How important to be "Buyer Ready"? 物件探しの前にしなければいけない大切なことは？

With all the fuss about Kakaako project, new developments in second city, "Kapolei", as a buyer, what is the most important thing even before you go look at houses and condominiums?

カカアコやカポレイの新しいプロジェクトが進む中で、まず買主としてしておかなければならないことは？

We all know inventory is always low in Hawaii. If you happen to find a "Great deal", the unit/house will be sold in a few days. You as a buyer is always competing with other buyers. Then, how can you be really "Ready" to be a buyer who won't miss the unit/house of your choice?

ハワイは常に物件の数が足りず、いわゆる"掘り出し物物件”はすぐに売れてしまいます。買い手が常に売り手よりも多いため、他の買い手との競争が激しいのは常にあるものですが、では自分の好みの物件を逃さない方法は？

Stating the obvious, first and for most, you talk to your realtor and your loan officer(Or your realtor can suggest a good loan officer for you.) to get pre-qualified. What is pre-qualification? It is to prove that you will probably get a loan up to the qualified amount if you take out a loan for purchase. It also shows the seller that you are serious, "Buyer ready" buyer.

まずはご自分の不動産業者に話しをし、銀行のローン担当者に相談していただき（お知り合いのローン担当者が特にいない場合は、不動産業者からの紹介もできる場合があります）、ローンの査定をしてもらってみてください。このプロセスは買い手としては必須で、実際にローンを組む時にこれだけの額まで借り入れができるということを証明するものです。さらにこのプロセスを済ませて物件を探し出す方は売り手にも気に入られ、買いのオファーも真剣に考慮されます。

There are many institutions that can offer home loans. Good ones are always the one who can show you a couple of options and make suggestions. Since it's the biggest purchase for most people, I would recommend loan officers who communicate well with passion and compassion. You as a buyer is also a shopper for loans. Even though it sounds somewhat troublesome, please take time to talk to at least a few loan officers for your loan choices.

ホームローンを提供している所はたくさんありますが、良いサービスのものはいくつかのオプションを提供、提案してくれます。ほとんどの方にとって住宅の購入は一番高いお買い物。私共の会社では情熱と思いやりを持って対応してくれるローン担当業者を紹介させていただきます。住宅の購入は時間がかかるものですが、少なくとも２つ３つの業者と相談されてみてください。

Even though you are not ready to purchase a house right now, it's never too early to start educating yourself.
未だ住宅の購入の準備ができていない方でも、購入に向けての勉強は決して早すぎることはありません。.

Please feel free to ask me how you can get started via e-mail at hitomi808ozawa@gmail.com
お気軽にメールでいろんなご質問お送り下さい。メールはこちら：hitomi808ozawa@gmail.com
Shiryokiya Residential Estate, Hitomi Ozawa (RA)

Shirokiya Residential Estates (Our new chapter!) 白木屋レジデンシャルエステートのご紹介

Our company iProperties Hawaii and Shirokiya have merged to form Shirokiya Residential Estates.
iProperties Hawaii is owned by Abe Lee, long term Realtor and educator to all the Realtors in Hawaii.
This new chapter for our company will focus on all the residential properties including new developments and high-end properties.
弊社アイプロパティーズハワイが白木屋と合同会社を作り、新しく白木屋レジデンシャルエステートという会社名に変わりました。
アイプロパティーズハワイはAbe Lee氏が所有しており、長らく不動産取扱士及び教育者として多くの不動産取扱い士を育ててきました。
今後この新しい合同会社では新しいプロジェクト及びハイエンドの高級住宅を含む全ての住居用物件を取り扱います。

With that said, our community based dedication will stay the same. We offer our service by partnering with non-profit organizations to educate 1st time home buyers and also donate 10% of those commissions to the participating organizations.
会社の名前等が変わっても、コミュニティを大切にする方針は変わりません。引き続き非営業団体との協力で始めての住宅購入者及び住宅所有者をサポートし、１０％のコミッションを住宅購入者の選ぶ非営業団体に寄付します。

A quote from Abe Lee, " Knowledgeable consumers make wise decisions".
Abe Lee 氏は「知識がより多くある購買者は賢い決断をするものだ」と。

Even though you are not ready to purchase a house right now, it's never too early to start educating yourself.
未だ住宅の購入の準備ができていない方でも、購入に向けての勉強は決して早すぎることはありません。
Hawaii Home Ownership Center provides education/counseling sessions to future home owners and current home owners. Please feel free to ask me how you can get started via e-mail at hitomi808ozawa@gmail.com

ハワイホームオーナシップセンターでは無料での住宅購入者・所有者の教育及びカウンセリングを行っています。まずはお問い合わせください。hitomi808ozawa@gmail.com

 

New Condo in Kakaako, "The Collection" revealed! Sale starts tomorrow! カカアコの新しいコンド「コレクション」8月１７日発売開始

Kakaako New Condominium, "The Collection" starts to be sold its units tomorrow(8/17/2013).
There is already a long line of people who are wishing to purchase one of the units in this new exciting building.
カカアコの新しいコンドミニアム、その名も「コレクション」が、明日８月１７日に発売を開始。１６日の早朝から既にたくさんの人々が列を作り、非常に注目を集めニュースでも報道されました。
News Flash on this topic on KHON TV
このニュースはKHON TVで見れます。<----こちらをクリック

(Source: thecollectionhonolulu.com)

Prices are starting in from high $300,000s(1bed room) to mid $700,000s(3bed room). Walking distance to Downtown, Ala Moana area. This project includes retail spaces and town homes also. Very unique one of a kind development taking advantage of its great location.
お値段は３０万ドル代から（１ベッドルーム）７０万ドル代と、新しいビルとしてはお手ごろなお値段設定と言えるでしょう。

As always, what's available in Honolulu real estate is always changing. Please feel free to ask about the market, specific area, the process of purchasing and selling.
For free buyer/seller consultation: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

ホノルルの不動産状況はかなり短い期間で変わります。特定のエリアについて知りたい方、不動産売買のプロセスについて知りたい方、どんなご質問もお受けします。お気軽にメールにてお問い合わせください。hitomi@iproepertieshawaii.com

1st time home buyer? Need down payment assistance? E-mail me for details. Buyer's education program is also available through Hawaii Home Ownership Center.

初めて不動産売買される方必見。頭金補助プログラム及び購入者のための無料セミナーもございます。まずはメールにてお問い合わせください。

 

How Hawaii Home Ownership Center Works? 非営業団体のハワイホームオーナーシップセンターのご紹介

Hawaii Home Ownership Center is a non-profit organization, which helps with education for 1st time home buyers, and supports home owners. They always have seminars that allow you to know more about how to successfully keep your home (Avoiding foreclosure, tax matters, how to choose home insurance, and many more).
ハワイホームオーナーシップセンターは非営業団体で初めてお家を買われる方々や既にお家を所有している方々にためになる情報及び教育の提供をしています。年間を通してセミナーが開かれており、大切なお家を守るための情報がいっぱいです。

It's very important to get ready to become a home buyer. There are lots of planning over years. Hawaii Home Ownership Center will help you to plan for your future including finance management.
お家を買うための準備はとても大切な上に長めのプランが必要です。
ハワイホームオーナーシップセンターではあなたの将来のプランも含め経済的にどうやりくりしていくか一緒にプランをたてることもしてくれます。

What if you happen to find a home you really like now before you were able to save 20% down payment or closing cost? There would be lots of reasons for this. It can be welcoming a new family(Baby), or caring for elders, relocation...etc.
では、お家を買うには通常その物件価格の２０％の頭金が必要となり、さらに４％の契約を成立終了させるためのコストがかかります。頭金がまだたまらない間に買いたい物件がある場合はどうしたら良いでしょうか？

Hawaii Home Ownership Center can help you to get the home by helping you with down payment also. What they do is to fill the balance as a second mortgage to create a conventional loan. So that you won't have to pay for mortgage insurance (Mortgage insurance is an insurance on the 1st mortgage when you put less than 20% down payment). Right now they are offering 3%  or 5% down payment assistance programs. Also there are other government programs they can introduce to you to help you become 1st time home owner!
ハワイホームオーナーシップセンターでは、そんな方々でもお家が買えるプログラムを紹介しています。３％又は５％の頭金でもお家が買えるプログラムがあり、その差（１７％又は１５％）をハワイホームオーナーシップセンターが２つ目の住宅ローンとして貸し出ししてくれるので、通常２０％以下の頭金の場合の住宅ローンにかかる保険料がゼロになります。
その他もいろいろアメリカ政府が紹介しているお家の購入を助けるプログラムなども紹介してくれます。

It wouldn't hurt to check out this wonderful center!


As always, what's available in Honolulu real estate is always changing. Please feel free to ask about the market, specific area, the process of purchasing and selling.
For free buyer/seller consultation: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

ホノルルの不動産状況はかなり短い期間で変わります。特定のエリアについて知りたい方、不動産売買のプロセスについて知りたい方、どんなご質問もお受けします。お気軽にメールにてお問い合わせください。hitomi@iproepertieshawaii.com

1st time home buyer? Need down payment assistance? E-mail me for details. Buyer's education program is also available through Hawaii Home Ownership Center.

初めて不動産売買される方必見。頭金補助プログラム及び購入者のための無料セミナーもございます。まずはメールにてお問い合わせください。

Kaka'ako Development, what should we expect? カカアコの開発に今後予測されることは？

When it comes to Hawaii Real Estate, the most recent hot topic has been the Kaka'ako Developments.
Kaka'ako, where exactly is it? It starts from the western side of Ala Moana to the beginning of Downtown, which includes Ward Center, Neal Blaisedelle Center, and of course, Kaka'ako waterfront park. To think, it can be the most convenient location where people can travel in short time to waikiki, or airport, while people can still enjoy the "Hawaii". (Close distance from beach and gorgeous ocean view, many restaurants and events where people can enjoy Hawaiian cuisine and Island atmosphere.)
ハワイの不動産物件で今一番の話題がやはりカカアコの開発です。
最近良く聞くこのカカアコ、実際のロケーションはどこでしょう？アラモアナ西側からワードセンター、ニールブレ－ズデルセンターを含むダウンタウンの始まりのところまでのエリアにあたります。ワイキキから車で１０分、ハワイを思い切り楽しめるビーチ近くのプレミアムロケーションといえるでしょう。

(Source: hawaiibusiness.com )

This development will add more rental units, luxury units and affordable units. It's ideal for people who would like to stay away waikiki yet still would like to stay in "Town".

Highlight: Biggest Project Underway-690 Pohukaina
It is said that the project at 690 Pohukania st will be the tallest building in Honolulu. Hawaii Community Development Authority will begin evaluating bids from local, mainland and foreign developers this month.
新しいプロジェクトが提案される中で、ハワイで最も高いビルの開発が計画されています。半分がAffordable Unitsと呼ばれる値段設定の低めのものが提案される予定。今月このプロジェクトの開発会社が選ばれる予定で目が離せないニュースになりそうです。

(Source: hawaiibusiness.com)

As always, what's available in Honolulu real estate is always changing. Please feel free to ask about the market, specific area, the process of purchasing and selling.
For free buyer/seller consultation: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

ホノルルの不動産状況はかなり短い期間で変わります。特定のエリアについて知りたい方、不動産売買のプロセスについて知りたい方、どんなご質問もお受けします。お気軽にメールにてお問い合わせください。hitomi@iproepertieshawaii.com

1st time home buyer? Need down payment assistance? E-mail me for details. Buyer's education program is also available through Hawaii Home Ownership Center.

初めて不動産売買される方必見。頭金補助プログラム及び購入者のための無料セミナーもございます。まずはメールにてお問い合わせください。

Rail Station Design, how it will be?! ハワイに走る列車の駅のデザイン考案がスタート！

It's exciting to see the progress on rail project in Hawaii. At some point, people did not think it will become reality. Yet, it IS going to happen! This project opens so many possibilities for both people who live and visit. It will bring not only efficiency, but also stimulate more activities people can enjoy.

既にカポレイ、エバエリアからタウンサイドまで走らせる電車のレール計画が続いていますが、実際に駅のデザインの考案まで話が進んでいると、とても現実味がでてきます。このハワイの列車計画は、今までなかった交通の手段が使えるようになることで、とても便利になるだけではなく、レンタカーなどを借りない旅行者のアクティビティーの範囲も広がることに大きく貢献するでしょう。

　

Proposed Rail Station Design (Source: Pacific Business News)

 

According to The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART).The first meeting will be held Tuesday, June 25, for the “Farrington Highway Station Group,” which includes the West Loch, Waipahu Transit Center and Leeward Community College stations. The meeting will be held at Waipahu Intermediate School, 94-455 Farrington Hwy. Registration is at 6 p.m. with the meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. A meeting to discuss the East Kapolei and UH-West Oahu stations will be held Tuesday, July 30 at Kapolei Hale at 1000 Uluohia Street. Registration for the Kapolei meeting starts at 6 p.m., with the meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. It might be a good idea to attend this type of public meeting to be a part of community and foresee the future of your neighbourhood.

デザイン考案の提案会議がファーリントンハイウェイステーショングループにより６月２５日に始まり、ワイパフのインターミディエイトスクールで行われる予定。午後６時受付開始、６時半に会議が始まります。
また、７月３０日のイーストカポレイ及びウエストオアフ駅に関する会議がカポレイハーレーにてやはり午後６時受付開始の６時半に会議が開始されます。
カポレイ、エバエリアに住宅を購入またお持ちの方はこのような会議に参加されることでより将来の住宅計画に役立つ情報が得られるかもしれません。

As always, what's available in Honolulu real estate is always changing. Please feel free to ask about the market, specific area, the process of purchasing and selling.
For free buyer/seller consultation: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

ホノルルの不動産状況はかなり短い期間で変わります。特定のエリアについて知りたい方、不動産売買のプロセスについて知りたい方、どんなご質問もお受けします。お気軽にメールにてお問い合わせください。hitomi@iproepertieshawaii.com

1st time home buyer? Need down payment assistance? E-mail me for details. Buyer's education program is also available through Hawaii Home Ownership Center.

初めて不動産売買される方必見。頭金補助プログラム及び購入者のための無料セミナーもございます。まずはメールにてお問い合わせください。

Blooming Hawaii Real Estate, why is it? 盛り上がるハワイの不動産状況？！

Hawaii has its very unique demand. One of the reasons is that there is military bases which requires people to move in and out of island. Another reason is that this island has its world famous gorgeous weather and nature lots of people dream of living in.
ハワイでは特有の需要があります。その一つが、アメリカ軍の基地があり駐在の期間が通常はきめられているため、多くの軍で働く方の移動が定期的にあるということ。そして、世界でも誇る美しい自然と常に暖かい南国の気候はだれもがあこがれるアイランドリビングが楽しめること。

Either it's for your dream living in ocean view unit or for investment, timing is critical. As it always has been, there has been more buyers than sellers in Oahu, especially the area that's highly desired(Metro area). Each area has its unique demand and supply in real estate. It's all about what your life style requires.
ハワイ、特にオアフのメトロエリアの住宅事情は常に需要が高く、売りに出されている住宅の数があまりにも少ないトレンドが長く続いています。それでも、それぞれのエリアで特有の需要と供給はあります。住宅事情は常にライフスタイルと深く関連しています。

Here are some hot updates on hot properties:
今ホットなホノルルの不動産情報：
Waikiki Landmark penthouse is on sale for 12.5millions.
ワイキキランドマークタワーのペントハウスが不動産市場にでてきました。

                                                      (Source: Pacific Business News)
Located right in between waikiki and ala moana, you can enjoy the convenience and glamour of this location can offer. This very special penthouse was originally 4separate units combined into one with 9 bed rooms and 9bathrooms. There is an option to be sold separately.
このペントハウス、ワイキキとアラモアナのちょうど中間に位置しており、もともとは４つのペントハウスユニットを合わせたもので、９ベッドルーム、９バスルームというかなり大きなスペース。ユニットを別々に売られる可能性もあるとのこと。

One of the Kakaako tower projects, Waihonua At Kewalo has been sold out almost completely, yet there are still units available.
アラモアナショッピングセンターまで徒歩５分のところにできる新しいコンドミニアム、ワイホヌア　アット　ケワロがあと残りわずかで完売します。気になっている方はすぐにご連絡ください。値段設定は２ベッドルームのもので$687,935から。

                                                     (Waihonua Show Room model)

As always, what's available in Honolulu real estate is always changing. Please feel free to ask about the market, specific area, the process of purchasing and selling.
For free buyer/seller consultation: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com
ホノルルの不動産状況はかなり短い期間で変わります。特定のエリアについて知りたい方、不動産売買のプロセスについて知りたい方、どんなご質問もお受けします。お気軽にメールにてお問い合わせください。hitomi@iproepertieshawaii.com

1st time home buyer? Need down payment assistance? E-mail me for details. Buyer's education program is also available through Hawaii Home Ownership Center.
初めて不動産売買される方必見。頭金補助プログラム及び購入者のための無料セミナーもございます。まずはメールにてお問い合わせください。

Attention to Real Estate Brokers in Japan! 日本の不動産屋さん必見！

During my recent visit to Japan, I was able to talk to the Sales Rep for Japanese Real Estate.
Being located in the heart of Tokyo, he kindly shared his knowledge on how real estate buying and selling work in Japan. Basic concept is still the same as the ones I have seen in Hawaii, but surprisingly for referral, their pay out rate is pretty high and they can do a whole country wide search.
この度日本に訪れた際、日本の不動産業の方とお話ができました。お会いしたセールスの方がとても親切に日本の不動産業について教えてくださり、基本的にはハワイの不動産業とあまり変わりがないなと思った次第です。ただ驚いたのは、アメリカと違い、そちらの不動産屋さんでは北海道から沖縄まで国中の不動産を探せるということと、同じ業者の紹介料がかなり高いことです。

When I deal with Japanese buyers, their expectations are very high to be honest. Hawaii is a world famous paradise state, lots of people dream of living in. Because of the limited space, price gets higher even though it's not a newly built house/condo. You ultimately pay for the location, not really for the condition. Of course better condition ones with better amenities on site get higher price also.
日本の買い手の方々はハワイの物件に対する期待がかなり高く、ハワイは世界でもかなり求められる場所であることと土地が限られているため同じコンディションでも値段がかなり高くなるのはしょうがないと言えるでしょう。そのなかでもいいコンディションの物件はさらに高くなるものです。

There are many types of houses to consider. One might be the house that does a job(Providing a place to live without giving you a hardship), and other one might be the house that upgrade your lifestyle(Enjoy what Hawaii can offer, ocean view, enjoy more nature, prime location to be able to go other places in the world...) Then, finally it would be investment properties.
たくさん種類のある不動産ですが、その一つは「住むことに苦労しないお家。」バケーションハウスのような華やかさはなくても普通に住めますよっていうお家ですね。で、他のタイプではライフスタイルをアップグレードしてくれるお家。オーシャンビューであったり、場所的にとても便利なお家。さらには、投資家用の不動産。（貸し出しのしやすいもの）

Our company's focus is to find a place for YOU, so we start with consultation to make YOU realize what you really need, and if you need a further help on money management to get ready to be a buyer, we can help you with that too.
いずれの不動産であっても、私どものフォーカスはお客様です。常にカウンセリングから始め、その中でお客様が本当に必要なあるいは望みの物件がどんなものかを見つけ出します。家の持ち主になるためのプロセスのお手伝いもします。

E-mail me at hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com to dig into what your needs/wants are.
メールでのカウンセリングも受けられますのでお気軽にメールでお問い合わせください。

First Time Home Buyers?
Check out Hawaii Home Ownership Center's downpayment assistant programs: www.hawaiihomeownership.org
初めてお家を買われる方必見情報。上のリンクをクリックしてください。ご質問は、hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.comまで。

Are you a broker? Ask me about our referral programs.
不動産業の方、紹介料プログラムございます。メールでお問い合わせください。

Ritz-Carlton Residence Broker's Open! リッツカールトンレジデンス ラグジャリーコンド 住宅展示場

At the Broker's Open for Ritz-Carlton Residence, we were able to learn more about what this fuss is about.
This top of the luxury condo will be built right behind Tiffany retail store at luxury row in Waikiki.
The developer is the one who made Trump Waikiki also (Irongate AZREP BW LLC).
リッツカールトン　レジデンスと呼ばれる期待のラグジャリーコンドミニアムのショールームに行ってきました。この新しくできるビルはワイキキのラグジャリーロウと呼ばれる高級ブランド店が並ぶエリアのティファニー宝石店の後ろに建てられる事が計画されています。
これはまた、トランプワイキキホテルコンドを作った同じ会社が建設します。

What is so special about this project? Prime location and all ocean view units, which will be surrounded by all the luxury retail stores and restaurants.
このコンドが特にすごいのはやはりワイキキの一等地であることと、すべての部屋がオーシャンビューになるように建てられることです。さらに周辺が高級ブランド店に囲まれ、有名レストランが３つ入る予定。

Pricing was actually not so bad. Starting from high in $500,000s. So far, sales is going really strong. It's been only a few weeks since it stated accepting offers, yet it has been already sold 75% of units.
値段的にも比較的抑え目で、５千万から始まっています。（現時点では小さめのユニットは完売）まだ発売して３週間目ですが、既に７５％のユニットが売られているようです。

                                          At show room (ショールームにて）

 　　　　　　　　　　Powder room model（バスルームモデル）

 　　　　　　　　　　  Living Room Model　（リビングルームモデル）

 　　　　　　　　　　 Kitchen Model（キッチンモデル）

 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Bath Room Model（深いバスタブにシャワー）

 　　　　　　　　　　　Kitchen Model（キッチンモデル）

 　　　　　　　　　　　Unit model pictures（ユニット完成予想写真）

 　　　　　　　　　　　Unit model pictures（ユニット完成予想写真）

 　　　　　　　　　　　　

 　　　　　　　　　　　Living Room Model（リビングルームモデル）

 　　　　　　　　　　　　　Ritz Carlton Residence Building Model
                                                   （リッツカールトンレジデンスモデル）
This new project, when will it be completed? It's projected to be completed in 2016. With low interest rate on home loans, it's really not a bad idea to purchase to lock-in the low interest rate for this brand new condo. We are not sure if it will operate as a hotel, but the lady at sales gallery implied that there might be an option to put it in hotel rental pool also, which means If you own as a vacation house, while you are not using it, you can rent it out. Trump Waikiki is charging around $450 per day for hotel guest. It can be a great investment property too.

この新しいコンドは２０１６年に完成予定。住宅ローンの利子率が低い今の間に購入した場合その低い利率で購入できるメリットはあります。ホテルとして使われる可能性もあるそうで、その場合は、バケーション用の購入であれば、使わない間はホテルレンタルプールに入れることもできます。トランプホテルが一日の滞在に＄４５０ドル以上なので、同じくらいの収入が予想されます。投資物権として購入するのもいいかもしれません。

There is another show room in Tokyo also. For details, e-mail me at hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com
東京にショールームもございます。詳細はメールにてお問い合わせください。


Buying or Selling?
Consultation is always FREE! E-mail me at hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

Great for Business Owners! Kapolei's new community projects 自営業の方にお勧めのカポレイ最新コミュニティプロジェクト

With all the new condominiums being built up here and there in Honolulu, there is also exciting new community projects in Kapolei. Kapolei will be the 2nd biggest town in the near future.
たくさんの新しいコンドミニアムがホノルルにできる中で、将来ホノルルの次に大きな都市になりそうなカポレイのエリアに新しいコミュニティのプロジェクトが進んでいます。

Awakea at Mehana (Source: drhorton.com)

 

One of the new projects is called Awakea at Mehana, which provides, "Work-Life" units. Work-Life units are business/residence mix units where you can reside and operate your business. 2-3bedroom condominium town houses starting from high $300,000s.

そのあたらいいプロジェクトの一つが、「アワケア　アット　メハナ」と呼ばれるビジネス用としても使える住宅。２つあるいは３っつのベッドルームがあるコンドタウンハウスで、値段は４０万ドルを少し下回るあたりから。

 

This type of town house can be very ideal for business owners who would like not only to balance work and life, but also save money on additional space at some other place just for office/store. Of course, it depends of what type of business you have, yet for such a low price you can have both! House and Workplace!



この手のタウンハウスはビジネスを個人でされてる方にとても理想的。仕事と私生活をうまくバランスよく生かすことができるだけでなく、仕事用に別に物件を探す必要もありません。
ただもちろんある程度特定のビジネスに限られてくるかもしれませんが、それでも仕事用のスペースと住居を一緒に所有できるのはかなりお得です。

Just like all the new condo projects, it will be sold before it's built. Please inquire early enough so as not to miss your opportunity to own this unique house!
他の新しいまだ建てられていないコンドミニアム同様、このプロジェクトも早めにチェックされることをお勧めします。

We offer free buyer/seller consultation.
Please feel free to e-mail me at hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com
住宅の売買について無料でご相談承っております。いつでも日本語でお気軽にメールにてご質問ください。メールアドレス：hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

How do you justify the price on maintenance fee? ハワイコンドミニアムのメインテナンスフィーの料金の定め方

As condominium buyers and owners, one thing that concerns most can be its maintenance fee.
Typically, it's said that well-managed building has appropriate rate on maintenance fee. It doesn't scare people who own the units or who are thinking of buying the units.
ハワイのコンドミニアムを買われる方又は所有の方の心配事の一つがメンテナンスフィー（所有者に別途にかかる維持費）。
メインテナンスフィーを決める要因はどれだけうまくビルの管理経営ができているかできまります。

Even if it's priced right, some condominiums are not desired due to high maintenance fee, which can become so close to monthly mortgage payment over time.
コンドミニアムのユニット自体の値段が適切であっても、メインテナンスフィーが高いと住宅ローンも含め月々の支払いがとても高くなってしまうことがあります。

On the other hand, some condominiums are very well-managed and keep the maintenance fee so low. I saw a unit with $300 range maintenance fee, which includes all utilities(Electric, AC, Water, Sewer, Cable)! This unit particularly has washer and dryer inside. So, you see how much possibly you save money on utility bills?
そんな中でも、管理経営が良いビルではメインテナンスフィーが比較的低く、ユニットによってはユーティリティー（電気代など）をメインテナンスフィーに含んでいるものもあります。
私が見てきたユニットの中で、メインテナンスの料金が電気代とケーブル代を含みユニットの中に洗濯機と乾燥機付きなんていうのもあります。

This condominium unit had multiple offers from buyers in a few days after it became available on the market. For a money saver on maintenance fee(Good purchase in general), it's critical to choose right Realtor to be on a look out for you.
このようなコンドミニアムはやはり人気があるのでたくさんの買いのオファーが来ているようですが、買い手の目で所有してから、お金がセーブできるような物件探しを手伝ってくれる不動産屋さんを選ぶのは大切ですね。

(Source: MLS listing)



Disclaimer: this content has nothing to do with the pictured building.





For buyers, it's recommended to make a list on what you would like to have in the building. Recreation room, Guest parking, Pool, Sauna, Gym, Resident Manager, Security Guard...and so on. Then, you can tell why maintenance fee is priced at certain amount.
Another thing is to get ready to write an offer when you find a "Good Deal" unit through your Realtor, which would be to get pre-qualified for a purchase in advance.
買い手としては、そのコンドミニアムのビルの中に何があって欲しいかリストを作るといいでしょう。（レクリエーションルーム、プール、サウナ、ジム、管理人、セキュリティーガードなど）
基本的にはたくさんアメニティー（共有のプールやサウナなど）があるほどメインテナンスフィーは高くなりますね。

そしてその中でいわゆる「掘り出し物の物件」を不動産屋を通して見つけたときには、すでに買いのオファーが出せるように、銀行からいくらローンが出してもらえるかの見積もりの紙を持っていたほうがいいでしょうね。

In Hawaii's Real Estate Market, there is always a change even if it's said there is low inventory(less homes with more buyers). Just like anything else we do in our life, continuous study will get us ready when the time comes. Either it's to be ready to be a buyer/seller/investor, let's start getting ready TODAY for your future.
現在のハワイの不動産状況は、買い手の方が売り手より多いため、「売り手市場」と呼ばれていますが、不動産だけでなく何をするにも将来に向けての準備が大切です。たとえ１年後２年後あるいは１０年後に家を持ちたい場合でも、今から少しずつ情報を学んでいくことはとてもためになるでしょう。

Hawaii Home Ownership Center offers buyer's education for FREE
Ask me for more details: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

ハワイにバケーションハウス、投資物件、ご自分用の住宅をお探しの方、また、物件をお持ちで売りに出したいという方もお気軽に日本語でご相談ください。メールアドレスはこちら：hitomi@iproeprteishawaii.com

Selling/Buying homes?
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Featured newer condo: Pacifica Honolulu

Today, I am featuring this still new kaka'ako condominium, Pacifica Honolulu.

(Source: pacificahonolulu.com)

Pacifica Honolulu is built in 2011. Formerly known as Moana Vista, which was foreclosed and auctioned to be completely rebuilt by San Diego based developer, Oliver McMillan.

It is already attractive for its location, but the entertainment that this condominium can offer is simply amazing. Downstairs has popular Japanese Restaurant, Doraku. You can dine inside or outside. If you would like to just have a coffee and relax, you can go to the next door cafeteria, Blue Tree.

(Source: pafificahonolulu.com)

Inside amenities suggest total life style with very stylish and modern design. It has literally everything you can think of. Pool(of course), Jacuzzi, Lounging area, BBQ area, lawn area(maybe you can do yoga or picnic?), another BBQ area, Dining/Party area, Sauna, and another Lounging area! Then, Fitness room and Theater that you can have a movie night without driving to go to movie theater. As I passed through, everybody was so nice and friendly(That actually gives more points to this condo too!).

As popular as this condominium might be, the price is on the rise, yet still affordable. Available units are limited since this condominium is managed right and have a relatively lower maintenance fee considering all the features it has.

With so many different choices in Honolulu real estate condominium market, if you are looking for something that creates more than a home with all the entertainment conveniently located inside of the building, this condo is going to be a great choice.

Selling or Buying a home?
We offer a free buyer/seller consultation. E-mail me at hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

Chip in to support Hawaii Home Ownership Center! HHOC's 6th Annual Golf Tournament!

Hawaii Home Ownership Center is a registered non-profit organization which focuses on homebuyer education and foreclosure prevention in Hawaii. By year-end 2012, HHOC had helped over 950 families in becoming homeowners and/or with refinancing their homes.

Come out to be a part of this fun event on August 8th, 2013 at Peal Country Club!
For more details: www.hihomeownership.org

1st time home buyer? Ask me how I can save your money to get your home through down payment assistant programs and government grants! Consultation is always FREE! hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

Waihonua at Kewalo (Still available!)

With lots of developments going on, my broker and I visited another semi-luxury priced condo with true luxury project: Waihonua at Kewalo. Only one block away from Ala Moana Shopping Mall, walking distance to Ala Moana Beach, and easy H1 access. We have known this project for a while(Sales started end of 2011). They have a gorgeous model to show how it would look like when it is completed.

 

There has been already a couple of new condos around it, yet it is successfully designed to have views from every units according to the agent at Waihonua Sales Gallery.

When it will be actually ready? It's scheduled to be ready in April in 2014. Out of 341units, only 33units are available now. That also includes the lowest priced 2bed/2bath unit($693,280). All units left are more than 1000 sq.ft, comes with all the amenities(Gym, Pool, Theater, Club room, Visitor guest suites, Storage, BBQ area, Outdoor lounge, Spa). Now that I think about it, it's almost like living in a resort hotel. Only difference is that you won't be staying there for a day or two. You will be LIVING there everyday waking up to the gorgesou view! Another great thing about this project is that because this has been in production already, you won't wait too long to move in. This is another way of taking advantage of low interest rate on home loans.

First time home buyers?
We, iPropertiesHawaii offer buyer/seller consultation for free, contact me at hitomi@ipropertieshawawaii.com

Hawaii Real Estate Updates: Condominium Sales are HOT!

Condominium market in Honolulu is pretty notorious. There has been lots of new projects in town and lots of them had been sold out as soon as they became available on the market.

The latest statistics from Honolulu Board of Realtors® shows Closed Sale on Condominiums of 585 for March 2013, which is jumped from 279 for February 2013. This is partially because of the new affordable condominium, Holomua, which is very conveniently located in town (Easy H1 access, within a mile, Walmart, Ala Moana Shopping Mall, 10 minutes away from Waikiki)

Newly built Affordable Condo project: Holomua

(Source: MLS listing)

How fast all the condominiums are being sold? Well, it's 15 days! This DOM(Days on Market) average was also triggered by Holomua units sales. Resale only condo DOM was 25 days.
But still, only less than a month!

Either you are a future buyer or seller, you will be competing with other buyers or sellers. As a buyer, it is critical to get pre-qualified and make sure you are planning ahead before even start going to open houses. As a seller, it is highly recommended to start pricing right taking everything into consideration(Condition of the property, how fast it needs to be sold, and so on). Even if inventory in housing market is currently low, wrongly priced properties still stay in the market longer, or eventually have to be priced lower. In the worst scenario, no sale.

It all starts with what you would like to reach as a life goal. It is a big purchase, let's plan ahead to make the right move for YOU.

We are providing a free counseling session for buyer/seller. We can assist you step by step through the buying/selling process. Please feel free to contact us: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com

Hawaii Real Estate Update: How to Take Advantage of Down Payment Assistance Programs.

Hawaii Real Estate Market has been recovering with on-going low interest rate on home loans.
How would you take advantage of this market and lock the low interest rate on your first home?If you are veterans, you should definitely take advanatge of VA loan with 0% down.
Many people might be finding themselves and say, "Yes, but not ready for down payment yet". What if you can put down low down payment, let's say, 3%? Is it doable? Conventional loan requires 20% down. Let's say, you find a home for $300,000. 20% down is $60,000 already. Lots of people find that pretty challenging. Hawaii Home Ownership Center is a non-profit organization who helps the 1st time home owner with education and offers down payment assistance programs.

Now, with 3% down, you put down $9000, and balance($51,000) would be like a 2nd mortgage with low interest rate(let's hope it will stay that way).
Because this program will help you to put down total of 20%, it's still the same as the person who puts down 20%. That means...no mortage insurance you would have to pay. Usually Banks would ask you to pay PMI(Purchase Mortgage Insurance) with less than 20% down. That's another $300-$500 a month in addition to monthly mortgage, maintenance fee, association fee, and etc. Because there are more condominum buyers than single home houses in town in Honolulu, that's the reality to really think about how you can save money on something you wouldn't have to pay.

Our agency iProperties Hawaii supports this Hawaii Home Ownership Center as well as other non-profit organizations. contact me for more info on this programs offered by HHOC.
hitomi@iproeprtieshawaii.com

Ritz-Carlton Waikiki Project

Another Luxury Condo in Waikiki! Ritz-Carlton Waikiki Project

Another luxurious condominium project in the heart of Waikiki. According to Pacific Business News, the price would start from $500,000 to $15Millions. It will be available for purchase in June, 2013. In the mean time, they(The sales and marketing team: S&P Real Estate Corporation) are taking the registration to simply give a right to interested buyers to get ahead of the purchase game. (This does not mean you can or cannot purchase, you will only receive more information as project goes)

In this Hot Hot market(Median days on market for condominiums less than 30days), it is highly recommended to register everywhere, just to open more opportunities. If you are planning on purchasing real estate within this year, it might be a better idea to start shopping for morgages and pre-qualified for home loan before you start even going to open houses. It would also make yourself understand how much you can afford, and if it's the right timing for you to purchase.

Our Company iPropertiesHawaii offers free counseling session for your real estate needs, please feel free to contact me via e-mail: hitomi@ipropertieshawaii.com