The Hawaii Team Real Estate Blog
How much should I budget for a beachfront or oceanfront estate on the Big Island of Hawaii?
Quick answer: For a luxury oceanfront estate on the Kona–Kohala Coast, you should budget a minimum of $5 million for the purchase, with prices routinely reaching $40–$50 million or more. Additionally, plan for annual carrying costs to be approximately 20% of the...
What Defines Luxury Real Estate on the Big Island of Hawaii?
Quick answer: On the Big Island of Hawaiʻi’s Kona–Kohala Coast, “true luxury” real estate typically begins around the $2 million to $2.5 million mark, which is higher than many mainland markets. Ultra-luxury properties—often within exclusive resort...
How has luxury investment property on the Kona-Kohala Coast appreciated over the last 5 years?
Quick answer: Luxury investment properties on Hawaiʻi Island—especially along the Kona–Kohala Coast—have shown strong appreciation, averaging about 47% over the last five years. Premier resort areas such as Mauna Lani, Waikoloa Beach, and Mauna Kea have often posted...
Why isn’t my luxury Hawaii home selling, and what should I do about it?
Quick answer: Most of the time, a luxury home on the Kona–Kohala Coast that isn’t selling comes down to an unrealistic price, followed by poor presentation and ineffective marketing from the listing agent. Addressing these three issues is critical to a successful...
What’s the Difference Between West Hawaii and East Hawaii for My Luxury Second Home?
Quick answer: The primary distinction lies in climate, lifestyle, and price point. West Hawaii (the Kona–Kohala Coast) is predominantly sunny, resort-centric, and typically commands luxury pricing, making it well-suited for vacation homes and higher-end investments....
What’s the Number One Mistake Luxury Home Buyers Make on the Kona-Kohala Coast?
Quick answer: The single biggest mistake luxury home buyers make on the Kona–Kohala Coast is underestimating the true cost and effort required for property maintenance and remodeling. Because of limited labor availability and higher operating costs, these expenses can...
What’s the Number One Mistake Luxury Sellers Make on the Big Island of Hawaii When Selling Their Home?
Quick answer: The number one mistake luxury sellers make on the Big Island’s Kona–Kohala Coast is ignoring the market’s signals—especially failing to adjust pricing or presentation after 30–45 days with little to no activity. This can lead to longer listing times and...
How do HOA fees and property taxes impact my luxury second home on the Kona-Kohala Coast?
Quick answer: While Hawaiʻi is known for low property tax rates for full-time residents who qualify for homeowner exemptions, second homes and investment properties on the Kona–Kohala Coast are often taxed at higher rates—commonly around $11–$13 per $1,000 of assessed...
How can I make my luxury home the best value on the Kona-Kohala Coast when the market is slow?
Quick Answer: As a seller, you cannot manufacture market urgency. You must earn it by positioning your specific property—whether it’s a villa in Kukio or a condo in Mauna Lani—as the undeniable best value in its class. This typically requires aggressive pricing...
What are the best things to do near my vacation rental on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast?
What are the best things to do near my vacation rental on the Big Island's Kohala Coast? Quick Answer: The Kona-Kohala Coast offers a unique blend of world-class dining and unparalleled natural experiences, making it ideal for second homeowners and their guests. For...
Is 2026 the Right Time to Buy a Vacation Rental Condo in Hualalai or Mauna Kea?
Quick Answer: The 2026 Big Island real estate market is neither a boom nor a bust; it is a highly strategic market. For buyers, stable interest rates and a gentle increase in inventory create a window for discerning purchases, particularly in luxury areas like the...
Should I Refinance My Hawaii Second Home Mortgage Now That Rates Are Stabilizing?
Should I Refinance My Hawaii Second Home Mortgage Now That Rates Are Stabilizing? Quick Answer: Yes, refinancing is worth evaluating now—especially for second homeowners on the Kona–Kohala Coast who have significant equity. While rates haven’t returned to pandemic...