Ewa Beach is a great place to live, with many advantages for families, retirees, and anyone who enjoys a relaxed lifestyle in a beautiful setting. Here are some of the advantages of living in Ewa Beach:

• Beautiful weather: Ewa Beach enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, with an average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities, such as swimming, surfing, and hiking.
• Family-friendly: Ewa Beach is a very family-friendly community, with excellent schools, parks, and playgrounds. There are also many family-friendly events and activities held throughout the year.
• Affordable housing: Ewa Beach is a relatively affordable place to live, especially compared to other parts of Oahu. You can find a variety of housing options, from condos to single-family homes.
• Convenient location: Ewa Beach is located just west of Honolulu, making it a convenient place to live if you work or go to school in the city. There are also good public transportation options available, so you can easily get around without a car.
• Plenty of amenities: Ewa Beach has a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, grocery stores, and medical facilities. There are also several golf courses and a movie theater in the area.
• Sense of community: Ewa Beach is a close-knit community, with a strong sense of community spirit. There are many opportunities to get involved in local activities and events, and people are generally friendly and welcoming.

Of course, no place is perfect, and Ewa Beach does have some disadvantages. For example, the cost of living is higher than in some other parts of Hawaii, and traffic can be a problem during peak hours. However, the advantages of living in Ewa Beach far outweigh the disadvantages, making it a great place to call home.

Here are some additional details about the advantages of living in Ewa Beach:

• Schools: Ewa Beach is home to some of the best public schools in Hawaii, including Ewa Beach Elementary School, Ewa Beach Intermediate School, and Ewa Beach High School.
• Parks and recreation: Ewa Beach has a number of beautiful parks and recreation areas, including Ewa Beach Park, Ewa Beach Regional Park, and Kahanamoku Beach Park.
• Events and activities: Ewa Beach hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including the Ewa Beach Farmers Market, the Ewa Beach Easter Egg Hunt, and the Ewa Beach Fall Festival.
• Transportation: Ewa Beach is served by several bus lines, making it easy to get around without a car. There is also a train station in Ewa Beach that connects to Honolulu and other parts of Oahu.

If you are looking for a beautiful, family-friendly place to live in Hawaii, Ewa Beach is a great option. With its warm weather, affordable housing, and abundance of amenities, Ewa Beach has something to offer everyone.

Pearl City-Upper is a residential neighborhood in Pearl City, Hawaii. It is located in the northeastern part of the city, near the Pearl Harbor Naval Station. The neighborhood is home to a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments.

Here are some of the advantages of living in Pearl City-Upper:

• Close proximity to Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor is a major historical and cultural landmark, and it is just a short drive from Pearl City-Upper. Residents can easily visit the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, or they can enjoy the many other attractions in the area, such as the Pacific Aviation Museum and the USS Missouri Memorial.
• Excellent schools: Pearl City-Upper is home to a number of excellent public schools, including Pearl City High School, which is consistently ranked among the top high schools in Hawaii. There are also a number of private schools in the area, such as Damien Memorial School and St. Andrew’s Priory.
• Safe community: Pearl City-Upper is a safe community with a low crime rate. Residents can feel confident walking around their neighborhood at any time of day or night.
• Friendly people: Pearl City-Upper is known for its friendly and welcoming people. Residents are always willing to help out their neighbors, and there is a strong sense of community in the city.
• Beautiful scenery: Pearl City-Upper is located on the island of Oahu, which is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and towering mountains. Residents of Pearl City-Upper can enjoy all that the island has to offer, including hiking, swimming, surfing, and fishing.

Overall, Pearl City-Upper is a great place to live. It is close to Pearl Harbor, has excellent schools, is a safe community, and is home to friendly people. If you are looking for a beautiful, safe, and friendly place to live, Pearl City-Upper is a great option.

Here are some additional things to consider when thinking about living in Pearl City-Upper:

• Cost of living: The cost of living in Pearl City-Upper is higher than the national average. However, it is still lower than the cost of living in Honolulu.
• Traffic: Traffic can be heavy in Pearl City-Upper, especially during rush hour. If you commute to work or school in Honolulu, you may want to consider living in a different neighborhood.
• Parking: Parking can be difficult to find in Pearl City-Upper. If you have a car, you may want to consider renting a garage or parking space.

Kaimuki is a vibrant neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii. It’s known for its diverse mix of shops, restaurants, and businesses, as well as its close proximity to the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Here are some of the advantages of living in Kaimuki:

• Central location: Kaimuki is located in the heart of Honolulu, making it easy to get around. You’re just a short drive or walk from the beach, the mountains, and all the major attractions in the city.
• Active lifestyle: Kaimuki is a great place to live if you’re looking for an active lifestyle. There are plenty of opportunities to hike, bike, swim, and surf. You can also find a variety of gyms and fitness studios in the neighborhood.
• Diverse community: Kaimuki is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of cultures and backgrounds. You’ll find everything from local eateries to international restaurants in Kaimuki.
• Family-friendly: Kaimuki is a great place to raise a family. There are plenty of parks and playgrounds, as well as schools and daycares in the neighborhood.
• Affordability: Kaimuki is more affordable than some other neighborhoods in Honolulu. You can find a variety of housing options to fit your budget.

If you’re looking for a vibrant, active, and diverse neighborhood to live in, Kaimuki is a great option. With its central location, close proximity to the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and variety of amenities, Kaimuki has something to offer everyone.

Here are some specific examples of the amenities that can be found in Kaimuki:

• Shops: Kaimuki has a variety of shops, from small boutiques to chain stores. You can find everything from clothes and shoes to groceries and home goods.
• Restaurants: Kaimuki is home to a wide variety of restaurants, serving everything from Hawaiian cuisine to Japanese food. You’ll also find a number of cafes and bars in the neighborhood.
• Parks and recreation: Kaimuki has several parks and recreation areas, including the Kaimuki District Park, the McCully Playground, and the Honolulu Japanese Garden.
• Schools: Kaimuki is home to a number of schools, including the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus, and the Kaimuki High School.

If you’re considering moving to Kaimuki, I encourage you to do your research and visit the neighborhood in person. You may be surprised at how much you enjoy living in this vibrant and diverse community.

Palolo is a suburban neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is located on the east side of Oahu, between the Palolo Valley and the Ala Wai Canal. Palolo is a relatively quiet and family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and apartments.

Here are some of the advantages of living in Palolo:

• Beautiful weather: Palolo enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round. The average temperature ranges from 75°F to 85°F.
• Close to amenities: Palolo is close to many amenities, including restaurants, shops, schools, and parks. It is also a short drive to downtown Honolulu and Waikiki.
• Excellent schools: Palolo is home to some of the best public schools in Hawaii. The neighborhood is also home to several private schools.
• Safe community: Palolo has a low crime rate. It is considered to be one of the safest neighborhoods in Honolulu.
• Affordable housing: Palolo is a relatively affordable neighborhood compared to other parts of Honolulu. There are a variety of housing options available, from condos and apartments to single-family homes.

Of course, there are also some disadvantages to living in Palolo, such as the high cost of living in Hawaii and the distance from some major attractions. However, for those looking for a safe, family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to amenities, Palolo is a great option.

Nuuanu-Lower is a neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is known for its beautiful scenery, historic landmarks, and convenient location. Some of the advantages of living in Nuuanu-Lower include:

• Scenic beauty: Nuuanu-Lower is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Honolulu. The neighborhood is located at the base of the Nuuanu Pali cliffs, which offer stunning views of the city and the ocean. There are also many parks and gardens in Nuuanu-Lower, including the Nuuanu Valley State Natural Area Reserve and the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii.
• Historic landmarks: Nuuanu-Lower is home to many historic landmarks, including the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, the Byodo-In Temple, and the Mission Houses Museum. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the rich history of Hawaii.
• Convenient location: Nuuanu-Lower is located close to many of Honolulu’s major attractions, including the Iolani Palace, the Bishop Museum, and the Ala Moana Center. The neighborhood is also well-served by public transportation, making it easy to get around.
• Variety of shops and restaurants: Nuuanu-Lower has a variety of shops and restaurants to choose from. There are both local and chain businesses in the neighborhood, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
• Friendly Community: Nuuanu-Lower is a friendly and welcoming community. The people in the neighborhood are always willing to help out their neighbors, and there is a strong sense of community spirit.

Of course, there are also some disadvantages to living in Nuuanu-Lower. The neighborhood can be quite noisy, as it is located near a major highway. The cost of living in Nuuanu-Lower is also relatively high. However, the advantages of living in Nuuanu-Lower far outweigh the disadvantages. If you are looking for a beautiful, historic, and convenient place to live in Honolulu, Nuuanu-Lower is a great option.

Here are some additional things to consider if you are thinking about moving to Nuuanu-Lower:

• The weather: Nuuanu-Lower has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round.
• The traffic: The neighborhood is located near a major highway, so traffic can be heavy at times.
• The crime rate: The crime rate in Nuuanu-Lower is relatively low, but it is still important to be aware of your surroundings.

Overall, Nuuanu-Lower is a great place to live if you are looking for a beautiful, historic, and convenient neighborhood in Honolulu. If you are considering moving to Nuuanu-Lower, I encourage you to do your research and visit the neighborhood before making a decision.

By Duncan Hsia of Infinite Financial

Part of a good mortgage broker’s job is getting a customer the lowest interest rate they can get.  The other day, we went to the housewarming/baby shower for a customer, and he told me he was thankful he was able to get a rate in the 3’s, now that rates have moved much higher.  I knew that he just closed within the past year, so I had to double check when I got home.

As you can see from this Facebook Post , I confirmed that he did get a rate in the 3’s by waiting 34 days to lock, and then locking on the exact day with the lowest mortgage rates in the past year, with a rate well below what other lenders could do at the time!

It definitely can make a huge difference who a customer uses for their mortgage.  Not only do we close a lot of loans other lenders can’t do, but we also get the best terms for our customers.  It’s important that loan officers have a good understanding of the markets, so they can effectively advise their customers.

Inflation in 3’s as Predicted

This morning, the PCE inflation report showed inflation in the 3’s for the first time in 2 years:

Per my latest video analyzing inflation and money supply with the help of ChatGPT’s Code Interpreter, I expect the June CPI report, out on July 12, to show inflation in the lower 3’s (with a chance of being in the upper 2’s, where the annualized inflation rate has been the last 11 months), not too far from the Fed’s 2% target.  After that, the Fed will have much less reason to raise the overnight lending rate again, even though they’ve been telling everyone they plan to hike 2 more times, managing consumer inflation expectations.

In the video I posted right after the December CPI report showed CPI at 6.5%, after some analysis of the half-year CPI % changes, I said, “We may even see inflation in the 3’s by midyear, blowing away everyone’s expectations.”  Consider a lot of minds to be blown…

Look for the June CPI report to confirm inflation in the 3’s, and much less fearmongering about high inflation among talking heads.

Higher AMI for Special Mortgage Programs

We just closed a loan taking advantage of the new, higher AMI level to get the added points for credit score and lower down payment waived, saving them thousands of dollars, and allowing us to close on a purchase at a 60% higher price than their previous lender pre-approved them for.  Make sure the loan officers you work with understand how to take advantage of the special programs for limited income buyers to save a lot of money and qualify for more.

The new AMI level for Honolulu county is $121,400, with $97,120 the limit for HomeReady and Home Possible mortgages.  These much higher limits mean a lot more buyers can qualify to save a lot of money and have a lot more buying power with the various special programs available – if their loan officer knows how to take advantage of them.

June Feature Article in Real Producers

This month’s issue of Real Producers magazine has a feature article on Infinite Financial and me, which you can see in flipbook format here, along with our new ad:  Real_Producers_Article_with_ad .  We’re honored to have been the first lender in Hawaii signed up by Real Producers, and to get our second feature article.  Thanks to Bryn Kaufman, Mark Young, and Caron B Davis for providing nice review comments.  You should see the magazine in your real estate office.

Professional Collaboration Conference – Super Saturday, July 15

For those interested in collaborating with some awesome professionals to offer additional services to your clients and create an extra stream of revenue, see the below flier and scan the QR code to register for the conference on Saturday, July 15 at 11am at the Ala Moana Hotel Plumeria Room.  I hope to see you there!

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a database of homes for sale that is used by real estate agents to market properties to buyers. Listing your home on the MLS is essential if you want to reach a wide audience of potential buyers.

Photo by Gabrielle Henderson on Unsplash

There are two ways to get listed on the MLS:

• Work with a real estate agent. This is the most common way to get listed on the MLS. Your agent will take care of all the paperwork and marketing, and they will also help you negotiate the sale of your home.
• Use a flat-fee MLS service. These services offer a more affordable way to get listed on the MLS. You will still need to provide the necessary paperwork and photos, but the service will handle the marketing for you.

Here are the steps on how to get listed on the MLS:

1. Research real estate agents in your area. Ask your friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations, or search online for reviews.
2. Schedule interviews with several agents. This will give you a chance to compare their services and fees.
3. Choose an agent who you feel comfortable with and who you trust.
4. Sign a listing agreement with your agent. This agreement will outline the terms of your relationship, such as the commission rate and the marketing plan.
5. Provide your agent with the necessary paperwork and photos. This includes your property’s listing information, such as the address, square footage, and number of bedrooms and bathrooms. You will also need to provide photos of your home’s interior and exterior.
6. Your agent will submit your listing to the MLS. Once your listing is approved, it will be visible to other real estate agents and buyers.

Here are some tips for getting listed on the MLS:

• Make sure your home is in good condition. Buyers will be more likely to be interested in a home that is clean, well-maintained, and staged.
• Price your home competitively. You want to make sure your home is priced right so that it attracts buyers.
• Market your home effectively. Your agent will help you market your home, but you can also help by sharing your listing on social media and with your friends and family.

Getting listed on the MLS is a great way to reach a wider audience of potential buyers. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of selling your home quickly and for a good price. OahuRE.com offers both services. You can either hire an agent at 2% or do a flat fee listing for only $3,500.

Waipio Gentry is a master-planned community in Waipio, Oahu. It is located in the urban-fringe area of the island, which means that it is close to both city amenities and natural beauty. Here are some of the advantages of living in Waipio Gentry:

• Convenient location: Waipio Gentry is just a short drive from the Mililani Town Center, which has a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is also close to the Waipio Peninsula State Recreation Area, which offers hiking, swimming, and fishing.
• Amenities: Waipio Gentry has a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a playground. There is also a security gatehouse, which provides a sense of security for residents.
• Schools: Waipio Gentry is home to several public schools, including Mililani Waena Elementary School, Mililani Waena Intermediate School, and Mililani High School. These schools are all highly rated, making Waipio Gentry a great place to raise a family.
• Natural beauty: Waipio Gentry is surrounded by lush vegetation and rolling hills. The community also has several ponds and streams, which provide a peaceful setting for residents to enjoy.
• Home prices: Home prices in Waipio Gentry are relatively affordable, making it a great option for first-time homebuyers or those looking to downsize.

Overall, Waipio Gentry is a great place to live for those who are looking for a convenient, amenity-rich community with a natural beauty.

Here are some additional advantages of living in Waipio Gentry:

• Diversity: Waipio Gentry is a diverse community, with residents from all walks of life. This makes for a vibrant and interesting community atmosphere.
• Sense of community: Waipio Gentry has a strong sense of community. Residents are often seen getting together for potlucks, block parties, and other events.
• Pet-friendly: Waipio Gentry is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along with you.

If you are looking for a great place to live in Oahu, Waipio Gentry is a great option to consider.

Ewa Beach is a great place to live, with many advantages. Here are some of the most notable:

• Beautiful weather: Ewa Beach enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round. The average temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s. There is very little rainfall, with an average of only 20 inches per year.
• Close to the beach: Ewa Beach is located just a few miles from the beautiful Ewa Beach Beach Park. This park offers miles of white sand, clear blue water, and plenty of activities, such as swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
• Family-friendly: Ewa Beach is a great place to raise a family. The schools are excellent, and there are many parks and playgrounds for children to enjoy. There are also several family-friendly restaurants and shops in the area.
• Convenient location: Ewa Beach is located near many major employers, including the Pearl Harbor Naval Base and the Honolulu International Airport. It is also just a short drive from downtown Honolulu and Waikiki.
• Affordable housing: Ewa Beach is a relatively affordable place to live, especially compared to other areas of Oahu. There are a variety of housing options available, from condos to single-family homes.

Of course, no place is perfect, and Ewa Beach does have a few disadvantages. These include:

• Traffic congestion: Ewa Beach can get congested during rush hour, especially on Fort Weaver Road.
• HOAs: Many homes in Ewa Beach are subject to homeowners’ associations (HOAs). This can be a pro or a con, depending on your personal preferences.
• Military presence: Ewa Beach is home to several military bases, which can be a pro or a con, depending on your perspective.

Overall, Ewa Beach is a great place to live. It offers a beautiful location, a family-friendly atmosphere, and convenient access to everything you need. If you are looking for a place to call home in Hawaii, Ewa Beach should definitely be on your list.