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Latest News and Articles from Harcourts Island Real Estate

March 18, 2025

Only 14 Leasehold Condos Left in Waikiki — What Buyers and Owners Need to Know

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:

Building Name Lease Expiration Year
Capri Apartments 2024 (Expired)
Kaioo Terrace 2033
Kuhio Village 2 2033
Inn on the Park 2035
Hawaiian King 2036
Hawaiian Prince 2040
Tradewinds Hotel 2040
Royal Aloha 2041
Royal Kuhio 2041
Waikiki Lanais 2042
Regency Ala Wai 2044
Kalia Inc 2048
Kon Tiki Hotel 2051
411 Kaiolu Inc 2054
Wailana 2069 (Extended)

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! 👇

March 16, 2025

The End Game: What Happens When You Buy a Leasehold Condo on Oahu?

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:

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? 👇

March 12, 2025

Allure Waikiki: Only 1 Condo Left for Sale — Is Now the Time to Buy or Sell?

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 AveEasy 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! 👇

March 8, 2025

Oahu Housing Market Update – February 2025: Record Home Prices & Condo Buyer Opportunities

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? 👇

March 6, 2025

5 Reasons Why Now Is a Great Time to Buy a Condo in Honolulu

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! 👇

March 2, 2025

One Ala Moana: 10 Years Later — Did Investors Come Out Ahead?

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! 👇

March 1, 2025

The Best Deal on Diamond Head’s Gold Coast: Oceanfront Living for 14% Less Than 2015 Price

Can you imagine owning a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom oceanfront condo on Diamond Head’s iconic Gold Coast for 14% LESS than what it sold for 10 years ago? It sounds too good to be true — but it’s real!

Let’s talk about Unit 4B at the Kainalu, a hidden gem that just might be the best deal in Honolulu right now. If you’ve been dreaming of living by the beach in one of Hawaii’s most coveted neighborhoods, you’ll want to keep reading.


Kainalu Unit 4B: The Deal of the Decade

📍 Price: $1,490,000
📉 Price History: Originally listed at $2.27M in July 2024 — now $780K less
📊 14% Below 2015 Purchase Price

Kainalu at Diamond Head

Kainalu at the End of Kalakaua Ave at Diamond Head

This stunning 2-bed, 2-bath oceanfront condo is located in The Kainalu, the last building on Kalakaua Avenue at the edge of Diamond Head. It’s rare to find any unit on the Gold Coast under $2 million, let alone one priced this aggressively.

In fact, most 2-bedroom oceanfront units in this area easily push past $2M, making this a true bargain for the right buyer.


Why The Kainalu is Special

The Gold Coast is known for its luxury oceanfront buildings, but The Kainalu stands out for a few key reasons:

🏝️ Direct Beach Access

Beach Access at the Kainalu

Beachfront Access Between Kainalu and Seabreeze

Unlike many neighboring buildings that sit behind seawalls, The Kainalu has a small sandy beach out front. You can literally walk from your condo to the ocean, enjoy a swim, then rinse off at the outdoor shower.

🏡 Prime Oceanfront Units

The most coveted units at The Kainalu are the A, B, and C stacks, which offer direct, unobstructed ocean views. Unit 4B sits in this prime position — so your living room becomes your front-row seat to the Pacific Ocean.

🚗 Covered Parking

Parking can be a challenge in Waikiki, but this condo comes with one covered stall, adding extra convenience for residents.


Why It’s the Best Deal on the Gold Coast

In the past year, this unit went through several price drops:

  • Original Listing Price: $2,270,000
  • Reduced to: $1,780,000
  • Final Price Cut: $1,490,000 (A $250K drop in one go!)

For oceanfront living in Honolulu, this kind of value is almost unheard of. If you’ve been holding out for a deal on the Gold Coast, this might be your chance.


Potential Downsides (and Easy Fixes)

No property is perfect, so it’s important to know the trade-offs:

  • ❄️ No Air Conditioning — But you can install A/C in this building if desired.
  • 🪟 One Bedroom Without Windows — While this might be a dealbreaker for some, others may see it as a perfect guest room or office space.

Considering the price point and location, these minor cons are easily outweighed by the oceanfront lifestyle you’ll be stepping into.


Is This the Right Property for You?

If you’re looking for:
Oceanfront living in Diamond Head
Direct beach access
A 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo under $1.5M
A rare value opportunity on the Gold Coast

... then Kainalu Unit 4B is worth a serious look.

Deals like this don’t come along often, and with rising prices across Oahu, this could be your chance to own a slice of paradise at a price point we might not see again.

📞 Want to schedule a showing or learn more? Call me at 808-371-3509, and let’s make your Gold Coast dreams a reality.


Final Thoughts: A Rare Opportunity on the Gold Coast

The Kainalu 4B listing is a reminder that incredible deals can still be found — even in one of Hawaii’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Whether you’re an investor, a second-home buyer, or someone who’s been waiting for the right moment to buy, this might be the opportunity of a lifetime.

Would You Buy an Oceanfront Condo for 14% Less Than 2015 Prices?

Drop a comment below and let me know — or reach out directly if you want to explore this deal! 👇

Feb. 21, 2025

January 2025 Oahu Local Market Update: Biggest Sales Trends & Price Increases

Introduction

Aloha! 🌺 The Oahu real estate market kicked off 2025 with some major shifts, from record-breaking home price increases to dramatic sales growth in key neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, staying updated on the latest trends will help you make the best real estate decisions.

In this post, we’ll break down the biggest sales trends, highest price jumps, and what they mean for buyers and sellers in Hawaii’s real estate market.


North Shore Leads the Way in Home Sales Growth 🌊

📍 Sales up 125% (from 4 to 9 homes sold)

The North Shore of Oahu saw the biggest jump in single-family home sales in January 2025. A year ago, only four homes were sold, but last month, that number more than doubled to nine—a massive 125% increase!

Why the Surge in Sales?

Increased buyer interest in beachfront properties 🏄
More listings available compared to last year
Strong demand for North Shore’s laid-back lifestyle

With demand soaring, North Shore real estate is heating up—buyers looking for a home in this area should act fast!


Waialae-Kahala Sees Record-Breaking Price Growth 💰

📍 Median home price up 49% (from $1.72M to $2.56M)

The Waialae-Kahala neighborhood experienced the largest price increase on Oahu in January 2025. The median home price jumped from $1,716,500 to $2,559,000—a 49% increase in just one year!

Why the Big Price Jump?

🔹 Luxury homes in high demand 🏡
🔹 Limited inventory pushing prices higher
🔹 A few lower-priced sales last year skewed previous numbers

If you own a home in Waialae-Kahala, now could be a great time to sell, as prices are reaching all-time highs!


Makaha to Nanakuli Leads in Condo Sales Growth 🏙️

📍 Sales up 75% (from 8 to 14 condos sold)

On the West Side of Oahu, the Makaha to Nanakuli area saw the biggest increase in condo sales, with transactions rising 75% year-over-year.

Why Are More Condos Selling Here?

More affordable prices compared to Honolulu & Waikiki
Buyers looking for ocean-view condos at lower prices 🌊
Increased interest in West Oahu real estate

For buyers searching for affordable beachfront condos, Makaha and Nanakuli are becoming top choices.


Waialae-Kahala Condos See Highest Appreciation 📈

📍 Median condo price up 34% (from $655K to $875K)

Not only did Waialae-Kahala homes see the biggest price increase, but condos in this luxury neighborhood also saw a massive 34% jump in value. The median price rose from $655,000 to $875,000 in just one year!

Why Are Condo Prices Rising Here?

🔹 Luxury condo demand increasing
🔹 Limited inventory driving up prices
🔹 Buyers looking for a high-end alternative to single-family homes

For those considering buying a luxury condo in Oahu, Waialae-Kahala remains one of the most exclusive and desirable areas.


What Does This Mean for Buyers & Sellers?

📌 For Sellers:
Home prices are rising—especially in luxury neighborhoods like Waialae-Kahala.
Demand is strong, but inventory is increasing in some areas—now is a great time to sell!
If you're considering listing your home, let's talk! 📞 808-371-3509

📌 For Buyers:
North Shore and West Oahu offer great buying opportunities—but homes are selling quickly!
Luxury home and condo prices are climbing, so if you're looking in areas like Waialae-Kahala, it's best to act sooner rather than later.
More condos are available in Makaha & Nanakuli, making them great options for buyers looking for affordability and ocean views.


Final Thoughts: Oahu’s Market Is Shifting—Are You Ready?

The January 2025 real estate market update shows big opportunities for both buyers and sellers. With home prices rising, inventory shifting, and sales increasing, staying informed is key to making smart real estate decisions.

📞 Thinking about buying or selling? Call me at 808-371-3509 for expert real estate advice!

What’s Your Take on the Market?

Drop a comment below! Are you looking to buy, sell, or invest in Oahu real estate this year? 👇

Feb. 8, 2025

January 2025 Oahu Real Estate Market Update: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know

Can you believe we’re already in February? 🌺 As we step into 2025, the Oahu real estate market is showing some interesting trends. Home prices are rising, inventory is increasing, and condos are taking longer to sell—but what does this mean for buyers and sellers?

In this blog post, we’ll break down the latest housing market statistics, analyzing trends in single-family homes and condos across Oahu. If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Hawaii, this update will give you key insights to make informed decisions.


Single-Family Homes: Prices & Sales Are Up! 🏡📈

The Oahu single-family home market remains strong, with prices and sales increasing year-over-year.

📊 Key Stats for January 2025:
Number of Sales: Up 6.5% (196 homes sold) compared to 184 sales in January 2024.
Median Home Price: Up 9.7% from $1,021,016 to $1,120,000.
Days on Market: Homes are selling faster, dropping from 29 days to 25 days (a 13.8% decrease).
Inventory: More homes are available, with a 20.9% increase in active listings (607 homes last year vs. 734 homes today).

What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

📌 For Buyers: More inventory means more choices! However, prices are rising, so waiting too long could mean paying more.
📌 For Sellers: Homes are selling quickly and at higher prices—but with more inventory hitting the market, competition is growing.


Oahu Condo Market: More Inventory, Longer Sales Times 🏙️

The Oahu condo market is following a similar trend, with sales and prices increasing—but condos are taking longer to sell.

📊 Key Condo Stats for January 2025:
Number of Sales: Up 6.8% (312 condos sold) compared to 292 sales in January 2024.
Median Condo Price: Up 7.4% from $502,500 to $539,500.
Days on Market: Condos are taking longer to sell, increasing 34.5% (from 29 days to 39 days).
Inventory Surge: Condo listings increased by 54.9% (1,348 condos last year vs. 2,098 condos today).

What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

📌 For Buyers: More inventory means more choices and better negotiating power! Now could be a great time to buy.
📌 For Sellers: With so many condos on the market, standing out is crucial. Pricing your unit correctly and having a strong marketing strategy will be key.


Final Thoughts: Should You Buy or Sell in 2025?

The Oahu real estate market remains strong, with rising prices and increased inventory. Whether you’re a buyer looking for the perfect home or a seller thinking about listing your property, now is the time to act.

📞 Have questions about the market? Call me at 808-371-3509 for expert real estate advice!

What Do You Think About the 2025 Market Trends?

Drop a comment below and share your thoughts on where Hawaii’s real estate market is heading! 👇

Feb. 5, 2025

No Condos for Sale at The Watermark Waikiki – What’s Happening?

Can you believe it? There’s not a single condo for sale at The Watermark in Waikiki right now! 😲 This luxury condo building, known for its resort-style amenities and prime location, has become one of the hottest properties in Honolulu’s real estate market.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into why inventory is so low, recent sales trends, and what this means for buyers and sellers. If you’re thinking about investing in Waikiki real estate, now is the time to pay attention!


The Watermark Waikiki: A Sought-After Luxury Condo

📍 Location: 1551 Ala Wai Blvd, Honolulu, HI
🏡 Building Type: Luxury High-Rise
💎 Units: 212 total residences

The Watermark is one of Waikiki’s most exclusive condo buildings, offering:
Resort-Style Living – Heated infinity pool, lush tropical gardens, and top-tier amenities.
Prime Location – Steps from Ala Moana Beach Park, Waikiki Beach, and Ala Moana Shopping Center.
Luxury Residences – Spacious floor plans, high-end finishes, and breathtaking ocean & city views.

Given its desirable location and upscale lifestyle, it’s no surprise that The Watermark remains in high demand.


Market Update: No Listings Available! 🚨

If you’re currently looking to buy a condo at The Watermark, you might be in for a challenge. As of today, there are ZERO units for sale in the building.

📊 Recent Sales Data:
🔹 Only 3 units sold in the past six months
🔹 15 total sales in the last year
🔹 Two-bedroom condos sold between $965K – $1.51M
🔹 One recent three-bedroom sale just under $2M

This sharp decline in available inventory suggests that homeowners are holding onto their properties, and buyers are snapping up available units quickly.


Why is Inventory So Low?

There are a few key reasons why there are no listings at The Watermark:

1️⃣ High Demand, Low Supply – Waikiki remains one of the most desirable places to live, and buyers are eager to secure a home in a luxury building like The Watermark.
2️⃣ Rising Property Values – Condo prices continue to climb, making many owners hesitant to sell, hoping for further appreciation.
3️⃣ Prime Location & Lifestyle – Residents love The Watermark’s resort-style amenities, ocean views, and walkability, making it a hard place to leave.

If you’re a buyer, this means you need to act fast when a unit becomes available. If you’re a seller, this is a fantastic opportunity to list your property at top dollar while competition is low!


Thinking About Selling at The Watermark? Now is the Time!

With zero inventory and strong buyer demand, now is an ideal time to sell your condo at The Watermark.

💰 Why List Now?
Less competition – You’ll stand out in a seller’s market.
Strong sale prices – Recent sales have closed near or above asking price.
Buyers are waiting – Many buyers are searching for units at The Watermark but can’t find one!

If you or someone you know is thinking about selling at The Watermark, contact me today at 808-371-3509 to discuss your options!


Final Thoughts: A Hot Market with No Inventory

The Watermark Waikiki remains one of the most coveted condo buildings in Honolulu, and the lack of available units proves just how in-demand this property is. Whether you're a buyer waiting for a unit to hit the market or a seller looking for the perfect opportunity to cash in, now is the time to stay informed and act quickly.

📞 Need expert advice on buying or selling in Waikiki? Call or text me at 808-371-3509 for a market consultation.

Would You Buy a Condo at The Watermark?

Drop a comment below and let me know if this building is on your real estate wish list! 👇