A recent Consumer Policy Center report confirms what savvy sellers have known for years: low-fee real estate brokers can deliver the same results as traditional agents — for a fraction of the cost. The study examined brokers offering either flat-rate pricing or reduced commissions (1–2%), and found that many, such as Clever and Ideal Agent, … Read more
If you’re thinking about selling your home on Oahu, there’s a good chance you’ve already done the math on traditional Realtor commissions — and didn’t like the answer. A 5% commission on a $1 million home is $50,000. That’s money coming straight out of your equity. The good news? You don’t have to pay 5% … Read more
The U.S. housing market is continuing to cool as higher mortgage rates and economic uncertainty push many buyers to the sidelines. As a result, inventory is rising, and homes are taking longer to sell—shifting the dynamic between buyers and sellers. In March 2025, homes took an average of 47 days to sell, marking the slowest … Read more
Waikiki is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in all of Hawaii—and for good reason. With its world-famous beaches, vibrant nightlife, and panoramic views of Diamond Head, it’s no surprise that many dream of living here. But as with any place, living in Waikiki comes with both benefits and challenges. If you’re considering making Waikiki … Read more
The recent decline in the stock market has sparked questions across the country, and many on Oahu are wondering how it might affect local real estate sales. While stock market volatility can influence real estate trends, the effects are not always immediate or predictable, especially in a unique market like Oahu’s. Luxury Market Sensitivity One … Read more
When it comes to selling your home in Oahu, first impressions matter. In today’s digital real estate market, buyers look at photos before anything else. If the images don’t capture their attention, they will simply move on to the next listing. That’s why high-quality, professional photography is one of the most critical components of a … Read more
If you’re considering investing in Oahu real estate or purchasing a second home in paradise, there’s exciting news that could save you thousands. US Bank has introduced a new mortgage program that allows investors and second-home buyers to secure the same interest rates as primary residences—a game changer in the world of real estate financing. … Read more
If you’re thinking about selling your home in Oahu, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing a Realtor. Many sellers believe that paying a higher commission or hiring a “luxury” agent means better marketing and exposure. But here’s the reality: every Realtor uses the same MLS (Multiple Listing Service), and that means your … Read more
Aloha, future homeowners! If you’ve been dreaming of owning a slice of paradise, let’s talk about Oahu’s North Shore. This isn’t just a place—it’s a vibe. From the laid-back surf culture to the jaw-dropping sunsets, the North Shore has been stealing hearts (and wallets) for years. And in 2025, it’s shaping up to be the … Read more
WRITTEN BY OSCAR LIBED of Inspect Hawaii From last month’s article, How do you select a Home Inspector? , we continue the discussion on “Caveat Emptor” (Buyer Beware). Beware of What? 1) Buyers typically have less information about the house they are purchasing, while the Seller has more information. In contract theory and economics, Information Asymmetry deals with the … Read more