What Homebuyers and Sellers Need to Know Right Now

As we step into 2026, the Oahu real estate market is showing clear signs of renewed momentum. December 2025 wrapped up with strong activity across both single-family homes and condos, offering important signals for buyers, sellers, and investors heading into the new year.

David Buck of Harcourts Island Real Estate breaks down the latest data and what it means for anyone considering a move in the Oahu housing market.

Single-Family Homes on Oahu: Strong Demand, Limited Supply

Single-family homes on Oahu continued to show impressive strength in December 2025.

  • 228 homes sold, up 18.4% year over year
  • Median sales price: $1.1 million, a 4.3% increase from December 2024
  • Median days on market: 22 days, slightly slower than last year’s 20 days
  • Active inventory: 635 homes, down 5.9% year over year

Inventory remains historically low. For decades, anything below 800 homes for sale on Oahu has signaled a seller’s market. With just 2.5 months of supply, sellers continue to hold the advantage, especially for well-priced, move-in-ready homes.

Oahu Condo Market: Sales Up, Prices Adjusting

The condo market also saw increased activity, though with a different pricing trend.

  • 360 condos sold, up 11.5% year over year
  • Median condo price: $512,000, down 5.2% from last year’s record high
  • Active condo inventory: Over 2,100 units, up 12.3% year over year
  • Months of supply: 5.9 months

The key shift here is inventory. After spending most of 2025 above six months of supply (considered a buyer’s market) condos have now dipped just below that threshold. This suggests the condo market may be transitioning back toward balance or even a mild seller’s market.

Buyer Activity Is Picking Up Heading Into 2026

While the holidays typically slow real estate activity on Oahu, the final weeks of December told a different story. Buyer interest increased noticeably, with multiple properties going under contract and more showings across the island.

This uptick aligns with:

  • Slightly declining interest rates
  • Improved buyer confidence
  • Pent-up demand after a slower few years

According to industry forecasts and National Association of Realtors projections, 2026 is expected to be a healthier, more active real estate year compared to recent cycles.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

Thinking of Selling?

With inventory still tight and buyer activity increasing, this could be an excellent window to list, especially before competition grows later in the year.

Thinking of Buying?

Preparation is key. Whether financing or paying cash, having your lender approvals and paperwork ready will be crucial as competition starts to return.

Final Thoughts on the Oahu Real Estate Market

December 2025 closed with positive momentum across Oahu’s housing market. Single-family homes remain firmly in seller’s market territory, while condos are showing signs of stabilization and renewed demand. As interest rates ease and activity builds, early 2026 may present strong opportunities for both buyers and sellers who are prepared.

If you have specific questions about buying, selling, or investing in Oahu real estate, connect with a trusted local expert.

📞 Contact David Buck – Harcourts Island Real Estate

Phone: 808-371-3509

Aloha, and Happy New Year 🌴