"I was getting really overwhelmed with everything. I was like, I trust you guys. Just do what you gotta do."
Together we found the right fit in town, just minutes from Queen's. On the day she first walked through the door, her parents were right beside her.
Building a strong start as a new homeowner
Kyra has signed up for homebuyer education with the Hawai'i HomeOwnership Center (HHOC). Through the Honolulu Board of REALTORS' HOPE Homebuyer Education Program, buyers referred by a member REALTOR can access HHOC homebuyer education classes, homeownership coaching, buyer assistance referrals and post-purchase services.
Homeownership in Hawai'i is possible
Kyra's story shows that coming home and owning a home in Hawai'i can happen together. With a plan, family support and the right guidance, the next generation of nurses, teachers and local professionals can build their lives here.
Thinking about buying your first home on Oahu? As a HiCentral HOPE-designated REALTOR, I'd be glad to walk you through the process, connect you with homebuyer education, and help you build a plan that fits your life. Call or text me at 808-226-7530 or email Lester@TheSalazarGroupHawaii.com.
Lester A. Salazar, REALTOR, RB-23849, Broker and Team Leader | The Salazar Group | Premier Island Homes Hawaii, Coldwell Banker Island Properties