Quick Answer: In January 2025, the Kona-Kohala Coast luxury real estate market remained robust, with 12 significant sales across resort areas. Waikoloa Beach Resort led with six luxury condominium sales, while Hualālai Resort recorded the highest single home sale at $10 million and the highest condominium price per square foot at $2,600. Properties consistently sold quickly, often at or above list price, indicating strong buyer demand and limited inventory.
Key Takeaways: Kona-Kohala Coast Luxury Market Performance in Early 2025
- Waikoloa Beach Resort Dominates Condo Sales: Six high-value condominiums at Kolea closed in January, showcasing sustained demand for Waikoloa’s ocean-view properties.
- Hualālai Leads in High-Value Transactions: Hualālai Resort recorded the highest single home sale at $10 million and the top condominium price per square foot, reaffirming its position as a premier luxury destination.
- Rapid Sales Cycle: The majority of properties across all resorts, from Waikoloa to Kūkiʻo, spent fewer than 60 days on the market, with many selling at 97–99% of their asking price.
- Strong Market Fundamentals: Limited inventory, consistent demand from affluent mainland buyers, and favorable interest rates continue to drive appreciation and quick sales in the Big Island’s resort areas.
- Diverse Property Types in Demand: While condominiums were prevalent in Waikoloa and Mauna Kea, high-end homes in Hualālai, Mauna Lani, and Kona Hills also commanded significant prices, reflecting broad interest in luxury living options.
Over nearly two decades selling luxury homes on the Kona-Kohala Coast, I have worked with hundreds of affluent individuals considering Hawai‘i as a second home or vacation rental investment. One of the most common questions I hear is: “What’s really happening in the market right now?”
The answer is not guesswork. It is a system developed through years of testing, refinement, and proven results. Rather than simply describing that system, below are answers to the five most common questions buyers and sellers ask about the current state of the Kona-Kohala Coast luxury real estate market.
How Strong Is the Demand for Luxury Condominiums on the Kona-Kohala Coast?
Quick Answer: Demand for luxury condominiums on the Kona-Kohala Coast is exceptionally strong, with properties frequently selling within weeks and often at or above list price.
In January 2025, six three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath condominiums at Kolea in Waikoloa Beach Resort, each approximately 2,147 square feet, closed within an average of 14 days on the market. These properties sold for an average of 97% of their list price, ranging from $3.1 million to $3.6 million.
This rapid absorption rate indicates a healthy market. Inventory is not lingering, and well-maintained, ocean-view units in established communities continue to attract motivated buyers. Sellers who price and present their properties appropriately can expect strong interest, while buyers must be prepared to act decisively.
Example: Kolea 1F, a three-bedroom condominium in Waikoloa Beach Resort, sold for $3,600,000 after nine days on the market, achieving 97% of its list price.
Are Homes in Hualālai and Mauna Lani Still Commanding Premium Prices?
Quick Answer: Yes. Homes in Hualālai and Mauna Lani continue to command premium prices, typically closing within 40 to 50 days and achieving 98–99% of the asking price.
In January, a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath home of approximately 3,500 square feet in Hualālai Resort sold for $10,000,000 after 40 days on the market, achieving 99% of the list price. Similarly, a three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home of approximately 2,800 square feet in Mauna Lani Resort closed for $7,500,000 after 45 days, selling at 98% of its list price.
These sales reflect the enduring desirability of these exclusive communities. Buyers in this segment prioritize amenities, privacy, and lifestyle, and they are willing to pay for well-positioned, move-in-ready properties.
Example: A four-bedroom home in Hualālai Resort sold for $10,000,000 after 40 days, securing 99% of the list price.
What Was the Average Price for a Luxury Condominium in January 2025?
Quick Answer: The average sales price for a luxury condominium in Big Island resort areas in January 2025 was approximately $4,000,000, with Hualālai Resort recording the highest price per square foot at $2,600.
January condominium sales across the Kona-Kohala Coast averaged approximately $4,000,000. Pricing varied significantly by resort and location.
Hualālai Resort recorded the highest condominium price per square foot, with a three-bedroom unit selling for $6,500,000, equating to $2,600 per square foot. Kūkiʻo also demonstrated strong performance, with a five-bedroom condominium selling for $12,000,000, reflecting a price of $3,000 per square foot.
Price per square foot remains an important metric for evaluating value, though location, views, condition, and amenities also significantly influence final pricing.
Example: A three-bedroom condominium in Hualālai Resort sold for $6,500,000, achieving $2,600 per square foot, the highest condominium price per square foot recorded in January.
Is the Big Island Luxury Real Estate Market Still Strong in Early 2025?
Quick Answer: The Big Island luxury real estate market remains strong in early 2025, characterized by high demand, limited inventory, and consistent price stability.
January 2025 data reflects a seller-leaning market. The average sales price for single-family homes was approximately $9,000,000, while condominiums averaged $4,000,000. Properties sold quickly and close to their asking prices, reinforcing overall market strength.
For buyers, while pricing remains elevated, relatively favorable interest rates support purchasing power. For sellers, strong demand and constrained inventory create favorable selling conditions. Market timing is best evaluated based on individual goals, but current fundamentals indicate continued resilience across the Kona-Kohala Coast luxury segment.