By Kalama Kim, President, Hawaiʻi Modern Realty

O‘ahu’s housing market in April felt a bit like driving on the H-1 during light traffic, not flying at full speed, but still steadily moving forward. Prices eased slightly, with single-family homes posting a median price of $1,150,000 (down 1.7%) and condos at $500,000 (down 1.0%). Sales activity also slowed modestly year-over-year.  

Even with the slower pace, buyers are still in the market. Homes actually sold faster than they did a year ago, and sellers continued receiving close to their asking price. Inventory also remains tighter than last year, especially in the single-family market, helping support overall values.  

The strongest movement came from the middle price ranges, where both homes and condos saw healthy buyer activity. Pending sales also increased, showing that demand is still flowing into the market as we head toward summer.  

Bottom Line:
This isn’t a market that’s racing uphill or sliding downhill. It’s more like a canoe adjusting to changing ocean currents, requiring steady hands, smart navigation, and patience. Well-priced homes are still moving, buyers have slightly more room to negotiate in some segments, and strategy matters more than ever.

This report reflects information about re-sales of existing properties only and does not include new home sales. All the MLS information is com­piled from sales reported during the cited months; this data is Known only after closing of escrow. The time delay between the signing of a sales contract and the closing of escrow is usually between one and three months. This report is provided as a service to HBR members. Note: Percentage change compares data from April 2026 to April 2025.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Where Opportunity is Still Emerging

Some of Oʻahu’s strongest opportunities right now aren’t the ones making headlines, they’re the neighborhoods quietly building long-term value.

Here’s where momentum is picking up:

• Kaimuki – Classic homes, walkable streets, and a growing local business scene are driving steady reinvestment
• Kailua – Limited inventory and lifestyle appeal continue to support strong, stable demand
• Mililani – More attainable price points with built-in community planning make it a consistent choice for local buyers

These aren’t speculative markets, they’re established communities with real staying power.

Read More.

What Buyers Are Really Paying Attention To

The difference between a good deal and a smart one isn’t always the price, it’s what’s beneath it. The agents who know what they’re doing are looking past the headline number and sizing up the full picture:

• Monthly costs matter more than ever. Interest rates, insurance, and HOA fees can shift the true cost of ownership in a big way
• Building health tells the real story. Reserves, maintenance history, and overall upkeep separate solid investments from future headaches
• Days on market = leverage. The longer a property sits, the more room there may be to negotiate
• Micro-location is everything. In Hawai‘i, one street (or even one side of the building) can outperform another

Bottom line: today’s buyers are sharper and more selective than they’ve been in years, and the ones making the best moves are backed by insight that goes far beyond the listing.

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What Sellers Need to Know Right Now

This isn’t a market where you can “test the waters” and hope for the best. The sellers getting strong results are the ones coming in with a clear, deliberate plan:

• Pricing precision matters more than ever. Buyers are informed, and overpriced homes are getting passed over quickly
• The first two weeks are everything. That initial window is when your listing gets the most attention and sets the tone for momentum (or lack of it)
• Presentation + marketing = your edge. Professional staging, strong visuals, and strategic exposure are what separate your property from the rest
• Alignment with buyer expectations is key. Homes that match what today’s buyers want are still moving, and often without sitting

Bottom line: this market doesn’t reward luck or timing alone, it rewards sellers who come prepared with the right strategy from day one.

Read More.

How Hawaii Modern Realty Is Using AI to
Change Home Buying & Selling

Artificial intelligence is changing how people search for homes, but it’s not replacing real expertise.

On HI Now, Kalama Kim, President of Hawai'i Modern Realty, explains how they are using AI-powered tools to help buyers and sellers better understand affordability, neighborhoods, and market trends.

The difference? Technology provides the data, experienced agents turn it into a strategy, and help clients avoid costly mistakes.