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When is the best time to buy a house in Hawaii? | What are the best Hawaii cities to buy a home? | How can I get a deal on a home in Hawaii?
The best time to buy a house in Hawaii depends on what factors are most important to you. If price matters most, look at trends in listing prices and mortgage rates to help you decide when to buy.
In recent years, listing prices for homes in Hawaii were lowest in June, when homes were $86,800 less expensive on average. In January — the month with the highest prices — listing prices were $156,792 more than the annual average.
Mortgage rates, on the other hand, were lowest in December.
Because both listing prices and mortgage rates are subject to change, it’s a good idea to determine now what home value you qualify for.
Getting started
If you're interested in buying a home, the first step is to find an experienced realtor who knows the local market. They can help you pinpoint the best time to buy based on your needs and the Hawaiian market.
To find local agents, you can use a free service like Semya-Moya. Clever matches you with top agents from trusted companies like RE/MAX and Century 21.
Interview multiple agents until you find the best fit, or walk away at any time with no obligation. Fill out the form below to request hand-picked agent matches today!
If you're ready to buy a home, Clever can connect you with an agent who knows the market!
✅ Get expert help to negotiate your purchase price
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The best time of year to buy in Hawaii
June is usually the best time to buy a house in Hawaii. Not only are the listing prices the lowest, but you’ll also have the biggest housing inventory to choose from.
That said, in Hawaii, land is always scarce and prices are always relatively high. The median home value in Hawaii is $904,880, but prices vary across locations. For example, in Honolulu, the median home price is $859,077, while in Waimanalo, the median is $1,086,663.
There's also a lot to consider besides price when moving to Hawaii, including its rich history and culture. If this is an important factor in your decision, you can learn more here.
Because of Hawaii's unique market, the best way to find a home is to connect with a local realtor. They'll help you navigate the ins and outs of your target market and determine the best time to buy.
💰 Find a top buyer's agent in Hawaii today!
The best places to buy a home in Hawaii
Honolulu
Honolulu is the largest metropolitan area in Hawaii, and it's a hub for banking, manufacturing, and military defense. If you don’t mind the constant drove of tourists, you’ll appreciate the nightlife and restaurant scene.
Kahului
Located on Maui, Kahului sees its fair share of tourists but has a more established resident community. It also offers excellent schools.
Pearl City
Pearl City is on Oahu, home of Pearl Harbor, and has a community college and good public schools. Popular hiking trails feature waterfalls and ponds.
Kailua
Kailua, on the island of Hawaii, includes attractions like Kahana Beach, Kahana Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary, and Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. The Maui Arts & Cultural Center hosts more than 1,800 events annually, so the city is home to an active arts community.
Four ways to get a great deal on a home in Hawaii
1. Find a great Hawaii real estate agent
The home buying process can be tricky, so it's important to have an experienced real estate agent by your side. Your agent will be your advocate. They'll ask insightful questions to help you narrow your search, and once you make an offer on a home, they'll handle the negotiations over price, move-in dates, and closing costs.
2. Determine what you need and want in a house
Before you start house hunting, it's important to set a budget and determine your must-haves. Meet with your agent, and work with them to nail down details on what you're looking for. Your agent can point you to homes and neighborhoods within your budget, and, if you need to compromise, they can help you prioritize your needs.
3. Find a lender and secure financing
Unless you plan to buy your home with cash, you'll need to apply for a mortgage. For most home buyers in Hawaii, interest rate is one of the biggest factors when choosing a lender. Doing some upfront research and comparing options to find the best rate could save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.
For example, in Hawaii a typical house is worth $655,000. Assuming a 20% down payment, if you took out a 30-year mortgage for 3.5%, your monthly payment would be $2,337. But if you shopped around and found a 3% mortgage, your monthly payment would drop to about $2,209.
4. Negotiate for the best possible price
Once you're ready to make an offer, your agent will help you determine how much it should be and submit it. After the home inspection, they’ll negotiate price reductions for major repairs or items to have fixed before you move in. Negotiating price and terms can save you thousands, so it’s essential to find a buyer’s agent who's a good negotiator.
If you're looking for a realtor, Clever can connect you with the top buyer's agents in your area for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Fill out our online form, and a Clever representative will reach out to get the process started and answer any questions.
Finding a great local realtor is the first step in making your home buying dreams a reality. Our free service matches you with top agents from trusted brands like Keller Williams and RE/MAX.
Enter your zip code to request hand-picked agent matches in minutes. Compare your options until you find the perfect fit, or walk away with no obligation. Try Clever's free service today!
