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Oahu, the third-largest island in Hawaii, is not only known for its stunning beaches and lush natural beauty but also for its rich architectural heritage. Over the years, Oahu has evolved and developed its own unique architectural styles, reflecting the island's history, culture, and environment. In this blog, we'll take a look at some of the most prominent architectural styles on Oahu, from traditional to modern, and explore their characteristics and significance.

Traditional Hawaiian Architecture

The traditional Hawaiian architecture, also known as "Hawaiian vernacular architecture," is deeply rooted in the island's cultural and environmental context. This style features open-air designs, thatched roofs, and natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and lava rock. Traditional Hawaiian architecture can be seen in many historic sites on Oahu, such as the Iolani Palace and the Kawaiahao Church.

Plantation Architecture

The plantation architecture style emerged in Hawaii in the late 19th century and was heavily influenced by the Victorian architectural style of the time. This style features steep-pitched roofs, ornate trimmings, and wide verandas that provide shade and ventilation. Many of the historic homes and buildings in Oahu's plantation towns, such as Haleiwa and Waipahu, still showcase this style.

Art Deco Architecture

Art Deco architecture became popular in Hawaii in the 1920s and 1930s, during the golden age of tourism. This style is characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and intricate details. Some of the iconic Art Deco buildings on Oahu include the Waikiki Theatre and the Ala Wai Canal Bridge.

Mid-Century Modern Architecture

The mid-century modern architectural style gained popularity in Hawaii in the 1950s and 1960s, as the island underwent a period of rapid growth and development. This style features clean lines, simple forms, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The IBM Building in Honolulu and the Kaiser Estate in Hawaii Kai are notable examples of mid-century modern architecture on Oahu.

Contemporary Architecture

Contemporary architecture on Oahu reflects the island's current cultural and environmental context. This style features a mix of traditional and modern elements, sustainable materials, and innovative design concepts. Some of the notable contemporary buildings in Oahu include the Hawaii State Capitol and the Hawaii Convention Center.

In conclusion, Oahu's architectural styles are a testament to the island's rich history and cultural diversity. From traditional Hawaiian architecture to contemporary designs, Oahu's built environment is a reflection of the island's past, present, and future. Whether you're a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, exploring Oahu's architectural gems is a must-do activity. If you have any questions or comments about Oahu's architectural styles or questions about real estate, feel free to ask!

Are you wondering why your home didn't sell on Oahu, even though you had a lot of interested buyers? There could be a few reasons - from the condition of your home to the price you were asking. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most common reasons homes don't sell and what you can do to increase your chances of success next time around. Read on to find out more!

Location

Being located on Oahu is a huge plus when it comes to selling your home. Good locations are always in high demand, and buyers typically have an easier time when the home provides desirable amenities. On Oahu, this means being close enough to the water (for surfing, swimming, paddleboarding, etc.), having easy access to transportation, enjoying pleasant weather and access to all the great things the island has to offer including shopping, dining, entertainment, theaters and more! If you're not already in a desirable location on Oahu then taking full advantage of what's available on the property itself can go a long way towards helping sell your home.

Curb appeal

When you're looking to sell a home, you want to make sure that potential buyers get the best impression they can from the curb. Take an objective look at your property and assess what someone driving by would see. Do they see an overgrown garden or an unkempt yard full of toys and tools? First impressions matter, so put in some effort now to ensure your home looks presentable. Trim back trees, pull out those weeds, or give the lawn some much-needed TLC--not only will it boost the overall appeal of your home, it could also be reflected in its sale price.

Interior design

If you're looking to increase your home's appeal, then consider evaluating its interior design. Are your rooms well-lit and spacious, or dark and cramped? Potential buyers want to see a bright and airy residence that they can visualize themselves living in. You can easily achieve this look by considering the light fixtures and furniture you have currently, rearranging or replacing them as needed. Some small changes like using bright paint colors or adding mirrors could create a more inviting space without requiring major renovations. With some simple modifications, your home could be a place of comfort and joy for many years to come!

Pricing

If you're having difficulty getting your home off the market, it could be because you've priced yourself out of the competition. Before overpricing an asset as precious as a home, consult a real estate agent to get a better understanding of the value of your home and current market trends. If necessary, adjust your pricing strategy to stay competitive with other homes in your area that are similar to yours. Ultimately, establishing fair market prices gives potential buyers more confidence that they're getting what they pay for, and increases the chances that yours will be among the homes sold quickly.

Location, curb appeal, interior design, and pricing are all important factors to consider when selling your home on Oahu. If you keep these things in mind, you'll be more likely to attract buyers and sell your home quickly. However, if you're still having trouble selling your home, we can help. Our team of experts specializes in real estate on Oahu and can provide guidance on how to best market your property. Give us a call today or send us an email for more information.

If you're curious about things to do when you're on Ewa Beach, keep reading as we think we have some exciting ideas to give you. These ideas are for locals and visitors alike.

#5 - Paradise Monarchs

Paradise Monarchs started as a passion project of owner Henry - raising monarch butterflies. He did this in his home garden to help grow the wild monarch butterfly population in Hawaii. Paradise Monarchs specializes in personalized Live Monarch Butterfly Chrysalis Gift Boxes. You get to watch your very own butterfly emerge from chrysalis. After this, you get to experience the release of this majestic insect. Their release symbolizes hope, beauty, joy and new beginnings. These are unique and meaningful gifts for any special occasion.

#4 - Ewa Beach Park

Ewa Beach Park is a nice beach on the west side of Oahu. It's equipped with restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a band stand area with a stage. There is also a baseball diamond, basketball court and playground for the Keikis. Ewa Beach has a stretch of white sand with reef in the water, and a common place where people fish at the shore. It isn't known for being a surf spot, but you will see people canoeing!

#3 - People's Open Market

People's Open Market provides the opportunity to purchase fresh agricultural products, aquacultural products and other food items at low cost. POM also prides themselves for supporting the viability of the economy by providing market sites for local farmers and fishermen. People's Open Market also provides various focal point areas for residents to socialize, which is needed because an estimated half a million people shop at the 25 market sites each year.

#2 - Xtreme 7D Dark Rides

Xtreme 7D Dark Rides is virtual reality at its best, immersing you behind a massive curved silver screen. They are the first to blend a competitive, interactive and reactive game into a dynamic motion ride. It is fantastic fun for almost everyone with themes ranging for fun lovers aged 5 to 75.

#1 - Pu'uloa Beach

Pu'uloa Beach Park is 14.2 km away from the city of Honolulu. It is one of the best beaches of Ewa Beach settlement and is located in an urban area. Pu'uloa Beach has crystal turquoise water and golden sand making it so beautiful that it is partially crowded during the high season. There are no amenities, only nature, showers & toilets. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, you can also take part in other activities such as sea kayaking, surfing, etc.

The list goes on, but remember these are just five things you can do on Ewa Beach. Reach out to us if you have any questions about food, places or real estate because we would love to be your one stop shop for all information.

Today, we want to invite you on a culinary journey with us in Kaka'ako. If you're ever around for a date night or a casual dinner with friends or family, here are a few places that we suggest you visit.

#5 - Yakiniku Sizzle

Yakiniku serves various types of beef such as A5 Rank Japanese beef imported from Japan, Washu beef (Half Japanese Beef, Half US Black Angus beef), and US Prime Beef. They serve their meats with their own original sauces and Japanese style presentations. They are a small and family restaurant, but that’s why they are close with their customers, and will work even harder to keep getting better.

#4 - Piggy Smalls

Piggy Smalls is the newest restaurant from Andrew Le and his team at The Pig & The Lady. Even so, this new iteration stands alone and has a unique and eclectic menu that is different from the main restaurant in Chinatown. They are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Piggy Smalls is a sit down service with a playful bar menu. Their intent is to be a fixture and dining destination for the emerging urban core in Kaka'ako.

#3 - Rinka Japanese Restaurant

If you like Japanese food, you're in the right place. At Rinka you will enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in a modern setting with an open kitchen.  They strive to provide the best service and cuisine in hopes that you will have a joyful and memorable experience. Offering a wide variety of dishes taking great pride in the quality of their food, Rinka is sure to be a memorable experience.

#2 - Hamada General Store

Originally a grocery store, H. Hamada Store would cater to local clientele but they closed their doors in 2007. Today, Hamada General Store is a take out/catering restaurant. It's rooted in the same values as the original H. Hamada Store, and that's to proudly serve the community with Aloha.

#1 - Workplay

WorkPlay is Honolulu's Hidden Lounge located in the heart of Kaka'ako serving a TexMex menu. If you’re looking for that perfect date night spot or out celebrating your birthday with all your friends, Workplay has got the perfect spot for you. If you're interested in their nightlife attractions, you can dance the night away with Honolulu's hottest nightlife. They have live music, craft cocktails, and cigars.

We hope we've given you an idea of the community and what the restaurant scene has to offer. If you have any questions about Kaka'ako, the area, restaurants, or real estate, please contact us. We would love to continue this conversation with you.

The holidays are a special time in the Islands. We might not have snow like the North Pole, but there are still plenty of ways to be festive. As we head into the end of the year, here are some of our favorite events going on around Oahu.

Honolulu City Lights – Now through January 2nd

As if Honolulu wasn’t gorgeous enough, you should see it in December! After Thanksgiving, the entire city of Honolulu gets lit up with millions of Christmas lights. The Honolulu City Lights is an incredible light show that attracts visitors from all around, just for a glimpse of the beauty.

The event lasts the entire month of December and is completely free to enjoy. It’s supported by the Friends of Honolulu City Lights, a nonprofit dedicated to spreading cheer to locals and visitors alike during the holiday season.

You’re welcome to tour the city lights yourself, but it’s also fun to take one of the several trolley rides that give you a guided tour of the city. And you definitely don’t want to miss the 50-foot Christmas tree and the world-famous Shaka Santa and Tutu Mele!

Christmas with the Animals – December 17th

Animals like to celebrate the holidays, too. For the past two years, the beloved Christmas with the Animals event at the Honolulu Zoo has been all virtual, but this year, it’s finally back in person! Visit the zoo on Saturday, December 17th to celebrate with the zoo’s residents.

At Christmas with the Animals, you can watch the animals unwrap their presents and enjoy their favorite treats in celebration of the holidays. They get just as excited as you do to open their gifts!

You can attend Christmas with the Animals with a regular zoo admission, and everyone is welcome!

Ko’olina Artfest – December 21st & 28th

Still looking for that unique Hawaiian gift for the friends and family on your list? When it comes to handmade crafts, the Ko’olina Artfest is the place to be.

This year, the Ko’olina Artfest is taking place on December 21st and 28th. Head down to the Ko Olina Beach Club in Kapolei to check out the incredible artwork and crafts available for purchase. Everything at the Artfest is handmade by local residents, so you won’t be able to find these pieces anywhere else in the world! They make perfect gifts, especially for friends and family back on the mainland. Or, add a touch of uniqueness to your own Hawaiian home!

Celebrate the holidays Hawaiian-style

Who needs snow to have a good time during the holidays? This December, swap your sleigh for a surfboard and enjoy the Christmas season like a true Hawaiian. With all the festive events happening all over Oahu, it’s easy to get into the spirit.

Is a new home on your holiday wish list? Give Santa a break and reach out to the experts at Hawaii Realty International. We’ll help you find a Hawaiian home to fit your lifestyle and goals. Contact us to get started.

When people think about the best restaurants in Oahu, they usually head straight for Honolulu. But Hawaii’s largest city isn’t the only place to get some world-class eats! Jump to the eastern side of the island to find some of the best food the islands have to offer! Here are my picks for the top five restaurants in Kailua, Oahu — and why it definitely needs to be a destination on your next visit to Hawaii.

Nalu Health Bar

When it comes to healthy dining options, this one is hard to beat. The Nalu Health Bar offers a great assortment of healthy eating, including sandwiches, wraps, juice blends, and smoothies. But what they’re really known for are their acai bowls. According to many sources, Nalu Health Bar has the best acai bowls in Hawaii!

All their ingredients are as fresh as possible. They boast on their websites that the acai in their island-famous bowls go “straight from the Amazon to your bowl.” Check it out before your next beach run and make that bathing suit look good!

Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen

Of course, you can always go a different direction with your food choices, too. If you’re looking for the best breakfast on the Island (and maybe even a bit farther than that), there’s only one Kailua restaurant that can hold that reputation.

Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen is always serving up creative authentic Hawaiian breakfast concoctions. This amazing eatery is home to the world-famous Uncle Kimo’s Macadamia Nut Glazed Pancakes. People travel from all around just to taste this incredible sweet concoction. There’s no better way to start the day!

In addition to their famous pancakes, Boots & Kimo’s also craft up a variety of unique breakfast and lunch plates, including an eggplant parmigiana omelet, a shrimp alfredo omelet, and even a fried rice omelet. There’s definitely no shortage of amazing food. You’ll keep coming back to try the whole menu!

Uahi Island Grill

Uahi Island Grill uses the best island flavors and local produce to create mouthwatering Island dishes that are sure to please any palette.

From Hawaiian BBQ to fresh-from-the-sea fish dishes, there’s something for everyone at Uahi Island Grill. If you like appetizers (and who doesn’t!?), be sure to get an order of the Kalua Pork Fries. The homemade fries are served up with slow-cooked authentic Kalua pork, shredded cheese, gravy, tomatoes, and fresh onions. What’s not to like!?

Uahi Island Grill is definitely one of the best restaurants in Kailua, Oahu if you want real, authentic Hawaiian food. And don’t forget to try one of their Mai Tais in a tiki cup!

Kono’s Northshore

Kono’s Northshore might just be a counter-service restaurant, but that doesn’t mean they don’t serve some of the best Hawaiian BBQ that you’ll find in all the Islands. All their meats are slow-roasted and served tender, just like you’d find at any good luau.

Kono’s is open for breakfast and lunch, serving everything from breakfast bombers (wraps) to full-on pork BBQ plates that’ll send you to your stretchy pants. Their food is so good they’ve won numerous awards from organizations all over the world! But remember to save some room. Kono’s also has some killer hand-crafted milkshakes.

Maui Brewing Co.

What’s a great Hawaiian meal without some great Hawaiian beer? At Maui Brewing Co., you can get both! Not only do they offer some of the best brews in the Islands, but they also serve all kinds of hand-crafted pizzas, pupus (appetizers), tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Maui Brewing Co.’s Kailua, Oahu location is all open-air dining, so you can enjoy the nice Hawaiian breeze as you enjoy your meal. There’s no better way to take in the Island.

The best food options in Kailua, Oahu

You don’t have to fight the traffic in Honolulu to get great food. Just hop to the windward side of the island and taste everything Kailua has to offer! From healthy dishes and amazing breakfast options to fresh seafood and handmade pizza, there’s something for everyone in Kailua, HI.

And if the local flavors make you want to stay a bit longer, there are plenty of Oahu properties for sale. The team at Hawaii Realty International are always happy to answer your questions and find the perfect home to suit your needs and budget. Grab your slice of paradise!

Hawaii is known for its ideal year-round weather, crystal clear waters, and incredible scenery, so why would anyone just sit indoors? Take a step outside and enjoy the world-famous Hawaiian air with these top five outdoor activities in Kailua, Oahu.

Catch some rays at the beach

What trip to Hawaii is complete without visiting one of the pristine sandy beaches? Easily the top outdoor activity to do on any of the Hawaiian Islands is to visit the beach.

In Kailua, there are several world-class beaches for visitors to enjoy. These are the most popular beaches in Kailua, HI:

·        Kailua Beach Park

·        Kalama Beach Park

·        Castles Beach

·        Lanikai Beach

And while planning your outdoor adventures, don’t worry about missing out. There’s no such thing as a “bad” beach in Kailua. They’re all incredible!

When you’re tired of soaking in the rays, go for a dip in the clear blue waters. Many of the Kailua beaches have great snorkeling where you can catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.

Kayak the crystal-clear waters

Swimming in the ocean is great, but sometimes you want to go out a little further. The waters around Kailua are great for kayak adventures because the shore break is typically gentle enough for even novice kayakers to make their way around the bay.

While you’re welcome to cruise around on your own (there are plenty of kayak rentals on the beaches), one of the best ways to explore the seas is on a guided tour. Your tour guide will take you around the bay to see some of the best sites all around the island.

Many kayakers love to take the short trip to the Mokes, which are small islands just off the southeast coast of the island.

Enjoy the view on the Pillbox Hike

If you’re looking for more of a physical outdoor activity, the Pillbox Hike in Kailua, Hawaii is one of the most picturesque you’ll find!

The trail is 1.5 miles round-trip and considered a moderate hike. There are a few steady inclines and steep grades, so make sure you wear the right shoes!

The Pillbox Hike will take you along a ridge that overlooks the entire city, the beaches, the ocean, and the Mokulua Islands beyond. You’ll definitely find some Instagram-worthy shots up there!

Along the hike, you’ll also find some pillboxes — which is where the hike gets its name. Pillboxes are small military bunkers designed to protect the island during World War II. So, not only can you enjoy the incredible views, but you’ll also get a little taste of history along the way.

Ride your bike along the Kawainui Marsh

Looking for a more easy-going hike? Check out the Kawainui Marsh trail.

The Kawainui Marsh is the largest marsh in the state of Hawaii. The wetland itself covers about 830 acres of land! The trail itself is a 3-mile round-trip trek that you can complete by either walking, running, or biking — no motorized vehicles are allowed.

Because of the vehicle restrictions in place, the trail is perfect for walkers, hikers, or bikers to enjoy the natural beauty without worrying about cars or traffic. It’s quiet, peaceful, and mostly flat — so it’s easy for people of all ages and abilities.

Hit the links for a round of golf (or two)

Beautiful Hawaiian scenery is good for more than just sightseeing. There are several premiere golf courses in Kailua where you can enjoy a round or two while overlooking the Pacific ocean.

One of the best Kailua golf courses is the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club. The course is nestled right into Mount Olomana and the Ko’olau Mountains to easily make it a course to remember. You’ll wind between the bluffs and trees and catch glimpses of some of the most spectacular views Oahu has to offer.

Make the most of your Kailua visit

Whether you like to stay active with hikes and kayak trips or prefer something a bit more subdued like enjoying the sunny beaches, there’s something for every type of outdoor lover in Kailua, HI.

And if you enjoy the outdoor activities so much, why not stay a bit longer? If you’re interested in learning more about purchasing property on Oahu, feel free to reach out! I’m always available to answer your questions and look forward to helping you make these amazing outdoor activities a part of your backyard. Contact me to start searching for your dream Hawaiian home today.

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.