This week our team visited Kaliu, a new condo in Kakaako that will break ground in 2026 and is aiming for a 2028completion, which I assume will be delayed.  Kaliu is a 'front row' luxury condo building on Ala Moana blvd at Coral st, which is directly across from the Chevy dealer by the Kakaako waterfront park. 

The thing I love about new construction is that you can lock in the price and then wait 3-4 years, which can be a great hedge against inflation and rising prices in general.  For a 5% deposit, you get 30 days to think about the decision, and then there is another 15% due in June of 2026.  But then you don't have to complete the sale until the building is done, so you just wait for prices to rise.  This has been amazing in the past, where many people have often made over $200k in gains before their building was even completed. 

This particular building has a few advantages over some others, the first of which is that it will be right across the street from Salt, where there are several cafes and restaurants.  While Ward village down the street has more high end restaurants, Salt is more suited for your daily coffee and sandwich or breakfast, with more moderately priced options.  

Kaliu also has larger 3 bedroom condos that span the entire front width of the building - so that they get the view of both Diamond Head to the East and the airport side facing West. There aren't many other buildings that offer that wide view, and that's probably why many of the high floor 3 bedroom units have already sold, even though they are north of $5million. 

As of November 2025, there are still many units available starting at about $900k for a 1 bedroom plus den, which is almost certainly going to be used as a 2 bedroom by many people.  I think this is maybe the best entry value, since the 2 bedroom units start at about $1.25mil and aren't all that much larger.  

The prices are lower than what I see right now at Victoria place, but higher than the Collection across the street.  This seems in line with the market, since Victoria place has more amenities and is in Ward Village.    

Here are some of the price ranges of each type of unit in the floor plate of Kaliu: 

And there are a lot of amenities at Kaliu, like a pool, hot tub, dog park, men's and women's spa, entertainment rooms, a gym, and more.  Here's the deck layout: 

The kitchens are very modern and simple, and they make me want to do another remodel on my own kitchen, for the 3rd time in 20 years. Here's what they look like: 

And the view from this building is going to be amazing, and most likely will never be blocked, since it has the Kakaako waterfront park in front of it. 

We just had a client reserve a 2 bedroom unit this month, and I expect a few more will follow soon.  Since the Hawaii real estate market has been quite slow for the past 3 years, we fully expect the market to pick up and for prices to rise in the next few years.  

So, this new condo in Kakaako, directly across from Salt, is one of the best bets on long term price gains in our market.  For more info, contact us.  

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity at a VA assumable home at 4.2% Fabulous, upgraded, and move-in ready! Complete with a brand new roof, this stunning single-level home sits on a spacious lot in a peaceful cul-de-sac.

Enjoy an extra-large living room with soaring vaulted ceilings, seamlessly opening to a generous wraparound yard and patio—perfect for entertaining. The oversized primary bedroom features a walk-in closet for ample storage. Plus, no maintenance fees! Conveniently located near the vibrant Ka Makana Ali’i mall, offering premier shopping, dining, and entertainment options. 

Are you thinking of moving to or from Hawaii in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let's chat!

This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom 1,265 sq ft home in Las Brisas of Ewa Beach is ready for its new owners. It is situated on a coveted rim lot with no rear neighbors! The home offers added privacy and beautiful mountain views from the primary bedroom.

The home features stainless steel appliances, elegant shaker cabinets, and a spacious tiled shower in the primary bathroom. The open floor plan of the home is filled with natural light both downstairs and upstairs and, in all three bedrooms. With a cozy loft space, this home gives just a little extra, not to mention the primary suite boasts a generous walk-in closet for added convenience. Park effortlessly in the two-car garage or your extra uncovered stall (guest parking pass included). When you're not grilling on the patio or enjoying the fenced yard, take a dip in the community pool on warm summer days. Conveniently located near golf courses, schools, parks, a dog park, beaches, and shopping centers. Best of all, this home is VA Assumable at 3.175%!

Are you thinking of moving to or from Hawaii in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let's chat!

I am so proud of my agent Kate Bliss, who represented the buyer of this beautiful property. This significant Kailua estate recently found new owners, marking its first market appearance since being custom built in 1978.

This 5,782-square-foot beachfront property exemplifies luxury Hawaii living, positioned along Kailua's coveted shoreline. The estate welcomes visitors with a grand entrance featuring a signature koa wood staircase and lava rock fountain, opening to panoramic views of Kailua Bay and the Mokulua islands.

Main Features:

• 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms in primary residence

• 3 private guest suites with full amenities and outdoor spaces

• Entertainment areas with dedicated kitchen

• Custom koa wood bar and protected lanai

• 4-car garage for collectors

Design Elements:

• Vaulted ceilings throughout upper level

• Floor-to-ceiling windows maximizing ocean views

• Natural stone flooring and wood trim

• Multiple indoor-outdoor living spaces

• Modern kitchen designed for entertaining

Outdoor Living:

• Direct access to white sand beach

• Covered lanai with multiple seating areas

• Professional landscaping with mature palms

• Manicured lawn transitioning to beach

• Unobstructed Mokapu crater vistas

The property's thoughtful design creates seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces while maintaining privacy. Traditional Hawaiian materials like koa wood and lava rock complement contemporary styling throughout.

The swift 15-day sale of this never-before-listed property demonstrates the enduring appeal of premium Kailua Beach locations, even as the broader market shows increased flexibility in pricing.

Are you ready to find your Hawaiian dream home in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let's chat!

Living in Ward Village: Honolulu’s Coolest Community

If you’re thinking about settling down in Honolulu, Ward Village might just catch your eye. It’s this master-planned spot that’s got a vibe all its own—think urban buzz meets island chill. Named the “Best-Planned Community in the U.S.” by Architectural Digest back in 2017, it’s a place where modern living and Hawaiian soul create the perfect mix. So, let’s kick back and chat about what makes Ward Village awesome, a few things to watch out for, how long it takes to get around, and the sweet amenities you’ll find here.

 

The Good Stuff: Pros of Ward Village

First off, the location is prime. Ward Village sits smack in the heart of Honolulu, right between downtown and Ala Moana Beach Park. You’ve got the city’s energy on one side and the ocean’s laid-back waves on the other—it’s the best of both worlds. The community’s designed with this cool mix of high-rise condos, green spaces, and walkable streets, so it feels lively but not overwhelming.

The amenities here? Next level. Residents get access to stuff like rooftop pools, fitness centers with killer ocean views, and BBQ cabanas perfect for a weekend hangout. Take The Park Ward Village, for example—it’s got plans for on-site spas and dog walk areas, making it feel like a resort you don’t have to leave. Plus, you’re steps away from Whole Foods, trendy eateries, and boutique shops. It’s all right there, so you can ditch the car and just stroll.

Another big win is the community vibe. Ward Village isn’t just about fancy buildings—it’s got heart. There’s public art everywhere, from sculptures by Tony Cragg to Yayoi Kusama’s funky installations. They even sponsor events like the Honolulu Biennial. And with parks like Victoria Ward Park, you’ve got spots to picnic or just soak up the sun.

Property values here tend to hold strong, too. The combo of security, upkeep, and an exclusive feel means your investment’s likely to stay solid—or even grow over time. If you’re into a place that feels polished but still has that island soul, Ward Village nails it.

 

 

On the Flip Side: The Cons

Then there’s the rules. Like a lot of planned communities, you’ve got a homeowners’ association keeping things in line. That means bylaws about what you can do with your home—no wild paint colors or major exterior tweaks. It keeps the neighborhood looking sharp, but if you’re someone who loves total freedom, it might feel a bit restrictive.

Oh, and traffic? Honolulu’s not exactly known for empty roads, and while Ward Village is walkable, if you’re driving out, you might hit some gridlock, especially during rush hour. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to consider.

 

Drive Times: How Long to Get Around

Speaking of traffic, how’s the commute around the island? Pretty sweet if you’re sticking close. From Ward Village, you’re looking at about 5-10 minutes to downtown Honolulu—perfect if you work in the city. Ala Moana Beach Park is even closer, like a 5-minute cruise or a quick walk if you’re feeling it. Heading to Waikiki? That’s about 10-15 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

If you’re venturing further, like to Pearl Harbor, it’s more like 20-25 minutes. The airport’s a chill 15-20-minute drive, so catching a flight’s no sweat. Now, if you’re thinking North Shore for some surf, that’s a longer haul—45 minutes to an hour—but it’s a gorgeous ride. Traffic can stretch those times a bit, especially mornings and evenings, but the trade-off is you’re starting from a spot that’s already got everything you need nearby.

 

Amenities: What’s on Deck

Ward Village is stacked with stuff to make life easy and fun. Beyond the condo perks like pools and gyms, you’ve got the Ward Centre and South Shore Market right in the mix—think local shops, cafes, and dining spots like Merriman’s for some killer Hawaiian eats. Whole Foods is basically your neighbor, so grocery runs are a breeze.

The green spaces are a highlight, too. Parks like Kewalo Basin and Ala Moana Regional Park are super close, giving you room to stretch out or hit the water. And if you’re into culture, the art scene’s always popping with galleries and installations around the corner.

Wrapping It Up

Ward Village is the sweet spot of city convenience and island ease. If the community is in your price range and you love a polished, community-driven community, Ward Village might be the place for you.

Are you thinking of moving to or from Hawaii in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let's chat!

Hey there! Today I'm excited to share details about one of West Oahu's newest communities - Noho Papa at Ho'opili Pōhaku Estates. If you're looking for a new construction home that combines modern amenities with true Hawaiian community living, this one deserves your attention.

Location & Community Vision Situated mauka of Farrington Highway, Noho Papa is part of the innovative Ho'opili master-planned community. D.R. Horton has thoughtfully designed this development to create the perfect balance between private home life and community connection.

The Home Details These aren't just houses - they're carefully crafted living spaces that include:

• Six different floor plans (3-4 bedrooms) to match your ohana's needs

• Two-car garages that are both PV and EV ready

• Designer-selected flooring packages

• Whole-house split AC (essential for those West Side days)

• Stainless steel appliances

• Smart home technology that makes daily life easier

The Community Experience Ho'opili isn't just about houses - it's about lifestyle. The master plan includes:

• Six community and recreation centers

• Over 200 acres of urban agriculture (farm-to-table living, anyone?)

• Shopping and dining options at your doorstep

• Dog park for the fur babies

• Tot lot for the keiki

• Swimming pool

• Parks and party rental areas for those family gatherings

Let's Talk Numbers Starting prices begin at $1,031,650, with financing options including:

• VA loans at 5.50% (5.937% APR) with zero down

• Conventional mortgages at 5.99% (6.424% APR) with 5% down

• Monthly payments ranging from $8,169 to $8,368 depending on your loan type

Pro tip: These rates are available for contracts signed after 01/17/25 and closing by 04/30/25 through DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd.

Why Consider Noho Papa? What sets this community apart is how it balances modern comfort with that laid-back Hawaii lifestyle we all love. You're getting quality construction from D.R. Horton (one of America's largest homebuilders), thoughtful design features, and a real sense of community - all in a location that's set to appreciate as the Ho'opili area continues to develop.

The Bottom Line If you're looking for a new construction home that offers modern amenities while maintaining that special Hawaiian sense of community, Noho Papa at Ho'opili Pōhaku Estates should be on your radar. Just remember that prices and features can change, and these homes tend to move quickly in our market.

Are you thinking of moving to or from Hawaii in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let's chat!

We are excited to announce the sale of this 1978 custom built Kailua Beachside Villa. Never on the market before, this home was built, lived in, loved and cared for by its original family. Even better still, eXp represented both the buyers and the sellers on the sale after just 15 days on market! 

So what makes this house so special? When you step inside the grand entrance of this 5,782 square foot oasis, you are greeted with a sweeping Koa staircase, lava rock fountain and panoramic views of Kailua Bay. After waking up every day to epic sunrise views, a walk down one of the most beautiful 3 mile white sand beaches on earth may be in order. This estate features three bedrooms and four bathrooms with three additional private guest suites. Each guest suite includes a full bathroom and kitchenette as well as a private outdoor space. The expansive entertaining space offers its own kitchen and multiple options for indoor and outdoor dining. With views of the turquoise blue waters, Mokulua islands and Mokapu crater; the buyers fell in love with this stunning retreat. The home has a large, covered lanai leading to a well manicured yard that transitions to the beach. The second level has massive vaulted ceilings and hosts the main quarters for the owner’s living space. Large primary suite and additional flex room as well as a built in koa bar, and protected lanai bring a feeling of pure serenity. As an added bonus, the large 4 car garage is perfect for car collecting enthusiasts. 

Are you ready to find your Hawaiian dream home in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let’s chat!

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the housing market, you may have noticed some exciting news: mortgage rates dropped last week, offering a fresh wave of opportunities for those in Hawaii’s unique real estate landscape. With refinancing activity heating up and the potential for increased buyer interest, let’s dive into what this means for the Aloha State.

A Welcome Dip in Mortgage Rates

According to recent industry reports, the average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 6.63% for the week ending March 6, 2025—down from 6.76% the previous week, marking the lowest level this year so far. This decline, though modest, is part of a broader trend of rates easing over the past several weeks, providing a glimmer of relief after a rollercoaster ride in 2024. For Hawaii, where mortgage rates tend to hover close to the national average, this drop translates to real savings for borrowers.

What’s driving this shift? Economic signals, including a slightly weaker-than-expected jobs report released in early March, have nudged rates downward as investors seek the safety of bonds—a move that often lowers mortgage rates. While we’re not back to the ultra-low rates of a few years ago, this dip is enough to catch the attention of homeowners and buyers alike.

Refinancing Surges: Seizing the Moment

The drop in rates didn’t go unnoticed. Nationally, refinance applications spiked by 16% week-over-week for the week ending March 6, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). Even more striking, refinance volume was 90% higher than the same week a year ago. Here in Hawaii, where homeownership costs rank among the highest in the nation, this uptick in refinancing could be a game-changer for recent buyers.

However, refinancing isn’t a slam dunk for everyone. With closing costs averaging 2-5% of the loan amount, it’s worth crunching the numbers to ensure the savings outweigh the fees. For Hawaii homeowners sitting on pandemic-era rates below 4%, the incentive to refinance remains low—but for newer buyers, this could be the moment to act.

Hawaii Real Estate: A Market in Motion

So, what does this mean for Hawaii’s real estate market? As of February 2025, Oahu’s housing scene is notoriously competitive, with median single-family home prices hovering around $1.2M. On the Big Island, where prices are more approachable at $555,000, this rate drop could entice more first-time buyers to jump in.

The MBA also reported a 7% increase in purchase loan applications last week, a sign that buyers are starting to re-enter the market as we head into the spring buying season. In Hawaii, where inventory remains tight, this could heat up competition, especially in desirable areas like Honolulu and Maui.

Sellers, take note: lower rates might also coax more homeowners to list their properties. Many have been “locked in” by ultra-low rates from years past, reluctant to trade a 3% mortgage for something higher. But as rates ease, that hesitation could fade, potentially bringing more homes onto the market—a welcome shift in a state where supply shortages have long driven prices skyward.

The Bigger Picture for Hawaii

Hawaii’s real estate market has always danced to its own tune. High demand from both local and international buyers, coupled with limited land and a thriving tourism industry, keeps prices robust even when rates fluctuate. While a housing crash seems unlikely—home values have risen 8.3% year-over-year, per recent estimates—these lower rates could stabilize affordability just enough to keep the market humming.

For buyers, now might be the time to get pre-approved and start shopping before competition intensifies. For homeowners considering a refinance, it’s worth a call to your lender to see if the numbers pencil out. And for sellers? A well-priced home in top condition could attract eager buyers riding this wave of lower rates.

What’s Next?

Experts predict mortgage rates will hover between 6.5% and 7% through 2025, with some hoping for a gradual decline if inflation continues to cool. In Hawaii, where every percentage point matters against sky-high home prices, even small drops can ripple through the market. Keep an eye on economic data—like the Federal Reserve’s next moves—and local trends to stay ahead of the curve.

Ready to make your move in the next 12 months? Whether you’re refinancing, buying, or selling in Hawaii, give us a call and let’s chat! 

If you’ve been dreaming about a fresh start in a laid-back yet connected spot on Oahu, Koa Ridge might just be your vibe. This new construction community in Central Oahu is shaping up to be a sweet blend of suburban calm and urban convenience—or as the developers call it, “surban” living. Brought to you by Castle & Cooke Homes Hawaii, it’s a master-planned setup that’s been in the works for years and is finally coming to life. Let’s kick back and dig into what Koa Ridge is all about.

The Lowdown on Koa Ridge

Koa Ridge is sprawling across 576 acres in Waipio, right between Mililani and the Waipio Costco. The plan is to roll out around 3,500 homes over the next decade or so, with a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, duplexes, and even some affordable housing options. Castle & Cooke, the crew behind this project, has been building communities in Hawaii since the ‘60s—think Mililani, their OG masterpiece. They broke ground on Koa Ridge back in 2017 after years of planning, and now it’s steadily taking shape with new phases dropping as we speak.

The whole idea here is “live, work, learn, and play.” They’re weaving in a lifestyle feel with stuff like a 7.5-mile Ho‘āla Trail for walking or biking, a village center for shopping and hanging out, and plenty of green spaces. It’s less about just a house and more about a community you can sink into.

Pros of Koa Ridge:

• Variety of Homes: Whether you’re a solo flyer, a growing family, or a retiree looking to downsize, there’s something here. Prices range from the low $400,000s for affordable townhomes in Malina to over $1.1M for the bigger Nanea single-family homes- tons of flexibility.
• Amenities Galore: You’ve got parks, a community center (Hale Lau Koa), and that sweet trail system. Plus, “The Village” and “The Gateway” are set to bring shops, cafes, and even a medical center—less need to hop in the car for every little thing.
• Sustainability: Castle & Cooke is planting a koa tree for every home sold, which is a cool nod to the land. The layout’s designed to cut down on driving, too, with all those paths, and a projected 2,500 permanent nearby jobs.
• Central Location: Smack in the middle of Oahu, you’re not too far from anywhere. It’s chill but connected.
• Trusted Builders: Castle & Cooke has a solid reputation. 50+ years of building in Hawaii means they know the island’s quirks and needs.

Cons to consider:

• Traffic Headaches: Central Oahu’s no stranger to congestion, especially around rush hour on the H-2 or Kamehameha Highway. With 3,500 new homes, that could get stickier unless infrastructure keeps up.
• Growing Pains: It’s a long-term project whose full vision includes shops, schools, etc, so early residents might deal with construction noise and dust for a while. 
• Price Tag: While there are affordable options, the bigger homes—like Nanea’s $1.1M+—might feel steep for some, especially with Oahu’s already wild housing market.
• Not Super Urban: If you’re craving that Honolulu hustle—nightlife, high-rises—this isn’t it. It’s more of a relaxed, family-friendly scene.

Estimated Drive Times 

Living at Koa Ridge puts you in a sweet spot for getting around Oahu, though your mileage depends on traffic. Here’s a rough guide:

• Honolulu: About 20-30 minutes without traffic, but plan for 45+ during rush hour.
• Kapolei: Same deal—20-30 minutes on a good day, longer when the H-1 clogs up.
• Mililani: Practically next door, 5-10 minutes.
• Waikele Outlets: 10-15 minutes for some retail therapy.
• North Shore: 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how far up you’re chasing waves.

You’re close to the H-2 freeway, so hopping around is doable, but Oahu’s traffic can be a buzzkill—keep that in mind.

Amenities to Kick Back With

Koa Ridge is leaning hard into that lifestyle community feel. Here’s what’s on tap:

• Ho‘āla Trail: 7.5 miles of paths for walking, biking, or just soaking in the views. It connects homes to parks, shops, and more.
• The Village: Think sidewalk cafes, local shops, and a spot for events like concerts or farmers’ markets.
• The Gateway: Bigger retail—like grocery stores and maybe a big-box spot—plus everyday conveniences.
• Parks & Open Spaces: Kalāhikiola Park and other green zones for picnics, playtime, or just chilling.
• Community Center: Hale Lau Koa is pegged as the “heart” of the place—cultural events, gatherings, you name it.
• Future Goodies: Plans include a school, medical center, and even a business park—still rolling out over time. It’s all about keeping things walkable and easygoing, with a nod to Hawaii’s aloha spirit.

Meet the Builders: Castle & Cooke

Castle & Cooke Homes Hawaii is the mastermind behind Koa Ridge and they’ve got serious roots. Founded way back in 1851, they’ve been shaping Hawaii’s landscape for decades—Mililani’s their claim to fame, with over 16,000 homes and an All-America City award to boot. They’re all about sustainability and smart growth, which you see in Koa Ridge’s design—the trails, tree-planting, and the focus on local jobs. They’re not newbies; they’ve been at this since their first Mililani home in ’68, so you’re in experienced hands.

Varying Neighborhoods

Koa Ridge isn’t a one-size-fits-all community—they have a lineup of homes to match your unique needs. Here’s a taste of what’s out there:

• Waioha: Detached single-family condos, 2-4 bedrooms, 950-1,482 sq ft. Think open layouts, modern kitchens, AC, and a two-car garage. Starts in the mid-$900,000s.
• Nanea: Bigger single-family condos, 3-6 bedrooms, 1,314-2,228 sq ft. Vaulted ceilings in some, plus room for a home office or extra fam space. Starts at $1.1M+.
• Luana: Paired (duplex-style) condos, 3-4 bedrooms, 1,110-1,396 sq ft. Open-concept with customizable touches, starting in the low $700,000s.
• Malina: Townhomes, 1-3 bedrooms, 487-1,079 sq ft. Affordable options kicking off in the low $400,000s—perfect for first-time homebuyers  or downsizing.

Final Thoughts

Koa Ridge is shaping up to be a laid back, connected spot for Oahu folks who want a new home with a community feel. The pros—like the variety, amenities, and Castle & Cooke’s track record—make it a solid pick, but keep an eye on traffic and the phased rollout. If you’re cool with a place that’s still growing into itself, this could be your next home base. 

Are you thinking of moving to or from Hawaii in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let's chat!

D.R. Horton Hawaii is excited to announce reservations of homes at their newest multi-family condominium communities, Kāpili and Alana at Hoʻopili Pōhaku Estates, a masterplanned community in Kapolei located off of Farrington Highway.

Kāpili at Ho'opili Pōhaku Estates, a multifamily condominium community, features 300 homes in a one-, two-, and three-story with two- and three-bedroom layout options and two parking stalls. In addition to the interior living spaces, many Kāpili homes will also offer a fully fenced private yard. With a stunning traditional exterior matched by fine interior amenities, you’ll come home to stainless steel appliances, warm and cool designer flooring package options, whole house split air conditioning, spacious open floor plans, and a smart home that redefines modern living.

Alana at Ho'opii Pōhaku Estates features 187 homes with one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans that suit the needs and lifestyles of Hawai‘i families. Whether you’re looking for a loft with an open layout or a multi-level FLEX® condominium, there will be many opportunities for those seeking an urban lifestyle in a suburban setting. With a stunning modern exterior, Alana offers the same fine interior amenities including stainless steel appliances, warm and cool designer flooring package options, whole house split air conditioning, spacious open floor plans, and smart home features.

In addition, these two Ho'opili Pōhaku Estates communities have access to unbeatable amenities including: an affordable HOA, a pool and community center, banquet room, multiple parks and tot lot, a dog park, pickle ball court, basketball court, soccer field, urban gardens, and festival street events. It is also conveniently located near a championship golf course, beaches, rail station, and Ho’opili businesses with easy access to highways.

Are you thinking of moving to or from Hawaii in the next 12 months? Give us a call and let's chat!