“Bring Your Ideas to Life with Expert Mural and Custom Art”
Experienced Mural Artist with 15 Years of Expertise
I am a professional muralist with 15 years of experience creating stunning custom artwork. From large-scale murals in major cities across the U.S. to intricate hand-painted signs, I bring passion, precision, and creativity to every project.
Career Highlights:
• Worked as a Project Manager at Mural Painter Inc. (NYC) from 2007 to 2021, leading mural projects in cities nationwide.
• Since 2021, I’ve been based in Miami as an independent artist, and now I’ve recently moved to Hawaii, bringing my skills to a new audience.
• Fully certified with OSHA permits, allowing access to construction sites and operation of boom lifts up to 80 ft, ensuring safe and professional execution of any project.
Artistic Expertise:
I specialize in various styles and techniques, adapting to each client’s vision:
• Photorealism: Bringing life-like imagery to walls and surfaces.
• Cartoony & Vector Styles: Perfect for playful, vibrant designs.
• Abstract Art: Bold, modern statements for any space.
• Freehand, Stencils & Spray Cans: Versatility to create unique, high-quality work on any scale.
I also excel in hand-painted signs, ensuring authentic, standout designs.
Notable Clients & Projects:
I’ve worked with some of the biggest brands in the U.S., including:
• Netflix (LA)
• Facebook (NY)
• Google (NY)
• LA Clippers (LA)
• Microsoft (Washington, D.C.)
• Taco Bell (Chicago)
• Nike (NY)
• Spotify (NY)
• Bronx Zoo (NY)
• Casper (NY)
• Aperol Spritz (NY)
In addition to murals, I’ve painted cars, motorcycles, airplanes, and more.
Now in Hawaii – Ready to Bring Your Vision to Life
I’m open to all opportunities, including:
• Interior & Exterior Murals
• Custom Artwork for Vehicles, Boats, & Surfboards
• Decorative Pieces & Unique Projects
Let’s collaborate to transform your space or project into something truly unforgettable.
Contact me today to discuss your ideas and see how I can make them a reality!
“Ready to Paint Anything: Murals, Surfboards, and Beyond!”
German Zamana
@g.z.art
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/g.z.art
ALOHA THROUGH THE SHAKA
Hawai’i Bill HB2736 aims to recognize the «Shaka» as the state’s official gesture, attesting to its origin in Hawai’i and cultural significance. The bill highlights the Shaka’s role in preserving heritage, boosting the economy, and promoting the Aloha spirit. Public support is crucial as the bill progresses through hearings and committees before potentially reaching Governor Josh Green for approval.
What is the difference between Fee Simple (FS) and Leasehold (LH)?
Here are some terms that you may need to know while considering buying a property.
Leasehold (LH) A way of holding title to property. The lessor holds the Fee Simple (FS) interest and the lessee hold the leasehold interest. The leasehold interest is determined by the lease itself. It is important to know the following facts about a lease before you consider purchasing:
Term or time left on the lease. The longer the term, the more desireable.
Lease Rent: What you pay to the lessor monthly, semi-annually or annually.
Lease Period: A fixed period of determined lease rent.
Surrender Clause. Some leases are not renewable and have a surrender clause.
Fee Simple (FS) This is the way most of America owns property. You have a deed proving that you are a vested land owner. Here in Hawaii, most of the land is owned by huge estates which are remnants of the old Hawaiian monarchy. The Kingdom of Hawaii owned all of the land. Bernice Pauahi Bishop Estate, is the largest of these land owners. They own 341,546 acres or approximately 23% of all of the land
Barista
Hello! A barista with experience is required for a café-restaurant.
If anyone is interested in the position, write or call +1 (206) 619-6161
Name is Luis 🤙🏾
Featured Trusted, Experienced House Sitter and Animal Lover Ready to Take Care of Your Hawaii Home!
I am a US citizen. Founder of Hawaii Bio — is committed to supporting our partners with a large and diverse audience of travelers actively planning their next visit to Hawaii. I like to change my place of residence for inspiration. Producer and director, currently writing a book, my name has been on IMDB and Models.com for over 10 years.
I will look after your Hawaiian home, garden and pets with dignity and respect while you are away. I can professionally handle dogs and cats of any breed. (Over 25 years experience)
I have nearly ten years of home ownership experience including patio, yard and garden maintenance. For many years, my wife and I lived in a large family home, which means understanding the process of maintaining a home and the cleaning, dressing and wiping that goes into maintenance.
We also have a license to operate sailboats.
And we understand how to care for the ship and the safety rules on board. Perhaps you need to take care of your boat?
Contact us: usany001@gmail.com Text me: +1(212)7772202
Featured How to take care of your Hawaiian home, pets and plants when traveling to the mainland or other countries?
How To Take Care of Your Place, Pets, Plants While Travelling
Many of us who love to travel have a home that we care about, pets we love as if they were children and also plants that we nurture. All these things enhance our homes, but prove difficult to take care of while we’re away for an extended period.
Here are some tips on how to take care of your beloved 3Ps:
First, let’s assume that it’s not convenient to ask your friends or family to visit your home regularly enough to care for its ongoing needs while you’re away. Fortunately, there are now many solutions for your all too common situations.
If you are a home owner in Hawaii and want to use our services, please email: contact@hawaii.bio
Home Owner register ( it’s free) Hawaii Bio Inc
If you have the opportunity to be a “House Sitters” in Hawaii islands please fill out the form.
Be sure to add your original ID (passport or driver license).
Ready to get started ? House Sitters
Airbnb
If you have no pets, you can have somebody stay at your place and even earn money for it! And believe me, every host is comfortable with watering your plants, it’s only a little favor to ask for. If you can’t arrange meeting your guests in person, either leave a key somewhere safe and secret or ask a neighbor/friend to hand the keys over to them.
In case you’ve never heard of Airbnb, you can read about it here: Airbnb: What, Why, How? (more from a guest’s perspective)
—Airbnb in Hawaii: What’s Legal and What’s Not?
House-sitting
House-sitting comes in handy for when you’ve got pets. Be it cats, dogs, horses, chickens.. it doesn’t matter, there are always people who are comfortable caring for your pets and would like the opportunity to visit your city or village especially if the cost of accommodation is basically free. Some owners ask their house-sitters to pay the utilities bill, but I wouldn’t worry about it too much, it’s more hassle than worth. It’s common to ask for basic maintenance of the place (pool, garden) and to keep it clean. And of course your pets should be of the type that is comfortable with strangers.
Hawaii Bio Inc — We provide all the online tools for home owners and house/pet sitters to find each other from around the globe (or around the corner).
— Free to home owners
Need someone to look after your house or pets while you’re away? Home owners join for free.
Find a house sitter today. Need someone to mind your house and animals while you are away? Or perhaps you’re just sick of paying more for Fluffy’s holiday than your own. Join the club. Better still, join this club!
Home Owners Register now (it’s free)
Ready to get started ? House Sitters
Save money! Put your cheque book away – the service is free and the majority of our house sitters work for free too (they may also pay for their share of utility bills, depending on what arrangements you have made with them). Save a bundle on pet care fees while you’re at it prevent your home owner’s insurance premium from going through the roof.
Find exactly who you want
-Find your perfect person by searching our database of available nanny ads. We will send you a contact list upon your request.
- Create your own list of wanted nannies, and nannies will contact you through the empty “comment” form under your post or by email that you provided.
- instantly create/edit/show/hide your ad (we can help you with editing if necessary)
-set up an email alert — find out immediately when new nannies appear in your area
One of the biggest problems in Hawaii is the homeless taking over your empty home!
Hawaii: One Of The Worst Homelessness Epidemics In The U.S
Homeowners in Hawaii are complaining that homeless people are breaking into empty homes and living there. Bringing unsanitary conditions into the house. There are also cases of theft of a personal car from a garage and theft of money and credit cards.
“The state has a huge homeless problem. In fact, there are homeless people living nearby, and they come into the neighborhoods every day, every day of the year and steal from them.”
Crime has increased in the Kahala area, especially house break-ins.
Homelessness has been a severe social issue in Hawaii for a very long time. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2023 report, the state has the second-highest rate of homelessness in the nation. 44.9 in every 10,000 Hawaiians were homeless as of 2023, when the national average was 17 people per 10,000. Homelessness in Hawaii results from both systemic and social barriers. Poverty, unemployment, rising rent, domestic violence, legal problems, drug abuse, and mental and physical illness are all significant factors.
Legal Problems
Prisoners awaiting trial often end up losing employment and housing, too. They have no choice but to settle for temporary shelters or drop-in centers.
Drug Abuse and Alcoholism
Drug addicts often face expulsion from their homes. Their problems with addiction make them unbearable for their family members. These individuals spend a lot on drugs, which leaves little behind for rent or mortgage. They will usually refuse to seek help with housing, despite their homelessness. Thus, their addiction problems continue without a roof over their heads.
Mental and Physical Illnesses
Victims of mental and physical illnesses face homelessness, too. Their families either can’t bear them or can’t afford treatment for them. Thus, such individuals end up living on the streets as well.
Tools galore
Membership has its privileges! As a member, you get your own password-protected account area. From here you can instantly create and update your sitter wanted listing, set up email alerts…the list goes on.
General hacks and tricks
Generally speaking, you should take some standard precautionary measures like turning off water supply and all power outlets. If you’ll be away for a considerable amount of time you should have someone collect your mail to prevent your mailbox from filling up too much. Also timed power outlets can turn lamps/TV on for a few hours a day to help make it look like the apartment is not empty.
If you’re travelling for less than 2 weeks, your plants should be able to survive quite easily. For a vegetable / herb garden that you might have outside on a balcony or a windowsill, you can use self-watering pots. For indoor plants, you can move them from their sunny spots into an area with less sun and water them well before your departure.
With the boom of social media, burglars are becoming more refined and can learn about your being away by your excited announcement of going for a vacation. If you have the need to let your circle of friends know, at least keep your profile accessible only to friends.
Do you have any other home care tips to add? If so, I’d love to hear about them!
Write your opinion and your recommendations in the comments. If you are a home owner in Hawaii and want to use our services, please email: conact@hawaii.bio
Form Contact Hawaii Bio Inc
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1886 Law of the Sea Hinders Tourism Development in Hawaii
#Hawaii, #Laws, www.Hawaii.Bio, #Transport, #Tourism
The US maritime law, passed just days before air travel, exports American tourism dollars to countries such as Canada, Mexico and Aruba.
The Passenger Ship Act of 1886 does this by prohibiting ships flying a foreign flag or built under a foreign flag from carrying passengers between U.S. ports unless they stop in another country.
For example, cruises on foreign ships can sail from San Diego to Hawaii, but only if they add Ensenada, Mexico to the itinerary. Cruises from Seattle to Alaska usually stop in Vancouver or elsewhere in Canada, and cruises from Florida to New York usually include a detour in Aruba.
Foreign cruise ships departing from Hawaii have been known to divert 1,000 miles south to Fanning Island, which is part of the Republic of Kiribati.
These legal exceptions enrich foreign destinations at the expense of U.S. tourism hotspots. The original intent of the law was to “protect” US passenger airliners from foreign competition. But those days are long gone, and PVSA is now like a duck to water. The US simply no longer has a large ocean liner industry to protect. As of the end of 2022, there is only one major U.S.-flagged cruise ship authorized to operate under the PVSA. Ironically named «The Pride of America», it was built primarily in Germany and operates with an exception that limits its service to Hawaii.
In terms of shipbuilding, no major cruise ships have been built in the United States since 1958; most large cruise ships these days are built in Europe and Asia.
Even if US shipyards could build large cruise ships, they would simply cost too much. Container ships and tankers, for example, typically cost three to four times more in the United States than overseas.
As a result, there are no major American-built cruise ships serving the US cruise market other than Pride of America, and foreign ports, especially in Canada and Mexico, are the main beneficiaries.
Tourist dollars are going to other countries
British Columbia, Canada, home to Vancouver and Victoria, generates more than $2 billion in revenue annually from American-origin cruise ships, according to one estimate.
Now Panama wants in on the action. A few months ago, the country announced it would pay $100,000 to Washington lobbying firm Potomac Partners to help change Panama’s status under the PVSA from a «nearby foreign port» to a «distant foreign port.»
This seemingly minor change could be a game changer for Panama, as most ports in North and Central America, including Panama, are considered nearby foreign ports.
Under the PVSA, U.S. cruises visiting nearby foreign ports must begin and end at the same U.S. port. In other words, a cruise to Hawaii that starts in San Diego and stops in Ensenada must end in San Diego because Ensenada is considered a nearby foreign port.
Cruises starting in the United States and stopping at a distant foreign port such as Oranjestad, Aruba or Yokohama, Japan, or anywhere outside North and Central America, may disembark passengers at ports other than the one from which they departed.
If Panama were to gain «long-haul» foreign port status, it could attract more cruise tourism because cruises that originate in the U.S. would no longer have to return to ports of origin to disembark passengers. For example, passengers traveling from Los Angeles to Miami with a short visit to Panama will not have to return to Los Angeles aboard the same ship.
In its filing with the U.S. Department of Justice, Potomac Partners said the remote port designation would “assist the economic development of Panama.” Twenty years ago, when Panama asked U.S. Customs and Border Protection to administratively change its status, it predicted that «the number of American passengers visiting Panama would increase tenfold.»
Customs denied that earlier request. This time Panama is pushing for legislative changes. Potomac Partners hopes to be able to “take the necessary actions to ensure expeditious passage of this PVSA amendment in Congress,” the statement said.
But Panama’s attempt to gain long-distance foreign port status ignores a fundamental question: Why maintain PVSA in its current form at all?
There are a few US river cruise lines that are «protected» by the law, but why not waive the PVSA as it applies to large ocean ships?
A world without PVSA
Without PVSA, cruises from Florida to Maine would be possible without calling at Aruba. Instead, U.S. port cities such as Savannah, Georgia, and Atlantic City could reap those previously exported tourism dollars.
Cruises up and down the California coast could thrive without the required night in Ensenada. People could board a cruise ship from Oahu to Maui without the cruise line being fined $798 for violating the PVSA.
Many cruise lines may still want to include stops abroad in their itineraries, but those stops will be determined by market demand rather than an arbitrary, outdated law.
Recognizing the harm of the PVSA, Senators Mike Lee of Utah and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska amended the law. Lee proposes exempting large cruise ships from the law or repealing the law entirely; Murkowski’s legislation would only exempt large ocean liners heading to Alaska if there are no similar U.S.-built ships that can meet the demand.
Either way, US states and port communities will benefit as tourism dollars stop flowing overseas.
Nuclear war. Hawaii might be target number one?
#Firearms #Guns, #Honolulu #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #RealEstate #Safety, #Hawaii
For Americans, war is usually something that happens “out there”—in other countries, far from their shores. They watch it like a show on television and the Internet while eating burgers and popcorn. They should start thinking of it as something that can be experienced “here.” The next enemy may bring conflict to the United States of America.
It is especially important to think about this during a real war of the Russian army on the territory of the sovereign state of Ukraine. In which fierce battles take place and thousands of civilians and soldiers on both sides of the conflict are killed. Russia behaves like a “gopnik”, thinking that everything is allowed to it and this state is ruled by the crazy King Putin. Who really went crazy, judging by his behavior and actions. Russia will suffer economic losses in this war of unprecedented scale, which will throw the state and its people back to the standard of living of the last century, without technology and modern development of society.
We should now think about future conflicts where American territory will not be a refuge. The United States is entering an era of homeland vulnerability in which technological advances enable geopolitical adversaries—not just terrorist groups—to wage war within America itself.
Yes, the US has been attacked before. The British burned Washington during the War of 1812. The Japanese attacked Hawaii, then a US territory, in 1941. The September 11 terrorist attacks led to massacres in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania.
But these episodes are so memorable because they are exceptions. For the most part, the combination of power and geography has given the United States greater internal security than almost any other major country. Since the Cold War, the United States has fought terrorist attacks, but the states it has targeted, especially Iraq and Serbia, have been unable to respond in kind. It is necessary to take into account the current situation regarding the war in Ukraine, where America fully supports the troops in Ukraine with sanctions, intelligence and military weapons. Russia has nuclear potential and this puts the whole world on the brink of a nuclear catastrophe.
This changes everything in many ways.
First, the number of rivals that could threaten the United States with nuclear weapons in a conflict is increasing. China, which has traditionally had a small and vulnerable nuclear arsenal, is rapidly expanding it. Beijing wants to make sure it can hit the US in a conflict over Taiwan or any other flashpoint. North Korea is on the verge of having, or may already have, nuclear-tipped missiles that can hit US targets. Moreover, North Korea has repeatedly threatened to launch a nuclear strike on the US territory of Hawaii.
In my opinion, Hawaii can be considered one of the most dangerous places on the planet right now, precisely because of the geographical location of the state of Hawaii, which is the most distant place from all continents on which there is a US military base. America, in Russia’s war with Ukraine, defends a tough policy of not interfering in a direct clash on the battlefield with Russian troops. Why? Let’s consider this option for the development of the war in Ukraine: the crisis of the war is intensifying and for some reason, perhaps provocations from Russia or China, and America and NATO troops are entering into direct conflict with Russia. The US Army and the NATO bloc are technologically clearly superior to Russia’s weapons. What can the Russian leadership do in such a situation! How do you think?
They may want to launch a preemptive strike on Western targets. What place in the world can they choose? New York, London, Paris, Berlin… I think definitely not. Otherwise, this will cause enormous casualties among the civilian population in the region, which will amount to millions of lives and will also cause direct damage to the Russian environment. And he will unleash a third world war in which there will be no winners!
Preventive war ( Latin praevenio — ahead, warn) is a war that is started in the belief that a future conflict is inevitable, and the main goal of which is to get ahead of aggressive actions on the part of the enemy. A preventive war is started to prevent the enemy from changing the balance of power in his favor.
And I believe that the Hawaiian Islands are one of the most obvious targets for a preemptive strike. Yes, there will be many victims. But precisely because of the remoteness of the Hawaiian Islands from the mainland, this will cause minimal damage and possibly stop a nuclear war in the world. I am also considering other possible targets for Western military bases that are based on islands in different regions of our planet.
America’s rivals would still have strong incentives not to carry out such nuclear attacks, not the least of which would be the threat of devastating US nuclear retaliation. But today, unlike during the Cold War, they can also strike the US homeland in a less apocalyptic and therefore more feasible way.
Both Russia and China have or are developing the ability to strike U.S. targets with conventional warheads mounted on long-range missiles—whether cruise missiles, hypersonic glide vehicles, or perhaps intercontinental ballistic missiles. There is growing concern that China could use swarms of small drones launched from container ships to hit targets on the US West Coast or Hawaii.
These attacks will likely not cause catastrophic destruction. But they could disrupt U.S. logistics, communications and mobilization during a conflict—or simply give Moscow or Beijing a way to deter or retaliate for U.S. strikes on Chinese or Russian soil.
The most likely form of attack on the United States would not involve overt violence at all. Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure or financial systems can disrupt daily life and disrupt any response to aggression on the other side of the world. The Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack that caused gas shortages on the East Coast last spring was a frightening experience for the world.
Why does the Colonial Pipeline cyber attack matter?
As shown in a map of the company’s operations, the outage of systems that support and manage pipeline operations and fuel distribution affected large areas of the United States.
At the time of the attack, concerns about supply shortages sent gasoline futures to their highest levels in three years. Demand is up, but drivers are being urged not to panic buy as it could impact prices, which were already up six cents a gallon due to the pipeline disruption last week.
Now look at what is happening right now in the USA and European countries with prices for gasoline, gas and other energy resources in connection with sanctions against Russia. Ordinary US residents already in March 2022 experienced a significant increase in gasoline prices, which will automatically entail an increase in prices in stores as this is related to the logistics of delivering groceries and food to stores (and so on). Of course, the Western world will cope with this situation, perhaps easing sanctions against Venezuela or Iran and their oil reserves will stabilize the situation, but this also takes time…
Imagine a repeat of cyber attacks, but on a much larger scale, in the midst of a major international crisis over Taiwan, Ukraine or the Baltics.
Such attacks would be of interest to Russian and Chinese planners. They can be clouded by ambiguity in a way that direct military strikes cannot. They can sow internal unrest without directly causing huge numbers of civilian deaths. They can slow down the US at the outset of a conflict, when Beijing or Moscow are rushing to achieve their military goals in Ukraine, Eastern Europe or the Western Pacific. And they could pose tough questions for American policymakers: Is Washington willing to use force to stop aggression in distant places if it could lead to painful vulnerabilities at home?
There is no perfect solution to this dilemma. Missile defense, for example, can help protect key targets, but it is too expensive and unreliable to provide any comprehensive protection. The best the United States can do is mitigate national security weaknesses through a combination of defense, offense, and resilience.
This will require larger and more systematic investments in what was once called “civil defense”—hardening critical infrastructure, logistics facilities, and communications networks against digital disruptions. Washington will need to do a better job of marketing its peacetime ability and willingness to retaliate against state-sponsored cyberattacks. This will force adversaries to consider how the United States might respond to larger attacks—whether physical or digital—in wartime.
However, there is no escaping the fact that absolute protection is an illusion. Accepting the higher likelihood of attacks on the United States and developing the economic and social resilience needed to fend them off may be the price of global influence in a world where geography provides no immunity.
This will be hard for Americans to hear. This could spark a heated debate about the costs and benefits of America’s global presence. But it is better to start this debate now than for Americans to recognize their new vulnerability only after the conflict has begun.
As for the state of Hawaii, we need not to panic but to be prepared for new possible realities of this world. We, in turn, prepare and develop projects for bomb shelters that can be built on the islands privately on our own plot of land or on municipal property. It is also necessary to consider tunnels in the mountain ranges on the islands as a future possibility of shelter from a possible military attack. We are looking for partners, investors and like-minded people in Hawaii, the USA and other countries of the world to implement our security projects.
Nika Vidi
Hawaii.bio contact@hawaii.bio
Here’s the Living Wage a Single Person Needs To Live Comfortably in Hawaii
Paradise doesn’t come cheap, as anyone who has ever lived in or visited Hawaii can tell you. While your senses might be overwhelmed by the state’s stunning views, clear blue waters, clean air and fresh seafood, your bank account will be overwhelmed by the cost.
Hawaii ranks among the most expensive states in the nation in just about any category you can name. The Aloha State’s cost of living is the highest in the U.S., according to the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, a nonprofit policy research group with a libertarian bent. It cited a Tax Foundation analysis which found that the real value of $100 in Hawaii is worth less than $85.
As of 2020, Hawaii’s state budget per capita was the third highest in the nation at $12,896, the Grassroot Institute noted. That total included unfunded state liabilities of roughly $97 billion at the end of 2020.
The average price for a gallon of gasoline in Hawaii is $4.751 as of Oct. 30, 2023, according to AAA. That’s the second highest in the country behind California and over 25% above the national average of $3.494.
Given its high cost of living, it’s not surprising that it takes a very high income to live comfortably in Hawaii.
GOBankingRates recently surveyed annual living expenses for a single person in each of the 50 states. Researchers used 2021 Consumer Expenditure Survey data (the latest available) for a single person from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to calculate the annual cost of necessities based on data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center’s 2023 Q1 Cost of Living Data Series.
Using that data, researchers doubled the total yearly cost of necessities to determine a living wage that also factors in discretionary spending and savings.
In Hawaii, you need to earn $112,411 a year to make what’s considered a living wage, according to the GBR study. It’s the only state where a six-figure salary is required to live comfortably — and no other state even comes close. Massachusetts ranked second with an annual income of $87,909, followed by California ($80,013), New York ($73,226) and Alaska ($71,570).
In contrast, the state with the lowest required living wage is Mississippi, where you only need to earn $45,906 a year to live comfortably.
Make Your Money Work Better for You
Why is Hawaii so expensive? There are a few different reasons, according to experts. The biggest one is its location. Hawaii is comprised of islands stuck way out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, thousands of miles from the U.S. mainland. This means it costs a lot to ship goods to the state. And because Hawaii has a small land area and unique climate, it can’t produce a lot of agricultural or other goods, the Hawaii Star reported.
The small land area also means there is only so much room for housing, which pushes home prices higher. This problem is not helped by strict land use and zoning regulations. The median cost for a single-family home in Hawaii is more than $1 million, according to the Grassroot Institute, making it the most expensive state in the nation for housing.
Finally, costs in Hawaii are driven higher by the Jones Act, a federal law that regulates U.S. maritime commerce. As the Hawaii Star reported, the law requires that all goods transported between U.S. ports be carried on ships that are built, owned and operated by U.S. companies. It is intended to protect American jobs and promote national security, but it also creates higher shipping costs due to limited competition.
Strange winter in Hawaii: flood, drought, fewer rainbows in 2023
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #Safety, #Hawaii,
This year’s La Nina rainy season started off slow in Hawaii, but then the rain came with a vengeance—a so-called “Kona low” in early December brought as much as 14 inches in three days.
By New Year’s the weather was once again stormy. And then the faucet seemed to turn off.
Currently, nearly 80% of the Hawaiian Islands are experiencing some degree of drought, and the rest of the state is “abnormally dry.” As of January 18, no state was experiencing a drought. It was a dramatic turnaround from a winter that started with epic downpour and was forecast to be wetter than usual due to a climate phenomenon known as La Nina .
Although climate scientists have not yet had time to analyze the numbers and pinpoint the causes, the effects are already being felt, especially on the leeward sides of the islands, where almost all of the moisture occurs in winter. The next month or so is expected to be wetter than normal, but time is running out for leeward areas.
Parts of all major islands are in «severe drought», the second most severe of the four categories. But as the rainy season approaches, all islands could face the worst stage of «exceptional drought»
For many Hawaii residents, the lack of rain was not a big problem. In fact, sunny days with cooler winter temperatures may seem ideal. True, there were fewer ubiquitous winter rainbows.
But atmospheric conditions were more favorable for green flashes, when the edge of the sun briefly turns green as it sinks into the ocean, and fiery sunsets.
However, there is nothing pleasant about the lack of rain if you are a rancher. Dry weather can force ranchers to cull their herds and pay more for feed, and this dry streak comes on the heels of another last year.
“If this continues, we will likely be back in another drought emergency in 60 days,” James Robello, executive director of the USDA Maui District Farm Service Agency, said last week.
So what’s going on in the sky?
Typically, La Nina means wetter winters in Hawaii. La Niño, which alternates with El Niño and has many complex effects around the world, occurs when sea surface temperatures near the equator fall below normal.
This winter, however, the expected La Niña pattern was disrupted when the jet stream settled north of the islands and stalled there, Kodama said. Usually the jet stream is more like a spinning garden hose, but this winter it was surprisingly still. And Hawaii remained on the dry side of the jet stream, cutting it off from rain storms.
“What’s strange is how persistent it was.”
The clear connection between La Ninas and Hawaii’s wet winters may be broken, said Pao-Shin Chu, a professor in the Department of Meteorology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and state climatologist.
“We have global warming in the background,” he said. “This process can impact existing relationships. Global warming could stir the pot.»
The problem when it comes to rainfall is that the rainy season will soon be coming to an end. This is due to an increase in subtropical high pressure north of Hawaii, which strengthens the trade winds , but also prevents storms in northern latitudes from falling as far south as Hawaii. The windward sides of the islands may still receive a lot of rain from the trade winds, but by the time the air passes over the mountains, most of the water has been squeezed out and there is virtually nothing left on the leeward sides.
Of course, tropical storms or hurricanes in the summer and fall of 2022 could bring moisture to any part of the islands. But even then, rain may only fall over a narrow swath, Kodama said, not to mention the danger of wind and flood damage.
The weather service is predicting April will be wetter than normal , with more rain falling on the islands over the past week.
But after a long drought, Maui ranchers were already considering action, Robello said. They may have to buy bales of grass to feed their livestock. Calves can weigh 100 pounds less when sold, bringing in less money. Ranchers may be culling their herds, and due to overall poor health, breeding rates drop, meaning there will be fewer calves in the future, Robello said.
On Maui, axis deer, which, unlike deer on the mainland, feed primarily on grass, compete with livestock for food. And they can jump fences, Robello said, so the green patch the rancher hoped to save until the stormy days in August can be eaten.
Meanwhile, he said, the December flood did more harm than good as most of the water flowed away. Drier parts of Maui lack the dam and dam infrastructure needed to capture runoff from severe storms. “Our systems are not designed for this,” Robello said.
Aerial photography in March of the ohia forest on Oahu showed tree canopies appearing less healthy than six months ago, when the canopy was lush and green, said Rob Hauff, state forester for the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The likely culprit, he said, is pests that find it easier to gain a foothold when trees are weakened by dry weather.
Although not surveyed by the state, nayo trees on the Big Island are also susceptible to pests during drought, Hauff said. The state typically plants endangered species during the rainy season, when they have the best chance of thriving, he said, and while it’s too early to tell, the dry weather probably hasn’t helped.
Earlier this month, the State Water Resources Management Commission advised Maui residents to reduce their water use .
“Streams that are normally full of water are barely flowing,” commission deputy Kaleo Manuel said in a news release, including some whose flows were approaching the lowest flows ever recorded.
Water suppliers, especially those that rely on surface water rather than aquifers, have also felt the pressure. On Maui, this means water customers in the northern part of the country, the central valley and west Maui. Residents were urged to stop watering their landscaping and washing their cars, as well as taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing their teeth.
The commission also warned of the danger of forest fires.
Even Oahu, where the water comes from an aquifer, is affected by the lack of rain. The water board has asked residents to cut their water use by 10% after increasing chloride levels were found in some of its wells, indicating a strain on the water supply. This was partly due to BWS shutting in another well to avoid sucking up water contaminated by the Navy fuel storage facility at Red Hill, but it was also due to low rainfall.
The National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a ground-level overview of the season’s progress , and weather observers across the country report on local conditions.
“We’ve had to water our entire subtropical landscape this week except for the lawn and podocarpus grove, which manage to stay green due to the occasional downpour,” an observer from Honokaa on the Big Island reported March 19. it rarely rains from the clouds.”
But the last few days have given some hope.
“Last week there was heavy rain that rejuvenated the lawn, trees and shrubs,” the same observer noted on Saturday. “New plantings are growing quickly.” Still, the observer noted, «only a third of the amount of rain that fell last March.»
Less rain means fewer of Hawaii’s signature rainbows, which are especially abundant in the winter because of higher humidity and because the sun traces a lower arc in the sky, said Steven Basinger, a professor of atmospheric sciences at UH Manoa. The critical angle is 42 degrees above the horizon.
“In the winter, you have a lot more time when the sun is below that critical angle,” he said.
But despite the rainbow drought, the winter was marked by more than usual numbers of fiery red sunsets and flashes of green, he said, «providing the spiritual sustenance we all expect in Hawaii.»
Hawaii.bio invites residents of the USA and Hawaii to share their opinions in our publications on the pages of the Hawaii.bio website
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Aloha Crypto! Hawaii approves Regulatory Task Force
#Crypto, #Honolulu #Oahu #Hawaii, #Laws, #Investor, #News, www.Hawaii.Bio
Hawaii is now paying serious attention to cryptocurrency regulation.
Around the world, the push for cryptocurrency regulation continues to take shape as more governments look to create a regulatory framework for digital assets.
Hawaii may become the latest state to do so, as a Senate committee recommended forming a task force to regulate cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Two of the Hawaii State Legislature’s blockchain committees unanimously supported the creation of a task force to study and regulate the cryptocurrency and blockchain ecosystems: Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN) and Ways and Means (WAM).
Hawaii Law wants to explore how the government can regulate, monitor and potentially use blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies.
Hawaii Crypto Road Map
The task committee plans to study data from other jurisdictions and develop a roadmap for expanding the use of blockchain in both the private and public sectors, among other things.
Once passed, the Cryptography and Blockchain Working Group will be required to submit a report summarizing its findings and recommendations at least 20 days before the House of Representatives convenes in 2023.
The task force will consist of 11 people appointed by the governor, including representatives from a blockchain payment solutions firm, a cryptocurrency exchange and a cryptocurrency association.
Around the world, the emergence of cryptocurrencies continues to attract the attention of regulators. Countries such as the US, South Korea and Japan have adopted comprehensive blockchain regulations, establishing a clear framework for implementation.
Unsurprisingly, this trend has moved to developing countries, with India recently introducing a 30 percent tax on cryptocurrency trading. Additionally, the Asian country has required cryptocurrency exchanges to store user data for five years as part of legal regulations.
Other countries using cryptocurrency
At least 37 states, in addition to Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, are exploring cryptocurrency-related legislation, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
The Brazilian Senate passed its first cryptocurrency-related measure in plenary session on Wednesday, calling for the creation of a legal framework.
The bill must be approved by the Chamber of Deputies before President Jair Bolsonaro can sign it into law.
Despite these highly publicized initiatives, countries such as Nigeria have refused to enforce cryptocurrency laws.
As a result, despite having the region’s largest cryptocurrency market, the African nation maintains a complete ban on cryptocurrency.
Last year, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Eliminating Barriers to Innovation Act of 2021, co-sponsored by Reps. Patrick McHenry (R-NC) and Stephen Lynch (D-MA), to create a legislative mechanism to examine the potential impact of digital assets per nation.
Hawaii: Inflation and rising real estate prices in 2023
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Oahu #RealEstate #Rentals #Hawaii
Calling Hawaii a “salad bowl” where people of different ethnic and economic backgrounds can coexist and thrive is a common narrative. The part about ethnic diversity is largely accurate, at least compared to most other states.
The state of Hawaii is home to about 1,400,000 people (the fortieth most populous state among the US states). The average population density in the state is about 83 people per km2 (13th place in the USA).
Racial composition of the population of the state of Hawaii:
- White — 24.7%
- Black (African American) — 1.6%
- Asians — 38.6%
- Native Americans (Indians or Alaskan Eskimos) — 0.3%
- Native Hawaiian or Oceanian — 10.0%
- Other races — 1.2%
- Two or more races — 23.6%
- Hispanic or Latino (any race) — 8.9%
Hawaii is one of four (along with California, New Mexico and Texas) US states in which the majority is a minority. Fewer white people live here (relative to the total population) than in any other US state. There are also more people from Asia and their descendants, as well as representatives of “mixed” races.
And Hawaii is constantly adding to its population, attracting a higher share of new arrivals both from other parts of the country and from the world than the nation as a whole.
How willing residents, both new and old, can thrive here is a different and more complex question. Concerns about inflation, driven by higher prices at supermarkets and gas stations, dominated 2022 even before we began to consider the spillover effects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In fact, inflation has disrupted the lives of many Hawaiians since the pandemic began. Unfortunately, dealing with the effects of the pandemic will do little to offset the incredibly problematic housing environment.
Because the local real estate industry faithfully reports county-by-county sales data, we have become accustomed to monthly reminders about Hawaii home values. Median price numbers have value, often to highlight how expensive housing is.
For homeowners, rising prices can become a source of income. However, the data masks a harsher inflationary reality.
In December 2019, the average home price in Honolulu was $557 per square foot. Two years later, as the Omicron Covid-19 variant threatened to further prolong the pandemic, that price reached $672, according to data compiled by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
Inflation has driven up prices in Honolulu’s already very expensive housing market.
The 21% increase over two years was the lowest among Hawaii’s four counties; the Maui level increased 39% to $998. These levels do not reflect the willingness of buyers with sufficient resources to bid above list price.
Over the same period, the national figure rose from $148 to $196, indicating that housing inflation was a problem in the United States. There are regional differences, but no state comes close to Hawaii’s December 2021 levels for Hawaii’s two favorite vacation spots. California and Nevada were $403 and $243.
Income differentiation
The U.S. Census Bureau measures economic inequality by comparing the median income for the highest quintile of households ($252,492 in Hawaii in 2019) and the lowest ($18,445), with a factor of (13.7) indicating a measure of income inequality .
Nationally, the rate is 16.4, meaning Hawaii faced less income inequality than much of America in 2019, although stark differences become apparent upon closer inspection.
Hawaii County has the highest inequality in the state: 17.1. Larger, more successful cities tend to have greater income inequality: San Francisco (26.2), Washington, D.C. (30.2), and Manhattan (43.8) are notable examples.
The pandemic has been disruptive in many ways, and remote work is a clear and important example. The ability to work remotely has made Hawaii an opportunity for many, including tech workers previously working on the West Coast. Recognizing the huge economic impact caused by the decline in tourism, the government has not been shy about encouraging people to move here.
What’s less clear is how carefully the impact on Hawaii’s fragile housing market has been considered.
After five years in which the market was relatively stable ($13 billion to $14.6 billion in annual sales), the value of residential property sales (single-family homes and condominiums combined) rose 66% statewide in 2021, exceeding 22 billion dollars. Honolulu accounted for 58% of turnover value, but its market grew by the smallest (but still astonishing) margin, 56%, well behind Kauai’s 126% and Maui’s 84%.
Less obvious is the change in market participation. Local buyers accounted for 65.8% of sales value in 2021, up from 73.8% in 2020. Together they accounted for only 43.5% of the value of turnover in the Neighbor Islands in 2021. Unsurprisingly, prices jumped significantly across the state, with single-family home prices ending the year higher in Kauai and Maui counties than in Honolulu.
Remote workers keep their wages when they move to Hawaii , and most pay significantly higher wages than local employers. The median household income in Hawaii, according to the Census Bureau, fell 16.3% in 2020 to $80,700, barely enough to buy homes that are selling for more than three times the national rate, according to per square foot.
Amid this recognition, there are loud calls for “affordable housing.” Rental prices , which have been in short supply for a long time, are also rising. What is called market-rate housing has become unaffordable for too many local buyers.
We cannot coexist successfully when so many people cannot afford to live here. If Hawaii fails to cool down the housing market, the result could be catastrophic.
Vaccines have helped us survive the pandemic. There is no vaccine for the housing shortage Hawaii faces. Our housing crisis has become widespread and promises to be far more devastating than the pandemic.
According to officially published data, there are 291,484,482 people in the United States over the age of 5. Of these, 879,434 people speak Russian, 152,325 speak Ukrainian, 1,805 speak Belarusian. In the US, 237,840 people speak Armenian, 39,790 speak Lithuanian, 16,035 speak Latvian, 435 Americans speak Tajik at home, and 50 speak Ossetian at home. — a little more than two thousand.
In the United States, only 6,035 Estonians speak their native language.
This means that now more than 1,300,000 people in the United States speak and understand Russian, and they can read our portal and be interested in helping legislators defend the interests of residents and businesses of the United States and the state of Hawaii.
In Hawaii, 1,169 people said they spoke Russian at home, 85 Ukrainian, 45 Lithuanian, the same number Estonian and 50 Latvian. There are a total of 1,287,075 people living in Hawaii.
Hawaii.bio invites residents of the USA and Hawaii to share their opinions in our publications on the pages of the Hawaii.bio website
Columns should be no more than 1,000 words in length, and a photo of the author and biography are welcome. We also publish video interviews and other multimedia formats. Send to contact@hawaii.bio
The opinions and information expressed on Hawaii.bio are solely those of the authors, and not Hawaii.bio.
How will the new law change the price of real estate in Hawaii?
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #RealEstate #Rentals, #Safety, #Hawaii
Beginning May 1, 2022, seller disclosures, which are required for all residential real estate sales in Hawaii, must include information about whether the property could potentially be impacted by rising sea levels due to climate change.
Oceanfront and beach homes are likely to fall into zones vulnerable to sea level rise, the state’s forecast model shows.
Why did the Hawaii Legislature amend the Real Estate Seller Disclosure Act?
Work has been underway for a number of years to study the possible future impacts of climate change on our Hawaiian Islands , primarily so that state and county governments can adequately plan for changing infrastructure needs and protect the well-being of residents living in areas vulnerable to sea level change .
In 2017, the State of Hawaii’s Report on Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea Level Rise was published. The following year, the state Climate Commission recommended that information from the report be included in seller disclosures, and the Hawaii Association of Realtors began preparing to implement that recommendation.
This is in addition to existing disclosure requirements regarding whether a property is located in a floodplain , as established by FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program. While sea level changes will primarily impact properties located on and near the ocean, it already requires disclosure of properties located near a stream or area that might otherwise be flooded during heavy rainfall conditions.
Recent heavy rains have affected communities such as Hilo on Hawaii Island and the northern shores of Kauai and Oahu.
Without going into all the technical details, the modeling was done by researchers at the University of Hawaii and includes three looks at the potential hazards of sea level rise: Passive flooding, which is low-lying areas at risk of inundation at mean sea level.
Here is a link to a sea level rise mapping tool .
How does the sea level change disclosure law affect real estate buyers and sellers?
Just as sellers and their representatives currently check National Flood Insurance Maps to see if a property falls within a special flood zone, starting in May 2022 they will also need to check the State of Hawaii’s Sea Rise viewer.
While the available mapping tool will show the effects of a sea level rise of 6 inches to 3.2 feet by the end of the century, it is this highest elevation that is the basis for the required disclosures.
While this sounds like a potentially scary revelation, low-lying areas were already found in the special flood zone in the previous mapping. And oceanfront areas that rise above the ocean will suffer little from a 3.2-foot rise over the next 80 years.
Recent amendments to the law requiring residential property sellers to disclose material facts to buyers at the time of transaction will be included in the Hawaii Association of Realtors’ standard property disclosure statement for sellers.
The agent representing you in the transaction should be able to help you complete this section (if you are a seller) or direct you to resources for interpreting the disclosure (if you are a buyer).
Labor shortage in Hawaii: there is work, but no one to work
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Oahu #RealEstate #Rentals, #Businesses, #Hawaii
Hawaii governments are flush with pandemic cash and are hoping to fill open positions as well as create new ones.
During his State of the City speech this week, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi laid out the opportunities and challenges for Honolulu. According to the mayor, there are more than 3,000 job openings in city government. And that doesn’t include the 80 new positions he plans to add to the Planning and Permitting Department.
Filling vacancies quickly requires overhauling ineffective hiring processes, the mayor said. Getting more workers is critical, he said—Honolulu would have a workforce of about 13,000 if all the positions were filled.
“The number of people who could do the work in many areas is just not there,” he said.
Honolulu is not alone. There are about 2,000 vacancies in the Hawaii state executive branch, said Ryker Wada, director of the Department of Human Resource Development. That doesn’t include departments outside the DHRD’s purview, including the University of Hawaii system and the 22,000-employee Department of Education, which is chronically short of teachers.
But politicians are trying to change this. Full of cash as Hawaii recovers from the worst days of the Covid-19 crisis, state officials are offering money to boost hiring, not just to fill current vacancies but to create even more jobs.
One of the bills being considered would pay for nearly 50 additional workers in the Human Services office of the Department of Human Services. Another bill would give the University of Hawaii system money to increase the number of nursing school faculty, which supporters say could ease the state’s nursing shortage.
Economists say there is no secret formula for hiring workers, even for tough jobs like teaching.
Also, Hawaii’s high cost of living may discourage people from moving here for work, but its beaches, climate and natural beauty attract others.
It’s not just about the money
While money may be most important, the reality of hiring in Hawaii is more complex.
Even before the pandemic, when the unemployment rate was near zero, the state was losing population.
And the state’s labor pool has gotten smaller during COVID 19. Hawaii’s civilian workforce was about 673,700 as of January, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data released by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. That was an improvement from the darkest days of the pandemic, when Hawaii’s labor force fell to 622,200 in October 2020.
But that’s a far cry from the spring of 2017, when the labor force peaked at just under 700,000. A recent study by WalletHub found that Hawaii had the fifth-highest layoff rate in the country over the past 12 months, with 3.41% of workers announcing a layoff.
Recruiting and retaining workers is challenging enough that Movers and Shakas, a nonprofit that got its start during the pandemic bringing groups of workers to Hawaii to temporarily work remotely, created the Hawaii Talent Onboarding Program, or HITOP, to orient new hires and their partners to work for Hawaii culturally and socially. The program is intended for beginners. The goal is to reduce the need to constantly hire new employees while helping existing professionals integrate into the community.
Government employers face additional challenges. WADA noted that government departments have to deal with government funding that can fluctuate, unions and collective bargaining agreements, and a merit-based civil service system that limit flexibility.
For example, he said, there are typically four levels of office assistant positions: I-IV. Although an agency may be able to obtain funding for a preferred IV Office Assistant, the position may require skills and experience that few applicants possess. A private employer can hire a less-skilled worker and pay less while the worker receives on-the-job training, but public employers typically don’t have that option, Wada said.
Another problem is that, due to the state’s cumbersome hiring process, good candidates often find other jobs before state hiring managers get their hands on them. The state has created what it calls Wikiwiki Hire , which allows departments to connect with candidates and quickly begin the hiring process. This system receives support from the agencies that need to manage it. For now, this is limited to the Child Protective Services office of the Department of Human Services, as well as engineering and surveying work in the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Department of Transportation. In some cases, it is necessary to speed up not only the hiring process, but also the training.
In Hawaii, the number of officers eligible for retirement is peaking while work in state correctional facilities has become more dangerous than usual as Covid-19 has spread among staff and inmates.
To fill vacancies left by departing corrections officers, the department must increase hiring and provide more training cycles for new officers.
Honolulu has big plans
The challenge is finding innovative ways for Honolulu residents to meet the city’s changing needs, many of the thousands of openings are in departments that handle things like roads, building maintenance and waste management, as well as the Honolulu Police Department.
Honolulu officials have identified ways to “help departments hire faster and increase hiring rates.” Increased tax revenue means Honolulu can fund internships to fill key tech positions. However, some departments, such as the Department of Planning and Permitting, are more complex. They require an organization-wide assessment and strategic changes in positions to meet current needs.
The team decides everything!
The main business resource of any business is human resource.
Meanwhile, selecting a team in which there is not a single weak link is sometimes an extremely difficult task for managers of management companies. Fortunately, there are pleasant exceptions. You can fill out a free form on Hawaii.bio about job openings for your business. The advantage of such an application is also that your future employee will understand the mentality of you and possibly your other employees, since he will speak Russian, Ukrainian, Belarusian and other languages of the post-Soviet space. You can also post your services and the company service you provide for free. Additionally, for businesses in Hawaii, we have all sorts of options for integrating advertising and finding new clients
Renting problems in Hawaii. If you have a pet?
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #PetFriendly, #RealEstate #Rentals,
The #1 reason dogs and cats are surrendered to the Humane Society of Hawaii is the lack of pet-friendly housing.
It’s very difficult to find a rental house or apartment in Hawaii these days. And signing a lease is even more daunting for pet owners: In a market where rentals are scarce and landlords often receive dozens of applications within hours of posting a property online, why would they accept pets?
Hawaii is in dire need of affordable, pet-friendly housing!
The lack of housing options for pet owners has long been a problem across the state. On the island of Oahu, the Hawaiian Humane Society has advocated for the elimination of pet size and breed restrictions while providing support for renters to help them keep their pets when they experience financial hardship.
Meanwhile, on Kauai, a Humane Society spokesman said its shelter remains overcrowded — and often overcrowded — due to “too many pets and not enough pet-friendly housing.”
But the problem is now especially acute in Maui County, where the main reason families surrender their pets to the Maui Humane Society is because they are forced to move and cannot leave their four-legged family members behind.
Like the social workers who work for nonprofits that help shelter people, animal shelter workers are also witnesses to the island’s housing crisis. They are the ones who watch children cry as they are forced to give up the family dog due to no-pet policies, or fight to get food for pet owners living paycheck to paycheck who might otherwise give up their own food.
Last year, when the nationwide eviction moratorium ended, the Maui Humane Society saw an influx of pets, especially dogs, as their owners were kicked out of their homes. The shelter said it took in about 120 dogs at altitude; ideally there should be about 20 dogs in his kennels.
Shelter workers know there will always be a surge in surrender at the end of each month—as time runs out for families who need to move out first, some of whom inevitably end up living with relatives in cramped living conditions with no room for pets.
Then there are residents who put their safety at risk for their animals, such as the grocery store worker who paid for his three cats to be placed in a shelter after his home, which he had rented for 13 years old, was sold. He couldn’t find a place that would rent to him and the cats, so he moved into his car.
Hawaiians experience things like this on a weekly basis.
Maui shelter staff tries to educate tenants and landlords about the compromises they can make to accommodate pets—for example, drafting a pet agreement that states owners must pay for any potential damage caused by their pets; show that pets have undergone obedience training; purchasing pet liability insurance; or agreeing to certain conditions, such as not leaving pets unattended outside or regularly spraying properties for fleas.
Even if Maui renters get to the top of affordable housing waiting lists, there’s no guarantee they’ll be able to keep their cats and dogs because there’s no requirement that government-funded projects accept them. Landlords can set their own rules.
In the private market, however, the costs of pets are often beyond families’ financial means: In Hawaii, landlords can charge pet rent on top of regular rent, as well as require a separate pet deposit of up to one month’s rent. . — the equivalent of paying three months’ rent at once. But even for Maui renters making middle-class wages, finding housing remains difficult.
«If I have to sleep on the beach with my dog, I’ll do it.»
Housing on Maui has always been expensive, but in the past two years the average home sales price has jumped nearly 50% to more than $1 million, according to real estate data .
However, the typical year-round salary for a full-time worker hovers around $46,000 per year, according to Census estimates.
Jamie-Sue West is a homeowner in Kihei who runs a Facebook group called Dog-Friendly Home Rentals on Maui! I saw first-hand how the housing crisis spiraled out of control.
Before the pandemic, she received several requests each week to join the group from pet owners moving from the mainland. Then the number skyrocketed to 25 a day, more than she received from local residents.
“Because people come here from the mainland and earn mainland salaries, they can offer much higher rents than our locals who work in the hospitality industry,” West writes on his forum.
Thus, we see that the real estate rental crisis in Hawaii is gaining momentum and we, in turn, ask you to join our information portal about life in Hawaii Hawaii.bio — and support those who need to rent real estate with pets.
You can post information about your rental property or your pet service on Hawaii.bio for free.
Housing crisis 2023 in Hawaii. How can I change this?
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #RealEstate #Rentals, #Businesses, #Hawaii
«When you’re a hammer, as they say, everything looks like a nail. And when you’re a government politician in Hawaii, regulation is the answer to every problem.»
Perhaps that’s why so many of our politicians are trying to solve Hawaii’s housing crisis with big government solutions like taxes on empty homes, government-funded housing projects and regulations that limit or sanction certain types of development.
Extensive research, however, shows that the reason for Hawaii’s housing shortage is the Hawaii government.
So what can we change in this situation?
The reality is that if we want to make a difference, we should not try to import policies from areas with high housing costs such as New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco, or countries with vastly different social and governmental structures such as Singapore. Instead, we should look to places that have managed to maintain housing affordability, such as Tokyo, where housing prices have been relatively stable for two decades.
More recently, Hawaii had strong housing construction until about 1972 or 1973, but then it collapsed and never recovered.
Reasons for this, he said, include the State Land Use Commission, created in 1961, and the Hawaii Environmental Policy Act of 1974, both of which are heavily involved in land use management.
“It comes down to land use and making something illegal. Essentially, reasonable density—we call it light density—has been made illegal in Hawaii. It is illegal to have two real estate units on a lot. And all this just increases the cost of land.”
As a result, Hawaii has one of the most expensive housing markets in the world, second only to San Francisco and ahead of London.
Why don’t we use Singapore’s development model, since after independence it was really a clean slate?
Singapore in the 1960s consisted mostly of slums, but today the government owns 90% of the land and can acquire private land at low prices.
Moreover, Singapore also has a highly effective government leadership cadre and really only has one form of government that is not necessarily as responsive to voters, allowing it to overcome many barriers to increasing supply.
But the downside of applying such a model in Hawaii may be that this Singaporean model may not be able to benefit Hawaii. And if you end up trying it and failing, it could be costly for the state of Hawaii because you might end up with public housing, which is very common on the mainland where you basically have increased racial segregation and income segregation.
Perhaps a better option for Hawaii would be the kind of “light density” zoning that has helped Tokyo create adequate affordable housing.
The secret to Tokyo’s success? Ownership.
After World War II, Japan’s new constitution provided for strong property rights. By the 1980s, this included the right to develop one’s property as one wished, as long as it did not cause a nuisance.
“You can build duplexes, triplexes, high-rise buildings. As a result, over a certain period, more housing was built in Tokyo than in the entire state of California by several times.”
This has allowed Tokyo to meet the needs of its population in terms of housing that is affordable for both renters and homeowners.
Light density relies in part on “by-right” zoning, which allows projects that meet all zoning requirements to be developed without going through a discretionary approval process. This essentially legalizes small, fast, economical, adaptable and simple additions to home construction, while keeping health and safety in mind.
If Hawaii adopts Tokyo’s example, Oahu alone could add 26,000 homes over the next 10 years.
It would also be beneficial for Hawaii to set aside more land for residential use, since only 5% of land in Hawaii is available for residential development, an increase of just 1 or 2 percentage points would result in a 20% or 40% increase, respectively, in land available for development .
I certainly understand that there is no such thing as a quick fix to Hawaii’s housing crisis. This is a problem that has been decades in the making and is being made worse by modern policies and laws like inclusionary zoning.
I also have no doubt that people who want to use government to solve a problem have the best intentions. But the data is clear: If we want our children and grandchildren to be able to find affordable housing in Hawaii, we must liberalize our state and local land use and zoning regulations.
Nika Vidi
Hawaii.bio
‘Hawaii Live Story’ — Experiences to live!
#HawaiiLiveStory, #Honolulu #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #Safety, #Hawaii
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Featured How to move to HAWAII
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #RealEstate #Rentals, #Businesses, #Hawaii
Whether you’re retired, have a tropical island job, or are a freelance worker, moving to Hawaii is a secondary dream for many people across the country . With its gorgeous weather, favorable climate, slow pace of life, and wonderful people, Hawaii stands out as one of the most enjoyable states to live in the modern era. In this article, you’ll learn what you need to do to move to Hawaii, settle into your new apartment, and make the most of your island solitude.
Income
You’ll want to make sure you can support your life while you’re in Hawaii . This means that you will need some source of income. This could be retirement benefits, freelancing gigs, a local bar, or a job in the hospitality industry. What’s important is that you need to be sure that you can pay your way — you don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you have to suddenly return at short notice when your funds dry up.
Moving things
Of course, moving your belongings from your home state to Hawaii isn’t as easy as moving them overland. It will be expensive and you will need to ship them either by sea or by air. Therefore, it is recommended that you do not bring all your belongings—many of them can be purchased in Hawaii. You should consider purchasing the following items on the island to save on shipping costs:
- Kitchenware
- Furniture and bedding
- Large electrical items
- Household appliances of all types
- Cloth
In that sense, it’s worth selling your home furnished if possible, or renting it out while you’re in Hawaii—however long that may be
Find a place
Hawaii may be known in movies for its beach shacks and generally simple but pleasant housing — bungalows and modest apartments — but there is another side to Hawaii that is urban, chic and sophisticated. Visit the URBAN OAHU website to discover high-rise buildings built as a resort, with a high standard of living and an amazing community atmosphere.
Where you live will greatly determine how your experience in Hawaii develops over time; So, you should choose wisely when choosing comfort and familiarity and be prepared to make friends in the social areas around your apartment.
Hawaii is a notoriously friendly place . You’ll have no trouble making friends or finding your footing on the islands — you’ll be introduced to a different way of life by the islanders, who will help you get back on your feet.
However, it is still important, as in any other place, to build your life more thoroughly once you are in Hawaii — with clubs, groups, dinners and everything else that is usually recommended for people moving to a new place . Experience the local culture, cuisine and nightlife and quickly become part of this vibrant community.
If you are interested in moving to Hawaii and need to purchase or rent a property, you can fill out the form and our real estate professionals will contact you. We hope the tips here will help you get the most out of your move to somewhere tropical and fun in the Hawaiian Islands.
Shoreline Hotel Waikiki «Most Instagrammable Hotel in HAWAII»
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Located in the heart of Waikiki, the Shoreline Hotel Waikiki was designed by American design studio BHDM to be » Hawaii’s most Instagrammable hotel . «
The redesign includes a colorful update to the 135-room hotel, including a 26-foot white «Jungle Wall» art mural in the lobby, custom furnishings and a redesigned rooftop pool deck with commissioned murals, as well as new hotel programs for guests and locals .
Shoreline’s «Nature Meets Neon» theme, conceived by the Moon People Army and designed by BHDM Design, brings to life the dramatic landscapes and sunsets of Hawaii with a modern twist — the design features a bold mix of colors and patterns, mixing Hawaiian motifs, vibrant color palettes and modern shapes to create perfect stay and relaxation in aloha style . Added to this is the change in lighting color as the new lobby’s custom white styrene Monstera leaf installations go from cool and refreshing during the day to colorful and electric at night, backlit by neon lights.
“We are excited to bring a new hospitality experience to Waikiki by bringing contemporary design elements and experiential touchpoints for visitors and locals to our hotel,” said Alvida Surpia-Jones, general manager of Shoreline. “After six years in Waikiki, we felt it was time to refresh the Shoreline brand and expand our offerings, amenities and programs to ensure we continue to provide our guests with unforgettable experiences.”
The renovated hotel attracts visitors from the moment they arrive, with guests greeted by a colorful wall featuring a signature ombre mural painted by Californian artist DJ Neff before checking in at the concierge stationed under an open-air neon «aloha» sign. -air lobby . This reimagined area features tropical «jungle walls», rattan cage light fixtures with paper sculptures of bird species native to Hawaii, and geometric furniture mixed with bold colors and natural materials, including custom acacia wood cocktail tables, a length sofa The 14-foot, contemporary yellow wing chairs and blue metal end tables are all inspired by the surrounding beauty and culture of Hawaii.
“Our goal in developing Shoreline was to create a colorful and unique experience for millennial-minded travelers. “Nature meets neon” throughout, mixing the natural beauty of Hawaiian flora and wildlife with all the colors of an “eternal sunset,” said Dan Mazarin, owner of BHDM Design. “We designed Shoreline to be the backdrop to an already exciting experience, and for guests and the community to share memories of their visit.”
The hotel boasts playful and casual local influences throughout, with vibrant colours, artwork and original pieces — tropical wallpaper and multi-coloured floors with fluorescent kinetic corridors leading to decorated rooms . Each room is designed with custom carpet, bedding, draperies and furniture, as well as a «you are here» topographic map of the Hawaiian Islands hanging above the beds. The rooftop pool deck features unique neon wall murals painted by DJ Neff and vibrant mood lighting for a colorful poolside experience with sweeping views of the city and Waikiki Beach.
“The artwork I created for Shoreline was inspired by the idea of growth, represented in the colorful compositions of different plants and their unique forms growing over and through each other in the poolside murals,” said artist DJ Neff . “I love working with bright colors, so the hotel’s fresh design style gave me the opportunity to experiment with a fun neon palette, creating a unique take on the beautiful Hawaiian flora.”
The Shoreline Waikiki is located at 342 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815.
US:888-205-7322
UK:0808 145-3778
EU:+1 469-610-3608
Honolulu Rail Transit: What’s the Status 2023?
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The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit (HART) is currently building the city’s new driverless light rail system along the south shore of Oahu. The Honolulu Railroad, which began construction on February 22, 2011, is expected to connect key employment centers, tourist destinations and residential communities and offer an alternative method of public transportation to Oahu’s only bus option.
Additionally, the Honolulu Railroad is expected to have a huge impact on Oahu real estate, with transit-oriented development (TOD) of housing, services and jobs planned for each rail stop. The railroad and planned development around it could transform real estate on Oahu, according to the City and County of Honolulu.
However, the railroad was once promised to open in 2020, and in 2012 the Federal Transit Administration was promised a construction budget of $5.2 billion. Railroad construction is now progressing much more slowly than promised, and the proposed budget has doubled, with frequent calls for additional funds being reported. Because of these and many other controversies, many people may be wondering when they will finally be able to ride the Honolulu Railroad.
System and stations
The 20-mile rail system includes 21 stations:
- East Kapolei (Kualaka’i)
- UH West Oahu (Keone’ae)
- Ho’opili (Honouliuli)
- West Loch (Ho’ae’ae)
- Waipahu Transit Center (Pouhala)
- Leeward Community College (Halaulani)
- Pearl Highlands (Waiawa)
- Pearlridge (Kalauao)
- Aloha Stadium (Halawa)
- Pearl Harbor Naval Base (Makalapa)
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (Lelepaua)
- Lagoon Drive (Ahua)
- Middle Street Transit (Kahauiki)
- Kalihi (Mokauea)
- Kapalama/Honolulu Community College (Niuhelewai)
- Iwilei (Kuwili)
- Chinatown (Holau)
- Downtown (Kuloloia)
- Civic Center (Ka’akaukukui)
- Kaka’ako (Kukuluae’o)
- Ala Moana Center (Kaka’ako)
The trip from East Kapolei to Ala Moana Center is expected to take 42 minutes, and from Honolulu Airport to Ala Moana Center is expected to take 16 minutes.
Please note that each station also has a Hawaiian name, reflecting forgotten names, places and events in Hawaiian culture. The Honolulu City Council decided to have a team of experts gather community knowledge, ethnographic research and oral histories to develop accurate and culturally authentic station names — in hopes of perpetuating Hawaii’s traditions, culture and history for many generations to come.
Each station will have the following enticing features:
- Stairs, escalators and elevators
- Mobile service personnel
- Toilets
- Bicycle racks
- Ticket vending machines
- CCTV cameras
- Security Lighting
- ADA Compliant
A number of educational institutions are located along the railroad: UH-West Oahu, Leeward Community College, Honolulu Community and Hawaii Pacific University. HART says a rail line could be built in the future to connect the Ala Moana Center stop with UH-Manoa.
The railway system will be powered by green electricity. The railway is planned to be powered by alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and biofuels. The Railroad Operations Center (ROC), located between Waipahu High School and Leeward Community College, is a 43-acre LEED-certified building where trains will be maintained.
The railway will be integrated with the city’s bus system with a single system-wide transit card called the Holo Card , making it easier to move from station to workplace or entertainment.
Trains
The new Honolulu Rail Transit trains are touted as having top-notch features, including the following:
- Fully automated and driverless
- Air conditioner
- Free Wi-Fi connection
- ADA compliant, with priority areas for wheelchairs
- Bicycles, surfboards, strollers, refrigerators and luggage are allowed on trains.
- Visual displays
- Audio announcements
- CCTV cameras and telephone booths in every train carriage
- Average speed 30 mph, top speed 55 mph.
There will be a total of 20 four-car trains, of which 17 trains will operate during peak hours and 8 trains will operate during off-peak periods. A four-car train has a maximum capacity of 800 passengers, with 188 seats on each four-car train.
Honolulu Rail Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Honolulu Railroad be built?
HART Honolulu says the first 10 miles of rail could open this year in 2021 — from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium — and could operate at limited hours. However, opening the railroad to passengers will depend on resolving several problems that were discovered during trial tests of the Honolulu Railroad: faulty crossing tracks and wheels that were too small for the width of the track. While the first section of rail construction is said to work fine on straight tracks, when trains have problems at intersections; to resolve these problems, the tracks may have to be removed and replaced, which could result in a two-year delay in the railway’s opening to passengers.
Honolulu Rail’s second opening will be at the Middle Street Transit Center, which has an opening date currently undetermined. This second opening will include stops at Pearl Harbor and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.
HART officials say the entire 20-mile system could be up and running by 2031 if there are no further delays. The railroad is expected to run from downtown Ala Moana to Kapolei by then. But former Mayor Kirk Caldwell said the railroad may not actually open fully until 2033 — a delay of 13 years from what was promised to the federal government.
Construction of the Honolulu Railroad continues near the airport. Stations near the end of the Ewa Railroad were being completed, and utilities were being transferred to the railroad through Kalihi, downtown, and in the Ala Moana area. However, relocating utilities along Dillingham Boulevard to the final 4 miles of the railroad proved difficult in 2020 and 2021, as traffic and permitting issues and limited underground space caused various problems. Work continues to move overhead communications over Dillingham Boulevard, and the original route of the Honolulu Railroad has moved close to the mountains or Mauka through part of Kalihi.
Throughout 2021, HART and Hitachi Rail will conduct dynamic train testing between East Kapolei Station and Aloha Stadium Station. This testing allows the train system to be configured with automatic signaling and proper operation and maintenance. So, if you look up above the freeway and see a train moving along the tracks, there are no passengers inside yet, but instead HART is simulating a normal train schedule to prepare passengers for the fact that they will soon be traveling on the Honolulu Railroad.
Testing will continue in 2021, especially for crossings on the section of the railroad from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium. This trial run must run for 90 days without any glitches, and then the Hawaii Department of Transportation and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi will decide when people will finally be able to ride the rail.
As of this writing, 62% of the entire project has been completed, including the full 20 miles and 21 stations.
Has COVID-19 affected HART Honolulu’s plans for the railroad?
At the start of the coronavirus pandemic in the spring of 2020, Governor Ige and Mayor Caldwell stated that the Honolulu rail project was «essential infrastructure,» so construction of the Honolulu Rail Transit continued without interruption.
HART’s Safety and Human Resources departments have implemented safe work practices for construction and office personnel to continue work toward the completion of the Oahu Railroad. About 80% of office employees worked from home, facilitating physical distancing at HART. Railroad construction crews were provided with additional personal protective equipment, and HART Honolulu conducted site compliance inspections to ensure safe working conditions and compliance with regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
While railroad construction has continued during the COVID-19 pandemic, financing the railroad has become more difficult due to the pandemic and its impact on Hawaii’s economy. The Hawaii State Legislature has approved additional funds for the railroad in the past: $1.5 billion in 2015 and $2.4 billion in 2017. However, due to the state’s budget crisis due to the pandemic, future funds for the railroad are unknown. . In addition, HART received millions of dollars less in hotel rooms and excise taxes as tourism dried up and Hawaii’s economy weakened.
As part of some of the COVID-19 relief packages that passed Congress in March 2021, Senator Brian Schatz, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, was able to secure $70 million for a Honolulu rail transit project. The Oahu Railroad lost approximately $376 in tax revenue during the COVID pandemic due to lower premises and excise taxes, as well as HART reports .
When will the Honolulu Railroad be operational? What is the planned work schedule?
When the trains are fully operational, they will run 20 hours a day, from 4 a.m. to midnight. During peak times, such as rush hour, 17 four-car trains will arrive at the station approximately every five minutes. During off-peak hours they will arrive approximately every 11 minutes. Honolulu Railroad trains will operate at a maximum speed of 55 mph and an average speed of 30 mph.
HART estimates that in 2030, 121,000 passengers will ride the rail every weekday, and about 55 percent of those passengers will walk or bike to the station. They also, in addition to Honolulu Rail, removed 40,000 car trips from Honolulu’s busy roads, reducing gasoline consumption by 16,000 gallons.
The Honolulu Railroad could change the way Oahu residents and visitors get around the island, but we’ll have to wait until it opens—possibly this year—to see its impact.
Who is paying for rail transit in Honolulu?
The $1.55 billion construction cost for the Honolulu Railroad is being covered by Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds. As of July 2020, HART had received just over $800 million from a $1.55 billion federal grant that was approved in 2012; The FTA has not allocated any new funds to HART since 2014 because it wants Honolulu to be able to demonstrate it has a plan to complete the railroad with the necessary funding. In addition, the US Department of Justice and the FBI have opened a criminal investigation into the Honolulu Railroad project.
In April 2021, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, along with City Council Chairman Tommy Waters and Acting HART Executive Director Lori Kahikina, sent a letter to Hawaii’s congressional delegation asking for an additional $800 million to build the railroad from Middle Street to Ala Moana. Center. However, the message was fairly clear that the federal government had no plans to approve additional funding for the Honolulu Railroad.
In addition to federal funding, another large percentage is paid for by tourists shopping on Oahu through a 0.5% General Excise Tax (GET) surcharge. The remainder of Honolulu’s rail transit is paid for by all Hawaii residents and businesses through a 0.5% GET surcharge that has been levied since 2007 and will continue through 2027. The Honolulu Rail Transit project is its largest source of funding.
HART Honolulu is also using short-term bonds to finance construction of the railroad, which will be repaid with federal funds and additional revenue from the GET.
The latest operating budget for building the full 20-mile Honolulu Railroad is $12.4 billion, not including about $1 billion in financing costs. This is approximately 150% more expensive than originally promised.
I see elevated train tracks in the landscape of West Oahu. Why was this design chosen for Honolulu?
While some people may view the rails as an eyesore in Hawaii’s skies, others may view them as an innovative transportation method that will transform Oahu. During the design phase, many professionals and community members collaborated on the final design.
Ultimately, Honolulu’s surface rail service was chosen due to its safety, efficiency and reliability. Cars and pedestrians will not interfere with the train and vice versa, avoiding collisions and ensuring that train passengers reach their destination on time, regardless of traffic congestion. Additionally, the above-ground system is less expensive than the underground alternative.
Steel train wheels and steel rail technology were recommended by a group of engineers and transportation experts and approved by Oahu voters in 2008. Steel-on-steel technology was then one of the most advanced technologies in the world and said to be quiet, smooth and efficient.
What is HART Honolulu?
HART stands for Honolulu Rapid Transit Authority and is a semi-autonomous government agency responsible for the planning, construction, operation and maintenance of Honolulu’s rail transit. HART has a 14-member board consisting of the Director of the Department of Transportation, the Director of the City of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services and 11 community volunteers (three appointed by the Mayor, three by the City Council, three by the State Legislature). The voting members then appoint a fourteenth member to the board.
HART employs hundreds of workers and business partners to build the rail and is ultimately responsible for its completion. In January 2021, HART named Lori Kahikina, the city’s environmental director, as its interim CEO after HART decided not to renew the contract of former CEO Andrew Robbins. Within the first few months of Kahikina’s start, nearly 50% of the city employees who were working for HART when she arrived were no longer employed, many were fired and some resigned.
“I am ready to accept the challenge of advancing this important project,” Kahikina said in a public statement. “I am committed to doing what I can for the people of the City and County of Honolulu and our entire state.”
And Oahu residents and visitors are hoping that HART will soon complete construction on the first section so Honolulu Rail travel can begin in the next few months!
Incredible emotions and adrenaline alone with the Sharks on Oahu
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Want real adventure?
Ocean Addict Shark Excursiones invites you to swim with sharks without a cage, as well as the best snorkeling on the island!
It’s safe, and incredible emotions and adrenaline are guaranteed.
The company’s team are passionate lovers of the ocean and everything connected with it. Committed to protecting, preserving and stewarding the waters of Hawaii. The team reflects this passion and living the Aloha style on every tour and is happy to pass it on to guests.
Ocean Addict was founded in 2000 and was the first to offer swimming with sharks in Hawaii. Captain Donovan Kaps, professional instructors, photographers, and the entire company team have been swimming with sharks for many years and are certified diving masters.
The Ocean Addict team will teach you how to behave in water with sharks, provide detailed instructions, provide the necessary equipment, and also monitor your dive. All you have to do is enjoy your new unforgettable experience! And a professional photographer, at your request, will take stunning photos and videos.
Call now to get the best price!
Ocean Addict also offers snorkeling, sunset walks, private boat and catamaran rentals, diving, and whale watching. Fishing on request.
305-457-4150, Maria
Support for the purchase/sale of real estate in Hawaii
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If you are thinking about selling a Hawaiian condo/home that you already own or a business that you operate in Hawaii, let us help. We can also help with the purchase of real estate in Hawaii.
You can sell real estate from any country without visiting Hawaii. Please feel free to contact us by filling out the form .
The Hawaii Real Estate Selling Process
We will present the overall process along with the sales support we provide.
- STEP 1) Property valuation
We will calculate the market value of the property you own and
offer an accurate selling price.
In addition to market research, we will conduct purchase and sale transactions of real estate and surrounding areas, as well as actual research of real estate on the islands.
Start of publication on real estate resources
After consultation with the seller’s client, once the sale price has been determined, we will begin listing it for sale on the market.
If it is a residential property, it will be listed on the MLS (General Property Search System) to attract more agents on the buyer’s side.
Preview Control [Open House]
We will respond to inquiries received from interested buyers and conduct previews.
- STEP 2) Purchasing Requisition Compliance
We carefully review the purchase application (Offer) from the buyer who has decided to purchase the property, consult with the buyer and seller, giving advice, and select the best applicant for purchase. Having decided that this is the ideal purchasing partner, and if you like the details of the purchase/sale, the seller accepts them as is and proceeds to concluding the contract.
Request to correct a condition
If you are an ideal buyer, but are not satisfied with the contents of the property, send the seller a document (counteroffer) amending the contents of the purchase and sale agreement.
- STEP 3) Perform Due Diligence
Disclose information about the object and transfer it to the buyer. We will also assist you in preparing documents at this time. We will cooperate with the buyer’s due diligence and respond to any requests for termite removal or repair if found.
Please leave the construction work needed for termite extermination and repair to us. (The cost at this time will be borne by the client who is the seller)
If the buyer wishes to purchase the property as is, we will carry out a professional cleaning before confirming final ownership. (The cost at this time will also be borne by the customer who is the seller)
- STEP 4) Notarization procedure
Registration of the transfer of ownership requires the seller’s signature before a notary. In some countries, this is possible at a US embassy, consulate or notary public (fee, advance reservation required). Original legal documents that have been notarized will be transferred to the escrow company at least 3 days before registration.
Registration is completed
Escrow will register the transfer of ownership and the key will be given to the buyer to complete the transfer.
Enter the payment amount for the property
Along with various costs, the specified account will be credited with the sale amount minus the agent’s commission. (In the United States, paying a real estate agent when buying and selling real estate is that
the seller pays a commission for both the seller and the buyer. This is generally 5%-6% of the final sale price.)
If you are interested in our services, please fill out the form and we will contact you as soon as possible.
Cryptocurrency in Hawaii
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Could Hawaii Benefit from the Cryptocurrency Boom? Or will over-regulation continue to get in the way? It all depends on what happens in the upcoming legislative session.
Cryptocurrency, sometimes called digital currency, continues to rise in value as it becomes more popular and more investors buy it in the market.
Bitcoin is probably the most well-known cryptocurrency, but there are thousands of others, including Etherium, Dogecoin and Monero. The overall market is valued at $2.2 trillion, and every day there is news about a company, country, state or municipality that is accepting or investing in cryptocurrency.
Unfortunately, Hawaii residents have been largely left out of the crypto currency market thanks to regulations that make it nearly impossible for them to operate here.
Cryptocurrency companies are subject to Hawaii’s remittance law, which requires them to have cash reserves equal to the value of the virtual assets they hold. So a company that has $100 million in Bitcoin and Ethereum must also have an additional $100 million in cash.
It’s easy to see how this could be too much of a financial burden. This is why the two largest cryptocurrency exchanges, Coinbase and Binance, do not operate in Hawaii. Like other well-established companies such as RobinHood Crypto.com or PayPal’s Cryptocurrency Hub.
In 2019, the state launched the Digital Currency Innovation Lab, essentially a regulatory sandbox that allows certain digital currency companies to operate in Hawaii without having to meet cash reserve requirements under the Money Sender Act.
Unfortunately, the sandbox expires at the end of 2022. Without action from the Legislature to reform or deregulate cash reserves, Hawaii’s involvement in the cryptocurrency space could end before it has a chance to grow.
Gaiser helped me demystify the concept of cryptocurrency, calling it «the latest evolution of… a practice as old as time, and that is barter — exchanging one thing for another and using some kind of symbolic token to represent what you are exchanging.»
While the concept of digital currency may seem foreign and complex, Gaiser noted that we are already very familiar with various forms of digital transactions.
“Even now,” she said, “I pay for some things with credit card points. I book certain flights with airline miles. Every time I give and receive a gift card, it’s denominated in dollars, but it’s not really dollars. It’s a little more like store credit. We are all actually quite sophisticated consumers of various types of currencies, not all of which are associated with the US government.»
Gaiser said there is a place for government regulation of cryptocurrency, such as to prevent fraud, but a balance can also be found that doesn’t place an unsustainable burden on cryptocurrency companies.
She said it would be a «tragedy» for Hawaii’s economic future if the Legislature doesn’t act quickly and continues to over-regulate cryptocurrency companies in the state.
“Being in 2022, in the world of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, is like being in 1996, in the world of the Internet,” she said. “There’s so much we haven’t done yet, we haven’t built yet. I would hate to see Hawaii miss out on innovation to really improve lives and be creative, be innovative, create new products, [and] then also miss out on the wealth that comes with that.”
Since the government’s cryptocurrency sandbox went into effect in March 2019, 61,000 Hawaii customers have been able to participate in the cryptocurrency market. In this limited time, they completed $611 million worth of cryptocurrency transactions . Imagine what it could mean for our economy if Hawaii residents were able to fully participate in the global digital currency market.
I hope our public policymakers can see this potential and remove the barriers to cryptocurrency that are holding us back.
Working from Hawaii?
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If you could work anywhere in the world, where would you work? Majestic green mountains, towering waterfalls, sparkling blue water and powerful waves may put Hawaii at the top of your list of places to work. With the rise in popularity of remote work, working from home in Hawaii is becoming more accessible to people whose employers are located around the world.
At the height of the coronavirus epidemic, it is estimated that more than 70 percent of employees were working from home. And as COVID-19 restrictions eased and technology continued to transform industries, some employers continued to work from home. But before you pack your bags to work from home in Hawaii, research Hawaii’s economy and industry to decide if remote work in Hawaii is right for you.
And if you decide to move, our best tips for working remotely from Hawaii can help ease your transition to paradise.
How is the economy doing in Hawaii?
While Hawaii has some of the best waves in the world, its economy isn’t that great. Hawaii’s economy ranks near the bottom of other U.S. states on a number of measures, including GDP and savings. According to the United States Bureau of Economic Analysis, Hawaii ranked 38th and California ranked first in gross domestic product, or GDP, at the end of 2020. In general terms, GDP is the value of goods and services produced minus the value of the goods and services needed to produce them. Classify:
State of GDP (million $)
- California 3,120,386
- Texas 1,772,132
- New York 1,705,127
- Florida 1,111,614
- 24 Oregon 253,849
- 38 Hawaii 89,866
- 50 Vermont 33,278
Hawaii also ranks low compared to other U.S. states for low average retirement savings, ranking 45th out of 51 (including Puerto Rico), according to Daily Capitol data as of April 2021.
Categorize Condition | Average retirement savings
- Connecticut $523,568
- New Hampshire $494,562
- New Jersey $489,664
- Alaska $489,070
- 45 Hawaii $345,401
- 50 North Dakota $310,766
- 51 Utah $300,392
As the world’s most isolated island chain and increasingly dependent on imports, Hawaii’s economy is not the best. Additionally, the cost of living in Hawaii is among the highest in the United States, with high costs for food, gas, building materials, and housing. According to the Council for Social and Economic Research, Hawaii has the highest cost of living of any US state. At the start of 2021, Hawaii’s cost of living index was 196.3, meaning the cost of living in Hawaii is 96.3% higher than the U.S. average. The Housing Index was 336.3, which is not surprising since median sales prices for single-family homes on Oahu as of May 2021 were approaching $1,000,000. The cost of living index also includes costs for groceries, utilities and transportation, with Hawaii ranking nearly highest in all categories.
Classify Condition Cost of Living Index $
- Hawaii 192.9
- California 151.7
- New York 139.1
- Oregon 134.2 48
- 48 Oklahoma 87
- 49 Arkansas 86.9
- 50 Mississippi 86.1
Thus, Hawaii’s economy is not stellar and the cost of living is high. However, working from home in Hawaii with a high salary on the US mainland or for an international company can make the cost of paradise a viable option.
Additionally, if more people with high-paying jobs move to Hawaii to work remotely, this could gradually shift Hawaii’s economy in a more positive direction, especially since there are currently only a few limited industries in Hawaii.
What are Hawaii’s major industries?
If you’re considering working remotely in Hawaii, you might be wondering what do people typically do at work in Hawaii? The isolated Hawaiian Islands have only a few major industries that employ the majority of Hawaii’s residents.
Tourism is by far the largest industry in Hawaii. Although COVID-19 has slowed travel, tourism in Hawaii is rebounding. According to the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, Hawaii received 10,387,000 visitors in the first quarter of 2019 and 6,637,000 visitors in the first quarter of 2021. In both years, tourism contributed more than $95,045 million to gross domestic product.
After tourism, the United States military is also a large part of Hawaii’s economy, with military installations for the Air Force, Army, National Guard, Marines and Coast Guard on Oahu. The federal government provides nearly 35,000 civilian jobs in Hawaii and tens of thousands more jobs for all military personnel who call Hawaii home.
Agriculture and fishing were once important industries in Hawaii. However, over the years they have decreased. Sugar cane and pineapple plantations were important historical industries in Hawaii, making Hawaii one of the most productive agricultural states in the country. According to the State of Hawaii, currently 85 to 90 percent of food in Hawaii is imported, making food expensive in Hawaii and food security a real threat, especially if a natural disaster were to hit the islands.
What are other important industries in Hawaii? The production of primarily construction materials such as cement and steel accounts for about 2% of Hawaii’s gross domestic product.
Energy is another major industry in Hawaii, with Hawaii Electric Company or HECO having a near monopoly on Oahu. Hawaii has a variety of energy sources and continues to shift more to renewable energy sources, including geothermal, solar and wind power.
Here are the top industries in Hawaii, according to the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, as of the second quarter of 2021:
Industry | Number of workplaces
Health and social care 69,900
Professional and business services 67,200
State Government 64,900
Retail trade 59 100
Catering services and drinking establishments 48,600
Natural resources, Mining, Construction 36,600
Remote work in Hawaii has the potential to add many new industries to the economy.
In fact, there have been some incentive programs to attract remote workers to Hawaii, even offering free flights and professional connections to other remote workers from Hawaii. Many Hawaii residents and government officials advocate strengthening Hawaii’s economy by adding new economic sectors, and remote workers may offer one solution to Hawaii’s troubled economy.
Remote Work in Hawaii: Top Tips Want to boost Hawaii’s economy and diversify major industries by working remotely in paradise? Before you pack up your office and head to paradise, read on for our top three tips to make the transition to remote work easier in Hawaii. Make sure you have a reliable internet and mobile phone connection. Since some people still imagine Hawaiians living in grass shacks, some people may wonder:
«What’s the Internet like in Hawaii? What about cell service? Staying connected is key to success when working remotely, so it’s important to live in a place with a reliable Internet connection. »
Although Hawaii has several internet providers, Hawaii ranks in the middle for broadband access compared to other US states. Fiber internet is also available in Hawaii, as well as mobile hotspots. However, don’t expect every area of Hawaii to have access to the Internet or even cell phone service. Some road bends or deep in the forest or even some remote parts of Maui or the Big Island will be more difficult to connect to. Honolulu has good connectivity, so it can be a safe place to call the office when working remotely in Hawaii.
Taking into account the time difference in Hawaii, make a schedule and stick to it. The desire to relax on the beach or go hiking in the mountains can prevent you from concentrating on your computer work; however, creating a schedule along with daily goals can help you stay focused. And after a working day, the beach will be waiting for you.
Before you set up a remote work schedule in Hawaii, also consider the time difference with your home office or your clients. What is the time difference between New York and Honolulu? New York is six hours ahead. What is the time difference between California and Hawaii? California is three hours ahead. You may have to wake up earlier to make it to virtual meetings on time if you work remotely in Hawaii. On the plus side, you can finish work early — just in time to go surfing. In Hawaii, a typical workday runs from about 7:30 to 3:30, which is earlier than the typical 9 to 5 on the US mainland, so working earlier is usually normal in Hawaii.
Take breaks to improve your productivity. When working from home, it’s easier to fall into the rut of work, work, work, no breaks, since you don’t necessarily have to have colleagues nearby to join them for coffee. It is important to take regularly scheduled breaks, including lunch and getting up every hour, to get the blood flowing. Even a 10-second micro-break with stretching can help re-focus and re-energize.
Since the computer screen sometimes seems to bog down remote workers, you may want to set a timer to remind you when to take a break. Alternatively, setting a timer can motivate some people to complete a certain task by a certain time, which is important since remote work requires a lot of self-motivation. With more and more remote work options available from more employers around the world, the dream of remote work in Hawaii may become a reality for some lucky people. Remote work in Hawaii can boost the local economy and diversify industries. If working remotely suits you and you can find a reliable place to connect and create a busy schedule, Hawaii is inviting new workers to join the island lifestyle.
Pakalolo on Hawaii
Dreaming of relaxing in the ocean breeze with your feet in the sand, overlooking the Pacific Ocean with a joint of marijuana in your hand? Hawaiian paradise may conjure up dreams of listening to Bob Marley, and weed in Hawaii can often be smelled while sitting on some beaches. However, is marijuana legal in Hawaii? The short answer is that marijuana, also known as pakalolo in Hawaiian, is legal for certain medical reasons and with proper documentation. Although recreational marijuana is not legal in Hawaii, Hawaii’s marijuana laws are constantly evolving. Read on to learn more about weed in Hawaii. What are the marijuana laws in Hawaii? Hawaii has several monumental cannabis laws, including being the first state to legalize the use of recreational marijuana in 2000 by the state legislature with Act 228. Here is the history of Hawaii’s major marijuana laws: 2000 — Act 228 allowed medical card holders grow marijuana themselves or have a caregiver grow marijuana for them. This law, which is the initial implementation of the Medical Marijuana Law in Hawaii, made Hawaii the eighth state to legalize medical marijuana and the first state to legalize medical marijuana through an act of the state legislature. Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) 329 is Hawaii’s uniform Controlled Substances Act, which was written under Act 228 and has been amended by other laws over the years. HRS 329 contains most of the laws regarding the medical use of marijuana in Hawaii, including information regarding registration of eligible patients. The 329 card, which is issued to registered medical cannabis patients in Hawaii, is named after HRS 329. 2015 — After 15 years of no legal marijuana market or dispensaries in Hawaii, Act 241 was passed. This clarified registration information for legal medical marijuana use in Hawaii. He also directed the Hawaii Department of Health to create a medical marijuana dispensary program to sell medical and industrial marijuana products to registered patients. Senate Bill 321, passed in 2016, authorized the establishment of eight marijuana dispensaries in Hawaii. All eight marijuana dispensaries are open today and can be found on Oahu, Kauai, the Big Island and Maui. Read on to find out where medical marijuana dispensaries are located in Hawaii. 2016 — With the signing of Act 228 by Governor David Ige, industrial hemp for agricultural or academic research became legal in Hawaii. Today, there are no criminal or civil penalties in Hawaii for «planting, growing, harvesting, possessing, processing, selling or purchasing» industrial hemp due to the passage of House Bill 773 in February 2017. 2020 — In January 2020, Hawaii decriminalized marijuana, eliminating prison sentences for possession of less than three grams of marijuana for any reason. If you are caught in Hawaii with less than three grams of marijuana, you will still have to pay $130 unless you are a legally registered medical marijuana user. With the passage of this bill, Hawaii became the 26th US state to decriminalize marijuana possession. Medical marijuana Hawaii
How can I legally smoke marijuana in Hawaii? The answer is to legally register to use medical marijuana in Hawaii through the Medical Marijuana Patient Registration Program. Here are three basic steps to legally smoking marijuana for medical reasons in Hawaii:
- Step 1: Have a proven medical condition to use medical marijuana. Do you have a patient-physician or APRN relationship? This relationship is a precursor to being able to legally smoke medical marijuana in Hawaii, as a doctor must certify to the state’s online account that you have a certain medical condition that allows you to be a legal marijuana user in the State of Hawaii. The physician or APRN will write a certification application and electronically sign in the state database that the patient has a qualifying condition. Please note that in order to sign, the physician or nurse must mail the signature form to the Department of Health and also link their “myPVL” license to the Medical Cannabis Registry. According to HRS-329, there are certain «debilitating medical conditions» that qualify for medical marijuana use in Hawaii: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Cancer Epilepsy Glaucoma Lupus Multiple Sclerosis Rheumatoid Arthritis HIV Immunodeficiency Syndrome Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) If you don’t have any of the debilitating diseases listed above, but you suffer from one of these conditions, you may also be eligible to legally smoke marijuana in Hawaii: Severe pain Severe nausea Seizures Muscle spasms Cachexia or muscle wasting Do you think conditions such as should insomnia, depression or anxiety be added to Hawaii’s list of approved medical marijuana products? A petition can be submitted to the Department of Health, which must include evidence-based research in support of adding the condition to the list.
- Step 2: Register with the Hawaii Department of Health. If you believe you may qualify, you will need to create an online 329 application with the Hawaii Medical Cannabis Registry. To register to smoke medical marijuana in Hawaii, you must complete a number of pages and steps, including the following potential hurdles: Uploading copies of a valid driver’s license, state ID, or passport Entering a certifying physician or APRN name with whom you have already established a patient-caregiver relationship If applicable , download the Grow Site Certification form and decide whether you will grow the plants as a patient or have a caregiver grow the Hawaii marijuana plants for you. Registration fee of $38.50 for annual registration or $77.00 for two-year registration. Please note that if you provide incorrect information and need to make changes, you will be charged $16.50.
- Step 3: Get your 329 registration card and smoke weed at a Hawaii dispensary or your own marijuana dispensary. The Hawaii Department of Health will review applications in the order they are received. If the application is incomplete, you will be notified by email and asked to resubmit the application with appropriate changes for an additional fee. Once your application is approved, you will be able to access your 329 card in the same registry portal. You’ll want to print this card and you can now legally use medical marijuana in Hawaii! As a patient or caregiver, you must carry valid identification and a valid 329 card if you have medical marijuana. Please note that Hawaii law enforcement has access to the Medical Marijuana Registration Program to verify whether people legally possess marijuana. Please also note that the 329 card may be confiscated or you may be denied entry to the dispensary if the card is tampered with, altered, or used by another person. Additionally, the 329 card will need to be renewed before it expires. Registered marijuana users in Hawaii will receive an email notification 60 days before the 329 card expires. Renewing a 329 card is similar to applying for the first time, and it is often easiest to use the same physician or APRN to verify your condition. Often, a two-year extension for medical marijuana is allowed if the following conditions are met: The same physician or APRN certifies you The condition is chronic The physician or APRN states that a two-year 329 extension is in the best interests of the patient. Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in Hawaii Now that you can legally use marijuana to treat medical conditions in Hawaii, you may be wondering how you can legally buy weed in Hawaii. There are several legal medical marijuana dispensaries on all of Hawaii’s major inhabited islands:
Oahu Marijuana Dispensaries
- Oahu Marijuana Dispensaries Aloha Green Waikiki 2113 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu HI
- King Street: Interstate Building, 1314 S. King St. Honolulu HI 96814808
- Honolulu 3131 North Nimitz Highway, Honolulu HI 96819
- Cure Oahu Honolulu 727 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, HI 96816808-208-8770
- Noa Botanical Honolulu 1308 Young Street, Honolulu, HI 96814808-800-2126
- Kaneohe 46-028 Kawa Street, Kaneohe HI 96744808-550-9860
Maui Marijuana Dispensaries
- Kahului 44 Paa Street, Kahului, HI 96732 808-866-7576
- Lahaina 1087 Limahana Place, Unit 4B, Lahaina, HI 96761
- Pono Life Maui Kahului 415 Dairy Road., Kahului, HI 96732 808-489-9454
Marijuana Dispensaries Hawaii Island (Big Island) Marijuana Dispensaries
- Hawaiian Ethos Hilo 578 Kanoelehua Ave., Hilo, HI 96720 808-731-5559
- Kona 73-5613 Olowalu Street, Ste. 7, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 808-339-3205
- Waimea 64-1035 Mamalahoa Hwy., Unit J, Kamuela, HI 96743 808-731-5082
- Big Island Grown Hilo 750 Kanoelehua Ave., Ste. 104, Hilo, HI 96720 808-825-5533
- Waimea 64-1040 Mamalahoa Hwy., Waimea, HI 96743 808-825-5910
- Kona 74-5617 Pawai Place., Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 808-374-8210
Kauai marijuana dispensaries
- Green Aloha + Dispensary Wailua 4-1565 Kuhio Hwy #3, Kapaa, HI 96746 808-320
How can I legally grow marijuana plants in Hawaii?
Before the Hawaii Medical Marijuana Dispensary Program was created in 2015 and the first legal weed was sold on Maui in August 2017, legal medical marijuana users were required to grow their own plants or have a caregiver grow the plants for them. Growing marijuana plants illegally in Hawaii carries heavy fines and prison sentences. Growing 25-50 marijuana plants on your own property is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. However, if you are a registered marijuana patient or caregiver, you have the opportunity to grow medical cannabis in Hawaii, but you must carefully follow Hawaii laws. Here are some important details for growing marijuana legally in Hawaii: You must have indicated that you intend to grow your own supply of medical marijuana when you register for your 329 card online. You can grow a “sufficient amount” of marijuana, which means no more than ten plants. You cannot have more than 4 ounces of usable marijuana between an enrolled patient and a caregiver. You may only grow in the location designated on your 329 card, and that location may only be the residence/possession or control of the applicable patient or designated caregiver. You can only grow on one site. Each plant must be labeled with a 329 card number and expiration date in accordance with Hawaii Department of Health labeling guidelines. If you are a registered medical marijuana user, growing Hawaii cannabis in your personal home may be the best option for a consistent and economical supply of marijuana. Recreational Marijuana in Hawaii Medical marijuana is legal in Hawaii, but when will it be legal to smoke marijuana recreationally in Hawaii? While possession of less than three grams of marijuana is not a crime, and the maximum fine for this offense is $130, the bottom line is that recreational use of marijuana is illegal. Various bills have been introduced to try to legalize recreational marijuana in Hawaii over the years, including in February 2021; however, the bill was never passed.
Therefore, if you are caught in possession of marijuana and do not have a 329 card for medical marijuana use, you could face serious penalties in Hawaii.
Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) 712 and 706 describe the consequences of a marijuana arrest in Hawaii:
Crime Penalty Maximum prison term Maximum exact:
- Possessing 3 grams Violation Nobody $130
- With 3 grams to 1 ounce. misdemeanor 30 days $1,000
- Featuring 1 oz. up to 1 pound misdemeanor 1 year $2,000
- With 1 lb. felony 5 years $10,000
Commercial promotion of marijuana is always a criminal offense. Selling marijuana is a misdemeanor if it weighs less than one ounce and carries a fine of up to $2,000 and 1 year in jail; however, selling more than 1 ounce is a criminal offense that carries heavy fines and jail time. Selling marijuana paraphernalia is also a criminal offense with hefty fines and fees. Weed in Hawaii In conclusion, relaxing and smoking a joint on a private beach in Hawaii is legal if you are a registered medical marijuana patient with a 329 card and obtained your marijuana legally — either through a legal dispensary or through your own private plants.
However, recreational marijuana is illegal in Hawaii. Possession of less than 3 ounces of marijuana is not a crime, but if you are caught, you could face a $130 fine. Hawaiian paradise may conjure images of free-smoking a joint while gazing out into the deep blue sea, but consuming marijuana in Hawaii isn’t exactly legal.
Building your team to purchase real estate in Hawaii
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Buying a home is a complex transaction with many moving parts, and hopefully there are many great people to help make the process smooth.
From the first step to move-in day, having a professional and reliable team supporting your home purchase can mean the difference between a stress-free, efficient and profitable home purchase or a huge headache.
Here are ten people you need on your team when buying a home.
Real estate seller or broker
A buyer’s agent will help you through every step of the home buying process. It’s important to find an agent who suits your needs and meshes well with your goals and personality.
A buyer’s agent is needed to help you find a home, including advice on neighborhoods, schools and home prices. They will also help you protect your home. An agent should be able to negotiate to help you get the most bang for your buck; exclusive agents will analyze home values and negotiate with the seller’s agent.
They will also help with all the complex, detailed documents and contracts — from the initial purchase agreement to mortgage, title and insurance documents.
A great real estate agent will also recommend professionals in the real estate world to facilitate your transaction, such as a lender or mortgage broker, home inspector, and others. The best buyer’s agents will even attend the home inspection and discuss repair requests before giving you the keys on the final day of closing.
Mortgage Broker
Mortgage brokers work with many lenders to find the best loan program for your specific situation. They can help you through the paperwork process and even tell you about the different types of mortgages. Mortgage brokers are mortgage experts and can help you get pre-approved to close on your final mortgage.
Creditor
Unless you’re buying a house with cash, you’ll need someone to lend you the money. There are many loan programs with different interest rates and even different repayment periods and fees, so it’s important to find the best lender. Or a mortgage broker can help you find the best lender for your situation. Keep in mind that a local lender knows Hawaii’s unique market best.
Accountant
These “numbers people” will help you structure your finances so you can make smart financial decisions. Tax deductions, paperwork, interest rates—an accountant can crunch those numbers and offer home buying advice.
Termite inspector
Termites swarming through the air in Hawaii are not uncommon. They can cause damage to homes, which is why most lenders in Hawaii require a copy of a satisfactory termite inspection report (TIR) before issuing a loan.
Termite inspection is usually paid for by the seller, but the buyer can usually choose their preferred inspector. The inspection takes place in the final weeks before the sale closes, when the inspector lights all the wood inside and outside the home. Termites are quite common in the Hawaiian Islands, but identifying and preventing termite infestations can save you a lot of money and preserve your home.
Home Inspector
Once your offer has been accepted, you have an inspection period to go through every nook and cranny to ensure the home is in the top-notch condition you expected. Although an inspection is often optional, hiring a home inspector can save you a lot of money in the long run. They inspected the grounds, structure, roof, exterior, windows, doors, trim, interior, kitchen, bathrooms, plumbing, electrical systems and more. An inspector can show you the exact problems with your home, helping to advise you on your next steps toward buying a home.
Advocate
A residential real estate lawyer can help clear up legal issues, document errors, and unscrupulous sellers. However, a direct real estate transaction with a qualified real estate agent may not require an attorney.
Insurance agent
A local independent insurance agent can give you the cost of insuring your Hawaii home. Neighborhood, zoning, home size and other factors can affect your home insurance premium. They may also offer you additional coverage beyond the required basic homeowner’s insurance.
Escrow agent
Although the escrow agent or officer is not actually part of your team, since they are a third party, you will work closely with them during the closing process. The escrow officer manages money between the buyer, seller and lender and ensures paperwork is completed and title verified.
Bonus: your family
The support of your family and friends is important in life, especially when buying a home. Perhaps your purchase is due to a growing family. Or maybe you’re buying a home from a family member or partner. Whatever the reason you’re buying a home, it’s important to have people around you who support you socially and emotionally.
Surround yourself with educated and experienced professionals during the home buying process. With a dedicated team, you can confidently navigate the complex web of buying a home in Hawaii.
Restrictions have hurt Hawaii’s share of the cryptocurrency market
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Hawaii has the highest barriers in the country to companies that exchange cryptocurrency, and those restrictions could get worse if lawmakers don’t step up and open the door to this potentially thriving new business area.
Bitcoin, the world’s first «cryptocurrency», was invented in 2009 by an unknown person or group of people under the name Satoshi Nakamoto and allowed people to store, buy and sell digital currency using special software.
Since then, thousands of other cryptocurrencies have emerged, such as Ethereum, Litecoin and Monero. Many of these cryptocurrency companies have risen significantly in value, with the entire cryptocurrency market valued at $2.2 trillion. That’s slightly more than Google ($1.9 trillion) and slightly less than Microsoft ($2.5 trillion).
In Hawaii, cryptocurrency companies are subject to the Hawaii Remittance Act, which since 2014 requires them to hold monetary assets equal to the amount of their virtual assets. For example, if a company holds $1 billion worth of cryptocurrencies, it will also need an additional $1 billion in cash as reserves.
No other state has such a specific requirement for cryptocurrency companies, so most of these companies have either left Hawaii or avoided it.
The two largest cryptocurrency exchanges, Coinbase and Binance, do not operate in Hawaii. Neither Kucoin, Strike, eToro, Bittrex, Bitstamp, Robinhood Crypto, nor PayPal’s «Cryptocurrency Hub».
In March 2019, the Governor authorized the creation of a temporary sandbox known as the Digital Currency Innovation Lab, which allowed cryptocurrency companies to operate in the state without having to comply with the dual reserve requirement of the Remittance Act. .
Only 15 cryptocurrency companies were allowed to play in the sandbox, which has so far allowed 61,000 Hawaii customers to access virtual currency with a total transaction value of more than $611 million.
Meanwhile, since the program launched, the value of Bitcoin has increased by 370%, from $10,000 in 2019 to $47,000 by the end of 2021.
Looking ahead, legal authority for the sandbox expires on Dec. 30, 2022, meaning lawmakers who want to avoid a complete shutdown of this market must pass some kind of enabling legislation during the 2022 legislative session.
The easiest way to allow cryptocurrency companies to operate in Hawaii is to exempt them from remittance laws.
Twenty states do not require a money transmitter license for cryptocurrency transactions: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee. , Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin.
Another quick fix would be to add cryptocurrency as an “eligible investment” to the remittance law, thereby eliminating the dual reserve requirement. For example, Wyoming exempted virtual currency from its dual reserve requirement in 2014 and has since become “the most cryptocurrency-friendly jurisdiction in the United States,” according to MarketWatch.
A more complex route would be to create a new licensing requirement for virtual currency companies, which could also bypass the double reserve requirement. This could potentially create an unnecessary administrative burden, but would nevertheless allow for a more dynamic cryptocurrency market if the rules are not too strict.
The Hawaii Division of Financial Institutions is actually introducing such a bill aimed at reducing barriers to cryptocurrency companies in Hawaii. But lawmakers should be careful not to impose too many requirements that defeat the purpose of the bill.
The goal is to ease Hawaii’s toughest virtual currency restrictions in the country and give island residents greater access to this emerging market. This would be another way to diversify our economy and help local families find new ways to make money and prosper.
How to find a job in Hawaii?
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How to find a job in Hawaii as soon as you step off the plane? Of course, there are opportunities for this for both a Green Card holder, a US citizen, and an ordinary tourist who wants to earn a little money for their vacation.
It’s all down to the US employment agencies in Hawaii.
So, why should you immediately contact an employment agency upon arrival to find a job? Of course, you can take a newspaper and go to new and new addresses, where you will be asked to leave your information. Or you can simply leave your details with the agency, and they will find you a suitable job.
Benefits of Employment Agencies in Hawaii
The first advantage of an employment agency in America is that they will find you a job, even if you do not have permission to do so. There are many employers in the city who are not interested in the status of your permits. The main thing is that your qualifications correspond to reality. Employment agencies in Hawaii for Russian speakers will help immigrants from Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia and other CIS countries find work. It’s no secret that not every visitor knows English well. But in the city itself there are many Russian speakers who would be happy to hire a fellow countryman. By the way, even if you don’t know English well, in just a few months of staying in Hawaii you can learn it to the required level. After all, the city has many language courses, both paid and free.
An equally important advantage of agencies is that you do not have to pay immediately when applying. Of course, in some agencies even registration is paid. But many work on a different principle — it is important for them that you get a job, so their services are paid from your first salary.
It is worth noting that an employment agency in America is a kind of guarantor for those looking for work. For example, a recruitment agency. Often, parents look for nannies, governesses and housekeepers only through such agencies and do not hire people “off the street”. Therefore, if you want to find a job in this field, then with an agency you can find a decent place. The same applies to other work in the service sector. In Hawaii, agencies are trusted, which means they can trust you too.
Featured Airbnb in Hawaii: What’s Legal and What’s Not?
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As an Airbnb host, you have the opportunity to welcome guests from all over the world, share the aloha spirit, and earn extra income.
But are short-term rentals, also known as AirBnb or VRBO, allowed in Hawaii? Airbnb’s operation on our islands is subject to several regulations, many of which currently make it difficult for Airbnb to host legally. While this information is not comprehensive or legal advice, and is current only at the time of writing, below are some legal considerations to consider when you’re thinking about becoming an Airbnb host.
Zoning laws dictate whether a property can legally be used as a short-term rental and vary on each island.
Oahu: Are short term rentals allowed in Honolulu? Can you rent an AirBnb on Oahu? House Bill 89, also known as Proposition 19-18 , signed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell on June 25, 2019, will place a cap on the number of bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodations on the island. Specifically, no more than 0.5% of the total number of residential units in each community in the State of Oahu may be used as bed and breakfasts. These are 1,699 B&B rentals on Oahu; 183 B&B with legal permits at Koolau Poko (Kailua, Waimanalo, Kaneohe).
(Oahu short term rental permit limits vary by area)
No more than 0.5% of the total number of residential units in each Regional Development Plan Area (DPA) may be used as B&Bs.
The new laws also stipulate that new B&B owners can rent out two bedrooms to guests, and the owner of the property must legally live with the guests.
Other important changes:
- Ordinance 19-18 would allow approximately 1,700 bed and breakfast permits to be issued. Although the online lottery system for a legal B&B permit on Oahu is expected to begin in October 2020, it has not yet begun due to the passage of Ordinance 20-30, which modified Ordinance 19 -18. and was signed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell on September 17, 2020. Therefore, the adoption of administrative rules and the start of registration of new bed and breakfasts have been delayed while the City and County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) reviews the registration process.
- Illegal B&Bs will be subject to hefty fines (think $1,000 to $10,000 a day!). As of June 4, 2021, the City and County of Honolulu had received 2,133 short-term rental complaints and issued 568 notices of violation (NOV).
- Specifically, for North Shore bed and breakfasts, with the exception of Kuilima, no new permits will be issued in the area under the North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan. However, for now, legal bed and breakfasts on the North Shore can accommodate guests until Oct. 1, when the city will begin issuing these new licenses.
- Kuilima Estates East and West , next to Turtle Bay Resort and Golf Course, now allows bed and breakfasts and short-term rentals. The decision was made on February 10, 2020 by the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) because Kuilima Estates East & West is within 3,500 feet of a resort area of over 50 contiguous acres. See the map below for the permitted zone.
Maui: Can I rent an AirBnb on Maui? As of July 2019, there are over 16,000 apartments that are legally allowed to rent out homes for short-term rentals (less than six months) without the need for a bed and breakfast or conditional permit. These are typically found in hotel zones, but homes not included in the pre-existing criteria may be legally allowed to operate; as of November 2018, 353 vacation rentals had permission to operate outside the hotel zone.
As of June 2021, the Maui Meadows region of the Kihei-Makena Community Plan and the Paia Haiku Community Plan region have reached their permit limit for short-term home rentals, or AirBnbs.
In Maui County, homes with a short-term rental permit can be rented without the owner present. To apply for a short-term home rental, you must complete an application through the Maui County Planning Department , which must also include a zoning and flood verification form. The planning department processes these applications and usually takes several months.
(Maui short term rental permit limits vary by area)
Kauai: Are short term rentals allowed on Kauai? Airbnbs are legal in certain tourist areas (VDAs) or areas zoned for hotels. There are between 3,000 and 4,000 vacation homes in these areas, and Kauai no longer allows short-term rentals outside of these designated areas. If the vacation rental received a certificate of non-conforming use before March 2008, then the rental was transferred.
In short, any short-term rental for less than 180 days of a room in a house or an entire house or apartment is not permitted. Additionally, there is no application to apply for an AirBnb on Kauai unless you own a property in a Visitor Destination Area (VDA). The County of Kauai and its Planning Department regulate short-term rentals on the island of Kauai .
(Kauai short term rental permit restrictions based on visitor destination zone — VDA in red)
Big Island: Under House Bill 108, short-term vacation rentals on the Big Island or Hawaii County are now defined as a residence with no more than five bedrooms, rented for 30 consecutive days or less, in which the owner does not reside. on the spot. New short-term vacation rentals are not permitted in single-family residential or agricultural zones and are only permitted in hotel, resort, commercial and multi-family commercial zones.
House Bill 108, also known as Ordinance 2018-114, also made it possible for existing short-term vacation rental properties to apply for a Certificate of Nonconforming Use so they could continue to operate in a generally unpermitted area. The County of Hawaii Planning Department is tasked with administering and overseeing AirBnbs on the Big Island.
COVID-19 has added additional restrictions for Hawaii Airbnb, especially on the island of Oahu.
The question of whether Airbnb is legal in Hawaii has persisted throughout the coronavirus pandemic and adds further restrictions for many Hawaii vacation rental owners and travelers who want to experience paradise outside of a hotel.
Hawaii’s Airbnb laws have become more complex on Oahu and other islands during the COVID-19 pandemic. The mayors of Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai restricted vacation rentals in March 2020, but on June 16, 2020, they allowed legal Airbnbs to operate again. Legal short-term holiday homes can now operate; however, Hawaii State’s travel restrictions and other COVID-19 related mandates remain in effect, and Governor Ige has stated that these rules will remain in place until Hawaii’s vaccination rate reaches 70 percent.
Airbnb listings — legal or illegal — must comply with Hawaii tax laws.
(1) Certificate of registration. Airbnb hosts must obtain a Certificate of Registration from the Hawaii Department of Taxation as required by Hawaii State law . Upon successful receipt of a Certificate of Registration, Airbnb hosts must post the TIN on their online listing.
(2) Temporary Occupancy Tax: After registering and receiving a tax identification number, Airbnb hosts are ready to pay taxes to the government! The temporary residence tax applies to stays of less than 180 days. From January 1, 2018, the tax on temporary housing is 10.25 percent.
(3) General Excise Tax: Hawaii has no sales tax; instead we have a General Excise Tax (GET) , which is levied on all business activity, including short-term lettings. The current GET is 4.712 percent on Oahu.
(4) Property Tax: Property taxes in Hawaii vary by county.
Effective July 1, 2021, the City and County of Honolulu, which covers the island of Oahu, has a new property tax class: Bed and Breakfast (Class J). A legal Hawaii Airbnb on Oahu will likely fall into this class, and the tax is 0.65% of the assessed value. Read more about property taxes in Honolulu here . In short, a bed and breakfast is defined as a rental of less than 30 days where the homeowner or other operator is present during the stay, which is ultimately the definition of Airbnb in Hawaii. A typical B&B would be when someone rents out a room in their own home where they live. Short-term vacation rentals (TVR) are defined as «unhosted» or «whole house» rentals of less than 30 days when the owner or operator is away; TVRs are taxed in the hotel and resort class at a rate of 1.39%.
Property tax rates in Maui County, which includes the island of Molokai, are $11.08 per $1,000 of net assessed value for «short-term rentals» such as Airbnb, and $10.70 per $1,000 of net assessed value for zoned properties.» hotel and resort. as of July 1, 2020.
In Kauai County, the 2021 property tax rates for short-term occupancy are $9.85 per $1,000 of net assessed value for «vacation rental» properties and $10.85 for «hotels and resorts» zoned properties.
There are no taxes on residential rentals or short-term rentals in Hawaii County or the Big Island. The tax rates that may apply to Airbnb in Hawaii County are the hotel/resort property tax, which is $6.15 per taxable building valued at $1,000 from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.
Building laws and neighborhood regulations add additional rules to Airbnb listings.
Building and Housing Standards: The Oahu Building Code and Residential Code define minimum construction, maintenance, and health and safety requirements. Codes vary between residential and non-residential properties and by island, so refer to the codes for more information.
Other rules. There may be other contracts or rules that govern your potential Airbnb listing, such as lease agreements, HOA rules, or co-op or condominium rules. Read your lease agreements or contact the appropriate parties if applicable.
Complying with laws and regulations is no easy task.
The Appleseed Hawaii Center for Law and Economic Justice estimates that there are 23,000 vacation rentals in Hawaii , many of which are illegal.
Inspectors on each island try to enforce zoning laws. But with thousands of Airbnb listings and fewer than twenty zoning inspectors in each county, enforcement is problematic. Online advertising does not provide sufficient evidence that the Airbnb listing is illegal. Inspectors must obtain information such as the visitor’s name, length of stay, and compensation documents. Once the inspector has enough evidence and issues a violation notice, the Airbnb host has 30 days to make corrections or face a fine.
It’s also difficult for states to determine whether Airbnb hosts pay state taxes. Due to privacy laws, the state Department of Taxation is currently seeking a subpoena to collect host information from Airbnb.
Finally, on December 23, 2019, the City and County of Honolulu published an online form asking the public to report any suspected illegal Airbnb rentals. So far there have been many reports of inspectors following up on leads.
While there are several controversial and potentially changing rules governing Airbnb listings, the benefits of being an Airbnb host may outweigh the bureaucratic burden. For more information, consult an attorney, accountant, Planning and Permitting Department, Taxation Department , or other county or state agency.
Featured What is the best Hawaiian island to live in?
#Honolulu | #Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Oahu | #Oaxy, #Safety, #Hawaii, #Hawaii | #IslandofHawai’i, #Laws, #Investor, #Real Estate, #News, #Tips, www.Hawaii.Bio, Future of Hawaii Real Estate, Land in Hawaii, How to Build a House, Property Tax, Lifestyle, Cost of Living in Hawaii What you need to know about Hawaii
Beautiful beaches. Lush landscapes. Fresh air. Bright sunsets. Towering mountains. Majestic waterfalls. They can be found on each of the four main inhabited islands of Hawaii, but each of these islands also has unique features and even its own nickname.
How many Hawaiian Islands are there? There are a total of 137 islands in the Hawaiian chain. Hawaii is generally recognized by its eight main islands, seven of the eight of which are inhabited: Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe.
When moving to Hawaii , you may be wondering which island to live on. Not only do each of the islands have different geographic features, but they also have different amenities, local governments, history, culture, and cost of living . Discover Hawaii’s five most populous islands—Hawaii, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, and Kauai—before deciding which island suits your lifestyle.
Why move to the Big Island (Hawaii Island)?
The Island of Hawaii, known locally as the Big Island, is the largest geographical island in Hawaii and the United States. It is the southeasternmost island and also the newest island with an active volcano, which continues to add more land to make the Big Island even larger. Potential buyers will find that home prices are lower on the Big Island and there is much more land available. However, changeable weather and lack of infrastructure in some areas can be a challenge for the less adventurous home buyer.
Nickname: Big Island Capital: Hilo Population (2010): 185,079 Area: 4,028 square miles Density: 45 people per square mile Highest point: Mauna Kea (13,796 feet) Average sales price of single-family homes (April 2020 yr): median $365,000 Condo sales price (April 2020): $349,900.
Fun facts
- Lake Waiau, located just below the summit of Mauna Kea, is the only high-altitude lake in the state of Hawaii.
- The Big Island has a green sand beach. It’s called Papkolea, Mahana Beach.
- Pele’s hair can be found on the Big Island. Pele, the goddess of fire, spews out lava, which in turn forms thin threads of volcanic glass. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to the most active volcano in the world, Kilauea.
Story
Stories say that the legendary Polynesian navigator Hawai’iloa was the first to discover the island of Hawaii, hence the island’s name. Other stories say that the island is named after the kingdom of the gods and goddesses, Hawaiian.
Towards the end of the eighteenth century, Captain James Cook, an English explorer, sailed to the Hawaiian Islands and named them the Sandwich Islands. After sharing his «discovery» of the Hawaiian Islands with his compatriots, he was later killed on the Big Island in Kealakekua Bay.
The Big Island was the home of Kamehameha the Great, who united most of the Hawaiian Islands in 1795 after years of war. He renamed the island chain after his home island of Hawaii.
Weather
The Big Island has eleven of the world’s thirteen sublimates, meaning whether you want it wet, dry, hot or cold—even snow—you can find it.
The Kailua-Kona side is hot as the vog (volcanic emissions of sulfur dioxide and other volcanic gases) from the active Kilauea volcano absorbs the sun’s rays. Additionally, Kilauea continues to erupt, leaving some homes that are often priced right at risk from lava flows. The leeward side is hot and dry, sometimes there are droughts and even forest fires. If you have breathing problems, it is not recommended to live on the leeward side of the Big Island.
The highlands and eastern part where Hilo is located have a lot of rain and mold. This side also has a history of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Infrastructure
Hawaii County is the governing body of the Big Island. There is an excellent bus system that runs throughout the island and the roads are well maintained. The historic city of Hilo, as well as the popular tourist town of Kona, offer parks, bike paths, and convenient downtown areas with plenty of shopping.
Rush hour traffic is a problem along the 10-mile stretch between Keaau and Pahoa in Puna County, often exacerbated by construction delays. Additionally, with the exception of the main cities of Hilo and Kailua-Kona, most of the Big Island uses private rainwater harvesting systems, meaning that if it doesn’t rain, you may not have running water.
Some other infrastructure shortcomings are that Hilo and Kona do not have trash pickup or home delivery of mail. This means you’ll have to make trips to the landfill and the post office if you live in a rural area.
Safety and security
The Big Island is quite safe and there is nowhere for criminals to hide. Several major violent crimes occur, such as murders or armed robberies. The spirit of aloha is present on the Big Island, where neighbors look out for each other through Neighborhood Watch programs. However, the Big Island has a problem with drugs and petty theft. Home robberies are quite common in South Hilo, Puna County and the Hamakua Coast, as well as car thefts.
Why move to Maui?
The second largest and third most populous island, Maui was once home to sugarcane and pineapple plantations, but has now become an ever-growing island attracting tourists, with plenty of activities, beautiful beaches and scenery. The housing market on Maui is hot — with prices comparable to Oahu and few average days on market.
Nickname: The Valley Isle Capital: Wailuku Population (2010): 144,444 Area: 727 square miles Density: 198 people per square mile Highest point: Haleakala (10,023 feet) Average sales price of single-family homes (April 2020 year): $754,523 Condo price (April 2020): $602,494.
Fun facts
- The road to Hana is 45 miles long with 59 bridges and more than 600 hairpin turns, as well as lush jungle and countless cascading waterfalls.
- Lahaina was the original capital of Hawaii until it was renamed Honolulu in 1850.
- Haleakala is the world’s largest dormant volcano at 10,023 feet above sea level.
Story
Polynesians from Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands first arrived on Maui perhaps around 400 AD, although there is no exact date. Polynesian settlers followed the kupu system, as on most islands, and became farmers and fishermen.
In the early years there were three kingdoms on Maui: Lahaina, Hana and Waikulu. There have been many wars and conquests over the years, one of the last battles being Kamehameha’s conquest of Great Maui in 1795 to unite the islands.
After English explorers mapped the Hawaiian Islands and shared news of Hawaii’s rich lands with the world, Maui became home to whalers and Christian missionaries. Later sugar plantations consumed life on Maui for nearly a century, with the last 36,000-acre Alexander & Baldwin sugar plantation closing in 2016.
Weather
Maui’s weather varies throughout the island due to its proximity to the coastline, varying elevations, and varying trade winds in the valleys and slopes.
Central Maui, with the cities of Kahului and Wailuku, generally has consistent warm temperatures throughout the year with dry breezes; Central Maui can also be sweltering at times due to precipitation. The downwind side, which includes Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Lahaina, Kaanapali and Kapalua, is typically drier, with warmer daytime temperatures—up to 92 degrees—and the least precipitation. On the windward side, Paia, Haiku, Keanae, Hana and Kipahulu experience heavier rainfall and northeasterly trade winds. The northern part of Maui includes Makawao, Pukalani, Kula and the main mountain Haleakala. At elevations between 1,700 and 4,500 feet, temperatures are milder (70 to 80 degrees) during the day and cooler at night.
Infrastructure
Maui’s infrastructure, managed by Maui County, which also administers the less populated islands of Lanai and Molokai, was initially financed by sugar and pineapple plantations. The federal government helped build the county’s infrastructure from 1959 until the mid-1970s, and since then under state and county control, Maui residents have continued to desire infrastructure improvements.
Although Maui has sewage, water, roads, public transportation, parks, solid waste, police and fire infrastructure, much of it was built many years ago. Water supply infrastructure is in poor to fair condition, with many roads in need of repair. The Maui bus system is operated by a private company, Roberts Hawaii, and has a limited number of commuter services. Maui is in the process of constructing and expanding the Maui Central Landfill and developing new park facilities.
Safety and security
You might be wondering, is Maui safe? The island receives around 3 million visitors each year and is generally safe for both tourists and residents. It’s no surprise that the ocean environment is dangerous, especially on Maui, which has one of the largest waves in the world, Peahi or Jaws. People on Maui should be aware of rogue waves as well as strong currents. Maui’s trails, waterfalls, and vast landscapes are breathtaking, but also dangerous as people are known to get lost. Violent crime is not common on Maui, but like other islands, petty theft does occur from time to time.
Why move to Lanai?
As the sixth largest inhabited Hawaiian island by geographic size, Lanai is 18 miles at its greatest width. Only 2% of the island is owned by the state of Hawaii or private residents, and the remaining 98% is owned by Oracle Corporation founder and chairman Larry Ellison. Lanai is the island to live on if you’re looking for a small community with plenty of dirt roads, picturesque beaches, and the charm of old Hawaiian pineapple plantations. However, you need a little luck to buy one of the few RVs available!
Nickname: Pineapple Island. Largest settlement: Lanai city. Population (2010): 3,135 Area: 140 square miles. Density: 23 people per square mile. Highest point: Lana’ihale (3,366 feet).
Fun facts
- There are no traffic lights on Lanai. There is one K-12 public school and one hospital serving the entire island.
- Throughout the Hawaiian Islands, Lanai was King Kamehameha’s favorite fishing spot.
- Lanai is known as “Pineapple Island” because it was once home to a plantation that produced 75 percent of the world’s pineapples!
Story
According to local Hawaiian legend, Lanai was once ruled by the god of nightmares for thousands of years. The reign of the nightmare god ended when the Maui teen leader killed the nightmare god. He then lit a fire to signal that the people of Maui could finally come to the island and settle it.
When Native Hawaiians inhabited Lanai, they established fish ponds and taro farms, and the people of Lanai enjoyed relatively quiet years until King Kamehameha I took control, killing many of Lanai’s former inhabitants.
In the early 1800s, Chinese farmer Wong Tse Chun used part of Lanai’s land to grow sugar. In the mid-1800s, a group of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints obtained a lease at the ahupuaa of Palawai on Lanai. In 1963, Walter M. Gibson bought the land for $3,000 and registered it in his name, using it for ranching and later sugar cane farming, which attracted hundreds of people from Japan to Lanai.
In 1922, James Dole bought the island and turned it into the world’s largest pineapple plantation, attracting workers from all over the world.
In 1959, when Hawaii became a state, Lanai became part of Maui County. With changing international economies and outsourcing leading to cheaper ways of producing pineapples, Dole Food Company’s plantations shrank and by 1992 the plantations closed.
In June 2012, Larry Ellison purchased Castle & Cooke’s 98 percent stake in Lanai for $300 million. He renovated the former hotel to create the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, which opened in April 2016. He also built a new water filtration system and reopened the public swimming pool in Lanai City, in addition to renovating and reopening the historic plantation. cinema. Ellison started hydroponic farming on Lanai and plans to create a sustainable community on Lanai.
Weather
In general, Lanai has pleasant, dry weather all year round. The island receives only about 37 inches of precipitation per year and temperatures range from 70 to 85 degrees, with higher elevation locations like Lanai City averaging about 72 degrees during the warmer months. Coastal spots like Manele Bay are usually about 10 degrees warmer, so you can shed your jacket and enjoy the beaches more comfortably.
Infrastructure
No traffic lights, one public school from kindergarten through 12th grade, and one hospital. The island is much smaller geographically and in population compared to the other Hawaiian Islands.
To get to Lanai there is an airport and a ferry from Maui. As for traveling around the island, you’ll need a four-by-four vehicle to get to most places. The city does not have a public transport system, but some hotels offer car or minibus services.
Although Lanai is not currently seeing much development, Larry Ellison proposed a plan to diversify the economy and add new jobs and residents in September 2019. Plans included creating a 200-acre industrial park near Lanai’s airport, as well as adding tripling the size of Lanai City — with a vision for a university, more housing, film studios and a tennis academy.
Safety and security
Lanai is an extremely safe place to live. With a population of only 3,000 people and mostly luxury tourism, it is difficult for crime to exist on Lanai. Lanai has a police station that is part of the Maui County Police Department.
Why move to Molokai?
Among the Hawaiian Islands, Molokai is known as the Friendly Island, and those who live there would consider it the best island to live. Remote Molokai has many longtime families and few visitors, making it one of the most secluded Hawaiian islands. Long flat fields, sea cliffs on the «back side», winding roads and small shops make Molokai a great place to call home. Most residents live off the land, growing food on the fertile soils, fishing and deer hunting.
Nickname: Friendly Island Largest settlement: Kaunakakai Population (2010): 7,345 Area: 260 square miles Density: 28 people per square mile Highest point: Kamakou (4,961 feet) Average sales price of single-family homes (April 2020) ): $250,000
Fun facts
- Kaunakakai Pier in the town of Kaunakakai is the longest pier in Hawaii. Continue to the end to see the reef and fish.
- Molokai has 4,000-foot sea cliffs that are the tallest in the world with secret coves and waterfalls.
- There are no traffic lights on Molokai.
Story
Polynesian settlers from the Marquesas, Tahiti, and other Pacific islands are said to have inhabited Molokai around 650 AD, with further migrations occurring in 700 AD. The neighboring islands of Maui and Oahu had little interaction with the people of Molokai in these early years, leading to decades of peace.
In the 18th century, internal conflicts occurred over fertile fishing groups, resulting in chiefs from Oahu taking control of Molokai. When King Maui conquered Oahu, Maui also came under Maui’s rule. Soon after, King Kamehameha the Great unified the Hawaiian Islands, including Molokai. King Kamehameha V had a country home on Kaunakakai Beach and a country estate with cattle, coconut groves, and deer ranching grounds.
The first Europeans to set foot on Molokai in 1786 were Captain George Dixon. Christian missionaries visited Molokai in the 1800s, and the first permanent missionary settled in Kalua’aha in 1832. Kalaupapa was a famous small town isolated by high cliffs on Molokai for people suffering from Hansen’s disease or leprosy. In 1873, Father Damien de Wester arrived in Kalaupapa, leaving a lasting legacy of caring for leprosy victims in Kalaupapa.
Molokai owned the Meyer Sugar Refinery for nearly 30 years, run by Rudolf Meie of Germany, who also produced wheat, potatoes, coffee, and corn for export and worked with King Kamehameha V to control the Molokai ranch lands and the Kalaupapa leper settlement.
Weather
Molokai has favorable weather all year round. The average temperature is around 75 degrees and rarely rises above 85. During the winter season, which typically runs from December to March, evening temperatures drop into the low 60s and there are often a few rainy days. Spring, summer and autumn have warm days with cool trade winds in the evenings. Without trade winds, the heat and humidity can be intense.
Infrastructure
Molokai has a small Molokai General Hospital, which is open 24/7, as well as a community health center and a family health center. Molokai has four public elementary schools and a public middle and high school. There is a charter school and one private school on the island.
Administered by the County of Maui, Molokai has county and state parks and protected areas, including Palau State Park, Molokai Forest Preserve, Halawa Beach Park, and limited-access Kalaupapa National Historical Park.
The island has one two-lane highway running east-west and a small bus network. There is also a small open airport with mostly 8-seater planes arriving daily from the neighboring Hawaiian Islands.
Safety and security
Molokai are small and everyone knows everyone. If you visit Molokai, people will notice. Although Molokai’s unemployment rate has historically been high and most people live off the land or work part-time, there are relatively low rates of crime or theft. People who live on Molokai or visit Molokai can rest easy at night knowing that their neighbors are friendly and crime is low.
Why move to Oahu?
Almost a million people live on Oahu. It has many neighborhoods, majestic scenery, and almost all the amenities of a mainland US city. Oahu has the world famous North Shore with its legendary surf sports, as well as Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, military installations and the main campus of the University of Hawaii.
Single-family home prices on Oahu are the highest of any island, and the housing market is incredibly competitive. With thousands of condominiums available, there are cheaper housing options for those entering the housing market. If you want to experience paradise with the amenities you’d expect, Oahu might be the island for you.
Nickname: The Gathering Place Population (2010): 953,207 Capital: Honolulu Area: 596 square miles Density: 1,597 people per square mile Highest point: Mount Kahala (4,003 feet) Average sales price of single-family homes (April 2020) .): $809,000 Median Condo Sale Price (April 2020): $450,000.
Fun facts
- Waikiki is Hawaii’s tourist mecca with more than 100 hotels.
- Kualoa Ranch has been the location for many Hollywood films, including Jurassic Park, and prime time television shows such as Hawaii Five-0.
- The NFL Pro Bowl was held at Aloha Stadium from 1980 to 2009 and again from 2011 to 2015.
Story
Like the other islands, it is believed that Oahu was first settled by the Tahitians around 300 AD, although the exact dates are unknown. In 1795, Kamehameha I conquered Oahu after the bloody Battle of Nuuanu, unifying the Hawaiian Islands.
In 1845, the royal capital moved from Lahaina on Maui to Honolulu, which remains the state capital. “Iolani Palace was built, which is still the only palace in the United States. With the arrival of Captain Cook in the Hawaiian Islands and the expansion of sugar and pineapple plantations, the monarchy became increasingly dominated by foreign interests. Queen Liliuokalani was deposed in 1893 and the island chain was annexed in 1898 by the United States.
Another important historical event that occurred on Oahu was the Japanese invasion of Pearl Harbor during World War II.
Weather
If your definition of great weather is sunny and warm, then Oahu has ideal weather conditions. Honolulu and Waikiki average about 80 degrees year-round with only 20 to 40 inches of precipitation. Along the Waianae coast there is less rain and temperatures may be slightly warmer. There is more rain on the windward side or on the east coast; however, it could be raining one minute and a stunning rainbow appearing the next.
Infrastructure
The County of Honolulu governs the island of Oahu. While traffic on Oahu ranks among the worst in the United States, the island boasts reliable infrastructure. The bus offers service throughout the island, and the Honolulu Railroad promises to offer convenient transportation from the west side of the island to «the city» or Honolulu. Water, sewer, and garbage collection are offered in every area of Oahu, with only some of the more remote locations having pit cesspools. Oahu has many parks, including dog parks, bike trails, and botanical gardens.
Safety and security
Like other islands, Oahu is also considered a safe place compared to other cities on the mainland. However, thefts are becoming more and more common, including car thefts and raids.
Since January 2020, robberies have increased by 52 percent compared to the previous year, with 79 robberies reported to the Honolulu Police Department in four weeks. Homicides are rare, but the same January 2020 report reported a 20 percent increase in gun crimes. In general, Oahu residents can feel safe walking most streets at night, but they should be vigilant in certain areas and neighborhoods and always take precautions to keep belongings safe.
Why move to Kauai?
The oldest island in the Hawaiian chain, Kauai is known for its lush landscapes, jagged Na Pali Coast mountains and cascading waterfalls. Quaint country towns add to the laid-back atmosphere of this less populated small island. Real estate on Kauai is competitive with single-family home prices comparable to Maui or Oahu, and supply is low. If you want to live the old Hawaiian lifestyle full of aloha and tranquility, Kauai might be the island for you.
Nickname: Garden Island Capital: Lihue Population (2010): 66,921 Area: 552 square miles Density: 121 people per square mile Highest point: Kawaikini (5,243 feet) Average sales price of single-family homes (April 2020) ): $725,000 Median Sale Price Condo Price (April 2020): $499,500
Fun facts
- Kauai is the legendary home of the Menehune, or the mythical Hawaiian race of small people who practiced construction and engineering.
- By law, buildings cannot be built higher than a palm tree, which contributes to the environmental friendliness of the island.
- Kauai Coffee is the largest coffee plantation in the United States.
Story
As the oldest island, Kauai has a unique history. The island’s first settlers are believed to have been the Marquesans and other Polynesians, who arrived around 500 AD, crossing the vast Pacific Ocean under the stars and trade winds. The first settlers lived off the land, growing taro, yams and bananas and enjoying abundant fresh water.
With the advent of Westerns in the late 1700s, Kauai became a common stop for sea travelers and missionaries. Kamehameha the Great had difficulty conquering Kauai and its neighboring island Niihau due to rebellions and disease outbreaks. But in 1810, Kamehameha and the king of Kauai, Kaumuali, came to a peace agreement in which Kauai joined the Kingdom of Hawaii with Kaumuali as its governor.
Beginning in the late 1800s, Kauai had many sugar plantations due to Kauai’s rich plains. In the early 1900s, pineapples came to Kapaa along with people from all over the world—Japan, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Spain, Germany, China and the Philippines—to work the plantations. Sugar and pineapples dominated the island for almost 100 years.
Weather
Kauai’s climate is generally humid and stable year-round, with average temperatures of 78 degrees in Lihue in February and 85 degrees in August. Kauai’s mountain ranges, such as Koki State Park, home to Hawaii’s «Grand Canyon,» are cold, with a record low of 29 degrees. Kauai tends to receive more rain and has had floods and hurricanes in the past that have caused damage to homes and hotels. Annual precipitation ranges from about 50 inches per year on the windward coast to less than 20 inches on the leeward side of the island.
Infrastructure
The County of Kauai administers the island of Kauai, as well as the «Forbidden Island» off its shore, Niihau. The infrastructure on Kauai has remained stagnant over the past decades, despite the growth of tourism. Two-way roads, one-way bridges, small parking lots, and a small public transportation system—the Kauai Bus—make getting around Kauai difficult. But Kauai is a small island, so you don’t have to go far.
The island’s drainage system leaves much to be desired, as Kauai lacks a drainage master plan, which has led to flooding and home loss over the past decade. The water systems were originally built by sugar plantations and later expanded by the county. Wastewater systems are available in Waimea, Hanapepe, Lihue, Wailua and Kapaa, but public wastewater systems are not available in many rural areas such as Princeville, Kekaha or Koki.
Safety and security
With its small population and geographic area, Kauai is one of the safest islands. There is minimal crime on Kauai other than petty theft. However, the surf and one-way bridges create danger, so always be alert when swimming or driving on Kauai’s narrow roads. You shouldn’t visit remote waterfalls and hiking trails unless you’re prepared or don’t know the area, as explorers have gotten lost in Kauai’s lush landscapes in the past.
Why move to Niihau?
Niihau is an island that you need an invitation from the Robinson family to visit, hence the nickname «Forbidden Island». Since Niihau is known to have stunning pristine beaches and abundant wildlife, it can be tempting to try to buy property there. However, there is no property to buy on Niihau, and it is almost impossible to even visit Niihau.
Nickname: Forbidden Island. Largest settlement: Puuwai. Population (2010): 170. Area: 69.5 square miles. Density: 1.9 people per square mile. Highest point: Mount Paniau, 1,250 feet.
Fun facts
Residents of Niihau speak almost exclusively Hawaiian.
No one knows exactly how many people live on Niihau, as the Robinson family is not required to report population numbers.
Former Niihau residents say there are many rules, including no alcohol or weapons, no long hair or earrings for men, and no church attendance on Sundays. Breaking the rules could mean eviction from the island by the Robinson family.
Story
Niihau was once ruled by Hawaiian ali’i or chiefs, and many battles and marriages have marked its history and established many rulers. Despite numerous attempts, Kamehameha was never able to completely conquer Niihau by force. In 1810, Kamehameha gathered many fighters, and rather than fight, Niihau’s ruler, Kaumauli, surrendered. And after Kamehameha’s death, his widow, Ka’ahumanu, married Kaumauli’i, further solidifying Niihau’s presence in the united Kingdom of Hawaii.
In 1864, Elizabeth McHutchison Sinclair purchased Niihau from King Kamehameha V for $10,000 in gold. The king made the family promise that they would protect the island and its inhabitants from outside influence, and many generations later, the descendants of the Sinclair family keep this promise to this day. Brothers Bruce and Keith Robinson currently run Niihau.
Weather
Niihau is drier than the other islands, with less rainfall from trade winds due to its low altitude and location next to rainy Kauai. Historical droughts have been recorded on Niihau several times. Average temperatures are 70-80 degrees year round.
Infrastructure
In general, Niihau has no roads, cars, shops, restaurants, internet, electricity or indoor plumbing. Residents use traditional Hawaiian methods of hunting and fishing, as has been done for hundreds of years and passed down by their ancestors.
For employment, residents collect rare small red shells and turn them into expensive leis, while other people are hired to work at the Robinson Ranch, where they receive a salary and free housing.
Safety and security
Since access to Niihau is by invitation only and everyone who lives there is mostly family, there is no documented crime.
So which Hawaiian island is best to live in?
Each of the Hawaiian Islands is unique, offering varied weather, amenities and different cultures. If you like lush scenery and the laid-back old Hawaiian lifestyle, Kauai might be right for you. If you prefer convenience, city life and exciting surf, you might like Oahu. If you like rural life but also enjoy some amenities and tourists along with beautiful scenery, Maui could be your place. And if you want space and an adventurous spirit, the Big Island might be for you.
If you want to live in a friendly countryside and try an eco-friendly lifestyle, Molokai could be your island. However, if you want to experience the atmosphere of old pineapple plantations and are hoping for more sustainable initiatives from Larry Ellison, you might like life on Lanai. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and escape the outside world, Ni’ihau may be for you, but by invitation only.
Whichever island you choose to live in, the beauty of Hawaii and the spirit of aloha will reside there.
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Taxes on rental income in Oahu, Hawaii: GET, TAT and OT
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If you own rental property in Hawaii, you are required to pay certain taxes. These taxes vary depending on which island you have your property on. This article is an overview of the taxes you must pay if you own rental property on Oahu. Please note that the taxes you pay will vary depending on whether the property is a long term or short term rental. Additionally, if you use a full-service property management company, the company may collect and pay these taxes on your behalf.
General excise tax (GET): 4.5%
Instead of a sales tax, Hawaii has a GET, which is assessed on all business activity. For rental properties on Oahu, the GET is currently 4.5% and must be paid on gross rental income and can be passed on to the tenant. It is important that you pay this tax according to the required filing frequency. Depending on your tax liability, taxes will be paid monthly, quarterly or semi-annually. You must file (Form G-45) and pay your taxes no later than the 20th day of the month following the close of the filing period. You must also file an annual return (Form G-49). This must be done on the 20th day of the fourth month following the close of the previous tax year. For most people, Form G-49 must be filed no later than April 20 of the following year.
Temporary residence tax (TAT): 10.25%
If the property is used as ‘temporary’ accommodation (short term rental) you will need to pay VAT. The State of Hawaii defines «temporary» placement as:
“Temporary housing is a room, apartment, house, condominium, beach house, hotel room, suite or similar dwelling unit rented to a temporary person for less than 180 consecutive days.”
The TAT is levied on gross rentals or gross rental proceeds, which are any amounts received by the operator in cash, goods or services for the rental of temporary housing without any deduction for expenses. If you charge guests a cleaning fee, that fee is considered revenue and must be included in your TAT calculations. TAT must be paid within the same time frame as your GET payments.
Is income ever exempt from value added tax?
There are situations where you are not required to pay TAT taxes in Hawaii. If your guests meet the following requirements, you may be exempt from TAT:
- Low-income tenants who receive rent from the state or federal government and whose rental periods are less than 60 days.
- Housing facilities for military personnel permanently stationed in Hawaii, including military personnel who are receiving temporary housing benefits while seeking housing in Hawaii or awaiting transfer outside of Hawaii.
- Housing is provided by non-profit corporations or associations organized for religious, charitable or educational purposes.
- Housing provided to foreign diplomats and consular officers holding cards issued or authorized by the United States Department of State granting them an exemption from government taxes.
Oahu Temporary Occupancy Tax (OTAT): 3%
The Oahu Transient Occupancy Tax (OTAT) is currently 3%. OTAT is imposed in addition to TAT. Taxpayers registered in the state and having a valid state TAT number will be considered registered for OTAT. Taxpayers subject to OTAT do not need to register separately with the city.
Important miscellaneous information:
- Operators must display a TAT registration certificate in each rented room, apartment or other temporary accommodation. Instead of publishing the certificate, you can post a notice informing the guest or tenant where the certificate can be verified.
- An out-of-state operator requires that there be a local person or entity on the island who can assist the tenant if necessary. You must include the name, telephone number and email address of your local contact person in the same location where your certificate of registration or notice is posted.
- There is no statute of limitations for GET or TAT. Therefore, it is very important that you make the appropriate payments on time.
This information is provided simply as an overview of the taxes applicable to owning investment property on Oahu. Please note that this information is subject to change and I am not a tax advisor. It is highly recommended that you consult with a qualified tax professional prior to purchasing investment property in Hawaii to obtain the most current tax information and how it may apply to you.
Looking for investment properties in Hawaii? Just call us at +1(808)666-9936 or click here. fill the form. We are here to serve you and look forward to helping you achieve your real estate goals.
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New restrictions on short-term rentals and parking in Honolulu
#Airbnb in Hawaii, #Honolulu #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #RealEstate
A city proposal aimed at restricting short-term rentals on Oahu cleared another hurdle at a Honolulu City Council committee meeting on March 23, 2022.
The latest version of Bill 41 prohibits short-term rental bookings of less than 90 days (down from the current 30 days) in most areas of the island.
New restrictions, fees and fines will also be introduced. The Zoning Board Chairman’s Committee’s draft has passed its third reading in the Zoning Committee and now heads to the full board for a final vote.
Under the bill, reservations for rentals of less than 90 days would be allowed only on Oahu in resort areas, as well as in certain residential areas of the Waikiki mauka of Kuhio, in areas near the Ko Olina Resort, and in the single-unit area near Turtle Bay Resort and the North Shore.
The bill would prohibit unregistered landlords from advertising nightly rates, require non-conforming rental units in residential areas to limit visitors to four adults, and require an off-street parking space for each rental room.
The bill has received support from the hotel industry and residents who want to keep vacationers out of residential areas. But it has also drawn sharp criticism from short-term rental landlords, who argue that a law passed in 2019 that would have allowed the licensing of 1,700 new short-term rental units was fairer.
The new law will not correct the existing regulation
Mainland tourists don’t care that island locals have to deal with a housing crisis and homelessness .
Critics of the bill also expressed concern that the 90-day reservation period would unnecessarily burden residents traveling between islands, college students, traveling health care workers and others who do not want to stay in hotels. Exceptions for these groups have been addressed but are not included in the current version.
The initial version of the bill introduced by Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration drew strong reactions. As written, it required reservations of at least 180 days and required landlords of short-term rentals in condo-hotel buildings to hire a hotel management company.
The administration’s original proposal also allowed short-term rentals in residential areas of the Gold Coast near Diamond Head; requires rental operators to notify property owners within 250 feet that the dwelling is being used for rental purposes; and obtain additional insurance coverage.
The bill would impose an initial registration fee of $1,000 and a renewal fee of $500 for short-term rentals.
Under the new law, landlords will already pay higher taxes on temporary housing, higher property taxes and could face increased fines. The purpose of the levy should be to cover the cost of public services provided.
The new law also proposed to prohibit tourists in rented cars from parking on public streets in the city. Now any property owner can complain about the occupied parking lot near their home.
All of her amendments were adopted into the out-of-committee version of the bill.
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Coinbase And Other Exchanges Relist XRP After Court Ruling Against SEC
US crypto exchanges Coinbase, Kraken, Gemini, Crypto.com and Bitstamp have announced to relist XRP after a US federal court ruled that selling the token on exchanges did not constitute an investment contract.
The entire ruling was not in favor of Ripple as Judge Torres made it clear that institutional sale of the tokens did violate federal securities laws.
The price of XRP shot up as much as 70% after Ripple scored a partial win against the US Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) on Thursday.
After the federal court’s ruling, US crypto exchanges announced plans to relist the layer one token.
The leading US-based crypto exchange Coinbase announced in a tweet on Thursday that they will re-enable trading for XRP (XRP) on the XRP network.
«Once sufficient supply of this asset is established trading on our XRP-USD, XRP-USDT and XRP-EUR trading pairs will launch in phases,» the crypto exchange added.
Ripple Ruling Deals a Blow to SEC’s Effort to Regulate Crypto
Judge’s decision is a boost for other crypto firms that claim regulators have too aggressively policed market
Bitcoin surged on Friday morning in Asia to breach the US$31,000 resistance level, after Ripple Labs achieved a partial victory in its three-year lawsuit against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The regulator accused Ripple of offering XRP as an unregistered security. Along with Bitcoin, Ether and all other top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies logged considerable gains, with XRP spearheading the rally with a rise of over 70%. U.S. equity futures traded flat in the Asia time zone on Friday as investors await earnings reports from major U.S. banks. Thursday’s U.S. producer price index (PPI) has added to a sense that inflation is slowing in the country.
XRP ruling provides crypto market boost
Bitcoin climbed 3.45% over the last 24 hours to US$31,463 as of 07:50 a.m. in Hong Kong for a weekly gain of 4.93%, according to data from CoinMarketCap. The world’s largest cryptocurrency reached a high of US$31,814 early Friday morning, the highest price since June 2022.
In a summary judgement on Thursday, New York Southern District Court Judge Analisa Torres ruled that Ripple’s programmatic sales of the XRP token on public exchanges do not constitute securities, marking a partial victory for Ripple with the SEC. The regulator first sued the San Francisco-based financial technology firm on the grounds that XRP constitutes a security in 2020.
The verdict came with a critical caveat, however. The court ruled that Ripple’s XRP sales to institutional investors did violate securities laws.
Nonetheless, Ripple’s Chief Executive Officer Stuart Alderoty called the judgement “a huge win” in a Friday tweet.
Standard Chartered boosts 2024 bitcoin forecast to $120,000
New York, July 11 — The value of top cryptocurrency bitcoin could reach $50,000 this year and $120,000 by the end of 2024 Standard Chartered said on Monday, predicting the recent jump in its price could encourage bitcoin «miners» to hoard more of the supply.
Standard Chartered published a $100,000 end-2024 forecast for bitcoin back in April on the view the so-called «crypto winter» was over, but one of the bank’s top FX analysts, Geoff Kendrick, said there was now 20% «upside» to that call.
Standard Chartered said the rationale for its predicted price rise was that miners who mint the 900 new bitcoins produced each day around the world would soon need to sell fewer to cover their costs — mostly electricity to power super-computers.
Kendrick estimated that miners have recently been selling 100% of their new coins. If the price hits $50,000 though, they would probably only sell 20-30%.
«It is the equivalent of miners reducing the amount of bitcoins they sell per day to just 180-270 from 900 currently.»
«Over a year, that would reduce miner selling from 328,500 to a range of 65,700-98,550 – a reduction in net BTC supply of roughly 250,000 bitcoins a year.»
Next April or May the total number of bitcoins able to be mined each day is also set to halve due to an inbuilt supply and issuance mechanism that gradually limits supply to maintain its appeal.
Predictions of sky-high valuations have been commonplace during bitcoin’s past rallies. A Citi analyst said in November 2020 that bitcoin could climb as high as $318,000 by the end of 2022. It closed last year down about 65% at $16,500.
Hawaii becomes the first US state to ban shark fishing
#Shark #Safety, #Hawaii, #Laws, #News, #Advice, www.Hawaii.Bio
Hawaii banned the intentional capture or killing of sharks in public waters effective Jan. 1, 2022, to protect marine ecosystems. The online publication PlantBasedNews reported this on February 11, citing data from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).
“We are well aware of how important sharks are to maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. We also recognize their importance in the cultural practices and beliefs of Native Hawaiians,” said DLNR Division of Water Resources Chief Brian Neilson.
The law applies to all 40 species of sharks that live in the oceans surrounding the Hawaiian Islands.
Shark populations are vital to ocean health. Sharks are apex predators, meaning they play a key role in supporting species below them on the food chain.
“They help eliminate the weak and sick, and maintain balance with competitors, helping to ensure species diversity.
As predators, they change the spatial habitat of their prey, which changes the feeding strategy and diet of other species. Through spatial control and abundance, sharks indirectly support seagrass and coral reef habitats,” explained ocean conservation organization Oceana.
The new law contains some caveats. For example, catching sharks for “public safety” is permitted if the DLNR grants permission to do so. Additionally, killing a shark in self-defense or defense of another person is also legal. Persons holding “special operating permits” issued by the DLNR are also exempt from this regulation.
Violation of the law will be punishable by “significant fines.” $500 for the first crime, $2 thousand for the second and $10 thousand for subsequent crimes.
Incredible emotions and adrenaline alone with the Sharks on Oahu
Bayliq All-in-One Liquid crypto investment private tracker
Bayliq, LLC. is an American technology company that develops the Bayliq mobile App. The world’s first app combines your assets from crypto exchange cold wallets, banking and cash into one safe and secure mobile app without collecting your personal data.
Bayliq is one of the early adopters of cryptocurrency. Our vision is to make cryptocurrency accessible to one and all as the world continues to accelerate towards global adoption.
We believe it is your fundamental right to control your money, data and identity. Thanks to blockchain technology and cryptocurrency, the future of the Internet will be more fair and equal for all.
Accelerate the World’s Cryptocurrency Transition with Bayliq
The basic version of the Bayliq application was created specifically in manual mode and without client verification. For more trust and security. Bayliq app users can log in with Apple, Gmail and transact in multiple cryptocurrencies with only a username (nickname) and password rather than juggling multiple keys and entering lengthy passphrases. The company keeps security at its core, and with its Bayliq Security Software, it allows others to take advantage of its decentralized approach to security.
As cryptocurrencies proliferate and decentralized financial ecosystems hurtle toward becoming household names, ease-of-use and security are rightfully among the top considerations among potential users.
The Bayliq app does not want to know your balance on crypto exchanges, cold wallet or in your pocket. This allows you to absolutely securely enter all data about your assets.
The Bayliq App is also designed in such a way that newcomers to the crypto industry cannot lose money.
A new client can create the first investment portfolio. And every day, watch the difference in fluctuations in the exchange rate of coins.
A new client should quickly get used to the high volatility of the crypto industry. And as soon as the user is ready to invest his first capital, he will be able to choose the best crypto exchanges in the world or in his region.
The Bayliq App connects to over 100 of the largest crypto exchanges in the world.
In the future, the client may upgrade to a paid version of Bayliq Pro, whereby investors will no longer have to enter their trades themselves. From now on, the app will sync them automatically.
Bayliq considers all exchanges separately and shows individual and the total balance, as well as each asset showing the balance in crypto and fiat equivalent at 50 different world currency rates.
Not all crypto exchanges in the world have the same coins on their platform. Thus, the user has from 3 to 12 crypto exchange applications on the phone. And 1-3 more secret “cold wallet” balances plus a bank checking and savings account. And during the day, the user had to switch between many applications, but did not see the overall balance.
Bayliq app solves this problem!
As such, Bayliq is the first app in the world to offer its users a real-time overview of the earnings from their “cold wallets’ , cash, and cryptocurrencies. Today, Bayliq has been gaining popularity in the world users in over 61 countries, making the app one of the fastest growing players in the market.
In this way, Bayliq eliminates the need for constant switching across multiple applications or platforms.
In the US, globally increasingly popular investors are already getting a clear overview of the latest developments in their cryptocurrencies, investments, through an app on their smartphones. Today, the usability is getting even more convenient as Bayliq is the first app on the market that also offers connection to trading any crypto assets from a single app.
Connection with more than 2000+ cryptocurrencies and more than 135+ reliable crypto exchanges in the world.
The new feature allows you to automatically import transactions into the user’s portfolio overview if the client had them in electronic format.
Finding ways to make newly developed technology easy for people to use is an important component in its widespread adoption.
Bayliq the company that keeps security at its core, knows this and aims to make buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrency to view balance more than ever with its noncustodial app.
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Hawaii Investor’s Guide
#Rental #Businesses, #Hawaii, #Investor, #Real Estate, #News, #Advice, www.Hawaii.Bio
Investing in real estate can be like playing Monopoly: buy real estate; avoid bankruptcy; receive rental income; buy more real estate; protection against inflation; and see cash flow. Real estate is an excellent investment for a variety of reasons, and Hawaii real estate has historically been an excellent choice for a portfolio.
Why should anyone invest in real estate in Hawaii?
Here are some reasons.
You earn more money
When purchasing real estate, you typically only have to put down a percentage of the amount, allowing you to make more money with less debt, also known as leverage (loan from the bank).
For example, if you purchase $500,000 worth of shares, you will pay $500,000. However, to buy a Waikiki condo for $500,000, you may only need to pay $100,000 (20% downpayment). If prices increase by 5%, the price increase of $500,000 would be $25,000.
The Waikiki apartment cost you $100,000 to earn $25,000, but the stock cost you $500,000 to earn $25,000; it is the leverage that real estate investing provides.
Depending on your lender’s requirements, your financial situation and assets, a different amount of interest advance will be required. However, even with multimillion-dollar properties, investors usually don’t have to pay the entire price.
Real estate resists inflation.
Over time, prices tend to rise, and you won’t be able to buy as much for a dollar as you used to. Do you remember enjoying snacks for a few cents in Honolulu stores? Ask an old Hawaiian about the stores and prices many years ago and you won’t remember.
Because properties are purchased at a specific price and monthly mortgage payments are typically fixed, the price you pay for your real estate investment will not rise over time to counteract inflation. However, the rent (Rent) you charge may increase with inflation, increasing your overall income.
Homes in Hawaii have always had long-term value.
Appreciation or capital gain is the increase in the value of a property over time. While the Hawaii real estate market has its ups and downs, historically it has always been on a steady upswing and the downturns are not as steep as those on the US mainland. Since 1972, long-term average annual growth has hovered around 6 percent for a single-family home and 5.4 percent for a condominium.
Average home sales prices in Hawaii have continued to rise in recent years.
In June 2019, the median sales price for a single-family home was $800,000, and in May 2021 it was $978,000. For condominiums, the average sales price was $432,500 in June 2019 and $457,750 in May 2021. Hawaii Real Estate Price Statistics .
In Hawaii, the sales price graph always seems to find a new peak.
You can invest in a fixed top and make a profit.
While flipping a home in Hawaii is a risk that can be very profitable, another idea is to buy a home as an owner. Lower interest rates are available for owner-occupiers, and you can make cost-effective home equity improvements without rushing to resale deadlines.
Once the renovation is complete, your property will likely increase in value, giving you the opportunity to invest more in the future, such as renting or buying another property.
You can have cash flow from rental income.
Cash flow is the income generated from rent after paying expenses such as taxes, insurance, utilities and depreciation. This money is like an extra salary each month and can increase as rents rise with the market. Rents typically increase in Hawaii, so your monthly cash flow may increase over time.
As of July 2021, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Honolulu is around $2,000. If you close the deal and buy a one-bedroom apartment for $250,000 cash, with utilities and maintenance of $1,100 per month, you will receive cash flow of $900 per month. If you had a mortgage after the 20% reduction at closing, your mortgage could be around €900 dollars, and with maintenance and utilities you would break even, while also getting your apartment appraised and hoping for an increase in the average rent.
Because mortgage payments are high in Hawaii, it is not uncommon for homeowners to rent rooms to cover the mortgage. While living with a roommate may not be for everyone, it can help a homeowner build equity and save money for other investments.
You can take tax deductions every year.
The benefits of real estate tax season are numerous: mortgage interest deductions, cash flow from investment properties, operating expenses, property taxes, insurance and depreciation (even as the property gains value, etc.). accountant about the tax benefits of your Hawaii real estate investments.
When selling real estate, you can use a 1031 exchange to defer capital gains taxes.
A 1031 exchange from the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) is another great tax benefit that allows investors to sell real estate and buy other similar real estate—fully tax-deferred. For example, a family home purchased in 1940 for $40,000 may be worth $1,000,000 today. If you were to simply sell the family home, you would have to pay capital gains tax (about 20 percent) on the $960,000 (less improvements).
With Code 1031, you can take the money you receive from the sale and invest it in another property on a tax-deferred basis. Investing capital gains from this family home allows for portfolio diversification, potential rental income and appreciation, as well as huge tax savings.
Your real estate portfolio can generate stable income and contribute to a comfortable retirement.
Have you built up your real estate portfolio over the years? Are you getting a stable rental income after your mortgage and other expenses? You may have already paid off your mortgage. Property investments and rental income can provide a stable and reliable source of income that will help for many years and into retirement.
If you plan and buy correctly, real estate investments in Hawaii are generally safe and profitable. And if you or someone else lives in the property, it can also provide years of happiness and memories.
How to buy cryptocurrency in Hawaii?
#Crypto, #Honolulu #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #Hawaii
Purchasing cryptocurrency is legal in Hawaii, although not every cryptocurrency exchange on the market is licensed to do business with Hawaii residents.
In 2020, the Hawaii Division of Financial Institutions launched a two-year pilot program called the Digital Currency Innovation Lab (DCIL), which allowed 16 crypto companies to do business with the government until June 2022 and was extended until June 2024.
While you can’t use some of the larger exchanges like Binance.US or Coinbase in Hawaii, you still have access to over a dozen licensed and regulated exchanges.
How to buy cryptocurrency in Hawaii through an exchange
Hawaii’s two-year pilot program has approved 15 crypto businesses, five of which are actual crypto exchanges that you can use to buy, sell or trade crypto in the state.
Step 1: Compare and register on a crypto exchange
When comparing exchanges, look at things like the number of coins supported, payment methods supported, and any additional features you’d like to use, such as an NFT marketplace or earning center.
- bitFlyer
- Bitstamp
- CEX.IO
- Crypto.com
- Gemini
- Kraken
- Public.com
- Bayliq 100 crypto exchanges of the world in one application
- PayPal payments and transfer of fiat money, opportunity to buy cryptocurrency
2. Register using your government ID.
Once you select an exchange, keep in mind that all licensed exchanges in New York are required to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.
These rules require that you provide government-issued identification, Social Security number, and other important information to verify your identity when registering for an account.
3. Buy coins.
Once you have created an account on the exchange, select and purchase the coins you want.
Once you have made a purchase, please understand that you are not technically the full owner of the coins or tokens you purchased. Instead, the exchange stores them on your behalf.
To fully own your crypto assets, you must move them from your exchange account to a non-custodial crypto wallet. This ensures that you are in complete control of your funds and eliminates the risks associated with storing your coins on an exchange.
4. Get a crypto wallet
A non-custodial crypto wallet is a type of software or combination of hardware and software that helps you store the private keys to your crypto assets. You can think of private keys as the password to your cryptography.
When you purchase a crypto asset on a centralized exchange such as Coinbase, the private keys for your crypto asset are stored in a wallet on that exchange. This type of wallet is often called a custodial wallet.
You actually have no control over the purchased asset until you move the asset to a non-custodial wallet.
As mentioned, non-custodial wallets include software and hardware wallets.
Software wallets always remain connected to the Internet and, because of this, are slightly less trustworthy than hardware wallets.
These types of wallets include MetaMask , Exodus Wallet and Atomic Wallet .
Hardware wallets help you store private keys to your digital assets offline. Check out our review of the best crypto hardware wallets on the market:
Best Crypto Wallets for 2023
Ledger Nano S Plus is the best wallet overall
Ledger Nano X — the best hardware wallet
Exodus — the best wallet for beginners
Ledger Nano S Plus – the best crypto wallet in terms of price-quality ratio
Atomic Wallet — the best desktop wallet
Trust Wallet — the best mobile wallet
Coinbase Wallet — the best exchange wallet
COLDCARD Mk4 – the best Bitcoin wallet
Coinomi — the best multi-crypto wallet
Trezor Model T — the best wallet for advanced users
Ledger Nano S Plus – the best wallet for staking
MetaMask — the best Web3 wallet
Crypto.com DeFi Wallet — Best DeFi Wallet
Ledger Stax — Best Crypto Wallet
XDEFI Wallet — Best Wallet for NFTs
Keeping Your Cryptocurrency Safe
All centralized exchanges, including , are subject to counterparty risks such as hacking, theft and insolvency. Using self-hosted or hardware wallets is considered the best way to increase the security of your funds. We’ve shared some of our top picks below.
Details on Cryptocurrency Laws in Hawaii
The Hawaii Digital Currency Innovation Lab (DCIL) began approving cryptocurrency companies to operate in Hawaii in two phases starting in 2020.
In the first round, from March to May 2020, the state approved 12 of the 19 companies that applied. In the second round, from January to February 2021, 14 more companies applied, and only 4 were selected.
Popular exchange Robinhood was originally listed for approval but was removed on January 13, 2021. Local media speculated that the broker had lost its license due to issues related to compliance and reporting requirements.
DCIL has expanded the capacity of licensed and regulated crypto platforms to continue operating in Hawaii until 2024.
Cryptocurrency Taxes in Hawaii
Hawaii does not offer advice on sales or government taxation of cryptocurrency transactions.
However, unlike fiat currency such as US dollars, cryptocurrencies are considered property by the IRS. You must follow the same tax rules as other real estate transactions, which means reporting capital gains or losses after:
- Exchange fiat currency for cryptocurrency
- Exchange cryptocurrency for fiat currency
- Earning rewards such as cashback and cryptocurrency bonuses
Fortunately, investors can track all trading transactions through the company’s Bayliq App, and manage and calculate the cryptocurrency taxes they owe using cryptocurrency tax software, and some provide simple filing tools and forms created by tax authorities, the company also offers assistance from lawyers and accountants in every US state if you need it.
Cryptocurrencies in Hawaii
Since you have limited access to exchanges as a Hawaiian, you may not find a seller for all 21,000+ coins and tokens on the market. But you’ll find over 100 crypto assets supported on exchanges like Kraken, Crypto.com and Gemini.
Can I buy Dogecoin in Hawaii?
Yes, DOGE is listed on a number of exchanges licensed and regulated in Hawaii. These exchanges include Gemini, Kraken and Uphold.
Can I buy Ethereum and Bitcoin in Hawaii?
Yes, every licensed exchange in Hawaii sells both BTC and ETH.
You can also find Bitcoin ATMs that allow you to buy Bitcoin with cash. Transactions may carry a markup of 3% to 5%.
Can I see the total balance of all coins on all crypto exchanges at the same time?
Yes, there are several companies in the crypto industry market that provide such a service. The free version of App Bayliq helps well with settings and vision of the overall balance of all coins, crypto exchanges and “cold wallets”; you can download the application from the Apple Store .
Can I use Binance in Hawaii?
No, you cannot use Binance or Binance.US if you live in Hawaii.
Crypto exchange Binance is not legal in any US state, and its subsidiary Binance.US is not available in some states, including Hawaii.
Know Before You Buy Cryptocurrency in Hawaii
Keep in mind that the Hawaii Digital Currency Innovation Lab (DCIL) has only approved cryptocurrency platforms to operate in the state through 2024.
General points to consider when buying and selling cryptocurrency include:
- Protect your wallet . A crypto wallet can be accessed if someone obtains its keys and/or passphrases. Keep this data secure—preferably somewhere offline—to minimize the risk of hacking.
- Read the fine print . Marketplaces and exchanges are often not held accountable if criminals gain access to your digital wallet or assets. Learn about the security measures in place to prevent access to your money.
- Beware of scams . Unfortunately, scams exist in every industry, and cryptocurrency is no exception. Phishing scams are common, usually involving a scammer posing as a customer service representative and asking the user for access codes/keys to their account. Contact support if you think something suspicious is going on.
- Cryptocurrency is unstable . The value of any coin can change in a matter of seconds, meaning large losses or profits that depend on the interest and amount you invest.
10 Best Cryptocurrency Tax Software for 2023
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Koinly – Best Overall
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Bayliq Pro — Possibility of consultations and legal assistance to clients
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TokenTax – the best cryptocurrency tax app
Accointing is the best option for advanced accounting features
ZenLedger – Best for extra accounting features
BitcoinTaxes – best for 20-100,000 transactions
TaxBit – Best for Unlimited Transactions
Gangs in Hawaii
#Honolulu, #Oahu #Real Estate Rentals, #Safety, #Hawaii, #Laws, #Advice, www.Hawaii.Bio
Most areas and islands of Hawaii have very low crime rates. Residents of Hawaii can usually rest easy at night knowing that the aloha spirit and family-oriented culture of the islands create a safe place to live. Hawaii had about 250 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2017, far below the national rate of 394 violent crimes per 100,000 people, according to the FBI.
The first gang activity in Hawaii to be reported by the media occurred in 1986, when a teenage gang member was killed on the island of Oahu, sparking statewide awareness of gangs. Throughout the 1990s, local news reported fewer than 50 annual reports of gang activity, with the exception of 1996, when there were 125 reports. The Honolulu Police Department has actively combated this gang activity with the assistance of the Hawaii Youth Gang Response System, created by the Hawaii State Legislature in 1990. Thanks to prevention and intervention efforts, there were no reports of gang activity from 2001 to 2004. in press.
Historically, Hawaiian gangs have not been as dangerous as gangs in other parts of the world. They are usually involved in graffiti, theft and drug crimes; murder or gun violence is rare in Hawaii.
Today, the island of Oahu has seen a slight uptick in gang activity over the last couple of years. There are currently several streets and neighborhoods associated with gangs in places like Aliamanu, Halawa, Waianae, Waipahu and Kalihi. In July 2019, Adult Friends for Youth director Deb Spencer-Chun said 14 gangs had been identified at Farrington High School in Kalihi.
The gangs’ main homes are in low-income housing complexes. Some are grouped with members of the same race, such as Filipinos, Hispanics, Micronesians, Native Hawaiians, Samoans, Vietnamese, and Tongans. While gathering data on gangs is difficult because many operate incognito, there is some information available about current gangs on Oahu.
Halawa View Apartments or Halawa Housing Projects is a low-income housing development subsidized by the Federal Government’s Division of Housing and Urban Development. Halawa is an area next to Aiea and close to Aloha Stadium. Halawa is also home to one of Oahu’s main prisons. One gang found in the Halawa housing projects is the 99 Street Halawa Mob Crips.
Kalihi has a 555-unit low-income housing complex, Kuhio Park Terrace , which consists of two recently redeveloped towers. Next door to Kuhio Park Terrace is Kuhio Homes , a two-story low-income housing project. In these large low-income housing complexes you can find the KPT or Parccyde Sons of Samoa Crips gangs.
In Kalihi Valley, just off the Likelike Highway, you’ll find the newly renovated Kam IV Apartments , or Kamehameha Homes, which is public housing operated by the State of Hawaii. This microdistrict is home to the Kam4 gang.
Mayor Wright Homes , also located in Kalihi but away from the valley and near Honolulu Community College, is another large low-income housing complex with 363 apartments. It was built with federal funds and is currently operated by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority. The gang discovered at Mayor Wright’s house is called MDubbz.
There are several streets in Waipahu that are known to have small gangs. There is Avudzi on Aniani. Pupuole has PuTown and Awanei has AWZ.
These gangs in Hawaii typically formed due to the islands’ diverse cultures and economic struggles. Some Oahu gangs are offshoots of larger gangs from the mainland, while others are unique to certain areas or apartment complexes, mainly in Honolulu or Waipahu. Despite the presence of some gangs on Oahu, Hawaii as a whole has seen a decline in juvenile arrests and gang activity since its peak in the mid-1990s.
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Hawaii Home Buyer’s Guide
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Oahu #RealEstate #Rentals, #Businesses, #Hawaii,
Getting Started with Buying a Home in Hawaii
Do you have any suspicions that you might be ready to buy a home? Are you thinking about securing your spot in Hawaiian paradise?
Before you rush into one of the biggest transactions you’ll ever make, take the time to think about home ownership. Buying a home can offer financial responsibility, stability and equity, and thinking through some aspects of owning a home in Hawaii before purchasing can ensure a happy home. Read more to learn how to buy a home in Hawaii.
What do the neighborhoods in Hawaii look like? How long will you live in Hawaii?
While we can’t predict the future , it’s ideal to stay in your first home for three to five years before moving again. These years in your new location help pay off your mortgage and build equity so you can move to your new location.
If you know you’ll want to move to a different area or island within the next year, it may be better to wait and save more money for a larger down payment. Then you could buy your dream home in your desired area.
If you unexpectedly move out of the area, you can always rent your home, but being a landlord has a completely different set of considerations.
Homeowners in Hawaii may need renovations. Before you buy a home in Hawaii, ask yourself, “Is there anything I can fix?”
Being a homeowner means being responsible for home repairs and upgrades. You have two options:
- Fix your home yourself.
- Pay money to hire someone.
If you’re a DIYer and have some home renovation experience, you can save on labor costs, but you should also consider material costs. A new refrigerator is not cheap. Renovations are part of home ownership, and considering them from a financial and psychological perspective before purchasing a home will help get you started on the right track.
Homeownership in Hawaii requires a stable job.
Are you happy with your job now? Are you satisfied with your current career or are you planning to change your path in the near future? Changing jobs while paying off a hefty mortgage can be challenging, so having a stable job and career will also lead to more stability when buying a home.
To buy a home in Hawaii, you need to get your finances in order.
Before you start house hunting, ask yourself these simple questions:
- How much credit card debt do you have?
- How much are your student loans, car loans or personal loans worth?
Your total monthly debt payment, including your desired mortgage amount, must be less than 43% of your gross monthly income for most mortgage programs. Another debt-to-income ratio used by lenders says your monthly mortgage payment should be less than 28% to 31% of your gross monthly income.
In addition to the amounts of debt that qualify you to purchase a home, responsible loan repayment and credit card habits help you develop positive mortgage repayment habits.
If you decide to go with a conventional loan, you’ll typically need to put down 20% to waive the required mortgage insurance costs. If you’re in the military, you can sometimes finance the purchase of a home in Hawaii with a VA loan, which often requires no down payment.
- What is your credit score?
Do you have a great 820 or an average 620? Your credit score is an important number that lenders use to screen potential home buyers. Getting your finances in order is essential to achieving your dream of home ownership.
Owning property in Hawaii requires some savings. Do you have the money for a down payment and closing costs?
A down payment often requires a huge amount of money, ranging from 20%, 15%, 3%, 3.5%, 5% and even zero percent to qualify for a loan. For a $700,000 home in Hawaii, that could mean $140,000 for a 20 percent discount. Additionally, closing costs, insurance, taxes, and money for furniture and renovations should also be saved until you purchase the home.
If you can afford the upfront costs associated with purchasing a home in Hawaii and also have some extra cash to breathe in the fresh Hawaiian air, you are well on your way to beginning the home buying process.
We’re diving deeper into finance and closing out our other buyer’s guides.
Before you buy a home in Hawaii, plan ahead!
Can you really afford the house payment?
If you’re used to paying monthly rent, a monthly mortgage payment that goes toward your own home rather than someone else’s might make sense. However, when calculating your monthly home payments, be sure to consider not only the principal and interest on your mortgage, but also the following:
- Property tax
- Insurance
- Apartment fee
- Water, electricity, internet and other utilities
- Repair and maintenance (Maintenance)
- Furniture
Calculating all the costs of owning a home in Hawaii before you buy will help you make the right financial decision.
What type of home will suit your lifestyle and situation?
Hawaii has a variety of housing options in different areas. There are quaint condominiums in low-rise buildings and modern apartments with all the amenities in high-rise new buildings. There are old Hawaiian-style plantation homes with a couple of bedrooms and multi-generational megahomes that can accommodate an entire family.
Think about your situation. Are you single, newlyweds, have a large family, or are you downsizing? Do you want to live in a close-knit community close to your apartment or community neighbors? Do you want privacy and space for a garden? These general questions can help you determine the basic number of rooms and bathrooms that may be appropriate for your situation and whether a single-family home or condominium is right for you.
How will you know when you’ve found the right home in Hawaii? Have you made a list of your “shoulds” and “wants”?
When making such a large purchase, it is often helpful to write down or make a collage of pictures of what you are looking for. Also, make a realistic list. We may all want five bedrooms and four bathrooms in one of Oahu’s most desirable neighborhoods like Lanikai, but is that possible on your budget in Hawaii, too?
A Hawaii realtor will be able to best tell you about the Hawaii housing market, but before and after speaking with a real estate agent, you may want to think about your “must-haves,” which may include the following:
- Single-family home or condominium
- Number of bedrooms
- Number of bathrooms
- Hawaiian island
- Neighborhood opportunities on this island
- Price Range (Based on Mortgage Lender Pre-Approval)
- Ready to move or fix top
Once you have your «must-have» list, you can create a «wish-to-have» list, which could include the following:
- Mountain or ocean view
- Yard size
- Some plants such as plumeria or fruit trees
- Certain home finishes, such as vaulted ceilings, windows, appliances, double vanities in bathrooms, or types of flooring.
- House colors outside and inside
- Solar panels
- Pool
- Proximity to certain amenities such as a gym, schools or the beach.
While «wants» can be nice, they are often hard to come by, especially in the hot Hawaiian home market. You may have to live with it if you find a place that has everything you need. The benefit of being a homeowner in Hawaii is that you can often put up some «capital» or hire someone to remodel the house or landscape the yard to achieve the look of your dream home. And these finishes can be done over time and as you secure financing for home upgrades.
Are you ready for commitment?
Buying a home is a big decision and one of the most important financial decisions you will make in your life. Are you ready to pay your mortgage every month? Can you keep up with the service? If you’re buying a home with your spouse or significant other, is your relationship ready to add a home? Who will do what — mortgage and utility payments, repairs — and how will the property be registered?
While many people are homeowners, and owning a home in Hawaii has many benefits, such as recognition, no rule says you have to buy a home by a certain age or ever. If you’ve crunched the numbers, talked to your significant other, and formulated an estate plan, you may be well on your way to being ready to buy a home in Hawaii. However, buying a home is not accessible to everyone. The housing market, your career, your family situation, and other factors may cause you to continue renting until the time is right to buy a home in Hawaii—and that’s okay.
Buying a home in Hawaii must be done at the right time.
So, is it time for you to make a home in Hawaii a reality?
If you couldn’t answer “yes”, don’t worry! Owning a home in Hawaii is a huge responsibility. Renting may be right for you, or your dream home in paradise may come later.
If you answered yes to the questions above, now may be the right time to begin your home buying journey. Get your finances in order so you can start making your dream of owning your own home a reality.
If you have any questions about real estate in Hawaii, you can fill out the form and we will answer you as soon as possible.
Featured Who are Professional House Sitters?
Hawaii Bio Inc – We provide all the online tools for home owners and house/pet sitters to find each other from around the globe (or around the corner).
– Free to home owners
Need someone to look after your house or pets while you’re away? Home owners join for free.
Find a house sitter today. Need someone to mind your house and animals while you are away? Or perhaps you’re just sick of paying more for Fluffy’s holiday than your own. Join the club. Better still, join this club!
Ready to get started ? House Sitters
What is house sitting, exactly? Free vs Paid
The concept is simple. A home owner plans to vacate their residence for a while – anything from a few days to twelve months and everything in between.
What-is-house-sitting
They search a house sitting website to find a house sitter or two to keep things running smoothly on the home front and provide home security while away. Under the trust-based value exchange arrangement of house sitting no money changes hands. House sitters do not get paid to ‘sit’, nor does a home owner get paid to have their house ‘sat’.
Sitters exchange their time, care and know-how for interesting places to stay and unique experiences.
Home owners and renters leave home with peace of mind knowing their home and property are being maintained, and their pets and animals cared for. 85% of house sits involve one or more pets. With a sitter (or two) in residence, pets remain happy at home in their familiar environment, with their regular routine maintained. A win-win-win arrangement in anyone’s language. 😉
Contents Show
What do house sitters do?
The house sitting jobs required of a live-in house sitter vary enormously.
To care for a cat and water a few plants in an inner city apartment, is less work than minding a property with six dogs, four cats, five goats, ten hens, a pool and large lawn in the country.
Dog-walker
House sitting jobs are often negotiated. If a home owner is keen to secure a particular house sitter, they may be prepared to make arrangements for a task or two to be done by someone other than the sitter.
By way of example, as a single sitter I did not want to use the ride-on mower to maintain the sprawling lawns on an isolated property. Because the home owner’s priority was care for their ageing dog and security for their home, they were happy to pay a contractor to do that job.
In all cases, the objective is for the arrangement to be a win-win-win for the home owner, their house sitter/s, and the pets in residence.
What type of people house sit?
There is no ‘type’. House sitters come from all walks of life. They often come in pairs but are sometimes alone, and range in age from young to old(er). In general, when it comes to securing a gig, age and experience trump youth and beauty. And while not all home owners are open to little people, lots of families are happy for another family to live in their home in their absence. Meet some house sitters, here.
Who are Professional House Sitters?
People who charge for house and pet sitting services are often referred to a “Professional House Sitters”.
However, this term is not as common as it once was, because these days it’s generally acknowledged that people who ‘sit’ for free are no less professional than house sitters who charge home owners a fee.
The Hawaii Bio — company has several verified «house caretakers» who permanently reside in Hawaii and have a professional reputation. These are former military and police officers. Who you can trust with the safety of your home. If you have any questions? Write us an email: we will respond as quickly as possible.
Why do people ‘sit’ for FREE?
There are many reasons why people house and pet sit for free, and in every case the underlying reason is to save money by “earning” free accommodation.
House-sitting-to-save-money
The two most popular reasons why increasing numbers of people are turning to the value exchange arrangement of house sitting are:-
To “earn” free holiday accommodation – in their own country, or on the other side of the world. Whether a short break, long holiday, weekend escape or family holiday, by side-stepping the expense of holiday accommodation, the travel budget goes much further.
“Earn” free rent in your home town or city. More and more house sitters ‘sit’ to dodge paying rent. Not only do house sitters not pay rent, they also avoid the cost of utilities, digital subscriptions and WiFi. In major cities and popular tourist destinations where housing costs are high, house sitters are able to save tens of thousands of dollars a year. A growing segment of this market are Millennials, who ‘sit’ to save a home deposit.
Other reasons why people sit for free include:-
Digital nomads ‘sit’ to have a place to call home for a while.
In cities such as Oahu, Los Angeles, London, Auckland, Sydney, Toronto and New York where housing costs are high and overcrowding common, people look for houses to sit to have their own space for a while.
Many travelling house sitters have housesitting down to a fine art and travel the world, one house sit at a time.
People on road trips seek houses to sit and pets to pamper as a break from the rigours of the road.
Newcomers to a city or region look for houses to ‘sit’ so they can live in different areas before deciding where to settle.
Notwithstanding the fact that more and more people turn to house sitting to save money, it’s a fact that the majority of house sitters have a genuine love of animals.
Why house sitting isn’t entirely free
A condition of all house sitting jobs is to provide live-in home security for house and property and care for the pets in residence.
Does it cost to join a house sitting website?
Hawaii Bio — Country-specific-house-sitting-website.
HOUSE AND PET SITTERS
House sitters pay to join and connect with home owners.
The annual fee for house sitters to join a global site Hawaii.bio range from $50 for and $279 for «Hawaii Bio Trusted House Sitters».
For people who want to travel the Hawaii Islands one house sit at a time, a global house sitting website Hawaii.bio might be the best choice. For people who choose to sit in a specific country and Hawaii state, a country dedicated site that lists lots of opportunities in that country, is better value than a global site that offers house sitting jobs in all corners of the world.
HOME OWNERS AND RENTERS
Most country dedicated house sitting websites allow home owners to register and connect for FREE.
Both parties Save Money.
One of the main reasons why people participate in the free model of house and pet sitting is because both parties save money, often lots of it!
By engaging house sitters, home owners avoid expensive pet boarding fees or the cost for someone to visit each day to feed, and perhaps walk, the pets in residence.
Not only is thereHouse-and-pet-sitting no need to pay a dog walker (or the lawn mower man, or the pool guy, as the case may be), with sitters in residence home owners and renters have peace of mind knowing they have live-in home security while away. Priceless!
On the other side of the house sitting fence are house and pet sitters. In exchange for doing agreed tasks, as well as “earning” free accommodation, sitters sidestep the expense of utilities, internet and streaming services. And as house sitters have use of a kitchen they can prepare meals at home, avoiding the expense of eating out.
Even if only a short sit over a long weekend, both parties save money. Consider the savings in the case of long sits!
House and pet sitting is booming world-wide
Never before, in the history of the world of house sitting, has the demand for house sitters been so high.
World-wide home owners previously grounded by a pandemic, are packing up and leaving home in droves, either returning to the road or taking to the skies.
Because of the increase in pet ownership over recent years, many home owners are now the proud pawrents of what are affectionately called “pandemic pets”. Therefore, more people than previously need to find care for pets while away.
As a result, the number of house sitting assignments listed on house sitting websites is at an all time high, as people make plans to travel up to one year in advance.
Fortunately, on the other side of the house sitting fence is a larger pool of location independent people willing and able to provide free live-in care for home, property and pets. Many are mobile workers no longer confined to an office. Many more are young-at-heart retirees who have retired from work, but not from life.
Save money! Put your cheque book away – the service is free and the majority of our house sitters work for free too (they may also pay for their share of utility bills, depending on what arrangements you have made with them). Save a bundle on pet care fees while you’re at it prevent your home owner’s insurance premium from going through the roof.
Find exactly who you want
-Find your perfect person by searching our database of available nanny ads. We will send you a contact list upon your request.
- Create your own list of wanted nannies, and nannies will contact you through the empty “comment” form under your post or by email that you provided.
- instantly create/edit/show/hide your ad (we can help you with editing if necessary)
-set up an email alert – find out immediately when new nannies appear in your area
If you are a home owner in Hawaii and want to use our services, please email: contact@hawaii.bio
Home Owner register ( it’s free) Hawaii Bio Inc
If you have the opportunity to be a «House Sitters» in Hawaii islands please fill out the form.
Be sure to add your original ID (passport or driver license).
Ready to get started ? House Sitters
Form Contact Hawaii Bio Inc
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5 Ways to Help Hawaii Farmers in 2022
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Niihau, #Oahu #Businesses, #Hawaii
If Hawaii wants more affordable local food, it needs to make a stronger investment in farmers today. It’s been a pretty terrible two years for farmers and low-income families in Hawaii, two groups that were already struggling to survive before the pandemic hit.
Fluctuations in tourism and the local economy have hit many people hard, whether they grew food for tourists or worked in the restaurants that prepared it for them. Food prices have skyrocketed. As do the costs of transporting products to market.
However, among all this bad news, there is one bright spot worth noting: Access to affordable fresh food for low-income families in the state has increased dramatically thanks to a program called DA BUX.
In 2019, low-income households receiving food stamps could receive additional grocery assistance at 27 locations across the state through the DA BUX program, which doubles the value of government food assistance when used to purchase locally grown food. That number has since increased to 98 locations, and sales through the program grew 167% in 2020. Sales are expected to grow by 400% by 2023.
A significant influx of federal and philanthropic funding for the program this year means that Hawaii Food Basket, which administers the program, was also able to remove the $20 per day grocery spending limit that was previously set for families, while also working to increase access to the program in the countryside. At the same time, the program provides a critical cash flow for local farmers.
Over the past year, Hawai’i Grown’s focus on agriculture has exposed deep, systemic problems in Hawaii that are making it harder for us to break our dependence on imported food—from a lack of affordable land to growing challenges related to climate change and poorly managed through the efforts of the State of Hawaii.
But as DA BUX’s success over the past two years has shown, much can be done to increase access to fresh food in Hawaii with the right amount of effort and funding.
Here are five things Hawaii can do right now to support farmers and improve access to affordable, local food.
Providing low-income families with financial support to buy local food is aimed at public health and food security, as well as pumping money into the local agricultural economy.
The DA BUX program has seen amazing growth over the past two years. The program received $10.2 million in funding—its 2019 budget was just $1.9 million—mostly through a combination of federal grants and matching donations from local organizations. To keep funding from running out too quickly, the organization is limiting the number of retailers that can sign up to participate.
Although the program is incredibly well funded at the moment, now is the time to plan for its long-term success. DA BUX lost an additional $3.3 million in federal funding this year because it would have had to provide a matching grant locally, which it did not expect to do in the short period of time it was given (local charities). Federal funding for the program has already totaled $2.6 million this year.) An annual allocation of state funds to the program will increase its ability to attract federal grants. Gov. David Ige’s office sent $500,000 in federal coronavirus relief funds this year, but before the pandemic, the state’s contribution in 2019 was less than $50,000.
The best possible outcome for DA BUX would be to institutionalize the program and make it part of a federally funded, state-administered Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program. This could really change what food security looks like and how much food is produced in the state of Hawaii right now.
Improve data collection
A lettuce farmer on the Big Island has different problems than a papaya farmer on Oahu. However, they have one thing in common — the need for better data from the government.
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s Data and Analysis Division was gutted during the Great Recession. In 2019, the department attempted to bolster its data collection and analysis team with additional staff, but its capabilities are still far from what it was in past years. The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service is in a similar situation .
As a result, farmers lack critical information about government land use, what crops they should plant, how much to charge for those crops, and what reasonable shipping or storage costs are. Some farmers on the Big Island are using national statistics instead of the regular market reports that OSHA used to produce. But national data doesn’t always apply to Hawaii.
As the State of Hawaii faces many difficult budget decisions and is serious about supporting local food production, restoring the data analytics team in the agriculture department is an important step.
Increase support for local food farms.
Most farms in Hawaii are small, which makes sense given the land shortages on the islands.
But small farms have a much harder time turning a profit and getting their produce into larger stores that typically order in bulk. This is where food hubs come into play.
Food hubs (usually non-profit organizations or cooperatives) act as a distribution network. They buy, sell and distribute locally grown food to grocery stores, restaurants, food banks and directly to consumers, allowing farmers to spend more time doing what they know best: farming. What food hubs do is essentially create a local food infrastructure system in the state.
This is an effort worth investing in.
The pandemic has led to increased demand for local food, and many of the hubs lack the infrastructure needed to meet the increased demand. Hubs require funding to upgrade infrastructure such as food washing stations and refrigeration facilities. Others need help with marketing, increasing warehouse space or increasing their value-added products.
A bill that would have provided state funding to support food hubs died in the Legislature earlier this year . Food Hub Hui, a group of 14 food hubs across the state that wrote the law, is working on a new version of the bill.
It would be wise to carefully consider the bill in the next legislative session given the significant impact that the food hub model could have on Hawaii’s agricultural sector.
Buy more local products
While most efforts to reduce our dependence on imported food rely on state legislators or nonprofit organizations, there is one thing people can do: change what they eat.
Fresh fruits and vegetables make up a small part of our diet. The bulk of our calories usually come from staple crops such as wheat and rice. Without huge subsidies, Hawaii is unlikely to produce significant quantities of either, especially in the processed form that most people consume.
But there are many tasty alternatives that are well suited to island production.
Taro (kalo), banana (maya), breadfruit (ulu), papaya (mikana) and sweet potato (uala) are some of the staple local crops that can be substituted for pasta and bread. And they work great in local recipes like ulu adobo, poi banana bread and kalo flatbread.
Buying more ulu or sweet potatoes individually will not affect the amount of food we import into the state, but consumer pressure is a very real thing. When enough people—along with large institutions such as schools and hospitals—start buying locally produced staples, it could lead to changes in the market.
Strengthen your extension agent program
The University of Hawaii does a lot of work to support agriculture in Hawaii, but one of its most important services to farmers is its extension program.
University staff, known as extension agents, act as links between researchers and farmers. They can help farmers identify new crops to grow, solve soil or pest problems, and figure out why some crops aren’t growing.
If Hawaii wants to have more affordable local food—or have any hope of solving the agricultural problems of the coming century—it needs to make a stronger investment in farmers today.
This means not only investing in critical infrastructure such as water systems, but also supporting a robust extension program that helps farmers stay up to date with the latest technology, address pest and climate change challenges, and have a better chance of earning money. their crops, helping farmers gain much-needed business skills.
We know the State of Hawaii is not in the best financial shape right now, but we really need an action plan where we identify critical needs and get the Legislature to fund them.
For our part, our information portal Hawaii.bio offers to post free information about farmers in the state of Hawaii and provide ongoing information support to businesses that grow products in the state of Hawaii, as well as businesses that sell them or use them in their products. Please write to us about your business by filling out the form on the website and we will definitely find you the best solution for information about your business.
Life on Oahu
#Honolulu, #Oahu, #Hawaii, #News, #Tips, www.Hawaii.Bio, #Lifestyle
Living in Hawaii, we locals embrace the phrase “living in paradise pays off.” Here on Oahu in particular, it can be difficult to find the “right” place at an affordable price. Even before purchasing a home on Oahu , there are some factors to consider before making any decision.
Surrounded by lush beauty and endless adventure, it’s no wonder we should feel «lucky to live in Hawaii.» Oahu is a good example of a melting pot. With so many cultures around us, we can learn and understand more about the world in many different ways.
Weather
The weather in Hawaii is great all year round. With the same weather all year round, it becomes cooler (by “Hawaiian standards”) during the winter season. From mauka (mountain side) to makai (ocean side), temperatures can vary. If you live on the windward side of the island, it will rain more than on the urban side and the west side of the island. In the city, the weather tends to be hotter with a slight breeze in some places, so a fan or air conditioning system is a must.
Attractions and entertainment
The unique thing about living on Oahu is that we don’t realize how small a place it is until we unexpectedly run into someone we know. This probably happens often and we’re used to the feeling by now. Even though Oahu is so small, there is still a lot to do.
If you’re in town, there are plenty of shops and boutiques to explore, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, cafes, etc. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, grab your friends and head to the North Shore for some fun. filled day cliff jump at Waimea Bay. Maybe to end the day, gather ohana for a barbecue at Ala Moana Beach. There is so much to do around here that there is always something for everyone.
Commute to work
One of the most important things to consider when looking for a home on Oahu is your commute. Traffic on Oahu is something we all hate. Unfortunately, this continues to be a problem for many of us. Commuting time from home to work is a factor home buyers need to consider. If you live in central or western Oahu, traffic gets hectic in the morning and also during «pau han», which is usually between 4 and 6 p.m. Plan your schedule and consider how long it will take you to get anywhere on Oahu.
Neighborhood
Each area on Oahu is unique in its own way. Wherever you go, you will notice a rich diversity of different neighborhoods, communities and cultures.
Ala Moana can be considered the “heart” of Honolulu. If you just drive down Kapiolani Boulevard, the area has so many shops, restaurants, bars and weekly events. Ala Moana is so convenient that everything is within walking distance, meaning you don’t have to travel much AND you SAVE GENS. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to see the fireworks display that takes place every Friday!
Just minutes from Ala Moana is the revitalized urban community of Kakaako. Here you can find a variety of retail stores, restaurants and entertainment venues, including the Ward Consolidated Theatre. You can also visit the farmers market every Saturday and support local farmers and businesses.
Waikiki
As famous as Waikiki is, it is home to some of the best festivals. These include Spam Jam, Honolulu Festival, Aloha Festival, Duke’s Oceanfest and Ukulele Festival. These events are great for ‘ohana!
Downtown Honolulu
If you’re in downtown Honolulu, take time to explore historic Chinatown and its many eclectic restaurants, cafes, bars, nightclubs and boutiques. Important landmarks such as the Hawaiian Theatre, Iolani Palace, Aloha Tower and the statue of King Kamehameha the Great can also be found downtown. Held every month, block parties such as First Fridays are usually popular parties for many. Bars, restaurants, art galleries are open until late. This festive scene is definitely worth watching. Just be warned before heading downtown, parking is limited.
Hawaii Kai/Kahala is a primarily residential area of Honolulu. Here you can test your physical abilities by hiking Coco Head. If not, you can go to Kahala Beach or the Walls of China for stunning views of the island. If you’re craving craft beer, Kona Brewing Company at Koko Marina Center is a great place for pau han. There’s nothing like a beer and a pupusa to end the day.
Kailua/Waimanalo
Kailua is a small beach town located on the northeast side of the island. This quaint and charming community is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, including Lanikai Beach.
While in Waimanalo you will find yourself in a more rural area with several shops and restaurants. One interesting thing you will come across are trucks parked on the side of the road selling fresh coconuts, dried fish, maybe even butter. Many people continue to visit Waimanalo because of the stunning ocean views. With turquoise waters and long stretches of sand, this side of the island offers scenic views unlike any other.
North Shore
Oahu’s North Shore is home to some of the most exhilarating competition in surfing. Between November and January it is always a good time to take part in one of the many surfing competitions held at the various beaches on this side of the island. Since the drive to the North Shore takes some time, you can also explore other famous sites including the historic town of Haleiwa and the Kahuku garlic shrimp trucks.
West Side ( Kapolei , Waianae , Makaha)
Once you head out to the west side of Oahu, you’ll eventually find yourself away from the hustle and bustle of the city. About a 45-minute drive from Ala Moana (no traffic), the west side offers breathtaking views of some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, including Tracks, Makaha, and Yokohama Bay. For those of you with 4WD, the west side is the playground.
Overall, living on Oahu reveals that every part of the island has its own uniqueness. In Hawaiian, the name «Oahu» translates to «gathering place.» From a cultural perspective, living on Oahu gives us many opportunities to share our culture as well as learn about the cultures of others. While there are some pros and cons to living on Oahu, there are aspects that make the lifestyle here quite rewarding.
Largely due to the fact that we are surrounded by an abundance of untouched beauty and a playground to explore, living on Oahu can be an exciting adventure.
An idea to keep teachers in Hawaii: build housing for them!
#Honolulu, #Kauai, #Maui, #Molokai, #Oahu | #Oaxy, #RealEstate
A bill introduced in the Legislature would help create affordable rents for new teachers near Hawaii. The bill would allow the state to buy land to build 200 to 300 apartments that would be rented to aspiring teachers at below-market rates.
Specifically, the bill authorizes the State of Hawaii to purchase a 12-acre site near Holomua Elementary School «for the development of affordable housing with priority for Department of Education teachers early in their careers.»
The bill does not specify the amount to be paid for the property, which is now open space owned by developer Gentry Homes Ltd., the developer of the nearby Ewa Gentry subdivision, suggesting the government could purchase the land at a nominal price.
Hawaii is hardly the first region to look at affordable housing for teachers. In California , the Santa Clara School District’s Casa Del Maestro teacher suite has become a pioneer model that is gaining momentum in other school districts in the Golden State. The 70-unit site is owned by the school district and is located next to an elementary school.
The idea is gaining traction in pricey Northern California. According to a recent article in the education publication EdSource , the area is experiencing a teacher housing boom, with projects underway in Mountain View and Daly City.
Meanwhile, Santa Clara County supervisors have approved several projects in the county’s Palo Alto area, the newspaper reported. Facebook is covering a quarter of the $103 million cost, EdSource reported.
A study by researchers from UCLA and UC Berkeley recently identified opportunities across the state to build teacher housing on school-owned property. The idea was championed in Hawaii by state senator Stanley Chang in a bill that went nowhere this session.
California appears to be one step ahead of Hawaii in addressing the two states’ common problems.
“Many of the 300,000 public school teachers cannot afford to live in the communities where they work, forcing them to commute long distances or pushing them out of the education system altogether,” the California study found. “Recruiting new teachers has also become more challenging.”
The researchers pointed to the Santa Clara project as an exemplary solution.
“Casa del Maestro of the Santa Clara Unified School District has reduced the attrition rate of housing-supported teachers by two-thirds compared to others in the same cohort, and waitlists show consistently high demand—80% of its tenants remain with full allowable rent. deadline,” the message says.
However, this proposal has its critics. In testimony, the Hawaii State Employees Association said the project should be open to all government employees, not just teachers.
Additionally, the teachers union said housing should be open to all teachers, not just entry-level ones. Rents are expected to be approximately $1,000 per month below market rates.