HRI Blog

Oahu is well known for its stunning beaches, but did you know that it is also home to some of the best golf courses in the world? In this blog post, we will take a look at three of the top golf courses in Oahu. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, you are sure to find a course that suits your needs.

Hawaii Prince Golf Club

The Hawaii Prince Golf Club is one of the premier golfing destinations in the world. Located on the island of Oahu, the club features two 18-hole championship courses designed by legendary golf course architect Pete Dye. The courses are set amidst stunning tropical scenery, with views of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and the Pacific Ocean. The club also features a state-of-the-art practice facility, pro shop, and clubhouse. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice golfer, the Hawaii Prince Golf Club is sure to offer an unforgettable golfing experience.

Ko Olina Golf Club

Another great option for golfers in Oahu is the Ko Olina Golf Club. Located on the west side of the island and set amidst stunning Hawaiian scenery, players can choose between two 18-hole courses – the Ted Robinson Course and the Jack Nicklaus Course. For those wishing to really test their golfing prowess, the Jack Nicklaus Course is considered to be one of the most challenging courses in Hawaii. In addition to its world-class golfing facilities, the club also offers a variety of other amenities, including a full-service spa, fitness center, and dining options.

Kapolei Golf Club

When it comes to enjoying a round of golf, there are few places more scenic than the Kapolei Golf Club. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Waianae Mountains, the club's 18-hole championship course offers stunning views at every turn. But it's not just the scenery that makes Kapolei Golf Club a top destination for golfers; the course itself is impeccably maintained and challenges even the most seasoned players. With its rolling fairways and well-groomed greens, Kapolei Golf Club is a truly world-class facility. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced golfer, a round at Kapolei Golf Club is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Oahu is your ideal golfing destination.

Oahu is a paradise for golfers, with world-class courses that offer stunning views of the island. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, you are sure to find a course that suits your needs. So what are you waiting for? Grab your clubs and head to Oahu for a round of golf today!

Selling Your Home

Are you thinking of selling your home? If so, it's important to ask your real estate agent some questions before you get started. This will help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible and that you are happy with the results. In this blog post, we will discuss three questions that you should ask your agent before putting your home on the market.

Experience

The first question you should ask is about their experience. How long have they been working as a real estate agent? Do they have experience selling homes in your area? Your agent's experience is important for a few reasons. First, you want to make sure that they know what they're doing. Second, experienced agents have likely worked with a variety of clients, so they know how to handle different situations. And finally, experienced agents likely have a vast network of contacts, which can be extremely helpful when buying or selling a home.

Marketing Strategy

The second question you should ask is about their marketing plan. What do they plan on doing to market your home? Will they be using social media, print ads, or open houses? Make sure that you are comfortable with their marketing strategy and that it aligns with your goals for selling your home. You also want to make sure they have a good understanding of the current market and know how to reach potential buyers.

Commission and Fees

The third question you should ask is about the commission and other fees associated with selling your home. What percentage of the sale price will they be charging? Most agents charge a standard commission of around six percent, but it's important to ask so that you are aware of the total cost of selling your home. Agent commissions are just one piece of the puzzle. There may also be marketing fees, staging costs, and other expenses to consider. You don't want to be caught unaware of hidden costs when you're already in the process of selling your home. Be sure to ask your agent about their commission and other fees upfront.  By getting a complete picture of what it will cost to sell your home, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to work with them.

Asking your real estate agent these three questions will help you determine if they are the right fit for you and your home. By asking these questions up front, you can avoid any surprises down the road. So take the time to interview a few different agents before making your final decision. Selling your home should be a positive experience and working with the right agent will help make that happen.

Do you have any other questions that you think are important to ask an agent before selling your home? Let us know in the comments below! And if you're looking for a top-notch real estate agent in Oahu be sure to contact us today. We would be happy to help you through the process of selling your home.

Whether you're hosting a party for family and friends or simply want to enjoy the outdoor weather, these tips will help make your summertime entertaining a breeze. From setting the perfect mood with music and decorations to choosing the right foods and drinks, we've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the good company and beautiful weather!

Set the Mood

When it comes to setting the mood, take advantage of Hawaii's natural surroundings. The lush greenery and bright flowers are the perfect backdrops for any party. If you're looking to add a bit of flair, string some lights around the area or set up some tiki torches. And don't forget the music! Create a playlist that will get your guests up and dancing or simply provide a soothing ambiance.

Food and Drinks

For food and drinks, keep it simple. A self-serve bar is always a hit, especially if you include a signature drink. If you're hosting a family-friendly event, be sure to offer activities that get adults and younger kids joining together. No kids at this event? Still, be sure to have some adult games on hand for fun. And when it comes to seating, plan ahead to be sure everyone has space.

When it comes to the food, keep it simple and serve small plates or finger foods that can be enjoyed throughout the party. And don't forget dessert! Serve the food in stages, not all at once, to ensure that there's always something new to try. 

Light Your Way

Proper lighting is key for any outdoor party, especially if it's taking place at night. String some lights around the area or set up lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. And if you're using candles, be sure to keep them away from any flammable materials. And finally, don't forget to anticipate extra guests when planning out the food and drinks. It's better to have too much than not enough.

With these tips in mind, you're ready to entertain outdoors this summer! Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the good company and beautiful weather. Mahalo!

Got any tips to share for entertaining outdoors this summer? Are you thinking about selling or buying a home to create your new outdoor entertaining space? We can help! Get in touch with our team of top Kailua real estate agents. We’re happy to hear from you—contact us here!

The real estate market in Hawai'i has always been red hot due to the allure of an island lifestyle, a rich culture, and breathtaking beauty in every direction. Recently, it has reached molten temperatures. Perhaps this prompted you to give some thought to putting your home on the market. You may not know where to begin this journey if you're a first-time seller. Not to worry, we're here to help! Take a look at these tips for prepping your property.

Picking An Agent

The first step is going to be selecting an agent to represent you. Even this first leap can seem a bit overwhelming because there is an abundance of brokers to choose from. Speaking with your family or friends is a great way to elicit a few names, but going online and doing a little bit of research can be effective. Once you have compiled a list of essential questions and have a few potential candidates in mind, reach out and interview each individual. Ask about their sales for the last year and what sets them apart from other agents. Request references and speak with past clients to learn more about the agent's business acumen and verify successes. Ultimately, you want to find someone you feel confident will listen to your needs and deliver. 

Home Inspection Before Listing

When purchasing a home, buyers generally procure a home inspection as part of the process. However, something that may surprise you is that sellers can also have this done. Getting a pre-listing inspection goes a long way in showing buyers that you are open and honest about the condition of the home. Further, identifying any issues before the listing can be valuable when negotiating offers and could ensure minor problems don't turn into major ones.

Make Minor Repairs

While we're on the subject of inspections when a potential buyer receives their report, there may be multiple pages of small things that need to be addressed, such as loose outlet covers, jiggling toilets, etc. As long as you feel confident, take the time to fix the minor things. It is a simple way to make buyers feel like you are working with them and compromising. 

Splash New Paint On The Walls

Courageous color themes inside homes are becoming commonplace nowadays. Bright hues can be exciting and add a little flair to your walls. If you are preparing your house for market, splashing neutral tones throughout is a good idea, as not everyone enjoys daring color palettes.

MAINTAIN A LUSCIOUS LAWN

Curb appeal is a big one because this will be the first impression your home makes. You want an exterior that welcomes people to the door. The island is home to a plethora of native flora to incorporate into your garden to bestow a sense of beauty and tranquility that any potential owner will embrace.

UPGRADE SPARINGLY

There is no need to call a contractor and plan on significant renovations in order to get your home ready for sale. In reality, this can subtract from your total net at closing. Not all improvements are created equal, so it's worthwhile to find out which projects will yield the highest return on your investment to ensure you don't spend money unnecessarily.

NEUTRALIZE ODORS

Your sense of smell has the power to evoke happy or unpleasant feelings. So investing in scented candles or wall plug-ins releasing fragrances into the air of fresh baked pie, lavender, or any slew of aromatherapy scents is a brilliant way to generate feelings of calmness and pleasure inviting people to associate their visit with fond memories.

DEPERSONALIZE AND CLEAN 

Everybody loves hanging pictures on their walls to remind themselves of good times and reminisce. However, before listing your property, go ahead and pack away any personal items currently displayed. Seeing all of your photos or accomplishments may distract buyers from seeing themselves living in this space. Deep cleaning is also vital, as buyers will be peeking into drawers, inspecting every bathroom, and looking at each little thing imaginable. Many cleaning companies offer this service for a very reasonable price.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

It's a cliche but true nonetheless; pictures speak a thousand words. The vast majority of individuals will begin searching for a new home online, meticulously pouring over each photo they see. Hiring an experienced professional to capture the beauty of your home can mean the difference between someone wanting to view the house or not. Be sure to discuss this with your agent to ensure you are on the same page.

TELL A STORY WITH STAGING

Prospective buyers should open the front door and become part of the story that is your home. This can be accomplished with deliberate staging through sparsely placed furniture, interesting artwork on the wall, purposeful decor in each room, or by placing a pair of sunglasses and a towel on a poolside lounge chair. Set the scene to allow people to envision what life can be like when they become the new owners. 

 If you're exploring whether now is a good time to sell in Hawai'i, let's chat! We would be more than happy to provide you with our list of premier professionals to assist with your home improvement needs.

Many homeowners value the extra storage space their garages provide for their vehicles, tools, and other belongings. Not to mention weatherized features that keep these items safe from the elements, come snow, rain, or shine.

But some homeowners don't realize that having an attached or detached garage may also increase the value of their properties significantly.

The Value of a Home Garage

Consider this: A survey by Remodeling Magazine found that 74% of homeowners thought a well-organized garage was a major selling feature for the home, with 97% of participants preferring a garage over an attic or a basement to store their belongings.

What's more, the survey found that homeowners who invested in mid-range to high-end garage door replacements recouped 83% of the money spent on these improvements.

Similarly, mid-range garage additions saw a 69% return on investment, making them a lucrative home improvement project for their desirability among prospective homebuyers.

But beefing up an existing garage, or adding a new one, isn't only for gaining a higher selling price. Owning a garage also comes with a host of benefits for the long-term homeowner, who can turn it into a relaxation room, a studio apartment for guests, a rehearsal space for a band, or a home gym complete with treadmills and a bench press.

How to Increase the Value of Your Home Garage

Adding value to your home garage is pretty straightforward, but rather than just "make it bigger," the value increase comes with making the space more functional.

To that end, here are some creative ways to maximize your home garage's value or function and convert it into a multipurpose space.

1) Weather-proofing

Weather-proofing or insulating your garage ensures that the items inside are protected from extreme temperatures on hot or cold days while also making it more attractive to buyers. A prefabricated building kit with insulated metal panels is one of the most popular and affordable ways to climatize your garage and comes in handy if you live in a climate with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year.

2) Soundproofing

Soundproofing can turn your garage into a hobby room or a space to live out your musical dreams. Although it may seem like a daunting project, soundproofing your home garage is fairly simple. Start by insulating the ceiling and walls with cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool (your choice of material depends on the desired effect). Other materials, such as foam panels, rubber mats, and acoustic blankets can help you jam out like a rockstar without driving your neighbors crazy.

3) Installing or Upgrading Garage Doors

Earlier we mentioned that installing or upgrading to mid-range or high-end garage doors can offer a healthy return on your investment. So consider upgrading your garage doors with insulated frames and windows. Not only will this add value to your home. It'll make your garage more energy-efficient and attract homebuyers if you decide to sell down the road. When upgrading your garage doors, try this DIY project or hire a professional who can take the legwork out of it.

4) Converting to a Living Space

Converting the garage into a studio apartment is something that your friends and family members will appreciate when they visit you from out of town. But like many home improvements, there are cons to consider when choosing this route. An obvious one is losing storage space for your vehicles and other belongings. You'll also need to consider zoning and building codes in your neighborhood that may restrict the blueprint you have in mind. That said, some homebuyers might find an additional living space appealing, especially if the property can fit a carport or a covered driveway for vehicles.

How to Increase the Functionality of Your Home Garage

To increase functionality without breaking the bank, consider organizing your garage space into zones based on the value you want to get out of it.

These zones can be:

1) Organizing personal belongings by value and type, such as tools, equipment, bikes, and other outdoor gear. This is typically the first zone for homeowners because it's how they use their garage the most.

2) Keeping frequently used items in close reach with shallow shelves.

3) Storing rarely used items like seasonal decorations and old kitchen appliances in containers on the garage walls or other vertical spaces that can be reached with a step stool.

4) Organizing supplies that need to be kept for home repairs and projects in one area (including paint and other liquids) with extension cords in case an item needs to be plugged in when it's time to use it.

5) Keeping everything clean and tidy by investing in garage storage cabinets or shelves that can accommodate larger pieces like bicycles, ladders, and tools.

6) Creating a personalized space by attaching pegboard walls for hanging tools, coats, and other accessories.

7) Keeping groceries and sports equipment in designated areas to avoid clutter.

8) Staying organized by creating a system for writing down items that need repair or replacement so they can be bought at the right time.

These steps can help you organize your garage space into zones that improve the value and function while saving you time and energy in the long run.

Buying and Selling in Oahu with HRI

Knowing the value of your home garage as a space for anything — from personal storage to hosting guests — can help you make the most of it.

At Hawaii Realty International, we value our client's homes as much as they do. If you're thinking about selling or buying in Oahu, or if you're on the hunt for a top Oahu realtor, connect with us and find out what our family-owned real estate business is all about.

Rightsizing is a term that's quickly becoming a hot topic for those who wish to live a simpler, less cluttered life. In a nutshell, it means making changes in your home to make it feel less crowded, more spacious, and much more enjoyable.

Rightsizing often results in getting rid of things you don't need. In some cases, it means relocating to a smaller home.

Rightsizing Vs. Downsizing: What's the Difference?

You might be wondering: rightsizing vs. downsizing? What's the difference, anyway?

Well, downsizing your home is exactly what it sounds like: you "go down in size" by moving to a new, smaller place. It's a common practice among retirees, empty nesters, and other individuals who just don't need as large of a home anymore.

By contrast, rightsizing doesn't always require a major life event to take place. It can happen at any time. What's more, you don't always have to move to a new home. You can stay right where you are and optimize your current living spaces to make them feel less crowded.

However, when rightsizing, it might be beneficial to move to a new home that features a smaller layout, ideally one that boasts plenty of usable square footage. That way, you can organize what remains of your furniture and other decor items once you've decluttered your old home.

The Benefits of Rightsizing Your Home

The benefits of rightsizing your home include:

• Making your home more enjoyable

• Feeling less stressed and overwhelmed

• Able to find what you need more easily

• Living in a healthier environment with less clutter

• When friends and family visit, they may feel more at ease

If rightsizing results in moving to a new home, it may also offer you some financial benefits. For instance, if you rightsize and reduce the amount of property taxes you pay, it could save you a lot of money in the long run.

Rightsizing Your Mind in the Process

Have you turned your home into an obstacle course of unnecessary objects, leaving no room to maneuver?

If so, rightsizing your home can transform your space into one that's more organized, tidy, and clutter-free. This, in turn, can boost your peace of mind.

After all, it's easier to stay on top of your daily tasks when you have a smooth, clutter-free environment, so you can avoid feeling stressed about where things are and how to manage your home's upkeep.

Furthermore, rightsizing your home can also help you identify what's important to you and your family. This means rightsizing your possessions, rightsizing decoration elements ... heck, even rightsizing the types of food you eat!

But for now, let's stick to how you can rightsize your home successfully one step at a time.

How to Go About Rightsizing

For starters, you'll need to consider your goals. What do you hope to achieve by rightsizing? Is it a mental health detox or a means to a financial end?

If your goal is to read more during bedtime, for example, then do you really need a TV in the bedroom? Also, if you tend to work at the kitchen table more often than your home office or bedroom desk, perhaps it's time to get rid of the desk altogether.

Other important questions to consider are:

• How do I utilize my living spaces?

• What can I do to optimize them?

• What possessions am I willing to get rid of?

Rightsizing your home will be much easier once you've established clear objectives.

4 Tips to Rightsize Your Home The Right Way

Have you figured out your goals? Great! Now, here are four tips to rightsize your home the right way without freaking out (or regretting it later!)

1) Make Sure Everyone's On Board (or "Start Small")

Let's face it: regardless of how passionate you are about reducing your belongings, family members might not share your enthusiasm for making this life change.

If you find that not everyone is on board with rightsizing just yet, then start small. For instance, instead of tackling the entire house in one go, why not rightsize your bedroom? Then move on to your wardrobe next, followed by your living room.

Once everyone realizes that this process isn't hurting anyone and that you're not throwing away everything that matters, they might be more receptive to rightsizing.

2) Use Your Living Spaces the Right Way

When rightsizing your home, use your living spaces the right way. Meaning, if you love to read books and spend time in your bedroom, install a bookshelf and make it the largest piece of furniture in your room.

Keep in mind that the goal is to optimize every space, not make them bare and plain.

This goes for the living room, too, which is a popular space in the home. While tackling this room, try to add furniture pieces that align with your personal needs and preferences. Just be careful not to go overboard. For example, if you don't entertain guests regularly, it might be time to swap the giant sectional with a comfy three-seater.

3) Make More Useful Spaces

Sometimes rightsizing your home can mean making more useful spaces or rooms. For instance, rightsize your kitchen by removing or consolidating bulky, seldom-used appliances. Then, rightsize your living room by removing old furniture that you don't use anymore.

In addition, if you don't use the guest bedroom, convert it into a home office, a dedicated meditation space, or a study room for your kids. Lastly, if your dining room is gathering dust and there's no room to entertain guests at your dinner table, consider adding more furniture for everyday life activities.

4) Less Is More

Of all the steps on this listicle, getting rid of personal items can be the scariest one, especially if your possessions are as large as the new home you're moving into!

However, some studies have found that decluttering leads to better moods and happiness levels. So, to rightsize successfully, be open to getting rid of things — even cherished items — and embracing less.

To ease this process, consider the minimalist approach so you can focus on owning only the things you actually need, plus the ones that make you feel happy and comfortable. (Don't forget to declutter your outdoor storage, too!)

Buying and Selling in Oahu with Hawaii Realty International

If rightsizing means that you're better off with a new home, then consider Hawaii Realty International to make your rightsizing goals manifest.

While searching for a top Oahu realtor, Hawaii Realty International has the expertise and track record to help you find a new home that accommodates your lifestyle.

Reach out today and let's get started on your road to real estate success!

A relaxation room is a dedicated space in your home that's designed to help you destress when life throws curveballs your way.

Before creating one, make sure you have the essentials for finding peace and quiet in one place. It can be any space at home, as long as it's free of distractions.

7 Things Every Relaxation Room Needs

A well-designed relaxation room should elevate your senses to their maximum comfort level. With this in mind, here are the necessary elements to include in your relaxation room:

1) Ambient Lighting

To gain a sense of calm through lighting, replace harsh fluorescent bulbs with incandescents that emit warm hues.

Edison bulbs, for instance, emit a cozy, amber glow that creates a serene ambiance and sets the mood for relaxation.

Because lower light levels contribute to a better mood, opt for dimmable bulbs or recessed lighting whenever possible.

When installing overheads, make sure the light is equally distributed throughout the room with no harsh or bright spots.

Lastly, if you have an abundance of natural light in your relaxation room, soak it in while relaxing. This can help you achieve some much-needed balance during the day.

2) Temperature & Air Quality

Climate control and air quality are key in maintaining a comfortable relaxation room.

Let's start with humidity: Low levels can make your body feel cold, even if the room is warm. Conversely, high humidity can make you feel hot and sticky.

Some experts recommend a humidity rate between 30% and 50% to alleviate poor breathing symptoms and remain comfortable.

For the right level of humidity, opt for a dual mist humidifier or choose from a wide variety of options based on your needs.

You'll also want air that's clean and free of airborne allergens. To optimize air quality in your relaxation room, invest in an air purifier. These devices emit a stream of ions that remove contaminants from the air as it circulates, leaving you with fresh air to breathe.

3) Comfy Furniture

The furniture in your relaxation room should be soft and inviting, made of materials that promote relaxation.

Natural fibers, such as cotton and wool, are ideal. These fabrics are hypoallergenic and soft to the touch, giving you a sense of calm when you recline on your sofa or lounge in your armchair.

For your sofa, choose something that's long enough to clear your calves when you're sitting down. For maximum comfort, get a sofa with armrests and a headrest.

If you have a wooden floor in your relaxation room, add area rugs that give you a cozy feel. If your relaxation room has carpeting, pile it high with large area rugs.

4) Warm Colors

Warm colors are inviting and inspire relaxation, so consider painting the walls in your relaxation room with these hues.

Calming colors include light shades of green, blue, grey, beige, and peach. You can also add other colors that evoke a relaxing feeling, such as yellow and lavender.

For your furniture pieces, choose soft and vibrant colors like chestnut brown, sky blue, and heather gray.

Similarly, earthy tones like terracotta, ochre, and sandstone evoke a sense of tranquility and can help you feel more relaxed.

5) Calming Décor

The items in your relaxation room should have personal meaning so you can relax easier.

Add framed family photos, the latest bestseller you're reading, an item that reminds you of a cherished memory, or anything else that makes you smile. You could also liven up the space with low-maintenance indoor plants that improve air quality.

To avoid distractions, remove mirrors and other items that reflect light. This ensures an overall dimming of the room.

If you're okay with having a mirror, opt for one that's mounted on an angled wall or doesn't reflect light into your personal space.

6) Soothing Scents

A soothing scent can be a great way to induce relaxation and destress after a long day.

Add an essential oil diffuser in the corner of your relaxation room to spread its fragrance throughout the air.

To promote more relaxation, add a satin hand towel with a few drops of essential oil, such as rosemary, lavender, or chamomile. As you unwind, cover your eyes with the towel.

If you're sensitive to certain scents, consider adding an unscented candle for an ambient glow.

7) White Noise

From the hum of city traffic to the roar of an airplane engine, there are many sounds that can make you feel stressed. The right amount of ambient noise can lessen these disturbances and help you relax.

Sound machines create a soft backdrop of white noise, such as the sound of ocean waves or bird calls.

You can also download white noise apps to your mobile device and play them through the speaker.

How to Use Your Relaxation Room

Once you've completed these steps, sit down in your relaxation room, close your eyes, and practice simple breathing exercises to slow your heart rate and reduce feelings of stress.

Stay in your relaxation room for at least 20 minutes per day. If you're having trouble concentrating on your breath, aim for a shorter duration and add more time gradually.

On the other hand, your relaxation room doesn't have to be a meditation space. It can be a space where you read, write, or listen to music. Use your relaxation room whenever you feel overwhelmed and need a break from distractions.

Before leaving your relaxation room, think of something that makes you feel calm or happy. Then, head back to the world with newfound energy!

Buying and Selling in Oahu with Hawaii Realty International

Now that you've discovered the power of a relaxation room, perhaps it's time to find the right home that can host it.

If you're ready to buy or sell in Oahu, Hawaii Realty International is here to help. Our team is one of the most reputable in the area, offering personalized service with unmatched market knowledge to help you find or sell your perfect home.

Contact Hawaii Realty International and let’s get started on your journey to real estate success!