Honolulu, HI Real Estate — Homes For Sale in Honolulu, HI

Grew up and live on the east side of Oahu! Expert in the neighborhoods! less

Honolulu (Hono'lulu) means "sheltered harbor" and has been the capital of the Hawaiian Islands since 1845 under Kamehameha III. Honolulu is the largest city in the nation, based on US Census definitions, spanning over 68 square miles. However, the actual city of Honolulu spans from Salt Lake (south) to Hawaii Kai (south east) or around 20 miles from point-to-point on the highway. It gets confusing since Honolulu is so large, when asked where a resident lives, they will say the name of their neighborhood instead of Honolulu. How many neighborhoods and "sub-neighborhoods" are there in Honolulu....A LOT! Based on the 2010 Census Bureau information, one-third of Hawaii's residents live within the city of Honolulu. It is the commerce and economic hub of Hawaii. Therefore some of the most expensive real estate is also found within Honolulu. It is also one of the most expensive cities within the United States to live. Honolulu also has the only royal palace, Iolani Palace, in the United States! Iolani Palace trivia - Iolani Palace was the first location flush toilets were installed in the world and it had electricity four years before the White House, Windsor Palace and Imperial Palace of Japan!! There are remote areas in Honolulu that still retain Hawaii's old plantation charm, with grand mature monkey pod trees, bubbling streams, and wrap-around porches. There are also areas that have seem significant redevelopment of modern architecture over the years, to include the recent oceanfront condominiums being built along the Ala Moana/Kaka`ako waterfront areas. Honolulu is a diverse and sometimes confusing area, even for a "local" who grew up here! As your agent, it's my job to be educated on the feel and prices of neighborhoods within Honolulu and take you on tours within areas that match your "wish list so you can experience them firsthand. Then we will narrow the location and the type of property you're looking for - older, turn-key, backyard, rental potential, etc. Don't worry though. All properties will have flush toilets installed! less

Named in honor of the legendary Polynesian chief who sailed on the epic journey leading to the discovery of the Hawaiian Islands, this modern gated community offers world-class contemporary living on the breeze-caressed heights of Hawaii Loa Ridge. Spectacular ocean panoramas that stretch from Koko Head to Diamond Head and beyond are among the undeniable attractions for the 507 homes here. Luxury and security are enhanced by state-of-the-art amenities, including tennis courts, a community clubhouse, a park with picnic stations and 24-hour mobile security. Considered as one of the world's premier residential neighborhoods, Hawaii Loa Ridge is a haven of elegance and luxury, with beautifully maintained common landscapes and a professionally managed homeowners association. At the base of the ridge, Kalanianaole Highway offers convenient access to the shopping centers of Aina Haina, Niu Valley, Hawaii Kai and Kahala Mall. Meanwhile, meandering up a verdant hillside just one ridge over from Hawaii Loa Ridge, Waialae Iki Ridge is part of the exclusive Waialae-Kahala district and one of Hawaii's most desirable neighborhoods. Its elegant homes trace along forest reserve and pristine parklands, offer spectacular panoramic views of the coastline and Pacific Ocean, and remain cool in the heat of summer. With only about 1,170 homes, residents enjoy both privacy and a sense of community. Although it feels a world away, Waialae Iki is just a short drive from everything Honolulu has to offer. In the old days, Hawaiians called this lush ridge Wiliwilinui after the native wiliwili tree, which blossoms in a rainbow of colors. The trail that winds above the neighborhood and into the mountains still retains this ancient name. Waialae Iki was undeveloped until World War II, when the US military acquired nearly 100 acres to establish the temporary Battery Willy. Two decades later, Waialae Iki's first homes appeared along the base of the ridge, just above Waialae Iki Park. With gracious contemporary architecture and generously sized lots, these lovely properties set the tone for the villas that gradually unfolded up the hill and culminated in the prestigious gated community on the uppermost slope. Located within Hawaii's wealthiest zip code, Waialae Iki is always in high demand. less