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A step by step guide to moving to Hawaii 

My Family

Having personally moved from California to Hawaii in 2005, and also having helped many others make the move across the ocean, I know what it takes. It's not easy, but if you know what to expect, your move to paradise can be a lot less stressful than you think it might be. This is a 7 step guide, so read along and don't be afraid to contact me if you have questions, especially if you plan to buy a house anywhere on Oahu.

Let's talk about your move to Hawaii

Step 1 in moving to Hawaii - figure out if you can afford it. Of course you will want to see how much Honolulu homes are, so use my property search to see if you are even in the ballpark.  Hawaii is one of the most expensive places on Earth to live!  Remember though, property taxes in Oahu are quite low, so while the prices seem high, your monthly payments could be a lot lower than you would think, especially if you've come from Texas, New York, or California.  You will probably pay around $700k-$1.5 mil for a house, but your property taxes will be about $150-$200 per month.  Our property tax rates are 5 times less than CA! 

Hawaii is particularly expensive if you live in East Oahu, where real estate prices are even higher than the rest of Oahu.  I'm talking about Hawaii Kai, Diamond Head, Kahala, Aina Haina, Kailua, and Kaneohe.  These are very nice areas, where the average sale price is over $1million as of 2020.  While you can still expect to pay $7~$9 for a gallon of milk at Foodland or Safeway, we have 4 Costcos on Oahu, so prices are close to normal for many things. Surprisingly, gas prices are about the same as California a lot of the time.

Of the thousands of people who move to Hawaii every year, one thing that is on the mind of every one of them is probably the difference in the cost of living. But we don't usually use our AC, we never have a heating bill, and we wear a lot less clothing.  I own 1 jacket, I wear it a few days a year.  You will save money just by not trying to compete with everyone on how they dress and the car they drive.  If anything, a lot of people will look down on you if you are too showy here.  Some of the richest people in Hawaii wear T-shirts and board shorts every day and drive a pickup truck (like me.)

But what about other expenses? Just assume everything will cost 10-20% more, except for used cars. For some reason we have too many cars here and used car prices are sometimes lower than many areas of the US mainland, especially if someone is moving off island and they need to sell their car quickly.

Bottom line is - if you want to live here, you might have to change your lifestyle a little bit, but it's worth every penny.  I'm about to go surfing with my kids, at a beautiful empty beach, and the water is 75 degrees. 

Let's chat about your move to hawaii

Click here for Part 2

Our Listings

61-393 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa image
61-393 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa $3,988,000

Oceanfront home! Legal Nightly Rental! Lovingly named "Hale Moana" or "House of the Sea." This beautiful oceanfront home along Kamehameha Highway in Haleiwa carries with ...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202210975 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

4121 Black Point Road, Honolulu image
4121 Black Point Road, Honolulu $3,350,000

Located in the highly desired gated community of Black Point, featuring the world famous Black Point Community salt water infinity pool. This one of a kind, 1920's class...

  • 4 Beds
  • 4 Baths
  • 202205862 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

2979 Kalakaua Avenue Unit 503/504, Honolulu image
2979 Kalakaua Avenue Unit 503/504, Honolulu — Coral Strand Ltd $3,000,000 ▲

NEW PRICING - A MUST SEE! A once in a lifetime opportunity to own in one of the most exclusive, well maintained buildings on the Gold Coast. This Coral Strand unit is a ...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • 202106822 MLS
  • Coral Strand Ltd Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

3086 La Pietra Circle Unit 17, Honolulu image
3086 La Pietra Circle Unit 17, Honolulu — La Pietra $2,925,000 ▼

Located in La Pietra, a coveted neighborhood nestled at the base of Diamond Head, this luxurious townhouse renovated by acclaimed designer/builder Brett Hill was complet...

  • 3 Beds
  • 4 Baths
  • 202203058 MLS
  • La Pietra Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

888 Kapiolani Boulevard Unit 4501, Honolulu image
888 Kapiolani Boulevard Unit 4501, Honolulu — Symphony Honolulu $2,530,000

Stunning mountain and Koko Head views from this three bedroom, three bath, top floor Penthouse at the Symphony Honolulu. Dramatic 10 ft. floor-to-ceiling windows capture ...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202125267 MLS
  • Symphony Honolulu Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

55-321C Kamehameha Highway, Laie image
55-321C Kamehameha Highway, Laie $2,448,000

Enjoy oceanfront living at its finest in this quintessential Hawaii beach home! Located in the heart of Laie directly in front of Bathtub Beach, this home offers everythi...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202201086 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

1020 Hoa Street, Honolulu image
1020 Hoa Street, Honolulu $2,368,000

Embrace Hawai'i's beauty living in this prestigious neighborhood of Na Pali Haweo, located on the summit of Kamehame Ridge. This corner lot home has been renovated and re...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202212076 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

66-025 Alapii Street, Haleiwa image
66-025 Alapii Street, Haleiwa $2,250,000

Exquisite brand new custom built home in a quiet North Shore seaside community. Absolutely stunning ocean views and sunsets over the water! Just a short walk to the beaut...

  • 4 Beds
  • 4 Baths
  • 202209546 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

2161 Kalia Road Unit 1216, Honolulu image
2161 Kalia Road Unit 1216, Honolulu — Waikiki Shore $2,250,000

Spectacular ocean view from this higher floor unit in Waikiki Shore, the only condo building directly on Waikiki Beach. The '16 stack offers the largest one-bedroom floor...

  • 1 Beds
  • 1 Baths
  • 202129137 MLS
  • Waikiki Shore Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

3607 Woodlawn Terrace Place, Honolulu image
3607 Woodlawn Terrace Place, Honolulu $1,975,000

As his period colleague, Ossipoff Mid-century modern architect, Harry W. Seckel sought to create a more climatically, culturally responsive home here when opening this Wo...

  • 4 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202211348 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

223 Saratoga Road Unit 2508, Honolulu image
223 Saratoga Road Unit 2508, Honolulu — Trump Tower Waikiki $1,780,000 ▼

Fabulous views from this Unique 1 bedroom + Den. Developer enclosed the den creating a private room with small closet and built in desk. Relax after a day of world clas...

  • 1 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • 202112196 MLS
  • Trump Tower Waikiki Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

189 Anapalau Street, Honolulu image
189 Anapalau Street, Honolulu $1,650,000

Opportunity awaits you to own a well-cared-for 5 bedroom 3 bath single level residence with separate entryway for multi-family living located in beautiful Luna Kai, Hawai...

  • 5 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202207339 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

Honolulu image
Honolulu $1,649,000

Bright and Beautiful Kalama Valley home with custom finishes & sparkling pool. This home is just waiting for its new owners to enjoy all it has to offer. The home feature...

  • 4 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202211471 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

4448 Wahinekoa Place, Honolulu image
4448 Wahinekoa Place, Honolulu $1,589,000

Magnificent OCEAN VIEWS across Wai'alae Golf Course, Kahala to Diamond Head. Watch the whales/enjoy pau Hana sunsets from the huge, covered front lanai. 3 Lanais total. T...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202211386 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

3535 Harding Avenue, Honolulu image
3535 Harding Avenue, Honolulu $1,500,000

No Maintenance Fees ! Corner Lot with newer Kaimuki Home that allows you to rent one portion and live in the other. Downstairs 2 bed, 1 bath with a full kitchen and Upsta...

  • 5 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202211078 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

1600 Ala Moana Boulevard Unit 2708, Honolulu image
1600 Ala Moana Boulevard Unit 2708, Honolulu — Yacht Harbor Towers $1,425,000

Truly turnkey in custom contemporary design work throughout w/furnishings. Floor was floated to incorporate the lanai of an already luxuriously spacious living area. Favo...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • 202208014 MLS
  • Yacht Harbor Towers Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

1296 Kapiolani Boulevard Unit 3905, Honolulu image
1296 Kapiolani Boulevard Unit 3905, Honolulu — Moana Pacific $1,195,000

Extremely desirable East (Mauka) Tower, high-floor unit with amazing ocean and Diamond Head views. Open-plan kitchen, living room, and bonus area which can be used as stu...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • 202203555 MLS
  • Moana Pacific Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

3480 Alohea Avenue, Honolulu image
3480 Alohea Avenue, Honolulu $1,150,000

Rarely Available! 3 bedroom/ 2.5 bath charming home in Kaimuki/Kapahulu area. You can catch the beautiful view's of Diamond Head, the Waikiki skyline and the beautiful bl...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 202205242 MLS
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

600 Ala Moana Boulevard Unit 3006, Honolulu image
600 Ala Moana Boulevard Unit 3006, Honolulu — The Collection $1,135,000

Views, Location and Luxury!!..everything you need! Spacious, immaculate 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 parking residence with sweeping ocean, harbor, city and Hawaiian sunset views...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • 202206723 MLS
  • The Collection Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

520 Lunalilo Home Road Unit V4402, Honolulu image
520 Lunalilo Home Road Unit V4402, Honolulu — Peninsula At Hawaii Kai 1 $990,000 ▲

Rarely Available, this breezy corner townhome located within the GATED Peninsula offers a great opportunity! Convenient Bedroom and full Bath on the main level with a pr...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • 202210022 MLS
  • Peninsula At Hawaii Kai 1 Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

1777 Ala Moana Boulevard Unit 1539, Honolulu image
1777 Ala Moana Boulevard Unit 1539, Honolulu — Ilikai Apt Bldg $880,000

The most popular ‘39’ stack at the Ilikai apt, gorgeous Magic Island, and Sunset view. Lower maintenance fee. Luxury hotel like interior, excellent condition, open kitche...

  • 1 Beds
  • 1 Baths
  • 202207747 MLS
  • Ilikai Apt Bldg Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

1868 Kahakai Drive Unit 403, Honolulu image
1868 Kahakai Drive Unit 403, Honolulu — Commodore Waikiki $725,000

Outdoor space without the upkeep! Located on the edge of Waikiki, shaded by trees with canal views, this 2 bedroom, and 1 bath walk-up condo offers indoor outdoor living,...

  • 2 Beds
  • 1 Baths
  • 202208199 MLS
  • Commodore Waikiki Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

500 Lunalilo Home Road Unit 42F, Honolulu image
500 Lunalilo Home Road Unit 42F, Honolulu — Esplanade $639,000

Breezy, spacious one-bedroom end unit has been beautifully renovated throughout the years. Gorgeous African mahogany wood cabinetry throughout kitchen, bath, and interior...

  • 1 Beds
  • 1 Baths
  • 202211177 MLS
  • Esplanade Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

223 Saratoga Road Unit 814, Honolulu image
223 Saratoga Road Unit 814, Honolulu — Trump Tower Waikiki $479,000 ▼

Live the lifestyle in this spacious studio located in the heart of Waikiki that includes a full kitchen, spacious bathroom suite and is fully furnished! This unit is just...

  • 1 Baths
  • 202209101 MLS
  • Trump Tower Waikiki Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

444 Hobron Lane Unit 314, Honolulu image
444 Hobron Lane Unit 314, Honolulu — Eaton Square $460,000

Fully built out medical office with high-end finishes. 6 exam/offices with sinks 2 additional offices Interior restroom and shower Kitchenette, custom cabinetry, Bose...

  • 202211059 MLS
  • Eaton Square Bldg.
  • FS - Fee Simple Tenure
Courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties

Listing courtesy of Corcoran Pacific Properties.

Based on information from the Multiple Listing Service of Hicentral MLS, Ltd. Listings last updated on . Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Copyright: 2022 by HiCentral MLS, Ltd. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use. It may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.

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Lucky enough to spend his life on the great island of Oahu, Aloha Tony has become one of the state's best and most sought after real estate agents. Together with his hand-selected team of associates, he ensures his clients best interests are always looked after.

eXp Realty

500 Ala Moana Blvd. #7-400

Honolulu 96813

808-725-2794

RB-21841

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