In the heart of Kakaako, one of Honolulu’s most vibrant neighborhoods, Waihonua has become a standout name in luxury condo living. Since its completion in 2015, this elegant residential tower has provided residents with a perfect blend of urban convenience and island luxury. Now, 10 years later, we can truly assess its performance in the Oahu real estate market.

Whether you’re an owner, buyer, or investor, understanding Waihonua’s sales trends offers valuable insights into the health of Honolulu’s condo market. Let’s dive into how different unit types have appreciated over the past decade.

The Story of Waihonua

Waihonua at Kakaako is a 43-story luxury condominium with 341 units, featuring one, two, and three-bedroom layouts, along with a collection of exclusive grand penthouses. Its prime location, nestled between Ala Moana and Ward Village, made it an attractive choice for those seeking an urban lifestyle with ocean views and resort-style amenities.

Waihonua Condo Sales Performance Over the Years

Let’s break down how different types of units have performed over the past decade.

📊 1-Bedroom Units

• Appreciation: +49%

• Why the Growth?

  • Affordability compared to larger units

  • Strong demand from young professionals and investors

  • High rental potential

• 1-bedroom units at Waihonua have shown steady price growth as buyers sought well-located, modern living spaces.

🏢 2-Bedroom Units

• Appreciation: +39%

• Factors Influencing the Market:

  • Ideal for small families, downsizers, and retirees

  • Popular for owner-occupants and long-term investors

  • Kakaako’s ongoing development increased desirability

• These mid-sized units have maintained consistent value growth, reflecting the strong demand for practical luxury.

🏡 3-Bedroom Units

• Appreciation: +19%

• Why the Lower Appreciation?

  • Impacted by the sale of grand penthouses

  • Larger units face a smaller buyer pool

  • Pricing competition with newer developments

• While 3-bedroom units have still appreciated, their growth has been slower compared to smaller units. However, these homes remain desirable for those seeking spacious, family-friendly living.

The Impact of COVID and Market Recovery

Like many other properties, Waihonua faced market uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Sales slowed as travel restrictions and economic uncertainty weighed on buyers.

However, 2021 saw a strong rebound, driven by:

• Returning international buyers

• Low mortgage rates

• Increased demand for luxury condos as remote work became common

The result? Sales prices at Waihonua quickly regained momentum, leading to new record highs in recent years.

Why Waihonua Remains a Smart Investment

✅ Prime Location: Steps from Ala Moana Center, beaches, and Ward Village.
✅ Resort-Style Amenities: Pool, fitness center, movie theater, and party rooms.
✅ Quality Construction: Built by Alexander & Baldwin, a trusted name in Hawaii real estate.
✅ Community Appeal: A well-maintained and well-managed building with a strong sense of community.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in Waihonua, now is an excellent time to explore your options.

Final Thoughts

Over the last decade, Waihonua has demonstrated resilience and growth, proving to be a solid investment for owners. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious residence or a long-term investment, Waihonua continues to stand out in Honolulu’s dynamic real estate landscape.

📞 Have questions or want to see what’s available at Waihonua? Contact me today at 808-371-3509 for expert advice and personalized assistance.

Did you know that you could buy land today in Kahala for cheaper than you could a dozen years ago? This is David Buck with Harcourts Island Real Estate and today we're gonna talk about land for sale in Kahala and why it's a discount compared to historic levels. First off, we're gonna start off with this house behind me.

4823 Kahala Ave Record Home Sale

This is 4823 Kahala Avenue This sold this past month for a record sale not only on Oahu, but in Hawaii for $65,750,000. This surpassed the previous record at $42,000,000 at the Kaiser Estate, which is Directly behind me out there in Portlock. So that's a new record sale here on Oahu, but not many people know and what didn't make the press headlines was that the behind me (when it was vacant land) sold in 2013 $22 million dollars and change that was roughly $338 dollars a square foot. So, to put that in perspective, everything that we're going look at today with the exception of one lot is going be less than that. 

History of 4823 Kahala Ave.

Now, the sale of this lot. It was a 66,000 square foot lot previously owned by Genshiro Kawamoto, who is a Japanese billionaire I've talked about in the past. At the time, he was driving around in a limousine just like this one, going up to people all over the island and offering cash for their homes. He paid $12,0000,000 for this lot in 2013 and it made a lot of news here in Hawaii because what happened was he went ahead and he tore the old Hemmeter Estate down without a building permit. It was big news all over the news here.  At the end of the day, can you guess what his fine was? It was $50 so, you know like I guess he had some attorney consulting him And he just went for it without getting a building permit to demo the old Hemmeter Estate And he paid a $50 fine. With that said, he paid $12,000,000.

The previous owner just prior to that bought it in May of 2005 and was a hui of some local investors that included Jerry Lynch who's a well-known local Investor and developer he paid $9,000,000 out of bankruptcy for the old Hemmeter Estate and then flipped it to Kawamoto for $12,000,000. Then, The Estates of Kahala, which is an LLC By Alexander & Baldwin that bought the entire Kawamoto portfolio, which included this lot behind me so some of the other lots we're looking at today were part of that initial portfolio, but what I want to get it as a pricing. So once again, $338 dollars a square foot for this lot behind me at a $22 million sale back in 2013. Our office at the time with my previous brokerage, we were involved in this and a number of other sales here along Kahala Avenue then.

Once again, back then the land sold for $22 million and then they built a home 11,000 square foot home and sold it for $65,750,000. Just doing the raw math. I don't think it took them $40,000,000 to build the house. So there is a generous cushion and profit there.

Why Land in Kahala Is a Smart Buy Right Now

Over the past few years, the luxury real estate market in Kahala has seen a shift. While it remains highly sought-after, some properties are being offered at prices well below their peak.

For example, oceanfront lots that once commanded astronomical prices are now available for significantly less per square foot. Meanwhile, properties located mauka-side (toward the mountains) offer even more value while still enjoying proximity to the beach.

Current Land Deals in Kahala

Here’s a look at some of the best deals available right now:

• 4744 Kahala Ave

  • Lot Size: 20,000 sq. ft.

  • Price: $4.88M

  • Price Per Sq. Ft.: $243

  • Perfect for buyers looking to build a custom home in a prestigious neighborhood.

• 4775 Kahala Ave

  • Lot Size: 27,997 sq. ft.

  • Price: $7.2M

  • Price Per Sq. Ft.: $257

  • Located on the sought-after Kahala Avenue, this expansive lot offers ample space for luxury development.

• 4767 Kahala Ave (Oceanfront)

  • Lot Size: 45,000 sq. ft.

  • Price: $19.8M

  • Price Per Sq. Ft.: $437

  • An incredible opportunity to own a direct oceanfront estate with panoramic views of the Pacific.

• 4607 Kahala Ave (Best Deal)

  • Lot Size: 1.3 acres (56,628 sq. ft.)

  • Price: $15M

  • Price Per Sq. Ft.: $257

  • A rare oceanfront lot with nearly unparalleled value in Kahala’s luxury market.

Comparing Today’s Deals to Historic Sales

To put these deals into perspective, consider that one of Kahala’s most expensive sales was a $65.7M oceanfront estate. While current prices are nowhere near that record, you’re still securing a blue-chip investment in one of the most prestigious zip codes in Hawaii.

Additionally, unlike purchasing an older estate that may require expensive renovations, buying vacant land gives you complete control to design your perfect home.

Key Considerations When Buying Land in Kahala

Before you take the plunge, keep these factors in mind:

1. Zoning and Permits:

   • Confirm the zoning regulations for your lot and understand any restrictions on height, setback limits, or environmental requirements.

2. Construction Costs:

   • Factor in current construction and material costs. Building in a luxury neighborhood often means using high-end materials and expert contractors.

3. Financing Options:

   • While land loans are available, they typically require higher down payments and stricter qualifications than traditional home loans.

4. Oceanfront vs. Mauka-Side:

   • While oceanfront properties offer stunning views, mauka-side lots are generally more affordable and still enjoy the perks of the Kahala lifestyle.

Is Now the Right Time to Buy Land in Kahala?

If you’ve been waiting for the right opportunity to invest in Hawaii real estate, now may be your moment. With competitive pricing and a limited number of prime lots available, buying land in Kahala offers both luxury and long-term value.

📞 Have questions or want to explore your options? Call or text me at 808-371-3509 — I’d be happy to help you navigate the market and find the perfect piece of paradise.

If you own a condo in Honolulu or are considering buying one, you’ve probably heard about the skyrocketing insurance premiums that are affecting homeowners across Oahu. From unexpected special assessments to challenges with financing, condo owners are feeling the financial strain.

But why are these insurance costs rising so quickly? And is there any relief in sight? In this blog, we’ll dive into:

• What caused the spike in condo insurance rates

• How the Maui fires impacted the market

• Why some buildings are now cash-only sales

• What the future holds for condo owners

Why Are Oahu Condo Insurance Rates Rising?

1. Underinsurance and the Maui Fires

A major factor in the rising premiums was the devastating Maui fires in August 2023. Insurers faced significant losses, which caused the reinsurance market (the companies that insure insurance companies) to increase their rates.

Additionally, many condo buildings on Oahu were found to be underinsured. Some had coverage far below their 100% replacement cost — meaning in the event of a disaster, the insurance would not cover a complete rebuild. This risk caused insurance companies to raise premiums across the board.

2. Special Assessments Are Hitting Homeowners

When condo insurance premiums increase, those costs are typically passed on to residents in the form of:

• Higher monthly maintenance fees

• Special assessments to cover sudden increases in premiums

📌 Example: In one Honolulu building, the insurance premium jumped from $75,000 to $500,000 per year. This resulted in a $5,000 special assessment for individual condo owners — a massive unexpected cost.

3. Financing Challenges for Buyers

When a condo building is underinsured or lacks full coverage, most lenders refuse to offer mortgages. This means that in some buildings, buyers can only purchase units with cash.

For sellers, this creates a major disadvantage — limiting the pool of potential buyers and often driving property values down.

Is There Any Good News?

Yes! Despite the challenges, there are signs of hope.

• Premiums Are Starting to Stabilize: Some buildings have already seen 15-20% decreases in insurance rates as the market adjusts.

• Increased Competition: More insurance companies are expected to enter the market, increasing competition and driving rates down.

• Building Improvements: Many older buildings are replacing cast iron plumbing and installing fire sprinklers, reducing risk and future claims.

Real estate experts predict that with patience and continued building upgrades, condo insurance rates will begin to normalize over the next year.

What Should Condo Owners and Buyers Do?

For Condo Owners:

• Stay Informed: Ask your HOA or property manager about the building’s insurance coverage and any plans for improvements.

• Budget for Assessments: If your building is underinsured, be prepared for the possibility of special assessments.

• Consider Selling: If rising fees are unsustainable, this may be a good time to explore selling your condo.

For Condo Buyers:

• Do Your Research: Before making an offer, confirm that the building has 100% replacement cost coverage.

• Ask About Special Assessments: Check for any planned assessments or recent increases in maintenance fees.

• Consider Fee Simple Options: Fee simple condos often come with fewer insurance risks than leasehold properties.

Final Thoughts: Navigating the Oahu Condo Market

The challenges with condo insurance are significant, but they’re not permanent. With rates beginning to stabilize and buildings making necessary improvements, Oahu’s condo market is expected to see gradual relief.

📞 Thinking of buying or selling a condo in Honolulu? Let’s talk! Call me at 808-371-3509 — I’ll help you navigate the market and make informed decisions.

Have You Experienced Rising Condo Fees?

I’d love to hear your thoughts — share your experiences in the comments below! 👇

Aloha! 🌺 Oahu’s real estate market showed some major shifts this past month, with certain neighborhoods experiencing massive sales growth and significant price increases. Whether you're considering buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the market, understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions.

Let’s break down the key highlights from February 2025 and explore what they mean for you.

Single-Family Homes: Downtown to Nuuanu Leads the Way

📍 Sales Up 500%
📈 Median Home Price Up 73%

The biggest story of the month was in the Downtown to Nuuanu area, where home sales surged by an astonishing 500%. While this jump was from 1 sale in February 2024 to 6 sales this past month, it’s still a notable increase for the neighborhood.

The median home price in Downtown to Nuuanu also saw a dramatic rise, increasing from $880,000 to $1,525,000 — a 73% year-over-year increase.

What This Means:

• For Sellers: If you own a home in this area, now could be the perfect time to list your property while prices are soaring.
• For Buyers: Be prepared to face competition and higher prices. Work with a knowledgeable agent to identify opportunities and negotiate effectively.

Condo Market: North Shore and Wahiawa See Sales Boom

📍 Sales Up 100%

When it comes to condos, both the North Shore and Wahiawa saw impressive gains.

• North Shore: Condo sales doubled from 2 to 4 year-over-year.
• Wahiawa: Similarly, sales jumped from 1 to 2, marking a 100% increase.

While these numbers are smaller compared to other areas, they signal growing interest in these regions.

What This Means:

• For Sellers: If you’re considering selling your condo in these areas, the increased demand could help you achieve a higher sale price.
• For Buyers: Act quickly if you’re interested in these neighborhoods — competition is growing, and prices may continue to rise.

Hawaii Kai Sees Major Condo Price Appreciation

📍 Prices Up 31%

The Hawaii Kai condo market also made headlines with the largest price appreciation on the island. The median sales price increased from $708,500 to $925,900, reflecting a 31% year-over-year increase.

Why the Increase?

• Desirable Waterfront Living: Hawaii Kai offers marina-front properties and luxury amenities.
• Limited Inventory: Fewer condos available have pushed prices higher.
• Lifestyle Appeal: With its proximity to both the ocean and hiking trails, Hawaii Kai remains a sought-after location.

What This Means:

• For Sellers: You could potentially secure a premium price by listing your property now.
• For Buyers: While prices are higher, Hawaii Kai offers a unique lifestyle that remains attractive for many buyers.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Do Next?

Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, understanding the local market is key to making the right decisions.

• Sellers: If you own property in areas like Downtown to Nuuanu or Hawaii Kai, this may be the best time to list your home while prices are climbing.
• Buyers: If you’re looking for a condo, keep an eye on neighborhoods like Wahiawa and the North Shore, where sales are picking up but prices are still relatively stable.

📞 Want personalized advice? Give me a call at 808-371-3509 — I’m happy to answer any questions and help you navigate Oahu’s real estate market.

What’s Your Take on the Market?

Do you think Oahu’s real estate prices will continue to rise, or are we in for a shift? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 👇

Did you know that there are only 14 leasehold condo buildings remaining in Waikiki? With the majority of condos in Honolulu now converted to fee simple ownership, leasehold properties are becoming increasingly rare.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or currently own a leasehold condo, understanding the lease expiration timeline is crucial. In this blog, we’ll cover:

• Which Waikiki buildings are still leasehold
• When their leases expire
• What this means for owners and buyers
• Why financing a leasehold condo can be tricky

What Is a Leasehold Condo?

A leasehold condo means you own the unit, but not the land it sits on. Instead, you lease the land from the landowner for a set period. Once the lease expires, ownership typically reverts back to the landowner unless the lease is renegotiated or extended.

While leasehold condos are often more affordable than fee simple properties, they come with the risk of losing your investment when the lease ends.

The 14 Remaining Leasehold Condos in Waikiki

Here’s a list of the remaining leasehold condos in Waikiki and their respective lease expiration dates:

What Does This Mean for Owners and Buyers?

For Leasehold Owners:

If your building’s lease is nearing expiration, you’ll need to consider your options:

• Is the fee available for purchase? Some landowners offer the fee, allowing you to convert to fee simple ownership.
• Will the lease be extended? Buildings like Wailana recently extended their leases to 2069, making financing easier and securing ownership for decades to come.
• What if the lease expires? In the worst-case scenario, you may have to walk away from your condo once the lease is up.

For Buyers:

Purchasing a leasehold condo can be a strategic move if you:

• Understand the risks and are comfortable with the lease expiration timeline.
• Plan to live in the condo short-term or use it as an investment.
• Are a cash buyer since financing options may be limited.

Financing Tip:

• Most lenders will not approve loans for leasehold condos with less than 30 years remaining on the lease. If you’re considering a leasehold unit, be prepared to pay cash or find alternative financing.

Why Fee Simple May Be the Safer Choice

While leasehold properties are typically more affordable, fee simple condos offer:

• Full ownership of the property and land
• No risk of lease expiration
• Easier financing and better resale value

For many buyers, the long-term stability of fee simple ownership is worth the higher upfront cost.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy or Sell a Leasehold Condo in Waikiki?

The decision to buy or sell a leasehold condo ultimately comes down to your goals and risk tolerance. While some buildings may offer opportunities through lease extensions or fee purchases, others may not.

📞 Need expert advice? Whether you're thinking of buying, selling, or navigating leasehold ownership, I’m here to help. Call me at 808-371-3509 for a personalized consultation on Waikiki real estate.

What’s Your Take on Leasehold Condos?

Would you consider buying a leasehold unit, or do you prefer fee simple ownership? Let me know in the comments below! 👇

Thinking about buying a leasehold condo in Honolulu? Before you make your move, it’s crucial to understand the “end game”—what happens when the lease runs out?

Leasehold properties in Hawaii can offer lower purchase prices compared to fee simple condos, but they come with unique risks that buyers must consider. In this post, I’ll break down the three possible outcomes when purchasing a leasehold condo and how to prepare for the future.

The 3 Possible Leasehold Endings

1️⃣ Best Case: The Landowner Offers the Fee for Sale

🏡 You get the chance to buy the land and convert to fee simple

The best possible scenario for leasehold condo owners is when the landowner decides to sell the land beneath the building. If this happens, you can purchase the fee and convert your condo into fee simple ownership, meaning you now own both the condo unit and the land it sits on.

✅ Example: This recently happened at Discovery Bay in Waikiki, where leasehold owners were given the opportunity to buy the fee.

Key Takeaway: If you’re considering a leasehold purchase, check if there are plans to sell the fee—this can greatly impact your investment.

2️⃣ Good Case: The Land Lease Gets Extended

📜 The lease is renewed, allowing new buyers to get financing

Another favorable outcome is when the landowner extends the lease, which can preserve property values and allow buyers to get mortgage financing (since banks typically won’t finance short-term leaseholds).

✅ Examples:

• Sans Souci (Diamond Head) & Wailana at Waikiki both had their leases extended, making them more attractive to buyers.

Key Takeaway: If you’re buying leasehold, ask about lease extensions—it could make a big difference in your condo’s long-term value.

3️⃣ Worst Case: The Lease Expires & You Walk Away

🚨 When the lease runs out, you lose ownership of the condo

The biggest risk of leasehold ownership is that when the lease expires, you no longer own the property. You might have spent years paying for the condo, but when the lease ends, the landowner takes back the property, leaving you with nothing.

❌ Example: This happened in Kailua, where leasehold condo owners lost their investments when the lease expired.

Key Takeaway: Always plan for the worst-case scenario—unless the fee is available for purchase or the lease is extended, assume you’ll eventually have to walk away.

How to Protect Yourself When Buying Leasehold

✅ Check if the fee is available – This could turn your leasehold condo into a fee simple investment.
✅ Understand the lease expiration date – The shorter the lease, the bigger the risk.
✅ Ask about lease extensions – Some buildings get lease renewals, others don’t.
✅ Consider the financing options – Most banks won’t lend on leases with less than 30 years remaining.

Pro Tip: If the lease ends in 20 years or less, assume that you’ll lose your investment when the lease expires.

Final Thoughts: Is Leasehold a Smart Investment?

Leasehold condos can be great short-term investments, especially if you’re paying less upfront and not planning to hold the property long-term. However, buyers must understand the risks and always have an exit strategy.

📞 Thinking about buying a leasehold condo in Honolulu? Call me at 808-371-3509—I’ll help you navigate the market and find the right investment!

Would You Buy a Leasehold Condo?

Drop a comment below and share your thoughts—smart investment or too risky? 👇

Can you believe it? Allure Waikiki, one of the most desirable luxury condo buildings at the entrance to Waikiki, is down to just one unit for sale. 📉 With high demand and low supply, this building is becoming a hot commodity — and whether you’re a buyer or a seller, this could be your moment to make a move.

Let’s dive into the latest market update for Allure Waikiki, explore why this building is still undervalued, and break down what this tight inventory means for you.

Allure Waikiki Market Snapshot – February 2025

📊 Units for Sale: 1 (Unit 2101) — Priced at $1,250,000
📈 Units Under Contract: 2 condos currently pending sale
📆 Recent Sales: 12 condos sold in the past 6 months (That’s 2 sales per month)
💰 Median Sales Price: $1,070,000 (Including 3-bedroom units)
🏢 Price Per Sq. Ft.: Still under $1,000 — A bargain for luxury living in Waikiki!

If this pace continues, Allure Waikiki could be sold out soon, leaving zero active inventory on the market.

Why Is Allure Waikiki So Desirable?

Despite its prime location and luxury amenities, Allure Waikiki remains undervalued compared to other high-end condos in Honolulu. Let’s break down why this building is such a gem.

🏝️ 1. Prime Location

• Entrance to Waikiki on Kalakaua Ave — Easy access to beaches, shops, and restaurants
• Minutes from Ala Moana Center & Beach Park 🛍️🌊
• Less traffic congestion compared to deeper Waikiki locations

🏊‍♀️ 2. Resort-Style Amenities

• Swimming Pool & Spa
• Fully Equipped Fitness Center
• BBQ & Entertainment Area
• Conference Room & Lounge for Private Events

💸 3. Incredible Value

• Luxury living for less than $1,000 per sq. ft.
• Priced lower than many comparable luxury buildings
• Strong long-term investment potential as Waikiki prices climb

What This Means for Buyers

If you’ve been considering buying a condo in Waikiki, now is the time to act. With only one unit left for sale and inventory shrinking fast, waiting could mean missing out on one of the last great deals in luxury real estate.

🔑 Why Buy Now:

• Limited Inventory: Fewer options mean you need to act fast
• Undervalued Market: Buy under $1,000/sq. ft. before prices rise
• Future Price Growth: Tight inventory could push prices even higher

What This Means for Sellers

If you own a unit at Allure Waikiki, this could be your golden opportunity to sell. With only one active listing, you have very little competition — meaning you could sell quickly and at a premium price.

💡 Why Sell Now:

• High Buyer Demand: Units are selling at a pace of 2 per month
• Low Inventory Advantage: With almost nothing available, you can set the price
• Attractive Amenities: Buyers are drawn to the luxury lifestyle and prime location

Final Thoughts: A Building in High Demand

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Allure Waikiki’s shrinking inventory presents a unique market opportunity.

• Buyers: Act fast to grab a luxury condo at below-market pricing
• Sellers: Capitalize on low competition and sell while demand is through the roof

📞 Thinking about buying or selling at Allure Waikiki? Let’s chat! Call me at 808-371-3509, and we’ll make a strategy that works for you.

Would You Buy or Sell at Allure Waikiki Right Now?

Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear your thoughts! 👇

Can you believe it? Oahu just hit a new record high for single-family home prices — but at the same time, condos are creeping toward a buyer’s market. 🌴 If you’ve been wondering whether to buy or sell property in Honolulu, these latest stats might help you decide.

Let’s break down the February 2025 housing stats, so you can see what’s happening on the island and what it might mean for your real estate goals.

Single-Family Homes: Record Prices, Fewer Sales 🏠

Median Home Price: $1,185,000 (🚀 New Record High) 
Sales Volume: 167 homes sold (-6.7% YoY)
Days on Market: 23 days (-23.9% faster than last year)
Inventory: 728 listings (+21.6% YoY)

What This Means:

• For Sellers: This is your moment! With home prices at a historic high, you could maximize your profit — especially since homes are selling faster.
• For Buyers: While prices are up, inventory has increased — so you might still find good options. But be ready to move quickly, as homes are selling faster than last year.

Condo Market: Price Drops & Buyer Opportunities 🏙️

Median Condo Price: $494,000 (-3.6% YoY)
Sales Volume: 293 condos sold (-12.3% YoY)
Days on Market: 48 days (+23% longer than last year)
Inventory: 5.8 months of supply (Almost a Buyer’s Market)

What This Means:

• For Sellers: Condo prices are slipping, and units are taking longer to sell. If you need to sell, you might have to price competitively or offer incentives.
• For Buyers: This could be the best time in years to buy a condo! With prices dipping and inventory rising, you’ll have more negotiating power — especially if we cross into a full buyer’s market (6+ months of inventory).

Is It a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market?

🔑 Single-Family Homes: Seller’s Market (High prices, fast sales)
🔑 Condos: Almost a Buyer’s Market (Rising inventory, falling prices)

If you’ve been considering a single-family home, you may want to act fast before prices climb even higher. But if a condo lifestyle is calling your name, patience and smart negotiating could land you a great deal.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy or Sell in 2025?

The Oahu housing market is a tale of two trends:

• Homeowners are cashing in on record prices 📈 (Highest price since May, 2022)
• Condo buyers are gaining leverage in a softening market 📉 (Lowest price since February 2023)

Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling, it’s essential to stay informed and work with a local expert who can guide you through the shifting market conditions.

📞 Have questions about Oahu real estate? Call me at 808-371-3509 — I’d be happy to help you navigate the market and find the right opportunity for you.

Would You Buy Now or Wait?

Let me know in the comments — are you planning to jump into the market, or are you holding out for even better opportunities? 👇

Aloha! 🌺 If you’ve been dreaming about owning a condo in Honolulu, now might be the perfect time to make your move. While the market has had its ups and downs, there are some unique opportunities right now that savvy buyers can take advantage of.

In this post, we’ll break down 5 powerful reasons why buying a condo in Honolulu makes sense today — plus a bonus reason for cash buyers who want to maximize their investment. Let’s dive in!

1. Aging Buildings Create Buyer Leverage 🏗️

Many condos in Honolulu, especially in areas like Waikiki and Diamond Head, were built in the 1960s and 1970s. While these buildings offer charm and amazing locations, they often come with aging infrastructure.

🔧 Common Issues:

• Cast Iron Plumbing Failures: Pipes in older buildings are starting to fail, leading to costly replacements.
• Capital Expenditures: Many condos are facing building-wide upgrade costs, which can drive sellers to offload units at lower prices.

What This Means for Buyers:
Sellers facing expensive special assessments may be more willing to negotiate, giving buyers a chance to snag a deal.

2. New Safety Regulations Are Pressuring Sellers 🔥

Honolulu’s Ordinance 19-4 requires older high-rises to either:

• Install Fire Sprinklers 🔧
• Pass a Life Safety Inspection ✅

For some buildings, this can mean massive renovation costs — which might be enough for owners to sell now rather than pay later.

Tip for Buyers:
Research which buildings are already compliant and which ones face upcoming assessments — this can give you even more negotiating power.

3. Underinsured Buildings Add to Seller Pressure 🏢

Over 300 condo buildings in Honolulu are underinsured, meaning they don’t have enough coverage to rebuild after a disaster. As insurance rates rise, some owners may choose to cash out rather than risk future increases.

Opportunity for Buyers:
With some owners feeling the squeeze, there could be more motivated sellers willing to accept lower offers to avoid future uncertainties.

4. Condo Inventory Is Up 116% 📈

Good news for buyers — condo inventory has more than doubled over the past two years!

With 116% more condos on the market, buyers have:

• More options to choose from 🏙️
• Less competition for each unit 🏖️
• Stronger negotiating power 💰

If you’ve been frustrated by the lack of options in past years, now is your chance to shop around and find the perfect unit.

5. The Strong US Dollar = More Japanese Sellers 💸

One of Honolulu’s biggest foreign buyer groups is from Japan. But with the yen historically weak against the US dollar, many Japanese owners are choosing to sell their condos to take advantage of the currency exchange rate.

What This Means for Buyers:

• More Listings: More Japanese owners selling means increased inventory.
• Motivated Sellers: Some sellers may be more focused on cashing out at a favorable exchange rate than holding out for top dollar.

Bonus: A Golden Opportunity for Cash Buyers 🪙

With mortgage rates still high, cash buyers have a huge advantage. In past downturns (like after the Marco Polo fire or during the Ilikai litigation), cash buyers swooped in and scored amazing deals.

Why Cash is King Right Now:

• Stronger Negotiating Position: Sellers are often more flexible for cash offers.
• Faster Closings: No need to wait for lender approvals or appraisals.
• Less Competition: Many buyers are holding back due to high interest rates, meaning fewer competing offers.

If you’re a cash buyer looking for long-term value, now might be your chance to lock in an oceanfront condo at a bargain price.

Final Thoughts: Is Now the Right Time to Buy?

With a perfect storm of factors creating buyer opportunities, now could be an amazing time to buy a condo in Honolulu — especially if you’re willing to do your research and negotiate smartly.

Whether you’re looking for a beachfront getaway, a long-term investment, or a full-time home in paradise, the current market conditions might give you the edge you’ve been waiting for.

📞 Thinking about buying a condo in Honolulu? Call me at 808-371-3509, and let’s explore your options together!

What’s Your Take?

Would you buy a condo in Honolulu right now — or are you waiting for even better deals? Drop a comment below and let me know! 👇

Can you believe it’s been 10 years since One Ala Moana welcomed its first owners? This luxury condo development, perched atop Ala Moana Shopping Center, was one of Honolulu’s most talked-about projects when it launched. But now that a decade has passed, it’s time to look back and ask: Was buying at One Ala Moana a smart investment?

Let’s break down how 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom units have performed over the years — and whether investors made or lost money.

A Quick History of One Ala Moana

📍 Location: 1555 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI
🏗️ Developers: General Growth (Former Ala Moana Center owners), McNaughton, and Kobayashi
🌍 Investor Buzz: Sold out quickly, with many buyers from overseas markets

One Ala Moana was a huge hit when it launched — units sold fast, and buyers were eager to own a luxury condo connected to Hawaii’s largest mall. But did the hype translate into long-term returns?

1-Bedroom Units: The Clear Winners 🟩

📊 Original Price (2015): ~$850K
📈 Current Value (2025): ~$1M+
✅ Gain: ~$150K+

If you bought a 1-bedroom unit at One Ala Moana and held onto it, congratulations — you’re up! 🎉 These units, which had the lowest entry price, saw the most consistent appreciation over the past decade.

2-Bedroom Units: The Big Losers ❌

📊 Original Price (2015): $2M+
📉 Current Value (2025): ~$1.7M
🔻 Loss: ~$500K

Unfortunately, owners of 2-bedroom units didn’t fare as well. Prices dropped by around half a million dollars, meaning many investors would have lost money if they sold today — not even accounting for maintenance fees, property taxes, and carrying costs.

3-Bedroom & Penthouse Units: Flat or Worse 🟨

📊 Original Price (2015): Up to $16.2M
📉 Current Value (2025): $16M
🔻 Loss: ~$200K (or more with expenses)

The 3-bedroom and penthouse units were a mixed bag. While prices stayed relatively flat, some high-profile buyers — like Mr. Sekiguchi, who paid $16.2M for two penthouses — are sitting on a $200K loss after a decade of ownership. And that doesn’t even include the hefty maintenance fees and property taxes.

What Happened? Why Did Prices Fall?

Several factors may have contributed to the price drops in larger units:

1. COVID Market Disruptions: The pandemic slowed sales and altered buyer preferences.
2. Increased Competition: New luxury condos like Park Lane and Ward Village stole some of the spotlight.
3. Changing View Planes: Rumors suggest Park Lane 2 might be built on the east side of Ala Moana, potentially blocking views for some units.

Is One Ala Moana Still a Good Buy?

Despite some price drops, One Ala Moana remains a fantastic luxury building with a prime location. And for buyers, today’s lower prices might present an opportunity to buy into a high-end condo at a discount.

If you’re looking for a long-term lifestyle investment — not just a quick flip — One Ala Moana could still be worth considering.

Final Thoughts: A Decade of Ups and Downs

Looking back, One Ala Moana has been a mixed investment depending on the unit type. 1-bedroom owners came out ahead, while 2-bedroom and penthouse owners likely lost money. But with Oahu’s real estate market always evolving, who knows what the next 10 years might bring?

📞 Thinking about buying or selling at One Ala Moana? Call me at 808-371-3509 — I’d love to help you navigate the market!

Would You Buy a Unit at One Ala Moana Today?

Drop a comment below and let me know what you think! 👇