The Diamond Head real estate market is showing rare opportunities that haven’t been seen in more than a decade. While this iconic luxury neighborhood is known for its exclusivity and premium pricing, several properties are now trading at, or near, prices last seen ten years ago. For buyers who have been waiting for the right moment to enter this market, 2025 is presenting an unexpected window.
1. Papu Circle: A Luxury Home Returning to Pre-COVID Pricing
A standout example is the recently sold home on 4105 Papu Circle, which closed at $3.8 million after originally listing at $4.5 million. This final sale price is only slightly above its 2019 value of $3.75 million, signaling a rare price reset in a neighborhood known for aggressive appreciation.
2. Kaikoo Place: Architectural History Meets Value
Just around the corner is 4219 Kaikoo Place, a six-bedroom estate designed by renowned architect Vladimir Ossipoff. Listed at $4,775,000, it sits below the price of a nearby home that sold for $5 million over ten years ago—an unusual comparison that highlights current market softness.
3. Ocean-Access Kaikoo Property With Major Price Cuts
Another Kaikoo property, 4240 Kaikoo Place, is now offered at $6.25 million after being listed nine times since 2018, originally at $14.8 million. Its location near private ocean access adds significant long-term value for buyers.
4. Makalei Place: Prices Nearly Matching 2015
On Makalei Place, a home currently under contract for $5,295,000 previously sold for $4,988,000 in 2015. Opportunities to buy at near 10-year pricing in Diamond Head are extremely rare, signaling a market that favors buyers.
5. Noela Drive: A One-Acre Luxury Estate at an Incredible Price
Perhaps the most compelling find is the one-acre estate on Noela Drive, listed at $12 million. Originally priced at $14.8 million and previously purchased for $8.75 million in 2009, it includes two homes and represents unmatched value for its scale and location.
Bonus: Off-Market Opportunities
In addition to these public listings, several off-market Diamond Head properties are available for buyers who value privacy and exclusivity. These opportunities make it even clearer that the neighborhood is entering a rare phase of buyer advantage.
Conclusion
Diamond Head is experiencing a unique moment in its real estate cycle, one where high-end buyers can secure exclusive properties at values not seen in years. For those considering purchasing in one of Hawaii’s most prestigious neighborhoods, acting now could lead to substantial long-term upside.
If you're searching for a spacious Waikiki condo with an unbeatable location, Liliuokalani Plaza Unit 501 deserves your attention. Just a few short blocks from Kuhio Beach, this two-bedroom, two-bath residence offers generous living space, thoughtful upgrades, and access to one of Hawaii’s most walkable neighborhoods.
A Convenient and Welcoming Building
Located at 222 Liliuokalani Avenue, Liliuokalani Plaza provides a clean, quiet, and secure entry experience. Residents benefit from a lobby with mailboxes, a seating area, and dedicated package pickup. The building includes conveniently located guest loading stalls and a privately assigned parking space for the unit.
One standout advantage: only four units per floor, creating a peaceful atmosphere and greater privacy.
Inside Unit 501
The condo opens to a 1075-square-foot interior with a bright, open layout that flows toward the lanai. The kitchen includes an oversized refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, and in-unit washer/dryer hookups, an essential feature for many Honolulu buyers.
Both bedrooms come with ensuite bathrooms, providing flexibility for guests or dual-occupants. Updated vanities, storage, and vinyl plank flooring make the spaces both functional and comfortable. Jalousie windows throughout the unit offer excellent ventilation and airflow, a traditional yet effective design element in Hawaii’s climate.
The Lifestyle: Steps From Waikiki’s Best
Unit 501’s greatest selling point is location. At just 0.2 miles from the sand at Kuhio Beach, daily ocean access is effortless. The surrounding area includes world-class hotels like the Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort, Waikiki Beach Tower, and the newly renovated Alohilani Resort, which underwent a major multimillion-dollar transformation.
As you walk through the neighborhood, you’ll pass restaurants, shops, ABC Stores, and resort amenities—all contributing to a vibrant and highly desirable lifestyle.
Strong Value in a Prime Area
Compared to nearby buildings where two-bedroom units can reach $1 million (2465 Kuhio) to over $2 million (Waikiki Beach Tower), Liliuokalani Plaza offers remarkable value. Buyers gain generous square footage, parking, and proximity to the beach—without the luxury-level price tag.
Final Thoughts
For anyone exploring Waikiki real estate—whether as a primary home, second home, or investment—Liliuokalani Plaza Unit 501 stands out as an exceptional opportunity. The combination of space, location, and value is rare in this part of Honolulu.
The Oahu real estate market saw major shifts in October 2025, and several neighborhoods posted surprising and significant year-over-year gains. This month’s update highlights four key trends shaping the island’s single-family and condo markets.
Makakilo Leads with a 120% Spike in Home Sales
One of the most dramatic increases came from Makakilo, where home sales jumped from 5 transactions in October 2024 to 11 in October 2025. This 120% rise reflects renewed buyer demand in the area, driven by lifestyle appeal and relative affordability compared to Honolulu’s urban core.
Waialae-Kahala Dominates Single-Family Home Appreciation
In the luxury segment, Waialae-Kahala posted the strongest growth in single-family home values. Prices surged from $1,825,000 a year ago to $3,160,000 this past month—an impressive 73% increase. This jump highlights the continued strength of Oahu’s high-end housing market.
Condo Market Strengthens in Waialae-Kahala
Waialae-Kahala also stood out in the condo market. Sales more than doubled, rising from 4 to 9 year-over-year. This indicates growing interest among buyers seeking premium locations with lower maintenance and ownership costs than single-family homes.
North Shore Condo Prices Skyrocket
The North Shore recorded the largest year-over-year increase in condo appreciation. Prices soared from $795,000 last year to $2,314,500 this October. This dramatic rise reflects the area’s increasing desirability, lifestyle-driven demand, and limited inventory.
Final Thoughts
Oahu’s real estate market remains dynamic, with each region experiencing its own unique shifts. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, understanding these neighborhood-specific trends is essential. For personalized guidance, real estate expert David Buck is available at 808-371-3509.
Ala Moana vs. Kakaako: Which Honolulu Neighborhood Is Right for You?
Honolulu offers some of the most beautiful and dynamic neighborhoods in the world, and few are more desirable than Ala Moana and Kakaako. Although these communities sit side-by-side, each offers a distinct lifestyle, architectural style, and price point. If you are considering moving to, investing in, or learning more about Honolulu’s urban core, this comparison will help guide your decision.
Ala Moana: Convenience, Luxury & Beachfront Living
Ala Moana is known for its combination of high-end condos, unmatched beachfront access, and proximity to Ala Moana Shopping Center, one of the largest open-air malls in the world. The neighborhood stretches from Piikoi Street to the Ala Wai Canal, giving residents easy access to Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park, and stunning ocean views.
What Makes Ala Moana Stand Out
Ultra-luxury towers like Park Lane, where penthouses can reach $24–27 million
Protected swimming lagoon and easy paddleboarding opportunities at Magic Island
Hotel-zoned buildings like Ala Moana Hotel, allowing legal short-term rentals
More affordable entry pricing than Kakaako in many buildings, starting around $300K–$500K
Living in Ala Moana appeals to those who value walkability, shopping convenience, access to the beach, and a mix of price options from mid-range condos to world-class luxury residences.
Kakaako: Urban Living, Dining & Entertainment
Just west of Ala Moana lies Kakaako, one of Honolulu’s fastest-growing and most architecturally modern districts. Fueled by Howard Hughes’ Ward Village master plan, the neighborhood features high-rise luxury towers, trendy shopping, and an unmatched dining scene.
SALT at Kakaako, a trendy hub of restaurants, cafés, breweries, and lifestyle shops
60,000 sq ft Whole Foods Market, a major convenience for residents
Community-oriented events, including concerts, ice skating, and seasonal festivals
Entertainment venues such as the Blaisdell Center and nearby theaters
Mixed-use living with retail on the ground floor and residences above
Kakaako is ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant, walkable neighborhood with modern amenities, world-class dining, and a strong sense of community.
Price Comparison: Entry Points & Luxury Markets
While both neighborhoods offer luxury real estate, the entry-level pricing differs significantly.
Ala Moana
Entry-level condos: $300K–$500K
Mid-range and luxury towers vary widely
Ultra-luxury units at Park Lane can exceed $20M+
Kakaako
Entry-level units typically start around $600K and up
High-rise luxury towers often range well into the millions
New developments sell out quickly due to demand
Lifestyle Comparison
Choose Ala Moana if you want:
Direct beach access
Quick shopping and dining convenience
More affordable condo options
Easier access to Waikiki
Choose Kakaako if you want:
A modern, urban lifestyle
Trendy restaurants and entertainment
Community events and pedestrian-friendly streets
Access to Whole Foods and SALT at Kakaako
Final Thoughts
Both Ala Moana and Kakaako are exceptional neighborhoods with unique personalities and benefits. Your choice depends on the lifestyle you prefer - beachfront convenience with a mix of luxury and affordability, or a modern urban community built around dining, architecture, and entertainment.
For expert guidance on buying or selling in either area, contact 808-371-3509.
In Hawaii, the term property manager can mean very different things depending on the context. Many owners and buyers are surprised to learn there are actually two distinct types of property managers working within Honolulu’s condo market.
1. Building Property Managers
These managers work on behalf of the entire condo building. They are typically hired by large companies such as Hawaiiana Management, Hawaiian Properties, or Associa. Their responsibilities include:
Overseeing HOA operations
Ensuring compliance with reserve studies
Managing board of directors’ meetings and minutes
Monitoring building-wide insurance policies
Enforcing rules for all owners
A building property manager serves as a fiduciary for the collective ownership of the condominium.
2. Individual Unit Property Managers
These managers represent individual condo owners. They are responsible for:
Screening tenants
Collecting deposits and rent
Inspecting the unit
Acting as the owner’s fiduciary
Providing local representation if the owner lives off-island
Hawaii law requires off-island owners to have a local property manager as boots on the ground.
How Colorado Differs
On the mainland, the division of responsibilities can look very different. In Colorado, property managers handle the physical oversight, while leasing agents manage the financial side, similar to commercial real estate roles in Hawaii. Leasing agents negotiate leases, collect rent, and work directly with landlords and tenants.
The Bottom Line
The term property manager may sound simple, but the responsibilities vary widely across states and even within the same condo building. Understanding these differences helps owners, tenants, and investors make informed decisions about how to manage their assets.
For real estate guidance outside of property management, David Buck—licensed Realtor and lifelong Hawaii resident—is available to help with buying or selling homes and condos across Honolulu.
The Oahu real estate market delivered a mix of stability and unexpected movement in October 2025. While single-family homes showed steady year-over-year performance, the condo segment revealed one of its strongest upticks in recent months.
Single-Family Homes Hold Steady
Single-family home sales remained unchanged from last year, with 261 homes closing in both periods. Despite flat sales, median home prices rose from $1.1M to $1,162,500, showing continued demand even as days on market increased from 16 to 26 days.
Inventory saw a modest rise of 4.6%, moving from 741 homes to 776. Yet, levels remain below the historic benchmark of 800 active listings, keeping the market in seller’s territory with only three months of remaining inventory.
Condo Market Sees a Notable Rebound
After months of stagnation, the condo market delivered an unexpected shift: sales climbed 9.4%, rising from 405 units last year to 443 this month. This marks one of the most positive signals the condo sector has seen in over a year.
Prices also nudged upward, with the median condo price increasing from $525,000 to $535,000. Days on market rose significantly from 26 to 44, signaling buyers are taking more time to explore increased options.
Inventory remains high, up 19.6% year-over-year at 2,341 active units. With 6.4 months of remaining inventory, condos continue to sit in a buyer’s market, offering opportunities for shoppers who have been waiting for broader choices.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
Buyers in the condo market may find favorable conditions thanks to elevated inventory and extended selling time. Meanwhile, single-family home sellers may still benefit from tight supply and increasing prices, though longer days on market require strategic pricing and marketing.
For personalized insights into your neighborhood or property type, contact David Buck at 808-371-3509 to explore your best options.
Every Halloween, the Red Guardian (Alexei) emerges from his “secret location” to deliver a one-of-a-kind real estate update that’s as entertaining as it is informative. This year’s Halloween Real Estate Report 2025 from Harcourts Island Real Estate highlights some of Hawaii’s most stunning properties, all while channeling the spirit of Marvel’s mightiest heroes.
Between heartfelt family humor and Marvel movie callbacks, Alexei reminds us that real estate can be fun, especially when it comes with a costume. As his kids grow older and his Marvel persona evolves, one thing stays the same: his passion for sharing the beauty and opportunity of living in Hawaii.
If you’re looking to buy or sell in paradise, or you just enjoy a little cinematic flair with your market insights, this is one annual tradition you don’t want to miss.
Aloha, this is David Buck with Harcourt Island Real Estate. I'm really excited to give you a tour of my listing here at 91-1510 Kaikōhala Street here in Kipuka at Hoakalei.
91-1510 Kaikohola St in Hoakalei's Kipuka Neighborhood
This is going to be a gated community. It's the only gated community done by Haseko in Hoakalei. Let me give you a tour of the front and then as you come in through the gate, I'm going to kind of show you around here.
Gate Entry at Kipuka
Here's a street frontage view, as you can tell. So we're getting ready for Halloween and then you've got the common area mailboxes over here. These are technically condos. It's a CPR project, but they are detached single-family homes and we're in the golf series, which you're going to see in a second. The interior of Kipuka, they call them the garden series. They're also really nice homes, but they're just not quite as large, nor do they front the golf course.
Aerial View of Kipuka
This will give you a high-level perspective as we pan to the west from here. You'll see the golf course done by Ernie Ells and then as we pan to the left, straight out towards the ocean is Kipuka and that's the common area swimming pool here for our gated community. Then, across the golf course to the left is going to be Kuapapa, which is the third phase of Hoakalei.
Front Door Entry
We've got a first open today at 91-1510 Kaikōhala Street. Got a nice welcome sign here, Aloha! As we do in Hawaii, we're going to take off our shoes. As we come in through the front door, you're greeted by this nice, great room, a nice open space.
Great Room w/ Virtual Staging
Kitchen and Dining Area Overlooking the Golf Course
And you have this gourmet kitchen, pantry, dining area here, greens out the back, whether you want to set up for a barbecue and outdoor lanai.
Ernie Els Golf Course
Golf Course View from Lanai
What's beautiful about this is this is an Ernie Els signature golf course here at Hoakalei. That's what you're going to have out the back. However, it kind of dead ends here, so you're not going to have a lot of traffic directly in front of you here. As we pan around here, it's a big open space. This is going to be a four bedroom, two and a half bathroom, 2,072 square feet under roof. You're going to have ample storage underneath the stairway here that wraps around the corner.
Downstairs Laundry and Half Bathroom
Then you're going to have half bath downstairs when you're entertaining for guests. Then you've got a nice laundry room here. Next, let's go check out the upstairs. It's also all central air. We are in October. I do not have the AC on and it feels like you don't even need it right now. What I love about this place is, in addition to having central air conditioning, you have 22-owned PV panels on the roof to basically help offset your electricity costs. And it's got a nice chandelier here. And I'm going to save the primary suite for last because you do have four full bedrooms upstairs.
Upstairs Office Space and Chandelier Above the Stairs
There's a nice workspace here for kids doing homework or set up a home office or what have you. You've got lots of options here. More storage here. Full bath here off the hallway with dual vanity sinks. And then at the end of the hall here, you have two bedrooms that overlook the street.
Hallway Bathroom and 2 Bedrooms on the Street Side
You've got these nice plantation-style shutters on the exterior for the aesthetic look that Haseko did. This is bedroom one and bedroom two with a flat screen on the wall here. Another full closet. And then just come back down the hallway. We're going to have two more bedrooms that are going to overlook the golf course.
Bedroom 3 Overlooking Golf Course
This one here has got three windows and you kind of look out onto the balcony here on this side. You can make out some golf carts there, but they're traversing the course. There's a path through here, but there's, like I said, not a lot of traffic in general out here. We'll see from the primary suite is you do have a nice view of the mountains there out the back.
View of Hoakalei Golf Course and Mountains
Now here we come into the primary suite. This will give you another perspective of the golf course and water feature here. So here we are on the deck. Like I said, you got a nice water feature out to the right. And here's your nice backyard that's fully fenced. You got a few neighbors here on the golf course. All right.
Primary Suite Virtually Staged
Now, as we head back inside, you have a nice barn door here for a partition if you want some privacy into the en suite here. And you've got one full closet off to the left. You got your little office here, separate shower and separate tub for soaking the end of the day. Full vanity sinks, medicine cabinet.
Primary Bathroom in Hoakalei Kipuka Home
This is a little hidden here, but it actually is a full walk-in closet. So it looked like just, you know, like a shallow closet, but yeah, you do have a full walk-in closet here off the primary suite. This is what it's about...
Hoakalei Lifestyle
You can see it all here in Hauakalei. And right down the road from here, you've got all kinds of amenities at the lagoon, Wai Kai wave pool, etc. In addition to the golfing, which comes for additional fee, it is a private golf course. I did a video a while back talking about Wai Kai and the wave pool and all the amenities here out at Hauakalei. But what's really special, as I mentioned about Kipuka here in Hoakalei is it's the only one that's a gated community within all of the Haseko developments here that originally started with Ocean Pointe and then Ka Makana at Hoakalei and then Kipuka. The project across the golf course there is going to be called Kuapapa. And then last but not least is the latest development called Kekainani, which I did a video on that as well if you want to take a look. But while we're here at this property, what I love about this place, once again is it's gated and a great value.
Harcourts Auctions Listing
What I did not mention early on on this is this is a Harcourts Auctions listing. This is a non-distressed auction. And we have a starting bid on this at just $1.2 million. There's three or four other homes for sale on the golf course. We're by far the best price. I'm a motivated seller. So to learn more about Harcourts Auctions or a Hauakalei Kipuka, feel free to reach out and give us a shout at 808-371-3509. Mahalo.
In 1988, Billy Whitford launched the first ILH Kayaking program, marking the beginning of a beloved tradition for Hawaii’s private schools. What started as a small racing event with a handful of high schoolers has evolved into a full varsity and junior varsity sport, one that still captures the spirit of aloha and competition today.
This post revisits the early days, the legendary coaches like Marshall Rosa, Kala Kukea, John Puakea and George Kissner and the students who paddled their way to national success. It’s more than just a sport, it’s a window into Hawaii’s lifestyle, history, and community pride.
If you’re curious about how the Ala Wai Canal became a training ground for champions — and how this local passion connects to real estate and lifestyle in Honolulu, you’re in for a ride.
Oahu’s housing market continues to surprise even seasoned agents. In September 2025, the Moanalua to Salt Lake neighborhood saw a jaw-dropping 1200% increase in home sales, skyrocketing from just one sale last year to 13 this month.
That’s not all. This area also posted a 35% year-over-year increase in home values, securing its place as the island’s strongest performer. But when it comes to appreciation, the Windward Coast takes the top spot, rising 71% in median home prices from $900,000 to over $1.5 million.
The condo market told a mixed story. Moanalua to Salt Lake once again led the pack with a 360% increase in condo sales, while Waialae-Kahala dominated condo appreciation with a massive 114% jump in median prices.
However, of the 21 neighborhoods tracked by the Honolulu Board of Realtors, 13 showed declines in condo values. This highlights a shifting market — and a potential opportunity for buyers looking to enter before the next upswing.
As David Buck of Harcourts Island Real Estate explains, “Every neighborhood and condo complex moves differently. Timing is everything.”
