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THE COASTAL JOURNAL


Totally Disabled Veteran Buying on Oahu? Honolulu Property Tax Exemption Explained
Totally disabled veteran buying on Oahu? See how Honolulu's property tax exemption works, who qualifies, and when to apply.
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Totally Disabled Veteran Buying on Oahu? Honolulu Property Tax Exemption Explained
Totally disabled veteran buying on Oahu? See how Honolulu's property tax exemption works, who qualifies, and when to apply.

Ana-Maria Contis
15 hours ago3 min read


Waiting on Base Housing on Oahu? Could Buying Make Sense?
Waiting on base housing on Oahu can take up to 14 months. See how some eligible military families look at a VA loan with 0% down while they wait.

Ana-Maria Contis
3 days ago2 min read


PCS from Travis AFB to Oahu: The Air Force Family Guide
Moving from Travis AFB to Oahu? This step-by-step Air Force PCS guide covers the Travis relocation office, Hickam housing, shipping your car, bringing your dog or cat to Hawaii, VA home loans and your first weeks on the island. Written by Ana-Maria Contis of Coastal Homes & Estates, brokered by eXp Realty.

Ana-Maria Contis
4 days ago5 min read


PCS from MCAS Miramar to Oahu: The Complete Military Family Guide
Moving from MCAS Miramar to Oahu? This step-by-step military PCS guide covers housing at MCB Hawaii, shipping your car from San Diego, bringing your dog or cat to Hawaii, BAH and COLA, VA home loans, and your first weeks on the island. Written by Ana-Maria Contis of Coastal Homes & Estates, brokered by eXp Realty.

Ana-Maria Contis
5 days ago5 min read


Four Levels, Four Front Doors: Bay Views at 45-55 Lilipuna Rd B, Kaneohe
Four levels, six bedrooms, and a private entrance on every level, all above Kaneohe Bay. Take a closer look at 45-55 Lilipuna Rd B, listed at $2,000,000, with its wraparound top-level deck, freshly replaced sliding doors, and two-unit CPR layout. Learn how the levels work, what the CPR means for a buyer, and how to see the home for yourself. Square footage, bedroom count and permitted uses to be verified by the buyer.

Ana-Maria Contis
Oct 222 min read


Buying on Oʻahu? AssumeList Could Be Your Secret Weapon
If you have been house hunting on Oʻahu lately, it probably feels like the numbers just do not add up. Prices are high, and today's interest rates can take a big bite out of your monthly payment. It sounds like you want a way to keep that payment in check without giving up on the neighborhood you love. There is an option that many buyers never hear about: an assumable mortgage. What is an assumable mortgage? When a mortgage is assumable, the buyer takes over the seller's exis

Ana-Maria Contis
Oct 83 min read


Can Any Homeowner Create a CPR in Hawaii?
Short answer: not automatically. A CPR isn't a form you file. It's a legal process with conditions, and the state and county decide whether your property qualifies. You've probably heard someone say, "Why not just CPR it?" Maybe it's a second dwelling on the lot, or a big property that could become two homes. Here is what the law and the state's own guidance actually say. What is a CPR? CPR stands for Condominium Property Regime, governed by Chapter 514B of the Hawaii Revised

Ana-Maria Contis
Oct 67 min read


Discover Life at The Summit at Kaneohe Bay: A Hidden Gem in Windward Oahu
Nestled on the lush, windward side of Oahu, The Summit at Kaneohe Bay offers more than just a place to live—it offers a lifestyle. Perched above the iconic Kaneohe Bay, this gated community is one of Kaneohe’s best-kept secrets, blending natural beauty, privacy, and comfort with sweeping ocean and mountain views that are simply unmatched. Why Buyers Love The Summit at Kaneohe Bay 1. Location, Location, LocationTucked away in the hills just above Kamehameha Highway, The Summit

Ana-Maria Contis
Apr 8, 20252 min read


Discover the Tranquil Beauty & Potential of Palehua Gardens, Hawaii
Nestled in the heart of Makakilo, one of the most sought after neighborhoods in Kapolei, Palehua Gardens offers an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a peaceful community with stunning views, refreshing breezes, and room for growth. This charming neighborhood stands out not only for its breathtaking vistas but also for its potential to expand and create a home that fits your unique needs. Whether you’re looking to invest in a property with space to grow or searching fo

Ana-Maria Contis
Feb 4, 20253 min read


The Insurance Squeeze
Hawaii’s condominium insurance market is currently in a state of crisis, with skyrocketing premiums and the dwindling availability of hurricane insurance. Since condominiums make up about a quarter of Hawaii’s housing, this is creating serious financial challenges for both homeowners and renters. New Legislation In response, lawmakers are pushing for a bill designed to stabilize the insurance market. The proposal involves raising taxes on short-term vacation rentals and rein

Ana-Maria Contis
Oct 9, 20242 min read


Do you own the land in Hawaii when you buy a house?
When you buy a house in Hawaii, whether or not you own the land depends on the type of property ownership: fee simple or leasehold. Here’s a breakdown of these two types of ownership: 1. Fee Simple Ownership: What It Means: In a fee simple arrangement, you own both the house and the land it sits on. This is the most common type of property ownership in the United States and is highly preferred by most buyers. Advantages: You have full control over the property, including the

Ana-Maria Contis
Aug 13, 20242 min read


How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in Hawaii?
The time it takes to sell a house in Hawaii can vary depending on several factors, including the location, price, market conditions, and the condition of the property. Here’s a detailed look at the key factors that influence the timeline for selling a house in Hawaii: 1. Average Time on Market: Statewide Average: On average, homes in Hawaii take about 30 to 60 days to sell once they are listed on the market. However, this can vary depending on the island and specific location

Ana-Maria Contis
Aug 12, 20243 min read


How much do you need to put down on a house in Hawaii?
When buying a house in Hawaii, the down payment amount can vary based on several factors, including the type of loan, the lender's requirements, and the buyer's financial situation. Here’s a breakdown of common down payment scenarios: 1. Conventional Loans: Typical Down Payment: 20% Many conventional mortgage lenders require a down payment of 20% of the home's purchase price. For example, on a $850,000 home, this would amount to $170,000. A 20% down payment can help avoid pri

Ana-Maria Contis
Aug 5, 20242 min read


What does the average house sell for in Hawaii?
The average selling price of a house in Hawaii can vary significantly depending on the island, location, property type, and market conditions. Here's an overview of average home prices across the major Hawaiian islands as of 2024: 1. Oahu: Average Selling Price: Approximately $1,050,000 Oahu, home to the state capital Honolulu, generally has the highest property prices due to its urban environment, job opportunities, and amenities. Neighborhoods like Waikiki and Kailua are pa

Ana-Maria Contis
Jul 30, 20242 min read


Is Hawaii a good place to live?
Hawaii is renowned for its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and unique culture, making it a highly desirable place to live for many people. Here are some key factors to consider when determining if Hawaii is the right place for you: 1. Natural Beauty and Climate: Scenic Landscapes: Hawaii offers stunning landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, surfing, snorkeling, and other recreational activitie

Ana-Maria Contis
Jul 29, 20242 min read


Is it a good time to sell a house in Hawaii?
Determining whether it's a good time to sell a house in Hawaii depends on several factors, including current market conditions, economic trends, and personal circumstances. Here are some key considerations: 1. Current Market Conditions: High Demand: Hawaii's real estate market often experiences high demand due to its desirable location, climate, and lifestyle. This demand can drive up home prices, making it a potentially lucrative time to sell. Limited Inventory: A low supply

Ana-Maria Contis
Jul 22, 20242 min read


What is the 99-year lease in Hawaii?
The 99-year lease is a type of leasehold property arrangement common in Hawaii. This can be an attractive option for some buyers, but it's essential to understand how it works and its implications. 1. Leasehold vs. Fee Simple: Leasehold: In a leasehold arrangement, you own the building or structure, but you lease the land it sits on from the landowner for a specified period, typically 99 years. Fee Simple: In a fee simple purchase, you own both the land and the building on it

Ana-Maria Contis
Jul 16, 20242 min read


How do I sell my house in Hawaii?
Selling a house in Hawaii involves several steps to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process: 1. Hire a Local Real Estate Agent: Find a reputable real estate agent who is familiar with the Hawaiian market. An experienced agent can provide valuable insights, help you set a competitive price, and handle the intricacies of the selling process. 2. Set a Competitive Price: Conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA) with

Ana-Maria Contis
Jul 15, 20242 min read


Is it cheap to buy a house in Hawaii?
Buying a house in Hawaii is generally not considered cheap compared to the national average. Here are some key points to consider: 1. High Median Home Prices: The median home price in Hawaii is significantly higher than in many other states. As of 2024, the median home price is around $850,000, with prices in popular areas like Honolulu and Maui often exceeding $1 million. 2. Factors Contributing to High Prices: Limited Land Availability: Hawaii’s geography limits the amount

Ana-Maria Contis
Jul 15, 20242 min read


How much tax do you pay when you sell a house in Hawaii?
When selling a house in Hawaii, several tax obligations may apply: 1. Federal Capital Gains Tax: If you sell your home for more than you paid for it, the profit (or "capital gain") may be subject to federal capital gains tax. The tax rate can be 0%, 15%, or 20%, depending on your income level and filing status. For primary residences, you may be eligible to exclude up to $250,000 of capital gains if you're single, or up to $500,000 if you're married and filing jointly, provid

Ana-Maria Contis
Jun 27, 20242 min read
Super knowledgeable! Communication is excellent!!! We didn't just go look at homes but we experienced different parts of island life. It was above & beyond any other showings I've attended. Mahalo
Ana-Maria Contis Steers Oahu Realtor

We specialize in Military Relocations in Hawai'i and on the mainland... We can help!
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