-Effective 8.22.2017 Title & Escrow companies handling Honolulu County real estate transactions with a $3 Mill purchase price or more are now required to file FinCEN Form 8300. The form shall contain the identity of the individuals primarily responsible for representing the buyer. E.g., if the buyer is an entity, Corporation, Partnership, LLC, Trust or a Shell Company, the form shall contain the identity of the beneficial owners.
Title & Escrow companies must obtain and record a copy of the Passport, Driver License or other government IDs of the individuals purchasing or benefiting from this transaction.

FinCEN, the Financial Crimes and Enforcement Network, is a bureau of the US Department of the Treasury. The new Geographic Targeting Order (GTO) now includes Honolulu County, the island of Oahu. So far Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Molokai, and Lanai have not been included.
The purpose of the order is to mitigate the misuse of shell companies for money laundering and terrorism funding.
See FinCEN’s GTO and FAQ:

GTO page 1

GTO page 2

GTO page 3

GTO page 4

GTO page 5

FAQ page 1

FAQ page 2

FAQ page 3

Let us know what you think. We love to hear from you. Reciprocate Aloha! -‘Like’, ‘Share’, and ‘Comment’ below.
~ Mahalo & Aloha

The post Attention! – Honolulu Luxury Property Deals Above $3 Mill – New FinCEN Order appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

The 2nd City, made up of Ewa Beach and Kapolei, will soon be an almost seamless grouping. With Ewa Beach real estate development advancing westward the spaces that separate them won’t be discernible. There will not be a homogenous Metro area when this process is completed, however. You will still be presented with real choices when deciding on buying a home in Kapolei or Ewa Beach. It’s the kind of decision that will impact every day of your life.

From their different origins to the expansion plans each has remaining ahead of it, there are factors you need to understand as you begin your search for a residence that’s right for not just you, but your family. You will have the entire 2nd City to enjoy and benefit from, but there’s no question that where you will live in it is going to matter greatly to the experience. Let’s find out what those differences are, why they’ll matter to you and make your choice a little more clear.

EWA BEACH – BEATING EXPECTATIONS AT EVERY TURN

Huelani

This is where it all started. Ewa Beach has been a settled town since the 1800s, with collections of residents here long before. As everything mauka of it turned into plantation land, it still remained its own entity. That longstanding existence resulted in a place with its own distinctive local culture and feel.

The closing of the farms over the 80s and 90’s suddenly made huge new Ewa Beach real estate suddenly spring to life, the build-up starting at that time and still going today. The point is that while Ewa Beach has gone through extensive expansion from the small town that hugged the shoreline, it has a history that runs through the entire place. It’s a hard factor to define, but it is undeniably there.

The first steps to the 2nd City began here, with projects breaking ground almost the moment the last harvest was finished. With that head start on Kapolei, it may surprise you to know that Ewa Beach has more new housing within it today. The latest is the headline grabbing name of Hoopili.

Over the coming years this neighborhood will add a very substantial 11,750 new Ewa homes, the first phase nearing completion already. More than a bedroom community, it will include substantial shopping & commercial spaces, multiple parks and 5 public schools. That has been the pattern of this eastern section of the 2nd City, new communities with their own leisure and recreation options, rather than the larger, centralized choices, such as big box stores, that characterize Kapolei.

In addition to a greater number of new residences, the styles – and lifestyles – are more varied, too. You have the choice of golf course communities like the luxury of Cypress Point, the affordable homes of Ewa Gentry’s Laulani, or the leisure lifestyle you get with the houses within the gates of Huelani.

Hoakalei

Then there’s the resort-living of the properties in Hoakalei, where you enjoy a private lagoon to play in any time. Next to the lagoon they’re now planning a $300M shopping, dining & entertainment complex, which neighborhood residents can walk, or golf-cart, to in a mere few minutes.

Together, these Ewa Beach neighborhoods provide a selection that Kapolei cannot match. For those seeking variety, Oahu’s real estate market can offer few rivals to this district.

The ‘Beach’ in Ewa Beach
It’s also often forgotten that only Ewa Beach offers the possibility of living near or even on the ocean. The Old Ewa Beach town dominates the shoreline here, but the newer areas of Ocean Pointe and, of course, Hoakalei make it easy to get to the sands.

Ocean Pointe

Taken together, there aren’t just more newer homes in Ewa Beach than Kapolei, there are more homes, period. While most of the attention has been on the western end of the pair, the eastern has plowed on, putting up residences that make it the dominant domicile for people in the Ewa Plain. It is here that you’ll find not only greater real estate selection, but wider, too.

The population lean to this side has resulted in a greater number of elementary schools, 7 in Ewa Beach to 5 in Kapolei and middle schools, 2 to 1 in that case. High Schools? They’re even currently, 1 each.

Finally, if affordability is important in your search for a residence, then a good place to start is here. Ewa Beach homes average out today to a pricing of $697K, giving you a $30K edge on Kapolei’s average of $727K. In the expensive Oahu real estate market, every little bit helps.

Made up your mind that Ewa Beach real estate is the way to go? Not so fast. You’ve only heard one side of the story, so stick with us. There’s a lot to love about Kapolei, too.

KAPOLEI – THE CITY CENTER OF WEST OAHU

Kapolei Malanai

Kapolei is a complete modern creation, a city that sprang from sugarcane fields. Previous to the plantations there were no real settlements on its present lands. The lack of water sources until the 1879 discovery of artesian wells made inhabiting the Ewa Plain difficult at best. Due to this, Kapolei has no real history to it, though the area’s plantation culture and the presence of so many residents with deep local roots keep it truly ‘Hawaii’.

A tour of the central section of the city will make one defining feature leap out plainly. This is the shopping and entertainment hub for West Oahu, with some choices that even Honolulu does not have. Along with the big box retailers, like Costco, there are several large shopping outlets, such as Kapolei Commons and Kapolei Shopping Center.

You’ll even find a supermarket sized Down to Earth store, just one sign of the fact that there’s something here to satisfy every taste, not just the ones traditionally associated with West Oahu.

That all takes a back seat, though, to Ka Makana Alii, 67 acres of 100+ stores, restaurants, entertainment and even a Hampton Inn/Suites for visitors. There’s no mistaking its impact as it now holds the title of 3rd Largest Shopping Center in Hawaii.

Living in a home in Kapolei also puts you very close to the world-class resort area of Ko Olina. While that does make staycations easily accessible, you’ll benefit more from using the attractions there for more common reasons.

The magnificent Ko Olina lagoons have the kind of tropical charm and scenery that bring a wealthy clientele from all over the world. They’re also open to the public. Top chef dining experiences and the unique recreation options that only visitor-oriented districts offer are also available, too.

Ko Olina

The best news of all with this is that Ko Olina is just getting started. A recently announced Atlantis Resort is expected to come, along with other leisure & vacation properties, which will lengthen the list of what you’ll be able to do, sample and experience only a few miles away.

Kapolei Advantages You’ll Appreciate Every Single Day

Kapolei Knolls

Even on days you can’t make it to those lagoons, Kapolei residents can enjoy something over their Ewa Beach neighbors – cooler temperatures. There’s no question how this difference can make practically every part of your day at least a little easier. It’s just easier to keep cool when you live in these zip codes.

That’s not the only element of Kapolei that will enrich most days compared to Ewa Beach. It also has many easily reached access points to the highway spread across town. Commuting is just part of the deal when living in West Oahu, so anything that will smooth even part of that journey to Honolulu and back each day is worth noting.

H1 goes right across the mauka side of Kapolei so that proximity, along with smart planning, puts the freeway well within reach for residents. The northward slope H1 takes from there places it even further from the more makai Ewa Beach neighborhoods, adding extra time before you can really get your commute started.

Before closing, we should again underline that Kapolei still has much to come. One of the biggest recent surprises was China Oceanwide, the investors behind the Ko Olina Atlantis resort, also announced a community centered around at least 1 golf course, with 2500 townhomes and condos, plus commercial centers as well. This development would take up the lands between Kapolei and Ko Olina, the separation between the two now erased. It’s an exciting time in the 2nd City.

EWA BEACH & KAPOLEI – CLEAR CHOICES FOR THE RIGHT BUYERS
The merging of Ewa Beach and Kapolei, especially as their borders have begun to blend together, has started to also blur what differentiates them. For many, understandably in Hawaii, the choice can come down to affordability.

Even that prime concern must be balanced against other needs. Families with small children will weigh the availability of schools, while others will consider where potential local jobs or business opportunities are more likely. Now, at least, you know some of the main selling points between the two sides of the 2nd City. Which would be your choice?

The post Ewa Beach vs Kapolei: Where Would You Live? appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

Windward Oahu properties primarily come down to 2 main areas, Kaneohe and Kailua. They are the not just the only two substantial areas over there, providing most of the available listings, they’re also the best commuting bets for the majority who work in, or have business ties to, Honolulu.

Although they are cheek-to-cheek neighbors, you’ll find that they’re more like two siblings. In many ways they resemble each other, but you can plainly see the differences that make each an individual. So it is with these two towns.

Join us as we take a look at the what differentiates them and why one just might where you should be looking for your next home. The answer just might surprise you.

Kaneohe – Homes With Choices

Summit at Kaneohe Bay

Kaneohe homes have been known to be more budget-friendly since Oahu real estate sprang into existence. That’s an important point as Windward Oahu residences generally occupy a more expensive tier than their equivalents over the Koolaus. So a break on that elevated cost makes this area stand out to most buyers.

We’ve found that recent years have balanced out to a media price for Kaneohe single family homes of $1.04M, but the range can go from $329K to $3.64M. Kaneohe’s range starts at $56K below Kailua’s lowest cost in the same years, $385K, and ends far below the $26M closing that one Kailua luxury property went for not long ago.

Condos in Kaneohe follow the same pattern, this time beginning at $89K, compared to Kailua condos’ low of $385K, and topping out at $799K, almost 28% beneath the highest condo sale of $1.1M in the neighboring town. In short, you can usually count on shaving off a certain amount of money for a home if you look on the northern side of the border that separates these two towns.

A Lot More Variety Than You Think in Kaneohe Homes
There’s more lifestyle choices available in the neighborhoods here, too. You’ll find everything from the houses of Mahinui that begin right where Kailua ends, reflecting the influence of that community in its homes and atmosphere.

Mahinui Homes

Head up to the urban center of town to Alii Shores or Mahalani, where old Hawaii homes and modern luxury structure enjoy being near, or even on, Kaneohe Bay, yet on the doorstep of so much dining and shopping.

Continue on and retreat to the quiet seclusion of the stunningly green Valley of the Temples or stick to the coastline and you’ll see small collections of homes, given names like Kaalaea, with tropical mountains on one side and crystal blue ocean on the other, the setting clearly becoming more and more ‘North Shore’.

If you like the views that can come when you live beyond the 5th floor, this is also where you want to be. No where else on the Windward side will you find these towers. Another view you get more of is the always enticing ocean, due to the sloping of the terrain here from the coastline as well as the hillsides above.

Owning a home away from the shore can still give you an outlook of Kaneohe Bay that will give you the greatest of pleasures as long as you live there. Outside of the Lanikai area, Kailua is generally flat land, restricting your vertical sightline, even with its low-rise profile.

The fact that the word ‘urban’ is used to describe at least the center of the town means this zip code holds the greatest collection of shopping and dining on the eastern coastline of Oahu. The presence of Windward Mall is the most obvious example, holding over 110 stores, with numerous restaurants and eateries as well.

Much of the main strip of Kamehameha Hwy is lined with offices, shops and more eating options, including the Kaneohe Bay Shopping Center. There’s nothing to match the number or range of choices anywhere else up or down this coast.

That also translates to more job opportunities, since more businesses have a presence in Kaneohe, it being the one place where substantial office and commercial space is available – and at more affordable rates than the relatively little found in Kailua. So entrepreneurs will have a lower cost not only in getting started, but ongoing as well.

For the many who still have to commute to Honolulu for work, Kaneohe has H3 right on its doorstep, giving you a much quicker start, or end, to that part of the day. While it’s difficult to quantify, it’s also hard to underestimate the advantage this proximity offers in these days of growing traffic and the personal stress that rises along with it.

Lastly, it’s no secret that buying Kaneohe real estate is attractive to some because the city is almost purely local and local-focused. The tourism and off-Island buyer wave that has swept over Kailua has not overflowed into this town. The absence of beaches, even with the undeniable beauty and recreation possibilities of Kaneohe Bay, along with other factors has made it less attractive to visitors.

For those who are wary of a place that deals with tour buses and crowds coming in each day, yet love the Windward side of Oahu, Kaneohe is the better fit.

There’s better fits for other Oahu home buyers, too. Kailua real estate is one many fall in love with today. So much so that it’s become one of the very hottest markets on Oahu. You’ll see this is no accident, but a result of a very good thing, with an only growing army of admirers.

Why Kailua Homes Attract So Much Interest

Lanikai

One of the earlier points should be qualified. While Kaneohe does hold the greatest concentration of shopping in Windward, Kailua contains Target, Whole Foods, Safeway and Foodland, Longs and Walgreens, plus an excellent and broad selection of restaurants and boutique stores, all in the main part of town. This is no bedroom community.

It is, however, one that seldom climbs past 3 or 4 stories. You will notice a very few, but their singularity is what makes them stand out so much. Otherwise, Kailua homes enjoy a feeling of openness and surrounding them, the sky stretching out before and above them.

One more good reason for that feeling is the reality of Kailua lot sizes averaging 10K sq ft versus Kaneohe’s 7673 sq ft, continuing to the interiors where Kailua wins again with 2180 sq ft to 2078 sq ft within their respective single family homes. Condos follow this same line, even if there are less of them here. Kailua condos average out to 1,270 sq ft of room, a substantial rise from the 922 sq ft Kaneohe’s average offers. In short, you’ll probably have more space, inside and out, when buying here.

Just Two Words – Da Beach
We can’t avoid addressing the most obvious attraction, the cause of all the traffic on the streets and sidewalks heading makai each day – the beach. A greater contrast couldn’t exist, with Kaneohe having no real beaches at all, while Kailua has some of the most famous stretches of sand on Earth.

Kailua Beach Park

Those stretches extend far beyond Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach Park, which get all the attention. While plenty of residents head to those in huge numbers as well, many opt for the equally wonderful sands and views north of that duo, where you have much less company. In places, you can have it to yourself, or something closet to it. Whether you like an active environment or something more solitary in your seaside, you can have it your way. Better yet, you just might be able to walk there, a benefit of many homes in Kailua.

The speed of the life is also a little slower on these streets. Kaneohe is by no means fast paced, but the busier central area, with its sometimes thick development and a large mall, inevitably raises the heartbeat of the place at least a little over the other sections of this side of the Pali.

Kailua remains a quiet place, characterized by a heavy emphasis on activity during the day, your late night options limited to the 24 hour Safeway. Coming into town on Kailua Rd, you’ll realize it’s not just your car that’s slowing down. You are, too.

If you’re an active bicyclist, you’ll find the avenues friendly no matter where you go. The speed limits make for a friendlier environment to those on 2 wheels and it’s accepted that they’re just as much a part of the traffic. More than a few locals bicycle around town on a daily basis, especially to the beach, as well as any errands or just to take in another beautiful day. In Kailua, getting there is more than half the fun when you live in a place like this.

Kailua or Kaneohe – A Tough Call
Ultimately, the undisputed winner on a budget basis is Kaneohe, which could be the clincher all by itself. However, it will also surprise you with homes, lifestyles and settings that most do not associate with the place. For that reason, it’s worth a look for almost anyone. Kailua is now a known quantity, its beaches and Hawaii throwback feel has in recent years created a housing demand that is nothing short of feverish.

It’s not just about the money, in the end. It’s also the fact that these are two communities that are both fully Windward Oahu, but different sides of it in some ways. Each has its own special resonance that makes its residents proud to belong there. The question is: where do you belong?

The post Kailua vs Kaneohe: Where Would You Live? appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

Check out our new listing, – Waikiki’s Hidden Treasure!

This is a choice high floor 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo at the celebrated Lanikea Waikiki, a boutique style luxury condo building completed in 2005. The unit faces the ocean and enjoys fabulous ocean and Diamond Head views from the entire apartment. An awesome usable lanai is large enough to accommodate a table for enjoying sunset dinners.

This condo is in pristine turn-key condition. Recent upgrades include brand new tropical hardwood floors, Toto washlet, ceiling fans, and new paint. This is a unit for the most discriminating buyer. Lanikea is one of the few condo buildings with tall 9ft ceilings throughout. The unit feels like a little house in the sky.

Very private and secure, there are only 4 units per floor. Two prime side-by-side parking stalls are located close to the elevator. The pool is gigantic for the size of this building, and the ocean is only a stone throw away. – Make this one your new paradise home.

Call George at 808-554-1635, – George@HonoluluHi5.com

Lanikea 2803 – Lanai

Lanikea 2803 Living Room 1

Lanikea 2803 Living Room

Lanikea 2803 Dinning

Lanikea 2803 Kitchen

Lanikea 2803 Bedroom 1

Lanikea 2803 Bathroom 1

Lanikea 2803 Pool

Lanikea 2803 Barbeque

Lanikea 2803 Porte Cochere

Lanikea 2803 Diamond Head View

All Lanikea condos for sale.

All Waikiki condos for sale.

Let us know what you think. We love to hear from you. Reciprocate Aloha! -‘Like’, ‘Share’, and ‘Comment’ below.
~ Mahalo & Aloha

The post New Listing: Lanikea #2803 appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

I meet many buyers excited to buy but reluctant to move forward. Often buyers claim “I’m not in a hurry. Just keep me posted when the right deal comes up.” In the buyer’s mind, the right deal might be a nice property that sold 6 months ago at a then favorable price. Regretfully that property already sold! And in a rising market the price from 6 months ago might no longer be realistic.

Maybe the buyer is financially or mentally not ready to make a purchase. But it could also be the buyer is delaying based on misinterpreting the evidence of today’s market. Here are 3 things to remember when waiting for the right deal:

1. Just because the market seems expensive does not mean prices will drop

Hawaii real estate buyers have difficulty comprehending why values are high compared to their budget limitations. During the 2008 – 2010 financial crisis and great recession several Open House visitors from California would make bold predictions about a supposedly imminent 40% – 60% price collapse of Hawaii’s real property values. This was based on what they saw happening in many California markets. The actual drop in Hawaii ended up being only a meager 10% of Oahu’s median sales price for homes and condos. In spite of the greatest recession in recent history, Oahu’s market held up remarkably well. With a steadily improving economy and a sustainable 3.5% personal income growth projection, I expect Oahu real estate values to continue moving up at a similar rate. Don’t fall victim to wishful thinking bias. The median Oahu sale price appears poised to move higher. Besides local demand continuing, foreign demand might increase as well. Hawaii real estate is a global commodity with buyers coming from all corners of the world.
Historical data can help us, a.) get a more objective picture of Oahu’s affordability, and b.) identify possible price trend changes.

a.) Affordability for the local buyer is defined by the cost of the average mortgage payment for Oahu’s median home price vs Oahu’s median family income. Since 1976 there have only been two time periods where Oahu’s affordability has been more favorable than today: 1976-1977 and 1998-2004. In fact, Oahu’s affordability today is a lot closer to the lower end of the range and nowhere close to its historical top range.

Oahu Mortgage Debt to Income Ratio – Median Family Income at Median Single Family Home Prices

b.) Supply and demand changes precede price changes. The graph below shows how demand, as defined by the number of closed unit sales, has been steadily increasing since 2009. Prices eventually followed inching up a couple years later. Unless a pattern emerges of seasonal lower lows and lower highs in the number of unit sales, we expect the upward price trend to continue. Look for closed unit sales to soften before any change in the prevailing price trend. For now, the uptrend continues. No bubble here.

Sales Activity – Closed Unit Sales – Oahu Homes & Condos – August 2017 – Source -HBR compiled from MLS data

Median Sales Price – Oahu Homes & Condos August 2017 – Source -HBR compiled from MLS data

2. The market does not wait for us

– Recently a buyer was submitting offers on a Waikiki condo at price levels consistent with where the market had been 6 months ago. The issue was that the inventory in this particular building had diminished to only 2 units vs 8 units 6 months earlier. The buyer submitted two offers which were outbid by three other buyers competing for the same two properties. The evidence showed reduced inventory levels and a continued upward trend in the overall market. The drop in inventory levels in just a few months had resulted in the values to jump by $50K. The buyer was not willing to adjust his offer price to today’s market reality and regretfully ended up with no property.

– Earlier this year I met a buyer that decided to postpone his Kakaako condo purchase until next year. Instead, he signed a one year lease and cited his perception of uncertainty in the market as the reason why. We shall see how waiting pans out this time. Sometimes waiting for the market to drop can result in eventually being priced out of the market.

– Back in 2002, a buyer was ready to buy a Honolulu home but established a self-imposed rule not to pay more than the property’s tax assessed value. The issue is that the tax assessed value lags behind the true market value by 1 to 2 years. This is like steering your car forward by only looking in your rearview mirror. In a rising market like 2002, the true market value was significantly higher than what the tax assessed value showed.
I regret, I was unable to assist the client and don’t know if he ever bought in Hawaii. If he waited until 2009, the first time when property values were lower compared to the tax assessed value, he would have paid double the price compared to 2002 with an additional 7 years of rent money thrown out the window.

3. Always seek and have a Plan B

Buyers sometimes fall in love with a home that goes into escrow just before they are ready to make an offer. The buyers’ disappointment about having missed out can have a paralyzing effect on deciding the next step. Because someone else got the property does not mean this was the only property that might fit the buyer’s needs and wants. Regretfully, the home that sold is no longer available. What happened can’t be undone.

If this happens to you, quickly shift your focus forward towards seeking the next suitable opportunity and carefully analyze how any available property might represent a possible fit. Use market knowledge and skillful negotiation and secure the next property before someone else does. You do not want to miss out twice. There is little benefit in lamenting lost past opportunities with ‘should have, could have’ thinking. Always have a Plan B and move forward, otherwise, you end up stuck in the past.

Set up email alerts, be decisive and quick. Look for the yellow button +More Filters at the top of our site and chose your filters wisely. Sign-up is free and works with the speed of light. Don’t let the right deal slip away thinking it might wait for you. Not every property sells quickly, but the best ones often do.

Be in the know and subscribe to our Blog.

Let us know what you think. We love to hear from you. Reciprocate Aloha!   – ‘Like’, ‘Share’, and ‘Comment’ below.  ~ Mahalo & Aloha

The post 3 Things To Remember When Waiting For ‘The Right Deal’ appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

Not too long ago, Ewa Beach was the last place you’d ever expect golf course communities to spring up. The Ewa Plain had been famously converted from what was arid terrain into prime agricultural land in the late 19th Century by James Campbell through his unprecedented discovery of water sources deep in the ground. That led to a growing population, almost completely made up of a working class community that centered around the plantations.

The demise of those farms, starting in the late 80’s, created the vast majority of Ewa Beach real estate we have now. Still, this was an area whose primary selling point initially, and still is for much of it, was greater affordability.

The west side of Oahu was a pressure valve to relieve the escalating demand of the many who could not afford the prices of homes in Honolulu. That doesn’t sound like a place you’d expect golf courses to spring up, let alone residential projects centering on them. Yet they were there in the planning from the start.

As you’ll see, some of these neighborhoods surrounding the links are firmly middle class, rather than the typically more upscale residences you’d expect. It’s all part of the unexpected that has become a distinguishing feature of Ewa Beach real estate. You’ll see what we mean as we stop by the golf course communities of this growing city and find there’s something very different happening there – and that’s a very good thing.

Arbors

Arbors

Arbors was among the initial neighborhoods of the Post-Plantation era, built in 1991 along the Coral Creek Golf Course. It’s strictly townhomes here, standing out as one of just 2 of these communities in Ewa Gentry that are gated.

The interiors are very attractive, comprising 2BRs of 1,009 to 1,196 sq ft or 3BRs with 1,526. The open, loft feel of the layouts keep the air circulating on hotter days as well as brightening the spaces for a lighter mood to these Ewa Beach homes.

With many of the residences coming with 2 car garages and a large courtyard in the bargain, these feel like single family homes, one definite reason for their consistent popularity, even as they’ve become relatively older in comparison to the rest of the area.

Ewa Gentry Cypress Point

Cypress Pointe

Those looking to take a step upward will want to look over Cypress Point’s homes. These single family homes bordering the Hawaii Prince Golf Course are clearly intended for those who want some extra room inside to enjoy.

All 3 of its models have space for active families within them – the single floor Carmel (2513 sq ft, 3BR & Den/3BA and the 2 level Santa Cruz (3,623 sq ft, 4BR & Den/4.5BA) and Monterey (3,530 sq ft, 4BR & Den/4.5BA) layouts all have floor plans that dwarfs the average Oahu home.

The huge walk-in closets and gourmet kitchens and high ceilings are among the touches that set them apart as providing for the owner with a more indulgent lifestyle. The separate guest or maid quarters that are found in the larger homes underline fully that these are grander residences, if you missed the 7 figure prices these all go for, when they are available.

Cypress Point is something closer to the picture one has of a traditional golf course neighborhood, the homes meant to match the luxurious green of the grounds they sit along.

Ewa Gentry Haleakea
Though not as big as Cypress Point’s, the 3 choices of homes in Helakea are still roomy; Haiku (2,135 sq ft, 4BR/3BA), Pupukea (2,332 sq ft, 4BR/3BA) and Waiahea (2,170 sq ft, 4BR/2.5BA), each 2 story. They’re also forward looking, billed at their opening in 2011 as the 1st project in Hawaii to include 1KW photovoltaic panels and 24.5 SEER AC systems across the board.

Hugging the Hawaii Prince Golf Course, you can enjoy the scenery from covered lanais that are on both front and back of every house. Inside you can also relax in your soaking tub, separate from the shower, under 9 foot ceilings covering most spaces. It’s all part of the community’s love of Island living and the Island itself.

Ewa Gen Kula Lei
Kula Lei is another earlier entry of the Ewa Beach real estate expansion, the lots filling in between 1996 and 1999. The project won Division 3 of the Parade of Homes in 1998, the sole winner in Ewa that year.

These are homes for large or multi-generational households, the 5 models running from 3 to 5 bedrooms over 2 floors and 1092 sq ft on up to 1562 sq ft, though the living area is expandable for those who need more.

With 2 car garages and fenced backyards, this is a place for families to live and play, something greatly needed on Oahu. That’s certainly a prime reason why they remain solid sellers even as new neighborhoods are added nearby. You can’t argue with success.

Ewa Gen Sun Terra South

Sun Terra South

Built in the 1999, Sun Terra South reaps the pleasures from being surrounded on 3 sides by the Coral Creek Golf Course, meaning more homes get the views here and that there’s a solid buffer between you and outside noise.

The 3 and 4 bedroom models span from 1368 sq ft to over 2000 in some cases, but all offering front and back yards along with at least a short driveway leading up to your 2 car garage. In certain cases, 2 Master Bedrooms are inside, too.

This neighborhood seems to have had more remodeling done than most, so you’ll find individual variations in size and layouts. One of them might be the exact right match for you.

Ewa Villages
Ewa Villages modern birth truly accelerated just before the millennium and continues today. Much of the district is contained in sub-neighborhoods that are more or less within Ewa Villages Golf Course, sometimes with green fairways on all 4 sides. Best known of these are the Lokahi on the Greens subdivision that enjoy the emerald spans that make up their views.

With 3 to 5 bedrooms, in single and dual level layouts, across these Ewa Villages homes you can fit larger family units in here and the dominant architectural style, known as ‘Modern Plantation’ ties them firmly to the Ewa Beach home style tradition. That general blueprint extends to the in-process Ho’onani neighborhood here, with its 7 models that all take up 2 stories.

The newest addition in this area, they round off an already attractive community that has sold quickly with every new release.

Hoakalei Ka-Makana
Ka Makana was the first built Hoakalei neighborhood, taking up the northernmost section of the district. Divided into 2 model categories, Koa Lifestyle (4BR, 2545 to 2612 sq ft) and Koa Premier (3 to 5BR, 2123-3552 sq ft), all but the smallest Koa Premier style have 2 stories to them.

Hoakalai

The American style architecture is mixed with European touches that make them as visually arresting, yet welcoming. In addition to the grand main lagoon of the resort, residents also have their own neighborhood recreation center, with a pool and tennis courts that rival those you’d find at an upscale hotel.

The immediate, rapturous reception of these new-era Ewa Beach homes proved that Hoakalei was not just off to a good start, it would be a winner in the long run, too.

Hoakalei-Kipuka
This gated community was the Grand Champion Award winner in the 2014 Parade of Homes, so you know these are well designed homes. Your options come in either the Garden Series (all 4BR, 1656-1719 sq ft) models, which mostly look out on greenways, or the Golf Series (4BRs, 2030-2234 sq ft) that line the course that is on every side of the neighborhood. You can enjoy that view from your master bedroom’s covered lanai whenever you like.

Some layouts contain first floor guest suites, so kupuna have a safe place of their own to live. Plus they’re all designed to let in plenty of natural light, which can make a home feel wonderfully embracing.

The recreation area exclusive to Kipuka includes its own pool and spa facilities as well as a play area for the keiki to enjoy themselves. It’s like having a resort of your own, within a resort.

Hoakalei Kuapapa
Kuapapa residents have the viewing opportunities of the green stretches and water features of Hoakalei Golf Course or the untouched preserve that gave the neighborhood its name. The greatest variety of houses in Hoakalei are here, with 5 Series that have 2 to 5 different models in each.

The range of styles encompasses the seaside cottages of the Loulou series to the grand homes of Koa Premier, with New England and Southern schools appearing in between. You’re assured of 1634 to 3552 sq ft of interior to enjoy and roughly 4000 to 7000 sq ft lots within the gates of the community.

In addition to their own recreation center, this is the closest residential area to the coastline, making them even more attractive. The resort lifestyle has reached the homes of Ewa Beach.

Huelani

Huelani

Dating from the early 2000s, Huelani was intended as a more leisure oriented community, with much of its residences sitting against the southern section of Coral Creek Golf Course. That focus is the reason for the extensive recreation center with its large pool, with cabanas, a full fitness center and a spa, with vistas of the fairways for all to enjoy.

All 3models of this gated neighborhood take the names of famous links. There’s St. Andrews (1,705 sq ft, 3BR/2.5 BA), Turnberry (1,616 sq ft, 3BR/2.5 BA) and Pinehurst (1,934 sq ft, 3BR/2BA), all offering features like extensive walk-in closets, large bathtubs to lay back in and 2-car garages.

For those seeking something more to do close to home, but not ready for the full resort lifestyle, this is an excellent place to put your welcome mat out.

Ocean Pointe

Ocean Pointe

Found on the eastern side of Hoakalei Golf Course, Ocean Pointe extends the original Ewa Beach on its former northwest limits. The neighborhood includes both single family homes as well as a few townhome communities that have a personality and features of their own.

The majority of the residents have perk of being within walking distance of the beach and most townhomes have a recreation center with pool inside their own little enclave. Our main concern is the Town Homes at Fairways Edge community that stand on the lands next to the course.

Every unit takes up 2 floors, with lanais on both, wrapping around on some to maximize the vistas. Inside are always 3 bedrooms over 8 floor plans of 1005 to 1196 sq ft, while outsides are characterized by fenced yard areas and patios for socializing or relaxing. They’re the perfect solution for anyone who likes the idea of a single family home, but maybe not the upkeep or the higher pricing.

Westloch Estates
One of the neighborhoods that introduced the change in Ewa Beach real estate, these single family homes welcomed their first owners in 1990, with more built in spurts for years after. Taking up the mauka side of Westloch Golf Course, they have 3 to 5+ bedrooms within them. Generally, buyers can expect approximately 1500 sq ft at the lower end, the larger houses becoming quite large.

The most distinctive feature of all is the neighborhood’s arrangement. Westloch Estates is structured so that the bulk of the lots are on a cul-de-sac, bringing privacy and noise-limitation benefits to the maximum number of residents.

The quality of the residences, the cul-de-sac factor, along with the possibility of a front row seat on the links have combined to keep Westloch Estates at the top of many shoppers’ lists.

Westloch Fairway

Westloch Fairway

Westloch Fairway homes are a little newer than Estates’, coming up mainly between 1993-1994. Taking up the lands on the south of Westloch Golf Course, this Ewa Beach neighborhood has both single family homes and townhomes, broadening the selection of real estate.

The most common layouts of houses are 3 to 4 bedroom, in both single and dual levels, that take up from a little over 1400 sq ft to almost 2000. Lot sizes tend to be larger than the Estates, creating greater breathing room between neighbors, which is a definite selling point.

Another difference that’s immediately noticeable is that the cul-de-sac orientation was not used in Fairways. That restores a fluidity to the streets, making getting around easier, something that makes a late start to the commute less stressful.

This is a different animal to its counterpart across the course, giving you a real choice in what you want from your home between the two and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Ewa Beach Real Estate – Something Different Around Every Corner
Ewa Beach homes still tend to have a monolithic image to most outside, but that does not resemble the reality at all. The golf course communities alone should convince you of that by now. From the full resort lifestyle of Hoakalei to the leisure orientation of Huelani to the more typical home experience of Ocean Pointe, you get the full menu to choose from, with more on the way. You’re sure to find something just right for you.

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GET & TAT in Hawaii – The Easiest Way To File & Pay –

Regardless where you live, if you collect income from rental properties located in the State of Hawaii you need to file and pay:
General Excise Tax (GET) on all rents, and Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT) on rents from rental terms less than 180 days per tenant.

If you receive income from a Waikiki condo, or Oahu condo with rental terms less than 180 days per tenant you will need to pay both:
1.) 4.5% GET on the GE Taxable Income (Gross Rent plus GET & TAT, before any expenses), and
2.) 9.25% TAT on the TA Taxable Income (GE Taxable Gross Rent, minus 4.5% GET).

How often and when do I have to file and pay:

Both, GET (form G-45) and TAT (form TA-1) are due by the 20th of the month following the end of filing period.
You will also need to file the Annual Return & Reconciliation for GET (form G-49), and TAT (form T-2) by April 20th of the following year.
Filing frequency depends on how much tax you expect to be paying for the full year:

GET & TAT – Hawaii Tax Filing Frequency

How to calculate your GET & TAT on Hawaii Rental Income:

GET is 4.5% on Oahu (4% on neighbor islands) on all gross rental income, that is before deducting any expenses, even the expense of GET & TAT you might have collected!
TAT is 9.25% on all gross transient accommodation rental income (shorter than 180 days per tenant), Gross transient accommodation rental income is gross GET income minus 4.5% GET you might have collected.

Example:
Gross rent from Transient Accommodation Rentals: $34,616.94
Gross rent from Other Rentals: $6,350.00
GE – Taxable income: $40,966.94 ($34,616.94 + $6,350.00) x 4.5% = $1,843.51 GET due
TA – Taxable income: $33,059.18 x 9.25% = $3,057.97 TAT due

GET & TAT – Hawaii Tax Calculation Example

The easiest way to file & pay in less than 5 minutes:

Last year the Hawaii State Department of Taxation made filing and paying simple with easy online access. There really is no excuse not to file and pay. Fines are stiff and there is no statute of limitation if you ever get audited. Play by the rules, file and pay on time and mitigate financial nightmares.
The State of Hawaii’s site is called Hawaii Tax Online:  https://hitax.hawaii.gov
Our short tutorials walk you through each step how to pay online in less than 5 minutes without writing checks, licking stamps or envelopes.

Part 1:  GET

• Register your business and sign up for your GET license.
• Set up your online account.
• File and pay your GE tax in less than 5 minutes.

Part 2:  TAT

• File and pay your TA tax in less than 5 minutes.

Disclaimer: This post and the tutorials were put together as a free service to help you efficiently file and pay online GET & TAT on your Hawaii rental income.  -We are not tax professionals or CPAs. Always check with your favorite qualified tax professional or contact the Hawaii State Department of Taxation at 808-587-4242.

Let us know what you think. We love to hear from you. Reciprocate Aloha! -‘Like’, ‘Share’, and ‘Comment’ below.
~ Mahalo & Aloha

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Divorce is never an easy undertaking and can be especially stressful when jointly owned property is involved. Unfortunately I speak from experience as I myself have gone through it. I’m definitely not alone as almost half of every marriage in the United States ends up in divorce. These stats are brutal, and do not even convey the emotional and financial toll involved.

My best piece of advice is: “Don’t get divorced and try work it out with your spouse. “ It will save you a lot of stress and pain…

Of course it takes two willing parties and more often than not the marriage cannot be saved.

So my second best piece of advice is: Make every effort to get through the divorce as amicable as possible. It will save both parties a lot of money and grief.

No divorce is the same and there is obviously no one size fits all approach. Apart from child custody and alimony the other big issue is the family home.

Hawaii is a no fault divorce state and the division of property is equitable no matter who is at fault or what spouse wants the divorce. If the divorcing parties cannot agree on how to divide their property the decision is made by family Court within the Judgement of Divorce. Most commonly the jointly owned home is the biggest asset and the one needing the most consideration.  So it is of great benefit to both spouses to come to an agreement as soon as possible during the divorce proceedings.

When it comes to the family home more often than not, there is no other alternative than selling it, especially in Hawaii, where property values are some of the highest in the nation. For most married couples the monthly mortgage payment is a big burden on the family budget and in the event of a divorce no one partner will have the financial means to take over the whole mortgage payment, let alone buy out the other and give them their fair share of the equity.

Here is a real life example (the couple’s names were changed to protect their privacy):

Jane and John Doe own their family home in Kailua – Kuulei Tract, a very desirable neighborhood near Kailua Beach. They bought it for $1,000.000 in 2005 and then refinanced a couple of times to make improvements to the pool and to add an extra bedroom above the garage. The mortgage on the home is $950,000 and the monthly payment comes out to $5,300/month.  They both have good jobs so the mortgage payment is within their budget.  Let’s assume the best case scenario in which the soon to be exes are working together to make the divorce uncontested and as amicable as possible.

Jane Doe loves her home and wants to keep it. For that to happen she first needs John to cooperate.

This is of course only the first step and it does not get much easier after that, especially in the hot Oahu real estate market.

The home now is worth a lot more money than when John and Jane purchased it in 2005. Comparable homes now are selling for up to $2 million. So there is a lot of equity in the home that belongs to both Jane and John. In order to determine the market value of the home these are the two most popular choices:

A professional appraisal:  This is the most in depth and detailed way to determine the current market value of a property and appraisals carry a cost that easily is $500 or more. It is definitely the way to go if cost in not a consideration. The fact that both parties are willing to pay for an appraisal makes it a lot more likely they will accept the outcome and abide by it.

A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): This is a service performed by licensed real estate agents and since the same data of comparable sales is used as with a professional appraisal it is in most cases a very reliable alternative. Any agent will gladly provide this service for free, since this may lead to a future listing.

Jane and John do not want to pay for an appraisal since they already have a good idea of how much they can sell their home for. They looked at comps in their area and then agreed to ask a trusted realtor for a CMA. The realtor they asked was not a family friend or anyone close to either of the two. For this CMA to be accepted by both Jane and John they had to go with a realtor they both did not know personally. They got a list of names from their divorce mediator and after a bit of research on each of them agreed on a particular one that recently had sold a home in their neighborhood. The CMA looks at comparable sales in the area and adds or deducts value based on factors such as size of home and lot, number of bedrooms, view, frontage and condition of home, just to name a few. It is an extensive report and definitely a good indicator of value.

The CMA found that Jane and John’s Kuulei Tract home had a market value of $1,850,000 which meant it went up by a whopping $850,000 in just 11 years! So the shared equity in the home is $850,000 which means that Jane has to pay half of that to John in order to buy him out.

So not only will Jane inherit the old debt from their joint mortgage of $950,000 but also now has to find and extra $425,000 to pay out John. The Closing Cost Estimate below shows how this can be done through a so called Cash-Out Refinance loan.

The most important numbers to look at are ‘cash needed to close’ and ‘monthly payment’.  The above scenario shows that Jane has to cover close to $7,000 a month to make her wish of keeping the family home a reality. That does not include utilities and the monthly bill to the pool man, just to mention a few. Jane looks at her income and how much money she would have to come up with every month in addition to the $7,000 in mortgage payments and immediately knows she cannot afford to buy out John.

Jane is devastated and tells John that she cannot afford to keep the home. John already knew that this was going to happen and he then suggests another scenario to Jane that does not involve the immediate sale of the home and will keep Jane in the home.

This scenario by the way carries risk and should only be entered into with the help of a divorce attorney who will draft the documents for both parties to sign.

John’s offer to Jane is the following: Jane and John will keep the home and mortgage in both their name, but Jane will live in the home and agrees to pay the full mortgage payment of $5,300/month. John gets to keep half of the annual mortgage interest tax deduction and tenancy to the home will switch to Joint Tenancy. They also agree in writing that the house will be put on the market should she be late on her mortgage payments and that the home will be put up for sale once the youngest of their children reaches the age of 18. Jane is relived and thankful for having such a nice and understanding ex. She can afford the monthly payments and agrees to the terms that John asked for.  John on his part is also happy with the arrangement, since it gives his kids a better chance to cope with the divorce and since Kailua is such a hot market the property will just get more valuable over time.  

There are quite a few variations to the above scenario and they all have one thing in common: They only work when both parties work well together and are in agreement. So most likely this will only work in an uncontested divorce.

Silly question to Jane and John: ‘if you guys can get along so well with making the divorce so smooth and amicable why don’t you try to work on your marriage?’

In my 16 years working as a real estate professional I have dealt with a lot of divorce related issues and I think I’ve seen and heard it all from restraining orders to refusal to sign final closing docs to flat out scorched earth war. So when my marriage came to its unfortunate demise I knew it was the very best to just be as amicable and accommodating as possible. Luckily my ex felt the same way and we got to settle all our issues with that attitude in mind.

More likely than not the only realistic option for both parties is to sell. Paying the whole mortgage alone is most often too difficult, so the above solution does not work for a lot of couples, even if they are working things out in a friendly, respectful manner…

Selling your home during a divorce is added trauma and stress, especially when kids are involved. Leaving the family home and not having mom and dad together anymore is quite a double whammy for any child, young or old. Remember, they did not choose you. They are the collateral damage in this and need to be treated with love, compassion and patience.

Finding the right realtor to help in such a touchy situation is crucial. The worst mistake divorcing couples make is to hire a family friend to take the listing. This will open up a whole set of new problems, most of them not relating to the real estate per se but to potential conflict of friendship and loyalty that the realtor may or may not have to one of the parties involved. There are over 4000 real estate professionals in Hawaii, so it should be pretty easy to pick one that both parties do not have any type of relationship with. A suggestion would be to jointly interview three realtors and then agree on the one that takes the listing. Remember, selling a home involves quite a bit of paperwork and both parties need to sign off on contracts, escrow documents etc. So both soon to be exes will again have to communicate and work together.

Ironically good communication and working well together is also a great way to staying married, which brings me to back to the beginning of this article:

‘Don’t get divorced and try work it out with your spouse’

Having gone through the whole process of divorce just a few years ago, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have trusted friends and family there for support. Another very important aspect is the professional support system of counselors, attorneys and financial advisors. There are numerous resources available on line and I highly recommend doing research and getting recommendations from friends and family.   

Tom Digrazia is a personal friend of mine and I highly recommend his services – http://www.divorcesource.com/HI/pages/digrazia.html. He is an expert peacemaker and mediator and has authored many books on this topic. His law practice specializes in mediation between divorcing couples in order to bring about what he calls an ‘Educated Divorce’ that will be uncontested and won’t cost a fortune.

Please also feel free to contact me with any questions or comments marcel@hawaiiliving.com.

The post How to Handle Your Family Home When Going Through a Divorce appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

If you are considering moving to Hawaii or want to know how to move to Hawaii, then this is a must read guide, covering a range of topics, including islands to consider, reasons to move / not to move to Hawaii, cost of living in Hawaii, jobs in Hawaii, moving to Hawaii with pets & more, including several links to some awesome resources around the web.

Let’s start with a look at your island options.

There are people living on 6 islands in Hawaii, but only 4 of them have a population greater than 10,000 and we will focus on those 4 islands.

The 4 Main Islands

Moving to Oahu – ‘The Gathering Place’

Kapiolani Park & Waikiki in Distance

Population: 992,605.
Unemployment: 2.5%.
The 3rd largest island and home to the State’s capital, Honolulu, which has the feel of a large US mainland city, but with more of a charm and aloha touch.
Read about Oahu on TripAdvisor.

Moving to Hawaii – ‘The Big Island’

Pololu Valley, Kohala, Big Island

Population (2016): 198,449
Unemployment: 3.2%.
The largest island and twice as big as all other islands combined. Vast distances to get anywhere, amazing nature and the most diverse geography of all the islands. The Kona coast (west) is hot and dry and popular among tourists. Hilo side (east) is wet and much less tourists.
Read about The Big Island on TripAdvisor.

Moving to Maui – ‘The Valley Isle’

Maui Coastline

Population (2016): 165,386.
Unemployment: 3.2%.
The 2nd largest island. Beautiful and diverse geography from cool upcountry Kula to hot & dry Waimea in southwest packed with hotels and tourists.
Read about Maui on TripAdvisor.

Moving to Kauai – ‘The Garden Isle’

Opaekaa Falls, Kauai

Population (2016): 72,029
Unemployment: 3.3%.
The 4th largest island. Beautiful lush green throughout island with a small town feel almost anywhere you go.
Read about Kauai on TripAdvisor.

Note:
1) Population is based on July 2016 data from the US Census Bureau as you can see here (includes lots of other awesome data).
2) Unemployment is based on February 2017 data from the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.

Cost of Moving To & Living in Hawaii

How Expensive is Hawaii?
Hawaii is considered the most expensive of all 50 US states to live in, as you can see right here. Please also check out this cool tool from CNN, where you can use a calculator to get estimates on the salary you will need to make in Honolulu, relative to a salary on various mainland cities, to keep the same standard of living.

Please take the above data with a pinch of salt. We have a lot of incredible beaches and nature that you can enjoy for free, whereas most places on the mainland would  probably require you to spent $$$ to have same amount of fun! So, if you are into the great outdoors Hawaii may not be that expensive for you, but if you are more into fine dining and fancy clothing, then total cost of living in Hawaii will probably seem astronomical!

A few interesting statistics about Hawaii (2015 data), which we pulled from here:
Per capita personal income in Hawaii = $48,288 (0.4% higher than the US average),
Unemployment Rate = 3.6% (1.7% lower than the US average),
Median owner cost with a mortgage = $2,248,
Median rent = $1,500.

Talking of housing and income levels, let’s take a look at cost of housing and job opportunities in Hawaii,

What Does Housing Cost in Hawaii?

Waikiki Condos & Hotels

Purchasing
January – April 2017 the median sales price for a single-family home on Oahu was $749,000 and $400,000 for a condominium. However, property taxes are lower than any other state for owner-occupants. Check out this post, where we compared Honolulu’s property taxes to taxes in 10 major mainland cities.

By the way, you can follow the median real estate price levels on Oahu under the “Trends & Statistics” section towards the bottom of our homepage.

Renting
If you are looking for a rental, please check out Craigslist. You can sort by island and housing type (ex: ‘apts/housing for rent’ or ‘rooms & shares’). It gives you a good idea as to what you can get for your money.
Please be wary of scams – Craigslist is known to have had a number of scam related issues, yet it appears to remain the most widely used site for rental properties.

Finding a Job in Hawaii

Large Sectors
Hawaii is big on tourism – really big! – especially on Oahu with the tourist mecca neighborhood of Waikiki (in Honolulu city), attracting a whopping 5,000,000 visitors per year! With tourism comes a need for a wide range of jobs in retail, sales, hotels, restaurants etc, which means a wide variety of jobs, but especially jobs demanding strong interpersonal skills. Other large job sectors include construction, medical, legal & IT.

Process Finding a Job
Most employers will not take a job seeker serious who hasn’t already made the move to Hawaii. Too many stories following the script “I’m just about to book a ticket and should be in Hawaii within a month” and it just never materializes. This doesn’t mean you can’t give it a shot – finding a job before making the move – it just means you may face an uphill battle, so be prepared. We actually encourage you to connect with employers and employment agencies before you make the move to Hawaii. Educate yourself on our job market and get a sense as to how easily you may fit in and find a job.  

2 leading job boards
Indeed Hawaii Jobs
Craigslist Hawaii Jobs

3 Established Staffing Agencies:
Staffing Solutions of Hawaii
Altres
Bishop & Co

PS! Don’t limit your search – above website ideas are just meant as a starting point.

OK, if you are comfortable with housing costs and the possible job opportunities, then read on and we will review costs of moving to Hawaii and how you would make the move.

How Much Does it Cost Moving to Hawaii?
It really depends! Are you shipping stuff, planning to stay in a nice 1BR condo in Waikiki and live in restaurants for a few months? OK, probably not since you asked this question, but you will need:

1. A flight ticket. Check out Expedia for some flight ideas. 
2. A place to stay when you arrive. If you are on a budget consider renting a room. Craigslist has a lot of listings here.
3. Before making the move, find out if any friends or future roommates may have a Costco membership or how they deal with grocery shopping and get some estimates on monthly cost of living.
4. When you have estimated costs for point 1-3 add them together, double that figure and add $500. That gives you a 2 month living budget, without any income, plus a $500 additional cushion.

We don’t recommend moving to Hawaii with anything less than a minimum 2 month living budget. Also consider an additional financial cushion depending on how easily you think you will be able to find a job.

Some people consider moving to Hawaii without money and sure, if you have enough $ to purchase a flight ticket you can make it to islands, but with the risk of not being able to find a job immediately we can’t recommend moving to Hawaii without some savings.

How to Move to Hawaii
We will assume you are a US citizen, which means you are free to travel to Hawaii without a visa. For foreigners interested in moving to Hawaii, you probably need an attorney to advise on possibilities. Check out this list of attorneys from Yelp and maybe that can be a starting point for you.

Each individual’s situation is unique, but if you don’t have a specific plan consider this:
1) Save up enough money to live at least 2 months without income. That is 2 months worth of savings after you arrive in Hawaii and taking into account cost of housing, food and other living expenses.

2) Focus searching for a job on Oahu (mainly Honolulu) as that is by far the biggest job market in the Islands. It may be tempting to look for jobs on the outer islands (Maui, Kauai, Big Island), but with a much smaller inventory of jobs you may increase your risk of not finding a job, unless you have a unique skillset / knowledge more suited for one of the outer islands (maybe you have a wealth of knowledge on Maui and well suited to be a tour guide on Maui).

3) Search for a flight. Try out Expedia, Cheapflights or Kayak.

4) April – May and Oct – November tend to be the slowest seasons (least tourists) and you may get a better deal on a flight.

5) If you can avoid it, don’t ship furniture or any other belongings to Hawaii that doesn’t fit in your suitcase, as shipping is super expensive! Maybe you can sell some items and safe a few extra $.

Moving to Hawaii with Pets

If you are moving to Hawaii with dogs, cats or other animals please visit this Animal Quarantine Page, where you can learn all about what you need to do to prepare your pet for the move to Hawaii. There is a direct release program (no quarantine needed upon arrival), which takes a few months of preparation with rabies shots etc. Planning on moving to Hawaii next month with  a pet – that is a no go, if you expect your pet to be released from quarantine upon arrival.

Moving a Car to Hawaii

Financially, it may not make sense to move your car to Hawaii, but if you love your car so much, check out these auto shipping websites to learn about the costs, process & more:
Pasha Hawaii FAQ,
Matson Auto Shipping Rates,
Honolulu County Vehicle Fees & Tax Calculator.

…and a few more good points (before you make that move to Hawaii):

Lanikai Beach

1. Honolulu, with just short of 400,000 inhabitants, is by far the closest you will get to the feel of any major city on the mainland and therefore the easiest place to fit in. No other city is the State of Hawaii is even close to 100,000 inhabitants (several are near the 50,000 level).
2. Get a State ID once you arrive and you can take advantage Kamaaina rate, which is discounted prices for local Hawaii residents at  some shops, restaurants, hotels etc.
3. Everything is just a bit more relaxed and casual in Hawaii. Did you arrange to meet your new friend 2pm at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, but he didn’t show up before 2.30pm and when he finally arrived you were greeted with a smile and “how’z it?” Welcome to island time (and style)! You may find it rude at first, but you will over time get used it, go nuts or leave the islands.
4. Don’t complain and don’t be too direct (straight to the point). People in Hawaii likes a friendly touch and anything negative should be wrapped with a nice layer of warmth, otherwise you may be perceived as rude and arrogant.
5. Island Fever – feeling stuck on a rock with nowhere to go. It hits some people, even those who enjoy life in the islands.
6. Things tend to deteriorate quicker, due to salt in the air and the higher level of humidity.
7. TheBus – Oahu’s Bus system – is rather efficient and not that expensive, as you can see here.
8. If you are not into any outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, running, biking etc you may well sometimes feel you don’t quite belong in Hawaii.
9. Check out this neat map from cnn that shows cost of gasoline across all 50 states February 2016. Hawaii was the most expensive state at $2.63 / gallon and Oklahoma the cheapest at $1.39 / gallon, but keep in mind distances are short – we don’t consume a whole lot of gasoline.
10. Hawaii’s beaches are stunning, free to use and none of them are private – not even the beaches in front of luxury residences and hotels. Check out our post on the Best Beaches on Oahu.
11. Most of Hawaii’s stunning nature is free to explore (hikes, parks etc). Check out these 14 pictures of Hawaii’s Natural Wonders from the Travel Channel.
12. Most places in Hawaii has idyllic weather all year round. Check out these cool weather maps we created, that show summer days and rainy days of various cities in Hawaii vs more than 1,100 mainland cities.
13. Distances are relatively short (except on The Big Island) and you can reach almost any place in a short amount of time. For instance, it is just a 1 hour (31 miles) from Honolulu in the southern part of Oahu to the charming surf town of Haleiwa on the North Shore and that is quite a distance for people on Oahu (we are spoiled).
14. We don’t need fuel to stay warm in Hawaii (well, at least for 99% of residences in Hawaii) and have no need for winter clothing. A pair of shorts, flip-flops, t-shirt and a long-sleeve shirt and you should be good to go and start your new life in Hawaii.
15. Hawaii has a happy, relaxed easy-going culture and you will find people with good energy no matter where you go. Life is good!
16. Getting a drink or light bite to eat by a beach somewhere in Hawaii – maybe the Royal Hawaiian Hotel’s Mai Tai Bar located on Waikiki’s beautiful white sandy beach – is just awesome and it is even more awesome 6pm – 8pm when they have live Hawaiian music.
17. Traffic is bad and Honolulu is ranked number 8 on a recent list from Business Insider of US cities with the worst traffic.
18. We have a tropical climate and that means lots of bugs and they love visiting your home; cockroaches, ants etc. Keeping your place clean will help, but don’t expect to live anywhere without facing a (flying) cockroach at some point! Yes, cockroaches do fly!

There are pros and cons moving to Hawaii, just like moving anywhere in the world. At the end of day, whether you will embrace and fall in love with Hawaii, its culture, nature and people depends entirely on your character and your attitude.

By the way, If you have read this far, you are probably pretty determined to make the move. So good luck moving to “Paradise” – may an exciting new chapter of your life be about to begin!

PS! Would love to hear from you in the the comments section below.

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Anaha – a new luxury condo in Honolulu – will soon be the 2nd condo towering in Ward Village, scheduled for completion October 2017. Waiea – an ultra-luxury condo – was the 1st project completed – November 2016 – in Ward Village.

Just a few developer units remain unsold in Anaha as of writing and they range in price from $2.866M – $14M. For resale units click here.

The following is a list of several photos of Anaha’s lobby, units and the amenities deck, taken August 14, 2017. Anaha isn’t completed yet, which means no furniture in any photos and some parts of the project is still work in progress, which is reflected in some of the photos.

THE LOBBY – August 14, 2017 Photos

Lobby Ceiling Lights

Front Desk

Lobby

THE UNITS

Penthouse Level Unit with Stunning Ocean Views

37th Floor Penthouse B Ocean View

37th Floor Penthouse B Master Bathtub View

37th Floor Penthouse A Ocean View

Penthouse Level Kitchen

37th Floor Penthouse A Bathtub View

32A Ocean views

32A Kitchen August 14, 2017

32A View from Kitchen

31B Ocean Views

THE AMENITIES DECK – August 14, 2017 Photos

Tennis Court

Cabana for Barberque

Beach Volley Court

Random Photo from the Amenity Deck

Kids Play Ground

Kids Slide

Pool is in the Distance

Cantilevered Pool (you can see from street level)

Pool

Hot Tub & Pool

The post Anaha: Sneak Peek Before Completion appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

-Effective 8.22.2017 Title & Escrow companies handling Honolulu County real estate transactions with a $3 Mill purchase price or more are now required to file FinCEN Form 8300. The form shall contain the identity of the individuals primarily responsible for representing the buyer. E.g., if the buyer is an entity, Corporation, Partnership, LLC, Trust or a Shell Company, the form shall contain the identity of the beneficial owners.
Title & Escrow companies must obtain and record a copy of the Passport, Driver License or other government IDs of the individuals purchasing or benefiting from this transaction.

FinCEN, the Financial Crimes and Enforcement Network, is a bureau of the US Department of the Treasury. The new Geographic Targeting Order (GTO) now includes Honolulu County, the island of Oahu. So far Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Molokai, and Lanai have not been included.
The purpose of the order is to mitigate the misuse of shell companies for money laundering and terrorism funding.
See FinCEN’s GTO and FAQ:

GTO page 1

GTO page 2

GTO page 3

GTO page 4

GTO page 5

FAQ page 1

FAQ page 2

FAQ page 3

Let us know what you think. We love to hear from you. Reciprocate Aloha! -‘Like’, ‘Share’, and ‘Comment’ below.
~ Mahalo & Aloha

The post Attention! – Honolulu Luxury Property Deals Above $3 Mill – New FinCEN Order appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

The 2nd City, made up of Ewa Beach and Kapolei, will soon be an almost seamless grouping. With Ewa Beach real estate development advancing westward the spaces that separate them won’t be discernible. There will not be a homogenous Metro area when this process is completed, however. You will still be presented with real choices when deciding on buying a home in Kapolei or Ewa Beach. It’s the kind of decision that will impact every day of your life.

From their different origins to the expansion plans each has remaining ahead of it, there are factors you need to understand as you begin your search for a residence that’s right for not just you, but your family. You will have the entire 2nd City to enjoy and benefit from, but there’s no question that where you will live in it is going to matter greatly to the experience. Let’s find out what those differences are, why they’ll matter to you and make your choice a little more clear.

EWA BEACH – BEATING EXPECTATIONS AT EVERY TURN

Huelani

This is where it all started. Ewa Beach has been a settled town since the 1800s, with collections of residents here long before. As everything mauka of it turned into plantation land, it still remained its own entity. That longstanding existence resulted in a place with its own distinctive local culture and feel.

The closing of the farms over the 80s and 90’s suddenly made huge new Ewa Beach real estate suddenly spring to life, the build-up starting at that time and still going today. The point is that while Ewa Beach has gone through extensive expansion from the small town that hugged the shoreline, it has a history that runs through the entire place. It’s a hard factor to define, but it is undeniably there.

The first steps to the 2nd City began here, with projects breaking ground almost the moment the last harvest was finished. With that head start on Kapolei, it may surprise you to know that Ewa Beach has more new housing within it today. The latest is the headline grabbing name of Hoopili.

Over the coming years this neighborhood will add a very substantial 11,750 new Ewa homes, the first phase nearing completion already. More than a bedroom community, it will include substantial shopping & commercial spaces, multiple parks and 5 public schools. That has been the pattern of this eastern section of the 2nd City, new communities with their own leisure and recreation options, rather than the larger, centralized choices, such as big box stores, that characterize Kapolei.

In addition to a greater number of new residences, the styles – and lifestyles – are more varied, too. You have the choice of golf course communities like the luxury of Cypress Point, the affordable homes of Ewa Gentry’s Laulani, or the leisure lifestyle you get with the houses within the gates of Huelani.

Hoakalei

Then there’s the resort-living of the properties in Hoakalei, where you enjoy a private lagoon to play in any time. Next to the lagoon they’re now planning a $300M shopping, dining & entertainment complex, which neighborhood residents can walk, or golf-cart, to in a mere few minutes.

Together, these Ewa Beach neighborhoods provide a selection that Kapolei cannot match. For those seeking variety, Oahu’s real estate market can offer few rivals to this district.

The ‘Beach’ in Ewa Beach
It’s also often forgotten that only Ewa Beach offers the possibility of living near or even on the ocean. The Old Ewa Beach town dominates the shoreline here, but the newer areas of Ocean Pointe and, of course, Hoakalei make it easy to get to the sands.

Ocean Pointe

Taken together, there aren’t just more newer homes in Ewa Beach than Kapolei, there are more homes, period. While most of the attention has been on the western end of the pair, the eastern has plowed on, putting up residences that make it the dominant domicile for people in the Ewa Plain. It is here that you’ll find not only greater real estate selection, but wider, too.

The population lean to this side has resulted in a greater number of elementary schools, 7 in Ewa Beach to 5 in Kapolei and middle schools, 2 to 1 in that case. High Schools? They’re even currently, 1 each.

Finally, if affordability is important in your search for a residence, then a good place to start is here. Ewa Beach homes average out today to a pricing of $697K, giving you a $30K edge on Kapolei’s average of $727K. In the expensive Oahu real estate market, every little bit helps.

Made up your mind that Ewa Beach real estate is the way to go? Not so fast. You’ve only heard one side of the story, so stick with us. There’s a lot to love about Kapolei, too.

KAPOLEI – THE CITY CENTER OF WEST OAHU

Kapolei Malanai

Kapolei is a complete modern creation, a city that sprang from sugarcane fields. Previous to the plantations there were no real settlements on its present lands. The lack of water sources until the 1879 discovery of artesian wells made inhabiting the Ewa Plain difficult at best. Due to this, Kapolei has no real history to it, though the area’s plantation culture and the presence of so many residents with deep local roots keep it truly ‘Hawaii’.

A tour of the central section of the city will make one defining feature leap out plainly. This is the shopping and entertainment hub for West Oahu, with some choices that even Honolulu does not have. Along with the big box retailers, like Costco, there are several large shopping outlets, such as Kapolei Commons and Kapolei Shopping Center.

You’ll even find a supermarket sized Down to Earth store, just one sign of the fact that there’s something here to satisfy every taste, not just the ones traditionally associated with West Oahu.

That all takes a back seat, though, to Ka Makana Alii, 67 acres of 100+ stores, restaurants, entertainment and even a Hampton Inn/Suites for visitors. There’s no mistaking its impact as it now holds the title of 3rd Largest Shopping Center in Hawaii.

Living in a home in Kapolei also puts you very close to the world-class resort area of Ko Olina. While that does make staycations easily accessible, you’ll benefit more from using the attractions there for more common reasons.

The magnificent Ko Olina lagoons have the kind of tropical charm and scenery that bring a wealthy clientele from all over the world. They’re also open to the public. Top chef dining experiences and the unique recreation options that only visitor-oriented districts offer are also available, too.

Ko Olina

The best news of all with this is that Ko Olina is just getting started. A recently announced Atlantis Resort is expected to come, along with other leisure & vacation properties, which will lengthen the list of what you’ll be able to do, sample and experience only a few miles away.

Kapolei Advantages You’ll Appreciate Every Single Day

Kapolei Knolls

Even on days you can’t make it to those lagoons, Kapolei residents can enjoy something over their Ewa Beach neighbors – cooler temperatures. There’s no question how this difference can make practically every part of your day at least a little easier. It’s just easier to keep cool when you live in these zip codes.

That’s not the only element of Kapolei that will enrich most days compared to Ewa Beach. It also has many easily reached access points to the highway spread across town. Commuting is just part of the deal when living in West Oahu, so anything that will smooth even part of that journey to Honolulu and back each day is worth noting.

H1 goes right across the mauka side of Kapolei so that proximity, along with smart planning, puts the freeway well within reach for residents. The northward slope H1 takes from there places it even further from the more makai Ewa Beach neighborhoods, adding extra time before you can really get your commute started.

Before closing, we should again underline that Kapolei still has much to come. One of the biggest recent surprises was China Oceanwide, the investors behind the Ko Olina Atlantis resort, also announced a community centered around at least 1 golf course, with 2500 townhomes and condos, plus commercial centers as well. This development would take up the lands between Kapolei and Ko Olina, the separation between the two now erased. It’s an exciting time in the 2nd City.

EWA BEACH & KAPOLEI – CLEAR CHOICES FOR THE RIGHT BUYERS
The merging of Ewa Beach and Kapolei, especially as their borders have begun to blend together, has started to also blur what differentiates them. For many, understandably in Hawaii, the choice can come down to affordability.

Even that prime concern must be balanced against other needs. Families with small children will weigh the availability of schools, while others will consider where potential local jobs or business opportunities are more likely. Now, at least, you know some of the main selling points between the two sides of the 2nd City. Which would be your choice?

The post Ewa Beach vs Kapolei: Where Would You Live? appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

Windward Oahu properties primarily come down to 2 main areas, Kaneohe and Kailua. They are the not just the only two substantial areas over there, providing most of the available listings, they’re also the best commuting bets for the majority who work in, or have business ties to, Honolulu.

Although they are cheek-to-cheek neighbors, you’ll find that they’re more like two siblings. In many ways they resemble each other, but you can plainly see the differences that make each an individual. So it is with these two towns.

Join us as we take a look at the what differentiates them and why one just might where you should be looking for your next home. The answer just might surprise you.

Kaneohe – Homes With Choices

Summit at Kaneohe Bay

Kaneohe homes have been known to be more budget-friendly since Oahu real estate sprang into existence. That’s an important point as Windward Oahu residences generally occupy a more expensive tier than their equivalents over the Koolaus. So a break on that elevated cost makes this area stand out to most buyers.

We’ve found that recent years have balanced out to a media price for Kaneohe single family homes of $1.04M, but the range can go from $329K to $3.64M. Kaneohe’s range starts at $56K below Kailua’s lowest cost in the same years, $385K, and ends far below the $26M closing that one Kailua luxury property went for not long ago.

Condos in Kaneohe follow the same pattern, this time beginning at $89K, compared to Kailua condos’ low of $385K, and topping out at $799K, almost 28% beneath the highest condo sale of $1.1M in the neighboring town. In short, you can usually count on shaving off a certain amount of money for a home if you look on the northern side of the border that separates these two towns.

A Lot More Variety Than You Think in Kaneohe Homes
There’s more lifestyle choices available in the neighborhoods here, too. You’ll find everything from the houses of Mahinui that begin right where Kailua ends, reflecting the influence of that community in its homes and atmosphere.

Mahinui Homes

Head up to the urban center of town to Alii Shores or Mahalani, where old Hawaii homes and modern luxury structure enjoy being near, or even on, Kaneohe Bay, yet on the doorstep of so much dining and shopping.

Continue on and retreat to the quiet seclusion of the stunningly green Valley of the Temples or stick to the coastline and you’ll see small collections of homes, given names like Kaalaea, with tropical mountains on one side and crystal blue ocean on the other, the setting clearly becoming more and more ‘North Shore’.

If you like the views that can come when you live beyond the 5th floor, this is also where you want to be. No where else on the Windward side will you find these towers. Another view you get more of is the always enticing ocean, due to the sloping of the terrain here from the coastline as well as the hillsides above.

Owning a home away from the shore can still give you an outlook of Kaneohe Bay that will give you the greatest of pleasures as long as you live there. Outside of the Lanikai area, Kailua is generally flat land, restricting your vertical sightline, even with its low-rise profile.

The fact that the word ‘urban’ is used to describe at least the center of the town means this zip code holds the greatest collection of shopping and dining on the eastern coastline of Oahu. The presence of Windward Mall is the most obvious example, holding over 110 stores, with numerous restaurants and eateries as well.

Much of the main strip of Kamehameha Hwy is lined with offices, shops and more eating options, including the Kaneohe Bay Shopping Center. There’s nothing to match the number or range of choices anywhere else up or down this coast.

That also translates to more job opportunities, since more businesses have a presence in Kaneohe, it being the one place where substantial office and commercial space is available – and at more affordable rates than the relatively little found in Kailua. So entrepreneurs will have a lower cost not only in getting started, but ongoing as well.

For the many who still have to commute to Honolulu for work, Kaneohe has H3 right on its doorstep, giving you a much quicker start, or end, to that part of the day. While it’s difficult to quantify, it’s also hard to underestimate the advantage this proximity offers in these days of growing traffic and the personal stress that rises along with it.

Lastly, it’s no secret that buying Kaneohe real estate is attractive to some because the city is almost purely local and local-focused. The tourism and off-Island buyer wave that has swept over Kailua has not overflowed into this town. The absence of beaches, even with the undeniable beauty and recreation possibilities of Kaneohe Bay, along with other factors has made it less attractive to visitors.

For those who are wary of a place that deals with tour buses and crowds coming in each day, yet love the Windward side of Oahu, Kaneohe is the better fit.

There’s better fits for other Oahu home buyers, too. Kailua real estate is one many fall in love with today. So much so that it’s become one of the very hottest markets on Oahu. You’ll see this is no accident, but a result of a very good thing, with an only growing army of admirers.

Why Kailua Homes Attract So Much Interest

Lanikai

One of the earlier points should be qualified. While Kaneohe does hold the greatest concentration of shopping in Windward, Kailua contains Target, Whole Foods, Safeway and Foodland, Longs and Walgreens, plus an excellent and broad selection of restaurants and boutique stores, all in the main part of town. This is no bedroom community.

It is, however, one that seldom climbs past 3 or 4 stories. You will notice a very few, but their singularity is what makes them stand out so much. Otherwise, Kailua homes enjoy a feeling of openness and surrounding them, the sky stretching out before and above them.

One more good reason for that feeling is the reality of Kailua lot sizes averaging 10K sq ft versus Kaneohe’s 7673 sq ft, continuing to the interiors where Kailua wins again with 2180 sq ft to 2078 sq ft within their respective single family homes. Condos follow this same line, even if there are less of them here. Kailua condos average out to 1,270 sq ft of room, a substantial rise from the 922 sq ft Kaneohe’s average offers. In short, you’ll probably have more space, inside and out, when buying here.

Just Two Words – Da Beach
We can’t avoid addressing the most obvious attraction, the cause of all the traffic on the streets and sidewalks heading makai each day – the beach. A greater contrast couldn’t exist, with Kaneohe having no real beaches at all, while Kailua has some of the most famous stretches of sand on Earth.

Kailua Beach Park

Those stretches extend far beyond Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach Park, which get all the attention. While plenty of residents head to those in huge numbers as well, many opt for the equally wonderful sands and views north of that duo, where you have much less company. In places, you can have it to yourself, or something closet to it. Whether you like an active environment or something more solitary in your seaside, you can have it your way. Better yet, you just might be able to walk there, a benefit of many homes in Kailua.

The speed of the life is also a little slower on these streets. Kaneohe is by no means fast paced, but the busier central area, with its sometimes thick development and a large mall, inevitably raises the heartbeat of the place at least a little over the other sections of this side of the Pali.

Kailua remains a quiet place, characterized by a heavy emphasis on activity during the day, your late night options limited to the 24 hour Safeway. Coming into town on Kailua Rd, you’ll realize it’s not just your car that’s slowing down. You are, too.

If you’re an active bicyclist, you’ll find the avenues friendly no matter where you go. The speed limits make for a friendlier environment to those on 2 wheels and it’s accepted that they’re just as much a part of the traffic. More than a few locals bicycle around town on a daily basis, especially to the beach, as well as any errands or just to take in another beautiful day. In Kailua, getting there is more than half the fun when you live in a place like this.

Kailua or Kaneohe – A Tough Call
Ultimately, the undisputed winner on a budget basis is Kaneohe, which could be the clincher all by itself. However, it will also surprise you with homes, lifestyles and settings that most do not associate with the place. For that reason, it’s worth a look for almost anyone. Kailua is now a known quantity, its beaches and Hawaii throwback feel has in recent years created a housing demand that is nothing short of feverish.

It’s not just about the money, in the end. It’s also the fact that these are two communities that are both fully Windward Oahu, but different sides of it in some ways. Each has its own special resonance that makes its residents proud to belong there. The question is: where do you belong?

The post Kailua vs Kaneohe: Where Would You Live? appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

Check out our new listing, – Waikiki’s Hidden Treasure!

This is a choice high floor 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo at the celebrated Lanikea Waikiki, a boutique style luxury condo building completed in 2005. The unit faces the ocean and enjoys fabulous ocean and Diamond Head views from the entire apartment. An awesome usable lanai is large enough to accommodate a table for enjoying sunset dinners.

This condo is in pristine turn-key condition. Recent upgrades include brand new tropical hardwood floors, Toto washlet, ceiling fans, and new paint. This is a unit for the most discriminating buyer. Lanikea is one of the few condo buildings with tall 9ft ceilings throughout. The unit feels like a little house in the sky.

Very private and secure, there are only 4 units per floor. Two prime side-by-side parking stalls are located close to the elevator. The pool is gigantic for the size of this building, and the ocean is only a stone throw away. – Make this one your new paradise home.

Call George at 808-554-1635, – George@HawaiiLiving.com

Lanikea 2803 – Lanai

Lanikea 2803 Living Room 1

Lanikea 2803 Living Room

Lanikea 2803 Dinning

Lanikea 2803 Kitchen

Lanikea 2803 Bedroom 1

Lanikea 2803 Bathroom 1

Lanikea 2803 Pool

Lanikea 2803 Barbeque

Lanikea 2803 Porte Cochere

Lanikea 2803 Diamond Head View

All Lanikea condos for sale.

All Waikiki condos for sale.

Let us know what you think. We love to hear from you. Reciprocate Aloha! -‘Like’, ‘Share’, and ‘Comment’ below.
~ Mahalo & Aloha

The post New Listing: Lanikea #2803 appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

I meet many buyers excited to buy but reluctant to move forward. Often buyers claim “I’m not in a hurry. Just keep me posted when the right deal comes up.” In the buyer’s mind, the right deal might be a nice property that sold 6 months ago at a then favorable price. Regretfully that property already sold! And in a rising market the price from 6 months ago might no longer be realistic.

Maybe the buyer is financially or mentally not ready to make a purchase. But it could also be the buyer is delaying based on misinterpreting the evidence of today’s market. Here are 3 things to remember when waiting for the right deal:

1. Just because the market seems expensive does not mean prices will drop

Hawaii real estate buyers have difficulty comprehending why values are high compared to their budget limitations. During the 2008 – 2010 financial crisis and great recession several Open House visitors from California would make bold predictions about a supposedly imminent 40% – 60% price collapse of Hawaii’s real property values. This was based on what they saw happening in many California markets. The actual drop in Hawaii ended up being only a meager 10% of Oahu’s median sales price for homes and condos. In spite of the greatest recession in recent history, Oahu’s market held up remarkably well. With a steadily improving economy and a sustainable 3.5% personal income growth projection, I expect Oahu real estate values to continue moving up at a similar rate. Don’t fall victim to wishful thinking bias. The median Oahu sale price appears poised to move higher. Besides local demand continuing, foreign demand might increase as well. Hawaii real estate is a global commodity with buyers coming from all corners of the world.
Historical data can help us, a.) get a more objective picture of Oahu’s affordability, and b.) identify possible price trend changes.

a.) Affordability for the local buyer is defined by the cost of the average mortgage payment for Oahu’s median home price vs Oahu’s median family income. Since 1976 there have only been two time periods where Oahu’s affordability has been more favorable than today: 1976-1977 and 1998-2004. In fact, Oahu’s affordability today is a lot closer to the lower end of the range and nowhere close to its historical top range.

Oahu Mortgage Debt to Income Ratio – Median Family Income at Median Single Family Home Prices

b.) Supply and demand changes precede price changes. The graph below shows how demand, as defined by the number of closed unit sales, has been steadily increasing since 2009. Prices eventually followed inching up a couple years later. Unless a pattern emerges of seasonal lower lows and lower highs in the number of unit sales, we expect the upward price trend to continue. Look for closed unit sales to soften before any change in the prevailing price trend. For now, the uptrend continues. No bubble here.

Sales Activity – Closed Unit Sales – Oahu Homes & Condos – August 2017 – Source -HBR compiled from MLS data

Median Sales Price – Oahu Homes & Condos August 2017 – Source -HBR compiled from MLS data

2. The market does not wait for us

– Recently a buyer was submitting offers on a Waikiki condo at price levels consistent with where the market had been 6 months ago. The issue was that the inventory in this particular building had diminished to only 2 units vs 8 units 6 months earlier. The buyer submitted two offers which were outbid by three other buyers competing for the same two properties. The evidence showed reduced inventory levels and a continued upward trend in the overall market. The drop in inventory levels in just a few months had resulted in the values to jump by $50K. The buyer was not willing to adjust his offer price to today’s market reality and regretfully ended up with no property.

– Earlier this year I met a buyer that decided to postpone his Kakaako condo purchase until next year. Instead, he signed a one year lease and cited his perception of uncertainty in the market as the reason why. We shall see how waiting pans out this time. Sometimes waiting for the market to drop can result in eventually being priced out of the market.

– Back in 2002, a buyer was ready to buy a Honolulu home but established a self-imposed rule not to pay more than the property’s tax assessed value. The issue is that the tax assessed value lags behind the true market value by 1 to 2 years. This is like steering your car forward by only looking in your rearview mirror. In a rising market like 2002, the true market value was significantly higher than what the tax assessed value showed.
I regret, I was unable to assist the client and don’t know if he ever bought in Hawaii. If he waited until 2009, the first time when property values were lower compared to the tax assessed value, he would have paid double the price compared to 2002 with an additional 7 years of rent money thrown out the window.

3. Always seek and have a Plan B

Buyers sometimes fall in love with a home that goes into escrow just before they are ready to make an offer. The buyers’ disappointment about having missed out can have a paralyzing effect on deciding the next step. Because someone else got the property does not mean this was the only property that might fit the buyer’s needs and wants. Regretfully, the home that sold is no longer available. What happened can’t be undone.

If this happens to you, quickly shift your focus forward towards seeking the next suitable opportunity and carefully analyze how any available property might represent a possible fit. Use market knowledge and skillful negotiation and secure the next property before someone else does. You do not want to miss out twice. There is little benefit in lamenting lost past opportunities with ‘should have, could have’ thinking. Always have a Plan B and move forward, otherwise, you end up stuck in the past.

Set up email alerts, be decisive and quick. Look for the yellow button +More Filters at the top of our site and chose your filters wisely. Sign-up is free and works with the speed of light. Don’t let the right deal slip away thinking it might wait for you. Not every property sells quickly, but the best ones often do.

Be in the know and subscribe to our Blog.

Let us know what you think. We love to hear from you. Reciprocate Aloha!   – ‘Like’, ‘Share’, and ‘Comment’ below.  ~ Mahalo & Aloha

The post 3 Things To Remember When Waiting For ‘The Right Deal’ appeared first on Honolulu HI 5 Blog.

A lot of people are drawn to the relaxed, ocean-oriented lifestyle of the Windward Side, especially families. Homebuyers with children looking at real estate in Kailua or Kaneohe have a deeper concern, which is the education options. We’ve assembled all of them below, public, charter and private, with the essentials laid out on each as well as some background that distinguishes that school. Take a look at this guide to Kaneohe & Kailua schools and you’ll have a solid understanding of what’s there for your child and their education. Data compiled August / September 2017.

Here is a map that shows all schools in Kailua and Kaneohe. You can click on the red pin of the school location you are interested in, then click the school name that pops up and you will be taken to a brief profile of that school.

NOTE: All schools are Co-Ed unless otherwise noted.

KAILUA SCHOOLS

Kalaheo High School

Public Elementary Schools in Kailua

Enchanted Lake Elementary
770 Keolu Drive, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://elake.k12.hi.us/
Grades: Pre-K to 6th
Number of Students: 474
Number of Faculty: 28
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Enchanted Lake Elementary prides itself on consistent & open communication with parents, keeping them involved in their child’s educational progress. It also stands out for its large Gifted & Talented Program, with 8% of students enrolled doubling Hawaii schools’ 4% average.

Kaelepulu Elementary
530 Keolu Drive, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://www.kaelepululadybugs.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 196
Number of Faculty: 11
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Boasts exceptional passing rates of the Standardized Math Test (67% Vs Hawaii Average of 46%) and English Language Arts Exam (87% Vs Hawaii Average of 50%). Math program focuses on real-world usage while Science program uses similar methods including hands-on learning in school’s garden.

Keolu Elementary
1416 Keolu Drive, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://www.keoluelementary.com/
Grades: Pre-K to 6th, including Special Ed Preschool
Number of Students: 138
Number of Faculty: 9
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
As noted above, Keolu offers Special Ed Preschool to serve special needs students from the very start. Recent integration of book clubs are a major part of their reading intervention program to identify students needing individual assistance as well as encouraging improvements.

Maunawili Elementary
1465 Ulupii Street, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://mes.k12.hi.us/MES/Home/Home.html
Grades: Pre-K to 6th
Number of Students: 360
Number of Faculty: 23
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Has created partnerships with community organizations, as well as instituting their own programs, to encourage leadership & learning, such as Library Club, Conservation Club, Helping Hands Club, Technologically Empowered Kids and Junior Police Officer. High passing rate of Standardized Math & English Language Arts tests, beating Hawaii schools’ average by over 20% in both.

Aikahi Elementary
281 Ilihau Street, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://www.aikahielementary.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 489
Number of Faculty: 30
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) program. Every class, Kindergarten on up, visits Innovation Lab each week to learn with a hands-on STEM project. Each grade has its own website to inform parents on curriculum, homework and important information about their child’s education.

Kainalu Elementary
165 Kaiholu Street, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://www.kainaluonline.net/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 492
Number of Faculty: 31
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
High percentage of students from military families (25%) plus another 25% who attend here due to requesting a Geographic Exemption. Also has a Parent Community Network Center to keep parents involved as well as coordinating with military partners from nearby Kaneohe MCBH.

Kailua Elementary
315 Kuulei Road, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://kailuaes.wix.com/welcome
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 363
Number of Faculty: 24
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Has a large number of services & programs for special needs students, including special education, English language learners, a Primary School Adjustment Project and counseling. All students participate in an Academy, made up of 1 teacher and 12 students, that focuses on an area such as sports, nutrition, music, fine arts or a foreign language.

Mokapu Elementary
1193 Mokapu Road, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://www.mokapuelem.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 862
Number of Faculty: 50
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Largest elementary school in Kailua, it is also main school for students from Kaneohe MCBH. Has extensive support programs in place, which include counselors, a school behavioral health specialist, 2 Parent Community Network Coordinators and a Transition Center to help students with their own as well as their family’s transition needs.

Public Intermediate Schools in Kailua

Kailua Intermediate
145 South Kainalu Drive, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://kailuain.k12.hi.us/
Grades: 7th & 8th
Number of Students: 680
Number of Faculty: 47
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Certified AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) school, using that system to increase the number of students attending college. Also provides Honors program for advanced students and a Special Education Inclusion Program to ensure their place in the main school community.

Public High Schools in Kailua

Kailua High School
451 Ulumanu Drive, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://kailuahs.wix.com/kailuahigh
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 750
Number of Faculty: 50
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Has created partnerships with community organizations, as well as instituting their own programs, to encourage leadership & learning, such as Library Club, Conservation Club, Helping Hands Club, Technologically Empowered Kids and Junior Police Officer. High passing rate of Standardized Math & English Language Arts tests, beating Hawaii schools’ average by over 20% in both.

Kalaheo High School
730 Iliaina Street, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://kalaheohigh.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 916
Number of Faculty: 53
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Known for its Career & Technical Education programs that include health services, arts and communication academy, public human services and industrial & engineering technology. The emphasis on science & technology has moved the school to make Robotics a regular credit class.

Public Charter Schools in Kailua

Ka’ohau Public Charter School (Formerly Lanikai Elementary Public Charter School)
140 Alala Rd, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://www.lanikaischool.com
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 328
Number of Faculty: 20
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Known for regularly scoring well above averages in Standardized Math & ELA tests, most recently achieving 77% passing rate in both.

Private Schools in Kailua

Huakailani School for Girls
146 Hekili St, Ste 104, Kailua, Hawaii 96734
Website: http://www.huakailani.org/
Grades: K to 8th
Gender: All Girls
Number of Students: 25
Number of Faculty: 4
Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1
Tuition: $10,800
Only All Girls school in Windward Oahu, it offers the most personal Student/Teacher Ratio, as well. Weekly progress reports are given in every subject for students so parents can see exactly how their daughter is doing.

Hawaiian Mission Academy, Windward
160 Mookua St, Kailua, HI 96734
Website: http://www.hmawindward.org/
Grades: K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Seventh Day Adventist
Number of Students: 67
Number of Faculty: 5
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tuition: SDA Church Members – $4,800; Non-Members – $7,100
Partnership with UH & State Dept. of Forestry and Wildlife created in 2017, allowing 7th & 8th grade students to learn ecology and science though work on restoration of Kawainui Marsh. All grades benefit from Hawaiian Studies Enrichment Program that teaches Native Hawaiian culture, arts and traditions.

Le Jardin Academy
917 Kalanianaole Highway, Kailua, HI 96734
Website: http://www.lejardinacademy.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Number of Students: 825
Number of Faculty: 109
Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $12,290; Junior Kindergarten – $19,110; K to 12th – $20,875
Known for being Hawaii’s 1st International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, the students follow the self-directed and inquiry based approach to education. Largest private school in Windward Oahu.

St. John Vianney Parish School
940 Keolu Dr, Kailua, HI 96734
Website: http://www.sjvkailua.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 183
Number of Faculty: 20
Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $8,700; K to 8th – $8,400
Early Learning Center for ages 3 & 4 teaches introductory math & reading concepts along with Japanese language. Education supplemented with instruction in the Catholic faith.

St. Anthony School
148 Makawao Street, Kailua, HI 96734
Website: https://saskailua.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 307
Number of Faculty: 22
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $7,925 (School Day); K to 5th – $7.575; 6th & 7th – $7,725; 8th – $7,915
All students learn music concepts and skills as well as Visual Arts classes each year. Emphasis on 21st Century Learning with a fully wireless campus, iPads in all classrooms, Promethean Boards in certain classes and use of multimedia.

Trinity Christian School
875 Auloa Road (Pre-K to 3rd) & 1110 Kailua Road (4th to 12th), Kailua, HI 96734
Website: http://www.tcskailua.net/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Presbyterian
Number of Students: 360
Number of Faculty: 28
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $10,100 (School Day); K to 6th – $11,600; 7th to 12th – $13,100
System organized under Classical Education method, divided in 3 stages – Grammar (Pre-K to 6th), Logic (7th & 8th) and Rhetoric (9th to 12th). Partners with homeschooled students in 7th to 12th grade by allowing them to enroll in specific classes as well as participate in sports or drama program.

KANEOHE SCHOOLS

Castle High School

 Public Elementary Schools in Kaneohe

Ahuimanu Elementary School
47-470 Hui Aeko Place, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: https://sites.google.com/a/ahuimanu.k12.hi.us/ahuimanu-school/home
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 307
Number of Faculty: 22
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Uses Comprehensive Student Support System to serve both students who are falling back and those needing greater challenges. System includes instructional interventions, special education, English language assistance for non-native speakers, as well as gifted & talented language arts program.

Heeia Elementary
46-202 Haiku Road, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://heeiahawks.weebly.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 463
Number of Faculty: 30
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Teachers meet regularly to examine students’ progress as well as compare and learn how to serve our classrooms better. Representatives from each grade also meet in different committees – Math, Science & Literacy – to create school-wide standards and curriculum.

Kahaluu Elementary
47-280 Waihee Road, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: https://sites.google.com/a/kahaluu.k12.hi.us/kahaluu-elementary-school/home
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 291
Number of Faculty: 23
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Uses avenues like Lego League robotics, sustainable gardens and the Aloha Aina curriculum to educate and build forward-looking students. Also uses innovative methods in the classroom – Singapore Math, Multimedia and Thinking Maps.

Kaneohe Elementary
45-495 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.kaneohe.hidoe.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 601
Number of Faculty: 35
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
12% of students in Gifted & Talented program, 3 times the average Hawaii school rate. Extensive after school programs – volleyball & basketball teams, performing arts, Literature Arts Cafe and others.

Kapunahala Elementary
45-828 Anoi Road, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.kapunahala.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 546
Number of Faculty: 34
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Staff members won Hawaii’s Counselor of the Year in 2016 and Hawaii’s Teacher of the Year in 2017. Active Student Council that holds frequent events encouraging healthy lifestyles.

Parker Elementary
45-259 Waikalua Road, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://benjaminparkerschool.weebly.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 334
Number of Faculty: 22
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
School has one-to-one laptop program that allows students who need more review or those who have completed their assignments to use laptops that correct them as they work. Also provides afterschool tutoring in math and reading. Bishop Estate partnership give students benefits of Kamehameha Schools Literacy Instruction and Support services in grades Kindergarten to 3rd.

Pu’ohala Elementary
45-233 Kulauli Street, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://puohala.weebly.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 271
Number of Faculty: 17
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Students can enroll in Hawaiian Immersion Program, all subjects taught in the language the entire day. Grades 4 to 6 have access to A College for Every Student, where they’re given mentoring, taught goal setting and even go on visitations to colleges in order to smooth their path to advanced learning.

Waiahole Elementary
48-215 Waiahole Valley Road, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.waiahole.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 82
Number of Faculty: 6
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Has Positive Behavior Program that uses incentives such as Monthly Activity Days to reward consistent assignment completion and good conduct. School also focuses on sustainable agriculture with worm farming and tilapia tanks, and even a Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Program that provides students with these foods once a week.

King Intermediate
46-155 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.king.k12.hi.us/
Grades: 7th & 8th
Number of Students: 677
Number of Faculty: 40
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
After School All-Stars program gives students post-school Sports (Soccer, Basketball, Sailing, Etc.) or Enrichment (Dance, Cooking, Science, Etc.) pursuits until 5:30PM. Math students run area Math Meet competition for area elementary schools.

Castle High School – Public
45-386 Kaneohe Bay Drive, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.castlehs.k12.hi.us/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 1,211
Number of Faculty: 73
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
As part of school’s goal to prepare students for life outside, every Sophomore pursues one of 6 Career Pathways, culminating in undergoing a mock interview for that industry. Instituted Smaller Learning Communities in 2012, to give students more personalized attention and rapport with others.

Public Charter Schools in Kaneohe

Hakipu’u Learning Center PCS – Public, Charter
45-720 Keaahala Rd Kaneohe, HI. 96744
Website: https://www.hakipuulc.org/
Grades: 4 to 12th
Number of Students: 82
Number of Faculty: 9
Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Project based curriculum that is rooted in Native Hawaiian culture and traditions. Its location at Windward Community College allows students to earn college credit before graduating.

Private Schools in Kaneohe

Koolau Baptist Academy
45-633 Keneke St, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://academy.koolaubc.org/
Grades: K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist
Number of Students: 184
Number of Faculty: 14
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tuition: $4,400
Bible-based approach to educating students, adding spiritual instruction to the mental and physical aspects of school. Students in 7th to 12th grades are required to attend at least 1 service at Koolau Baptist Church.

St Mark Lutheran School
45-725 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.smls-hawaii.org/
Grades: K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Lutheran
Number of Students: 202
Number of Faculty: 13
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Tuition: K to 5th – $8,710; 6th to 8th – $9,250
Accelerated Reader program identifies individual student’s reading level, giving them appropriate book selections and goals to improve and providing them & parents immediate feedback on progress. All students from K to 6th participate in Choir.

St Ann’s Model Schools
46-129 Haiku Rd, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.saintannhawaii.org/st-ann-model-schools.html
Grades: Pre-K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 191
Number of Faculty: 12
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Tuition: $7,380
Also offers Early Learning Center with learning & skills programs for ages 2-4 on Part Time, School Day and Full Day schedules. Every class creates a Service Learning Project to help a chosen community in need.

Windward Nazarene Academy
45-232 Pua’ae Road, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
Website: http://www.wnahawaii.com/
Grades: Pre-K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 191
Number of Faculty: 12
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $8,415; K to 8th – $7,918
Christian values taught alongside core subjects, as well as sustainable gardening. Uses A Beka Curriculum overall with College Preparatory Math for 6th to 8th grades.

The post All Kailua & Kaneohe Private & Public Schools: Kindergarten to High School appeared first on Hawaii Living Blog.

Top of the world! Only 7 units on this level, just below the penthouse. This is a turn-key high floor 3-bedroom, 2-bath corner-end unit at Moana Pacific in Kakaako, a luxury condo building completed in 2007. It is located on the 47th floor and is the highest elevation 3-bedroom condo available under $1.1Mill. The unit enjoys amazing 270-degree wrap-around ocean views from Diamond Head in the east to sunset in the west. Every room has huge floor to ceiling window panels. A small usable lanai is adjacent to the living room.
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You’ve heard all the talk about the new neighborhoods, the bottomless options of the 2nd City’s shopping and recreation and the convenience of the Rail system that begins here. But what about your kid’s education?

The schools of Kapolei and Ewa Beach fall right in line with the historical track of the area. You’ll find institutions that date to the late 19th Century, created to serve the families of the plantation workers. Yet there’s also the opposite extreme, with one school that opened just this summer (2017), as the growing population created the need for more classrooms and more educational options.

Unlike the strictly working-class past, the modern Kapolei and Ewa Beach are home to every economic level, resulting in public schools that continue to expand to meet demand, as well as private schools that are starting to rival prominent names in Honolulu. You’ll find them all below, with the essential information you need to know about what’s there for your child. You may be very surprised at what you find. Date compiled August / September 2017.

Here is a map that shows all the schools in Kapolei and Ewa Beach. You can click on the red pin of the school location you are interested in, then click the school name that pops up and you will be taken to a brief profile of that school.

KAPOLEI SCHOOLS

Kapolei Middle School

PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN KAPOLEI

Barbers Point Elementary
3001 Boxer Road, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
Website: http://barbers.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 620
Number of Faculty: 35
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Qualified this year for Title 1 funding, giving the school resources to expand their programs serving students. Offers SeaPerch program where kids learn science, engineering and robotics through building an underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), which can be done both in-school and outside school hours.

Kapolei Elementary
91-1119 Kamaaha Loop, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
Website: http://www.kapoleielementary.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 1,114
Number of Faculty: 67
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
The largest elementary school in Kapolei, all students take part in Character Counts program to learn lessons on trust, responsibility, fairness and other positive traits. Every child also takes Art Education to broaden their creative possibilities.

Ho’okele Elementary
511 Kunehi Street, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
Website: http://hookele.hidoe.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 735
Number of Faculty: 41
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
One of the newest schools, opening in 2015 with consistent growth. 11 new faculty members were added in 2017 to address that need. Uses technology (campus-wide wi-fi, etc.) and outdoor learning spaces (gardens, classroom lanais) to give full range of education.

Makakilo Elementary
92-675 Anipeahi Street, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
Website: http://www.makakiloelementary.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 537
Number of Faculty: 31
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Active Junior Police Officers (JPO) program to give students opportunities to learn leadership, safety and service. Data Teams track each child’s progress to assess where they are as well as what areas they need more help and attention.

Mauka Lani Elementary
92-1300 Panana Street, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
Website: http://www.maukalani.k12.hi.us/index.html
Grades: Pre-K to 5th
Number of Students: 600
Number of Faculty: 39
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Every other week students have a Rotational Pullout Day (RPO), taking instruction in Computer Science, iReady, STEM, PE and Health in place of their regular classes. Holds Parent Coffee Hour every 2nd Wednesday of the month to encourage their involvement with school and their child’s teachers.

PUBLIC MIDDLE SCHOOLS IN KAPOLEI

Kapolei Middle School
91-5335 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
Website: https://sites.google.com/a/kapoleimid.k12.hi.us/kms/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 1,435
Number of Faculty: 90
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Multi-Track school so students follow different calendars in each. Students can use school’s ‘classroom’ in the UH Online Learning Academy to receive free math and science tutoring. After-school Hula lessons available.

PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS IN KAPOLEI

Kapolei High School
91-5007 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei, HI 96707
Website: http://www.kapoleihigh.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 2,024
Number of Faculty: 118
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Project-based learning curriculum, with core classes taken in first 2 years. At the end of Sophomore year students choose one of the Academies – Culinary Arts, Business, Health Careers, etc. – to concentrate their education and prepare them for a possible career.

PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS IN KAPOLEI

Kapolei Charter School by Goodwill Hawaii
2140 Lauwiliwili Street, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
Website: http://www.kcshawaii.org/
Grades: 9th
Number of Students: 49
Number of Faculty: 3
Student/Teacher Ratio: 1:16
Just opened in July 2017, higher grades will be added in future years. Every student is assigned a Life Coach to guide them on an individualized education program, including opportunity to earn college dual-credits. They can also earn an industrial or educational certificate.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN KAPOLEI

American Renaissance Academy
91-1011 Lexington Street, Kapolei, HI 96707
Website: https://www.arahawaii.org/
Grades: K to 12th
Number of Students: 131
Number of Faculty: 20
Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1
Tuition: K to 5th – $14,360; 6th to 12th – $15,383
Academy caps each grade at 16 students to ensure small class sizes and personal attention. Longer school day (8:30AM – 4:30PM) and no homework. 100% of graduates have received college scholarships for academics or swimming. Performing Arts program (FAME) also available.

Island Pacific Academy
909 Haumea Street, Kapolei, HI 96707
Website: https://islandpacificacademy.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Number of Students: 504
Number of Faculty: 55
Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Tuition: Elementary – $13,900; Middle – $15,100; Upper – $15,675
The 1st College Prep School in Kapolei, Island Pacific is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum School, meaning they provide all 3 of the IB Programs, covering every grade. Recent Iowa Test of Basic Skills showed IPA students rated at 1.5 to 3 grades higher than their actual grade.

EWA BEACH SCHOOLS

Keoneula Elementary School

PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN EWA BEACH

Ewa Beach Elementary
91-740 Papipi Road, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://ewabeachelementary.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 754
Number of Faculty: 43
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Has installed air conditioning in much of the classes as of this year, fixing a long-time issue. All students attend an Enrichment Class once a week that focus on different subjects, including Hawaiian Studies, Music, PE, Library, Art and Computer Lab.

Ewa Elementary
91-1280 Renton Road, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://ewael.k12.hi.us/Ewa_Elementary/Welcome.html
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 1,156
Number of Faculty: 72
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
One of the oldest schools in Leeward Oahu (1882), it added a new 8 classroom building in 2016. 5th Grade students learn science concepts through tending the school garden as well as having aquaponics sets inside their classrooms.

Holomua Elementary
91-1561 Keaunui Drive, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://holomuael.blogspot.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 1,279
Number of Faculty: 75
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Technology focused school, with 6 to 8 computers in each classroom, campus-wide closed video system, as well as 3 computer lab rooms & 3 mobile computer labs. Recent years have seen school win numerous 1st Place awards at Hawaii Lego League District competitions for their robotics entries.

Iroquois Point Elementary
5553 Cormorant Avenue, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://iroquois.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 742
Number of Faculty: 43
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
An International Baccalaureate (IB) World School as of 2011, providing the Primary Years section. Provides Hula, Tae Kwan Do and different sports programs to students.

Kaimiloa Elementary
91-1028 Kaunolu Street, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://www.kaimiloa.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 664
Number of Faculty: 41
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Applies Visible Learning model to education, emphasizing intention and mindframes to make education a clearer process for students. Offers Junior Police Officers program as well as DigiArt Squad, where students learn to use technology/software as well as serve as the tech support for their classes.

Keoneula Elementary
91-970 Kaileolea Drive, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://keoneula.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 909
Number of Faculty: 48
Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1
Uses Outdoor Learning Center, which includes garden growing Native Hawaiian plants, aquaponics system and a pipeline worm bin, to aid science lessons. School uses Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program for students in 4th, 5th and 6th grades and Achieve 3000, which teaches online language arts with differentiated education, for 3rd to 6th grades.

Pohakea Elementary
91-750 Ft. Weaver Road, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://www.pohakea.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 591
Number of Faculty: 33
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Focuses on early intervention for students having reading issues. If needed, daily tutoring is provided for children who are falling behind. Pohakea participates in Fresh Fruit & Vegetables program, giving keiki fresh snacks once a week at recess.

PUBLIC INTERMEDIATE / MIDDLE SCHOOLS IN EWA BEACH

Ewa Makai Middle School
91-6291 Kapolei Parkway, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://www.ewamakai.org/
Grades: 7th & 8th
Number of Students: 897
Number of Faculty: 47
Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1
Leadership Program for qualified students gives them hands-on opportunities to create, host & run events, practice public speaking as well as learn green skills by maintaining Leadership Garden. Just started Career Cafe events, spotlighting different career once a month during lunchtime break.

Ilima Intermediate
91-884 Ft. Weaver Road, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://ilimaintermediate.com/
Grades: 7th & 8th
Number of Students: 854
Number of Faculty: 52
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Offers Project Lead the Way classes, which teach robotics in 7th grade and ‘Medical Detecting’ in 8th, where students solve medical mysteries, such as making a disease diagnosis from genetic tests or examining crime scene DNA evidence. School teaches Costa’s Levels of Questioning to further students educational approach.

PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS IN EWA BEACH

Campbell High School
91-980 North Rd, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://campbellhigh.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 3,024
Number of Faculty: 178
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Campbell is an International Baccalaureate school with AP class enrollment of 14%, beating Hawaii school’s average of 9%. Provides vocational and skills learning as well, including Media (broadcast & photo journalism), Animation/Computer Graphics and Culinary Arts.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN EWA BEACH

Friendship Christian Schools
91-1207 & 91-1130 Renton Rd, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://fcshawaii.org/
Grades: Pre-K (3 yrs) to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist
Number of Students: 320
Number of Faculty: 16
Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1
Tuition: $4,885
Integrates Bible stories/lessons into entire curriculum from 3 years old to 12th Grade, with Chapel once a week.

Lanakila Baptist Junior & Senior High School
91-1219 Renton Road, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://www.lbswarriors.com/
Grades: 7th to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist
Number of Students: 135
Number of Faculty: 9
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Tuition: Elementary – $7,900
50% of students are in Junior National or National Honor Society. 100% grad rate and “ALL students accepted to at least two colleges with academic scholarships”. Each child gets a Google Chromebook, using ‘Google for Education’ to learn outside school as well as inside.

Messiah Lutheran School
91-679 Fort Weaver Road, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: None
Grades: K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Lutheran
Number of Students: 57
Number of Faculty: 5
Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1
Tuition:
Students are given a Christian-centered education, with an excellent Student-Teacher ratio to ensure the child gets the attention they need.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School
91-1010 North Rd, Ewa Beach, Hawaii 96706
Website: http://olphschoolewabeachhi.com/
Grades: Pre-K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 148
Number of Faculty: 9
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Tuition: Parishioners – $5,900; Non-Parishioners – $6,100
Provides Christ-centered education with extra-curricular opportunities such as Drama, Heiwa-Do Karate and Choir. Before School (6AM – 7:30AM) and After School Care (Until 5:30PM) available for a reasonable additional fee.

The post Ewa Beach & Kapolei Private & Public Schools: Elementary, Middle & High Schools appeared first on Hawaii Living Blog.

Buying Honolulu real estate comes with some different factors than than the rest of Oahu. As the business, political and population center for not just our Island, but all of Hawaii, it’s a singular part of the State. That extends to the Honolulu school system, too.

There are a lot more schools here, both public and private, bringing educational choices to you that are unequaled across the Islands. That includes the public sector due to Geographic Exceptions, a tool that isn’t guaranteed to be approved, but does offer possible opportunities.

Schools in Honolulu cover it all, from private schools that are nationally known, to institutions that offer Hawaiian or Mandarin immersion, to one entire complex that provides the International Baccalaureate program, from elementary school to high school.

It’s a lot to digest, but we’ve given them all to you below, divided into easy to understand categories. Take the first step in knowing what the Honolulu school environment offers you and your child.

HONOLULU SCHOOLS GUIDE

PUBLIC SCHOOLS
NOTE: Public School are divided by their Complex within the different levels (Elementary, Middle, HS), progressing West to East.

Public Elementary Schools in Honolulu

RADFORD COMPLEX

Aliamanu Elementary
3265 Salt Lake Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://aliamanu.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 663
Number of Faculty: 44
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Mixture of military and local students. Selected children are trained and act as Peer Mediators on playground to settle and defuse conflicts. Parents have reported mostly excellent experiences in ability to communicate and work with teachers here.

Hickam Elementary
825 Manzelman Circle, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.hickam.k12.hi.us/
Grades: Pre-K to 6th
Number of Students: 550
Number of Faculty: 35
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Located on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, a very high number of its students pass Standardized Tests – Math (75% Vs 46 % Hawaii Average) and ELA (76% Vs 50% Hawaii Average). Wide variety of extra-curricular programs like ukulele, drama, gardening as well as volleyball, track and basketball teams.

Makalapa Elementary
4435 Salt Lake Blvd., Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.makalapael.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 650
Number of Faculty: 40
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
9% of students in Gifted & Talented program, much higher than 4% average across Hawaii. Those skilled in Google Apps & Chromebooks are used to train other students and teachers how to use them, as well as being tech-support and assisting in demonstrations. Both Lego League and SeaPerch Robotics are offered.

Mokulele Elementary
250 Aupaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://mokulele.k12.hi.us/
Grades: Pre-K to 6th
Number of Students: 370
Number of Faculty: 27
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
School is inside Joint-Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, with almost exclusively military dependents attending. A Military & Family Life Consultant (MFLC) provides support and intervention for children experiencing behavioral issues as well as military-related upheavals, like separations from deployed parents. Intramural sports for 2nd to 6th grade, plus Extramural volleyball, basketball & track teams.

Nimitz Elementary
520 Main Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.nimitzelementary.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 729
Number of Faculty: 39
Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1
School is inside Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, the passing rate of Standardized Math Test reaching 64% (Vs 46% Hawaii Average) and ELA Test’s rate hitting 66% (Vs 50% Hawaii Average). One yearly highlight is school’s own Aloha Festival, with students performing Hawaiian song and dance.

Pearl Harbor Elementary
1 Moanalua Ridge, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.nimitzelementary.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 600
Number of Faculty: 35
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Extensive music program with classes for every grade, plus Chorus, Band and Ukulele ensembles that are extra-curricular. Due to military dependents making up most of school, the Military Family Live Counselor program was recently implemented here to help students facing challenges.

Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary
1 C Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.pearlharborkai.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 670
Number of Faculty: 45
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Teaches use of technology & internet, with additional focus on doing so safely. Hands-on music education with all students learning instruments, 4th to 6th grades learn ukulele. Also has Kids Care club, where students work and plan together service projects.

MOANALUA COMPLEX

Moanalua Elementary
1337 Mahiole Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.moanaluaelementary.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 610
Number of Faculty: 34
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Passing rates of both the Math and ELA Standardized Tests beat the Hawaii Average by 12 percentage points. Video production partnership with Moanalua High School allows students to learn skills hands-on. Also offers Junior Police Officers, Orchestra and Salsa Dancing in their extra-curricular lineup.

Red Hill Elementary
1265 Ala Kula Place, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.redhillelementary.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 465
Number of Faculty: 27
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
2/3 of school made up of children from military families. Focuses on use of technology in education, with smartboards in every class and 200+ computers across school.

Salt Lake Elementary
1131 Ala Lilikoi Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.saltlakeeshawaii.org/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 705
Number of Faculty: 45
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Offers Athletic teams, including Cross Country, Basketball, Track/Field and Volleyball. Students also can act as Conflict Mediators or Junior Police Officers to learn service and safety.

Shafter Elementary
2 Fort Shafter, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: https://www.shafterelementary.com/
Grades: K to 6th
Number of Students: 510
Number of Faculty: 30
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
One of the only Hawaii elementary schools given a 6 years WASC accreditation. Almost exclusively Army & Navy dependents attend here, their passing rates of the Standardized Math Test 8% better than Hawaii Average, while beating the ELA Test average by 19%.

FARRINGTON COMPLEX

Fern Elementary
1121 Middle Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.fernschool.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 529
Number of Faculty: 35
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Recently had a new playground built on the campus. Any student falling under the reading proficiency for their grade is assigned personal tutoring & assistance. Extra-curricular activities include Polynesian Club, Video Production (4th & 5th Grades) and Co-Ed Basketball (4th & 5th Grades).

Ka’ewai Elementary
1929 Kam IV Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.kaewaielementary.com/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 354
Number of Faculty: 24
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
In addition to Gifted & Talented program, school also has National Junior Honor Society for excelling students. Ka’ewai is shifting to become a One-To-One School, where every student has a computer and lessons can be individualized.

Kalihi Elementary
2471 Kula Kolea Drive, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.kalihielementary.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 300
Number of Faculty: 22
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
A growing school, its population rose by over 25% in the last few years. Teacher hirings have kept pace, though, maintaining the higher than average Student-Teacher Ratio.

Kalihi Kai Elementary
626 McNeill Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: http://kalihikai.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 619
Number of Faculty: 41
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Kalihi Kai is a Leader In Me school, one of only 6 in Hawaii. Program aims to bring out and encourage leadership in every child, partly based on work by author Franklin Covey (7 Habits). Also is 1-To-1, with a Chromebook (2nd – 5th grades) or mini iPad (K – 1st) for each child to use.

Kalihi Uka Elementary
2411 Kalihi Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.kalihiuka.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 266
Number of Faculty: 15
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Emphasizes early intervention and preventive tactics to address learning and behavioral issues. Entire school uses Ritual & Routines to create a safe and supportive environment for all. Offers Performing Arts program, as well as a Book Club and teams in the Kids in Sports program.

Kalihi Waena Elementary
1240 Gulick Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.kwes.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 546
Number of Faculty: 34
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Close to becoming a 1-to-1 school, with a laptop or tablet for every student. Provides both GATE program to challenge advanced students as well as a P-3 grant program focused on every child reading at grade level by 3rd grade. Has Basketball, Baseball and Football teams.

Kapalama Elementary
1601 North School Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: https://sites.google.com/site/kapalamaweb1/ (Must obtain permission to view)
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 605
Number of Faculty: 36
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
12% of students are in Gifted & Talented program, much higher than Hawaii’s average of 4%. Parent-child monthly workshops are given on school subjects (science, math) and issues (bullying) to engage and involve stakeholders. Curriculum Fair every year displays kids work for parents to see.

Linapuni Elementary
1434 Linapuni Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.linapuniel.k12.hi.us/Site/Welcome.html
Grades: Pre-K to 1st
Number of Students: 151
Number of Faculty: 11
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Early Childhood Center that serves families in Kuhio Homes and Towers of Kuhio. Primary aim is to help their students, many of whom are not fluent in English, achieve the literacy and math skills needed to move on to larger schools. Linapuni also has many events and outreach activities for parents.

Puuhale Elementary
345 Puuhale Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.puuhaleschool.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 239
Number of Faculty: 18
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Uses campaigns such as Race to a Million Words (25 Book Campaign) to stimulate reading & literacy, along with incentives aimed at better attendance and student behavior. All classrooms, library and offices are air-conditioned and soundproofed.

McKINLEY COMPLEX

Kaahumanu Elementary
1141 Kinau Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Website: http://www.qkes.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 548
Number of Faculty: 38
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
For approx. 1/3 of students English is their 2nd language, so a Newcomer Support Center is integrated with ELL to smooth the child’s path. 2nd to 5th graders have weekly sessions in computer lab where they collaborate on coding and using technology to solve problems. Students, teachers & some parents gather for dance-exercise every Weds, Thurs & Fri morning on basketball court.

Kaiulani Elementary
783 North King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: http://www.kaiulani.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 388
Number of Faculty: 22
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
All students get free breakfast and lunch due to CEP grants. School holds monthly coffees for parents along with regular outreach and meetings to increase communication and involvement. School has before, as well as after, school tutoring and instruction to help students succeed.

Kauluwela Elementary
1486 Aala Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: http://www.kauluwela.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 349
Number of Faculty: 22
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Parent-Student-School Compact is signed by all parties, committing themselves to their responsibilities to fully support the child’s education. Kids are grouped according to their learning pace & level to make sure none are left behind. Lessons are customized to the group to meet their needs.

Lanakila Elementary
717 North Kuakini Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: http://lanakila.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 407
Number of Faculty: 23
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Just opened MakerSpace where students can work on problems through hands-on building, coding and working with circuits. Promotes leadership in students through Leader In Me program, highlighting the principles in the books of Frank Covey, 1 each month. After school clubs include hip hop dancing and magic.

Likelike Elementary
1618 Palama Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: https://sites.google.com/a/likelike.k12.hi.us/likelike-elementary-school/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 370
Number of Faculty: 27
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Has summer transition program for children entering kindergarten to prepare them for school. Homework assistance, as well as math and reading tutoring, are provided to students needing help. Partnerships with Create With Clay Hawaii and Artists In Schools Hawaii bring unique opportunities for children to express creativity. Likelike recently improved their StriveHI standing from 195 to 327 points.

Royal Elementary
1519 Queen Emma Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Website: http://www.royalschoolk5.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 362
Number of Faculty: 23
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
The oldest school on Oahu, it follows the Second Step program that focuses on 4 primary skills – Skill for Learning, Empathy, Emotion Management and Problem Solving. Activities include closed circuit network with broadcasts by students as well as a bell choir.

ROOSEVELT COMPLEX

Lincoln Elementary
615 Auwaiolimu Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Website: http://les.lincoln.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 350
Number of Faculty: 23
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Gifted & Talented enrollment is 10% at Lincoln, more than doubling Hawaii’s overall 4% average. Students here also passed the Standardized Math Test at a rate 4% better than the state average, while exceeding that same mark for the ELA Test by 17%. Students can serve in areas such as Library Assistants, school’s Media News Team and Music Monitors.

Maemae Elementary
319 Wyllie Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: http://www.maemaeschool.com/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 667
Number of Faculty: 38
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Deep after school program offerings, like Mandarin, Learning & Homework Center, Karate and Sports Jam Academy. Recent passing rate for Maemae students in the Standardized Math Test was 67% (Hawaii Avg – 46%), while 74% passed the ELA Test (Hawaii Avg – 50%).

Manoa Elementary
3155 Manoa Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822
Website: http://www.manoaschool.com/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 554
Number of Faculty: 31
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Highly regarded due to passing rates of Standardized Math & ELA Tests that beat Hawaii Average by 20+ points and consistent Top 25 rankings in Honolulu Magazine’s grading of all public schools. School has strong Friendship Exchange with Otemon Gakuin in Osaka, Japan.

Noelani Elementary
2655 Woodlawn Drive, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822
Website: http://www.nes.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 441
Number of Faculty: 24
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Noelani was a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School, 1 of just 2 in all Hawaii, honored for its students’ high performance. That’s reflected in the passing rates of the Standardized Math & ELA Tests, which are 79% and 81% respectively. PTA very active, with 3 fundraisers, including Craft Fair to support school.

Nuuanu Elementary
3055 Puiwa Lane, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: http://www.nuuanu.k12.hi.us/nes/Welcome.html
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 378
Number of Faculty: 21
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Has been a National Blue Ribbon School 3 times, twice since 2005. Has a large Gifted & Talented program (10% of students) and outstanding Standardized Math & ELA passing rates of 77% and 82%. After-school programs include arts and crafts, dancing, golf and Lego building.

Pauoa Elementary
2301 Pauoa Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Website: http://digital.pauoa.k12.hi.us/wordpress/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 299
Number of Faculty: 18
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
2015/16 school year found Pauoa to be #10 in Hawaii for Math Proficiency (2nd Highest in Growth) and #7 for Reading Proficiency (4th Highest in Growth). Many enrichment programs offered – Morning Fitness, Science and Fine Arts Showcases, Chorus and Bibliotechies.

KAIMUKI COMPLEX

Ala Wai Elementary
503 Kamoku Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Website: http://www.alawaielementary.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 440
Number of Faculty: 26
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Students are educated in ‘cooperative learning groups’, with a Learning Showcase every year to highlight their work. After school activities include yoga, run club and library club. Also offer Bricks for Kids, where kids use Legos to understand architecture, engineering and technology.

Aliiolani Elementary
1240 7th Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.aliiolani.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 250
Number of Faculty: 18
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
‘Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement’ being utilized starting year 2017 to teach healthy social and emotional values. Idea being that health in these areas promotes academic success. Has strong Big Brothers/Big Sisters relationship, bringing mentorship to students.

Hokulani Elementary
2940 Kamakini Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.hokulani-elementary.com/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 364
Number of Faculty: 19
Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1
Earned National Blue Ribbon School awards in 2005 and 2012, while they were a Recognition School for 2013 and 2014 for being in the Top 5% of schools in Strive HI. Hokulani students passed Standardized Math and ELA Tests at 77% rate, beating Hawaii school averages in both by at least 27 percentage points.

Jefferson Elementary
324 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Website: http://jeffersonsurfers.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 432
Number of Faculty: 24
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Their Primary School Adjustment Program (PSAP) is one of only 13 in Hawaii certified by Children’s Institute. 2017 Honolulu Math Meet team won every category of contest, becoming Grand Champions. Students also can be part of their Speech Team, Art Club and Garden Club.

Kuhio Elementary
2759 S. King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Website: http://www.kuhioschool.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 289
Number of Faculty: 19
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Known for a very strong Arts curriculum, with Hawaiiana, Chorus, Library and Art. Kindergaten classes have a weekly newsletter for parents, telling them current lessons, concepts and words being taught. Tutors are available both during and after school, including to help with homework.

Lunalilo Elementary
810 Pumehana Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Website: http://www.lunalilo.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 434
Number of Faculty: 27
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Serves large newcomer community, as much as 30% of its student body being English Language Learners. Both their Video Technology Club and Math Team have won awards for their achievements. All grades have projects in alignment with Malama Honua mission of the Hōkūle‘a and Hikianalia sailing ships and the Polynesian Voyaging Society.

Palolo Elementary
2106 10th Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.paloloelementary.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 269
Number of Faculty: 21
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tutors provided to children through partnerships with Rotary of East Honolulu, Chaminade University and KCC. Over 40% of students learning English due to recent immigrants that make up much of the surrounding area. Implemented a Sustainability focus to education starting in 2014 that has raised students’ proficiency rates.

KALANI COMPLEX

Kahala Elementary
4559 Kilauea Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.kahalaelementary.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 402
Number of Faculty: 25
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Popularity of this school extends outside its designated area – more than 50% of students here attend using Geographic Exception to do so. Made Honolulu Magazine’s Top 10 of Hawaii Elementary School for 2nd time year 2017 (now #6). PTO is very involved, providing and raising funds that pay for many of Kahala Elementary’s part-time teachers, such as the Art, Music and PE instructors.

Liholiho Elementary
3430 Maunaloa Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.liholiho.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 454
Number of Faculty: 29
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Made #5 spot in Honolulu Magazine’s best elementary schools in Hawaii year 2017, as well as being given an A+ grade by the same publication. Also was a Strive HI Recognition school for 2013/14 and 2014/15 as a result of the students’ growth in both math and reading scores. Garden is tended by keiki who grow and harvest vegetables each year.

Waikiki Elementary
3710 Leahi Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Website: http://www.waikikischool.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 522
Number of Faculty: 29
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Standardized Math and ELA Test was passed at remarkable 83% and 81% rate. Various gardens and beds make up School Food Farm, with weekly lessons on gardening, composting and eco-responsibility. Waikiki Elementary is highly rated by parents, some of whom moved to area to send their kids here.

Wilson Elementary
4945 Kilauea Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://wilsonschoolhawaii.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 624
Number of Faculty: 35
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Almost 2/3 of student body are Geographic Exceptions, drawn here by high standards of school. Specialized classes available in subjects like Video/Computer Technology, Japanese, Sustainability and Basic Practical Arts.

KAISER COMPLEX

Aina Haina Elementary
801 W. Hind Drive, Honolulu, Hawaii 96821
Website: http://www.ainahaina.k12.hi.us/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 512
Number of Faculty: 30
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Aina Haina is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, providing the Primary Years of that program. Every student is given Japanese lessons as part of their creative and global focuses. After School Enrichment Program options include Little Medical School, Hula, Chinese Academy and Rainbow Art.

Hahaione Elementary
595 Pepeekeo Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96825
Website: http://www.hahaionees.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 559
Number of Faculty: 31
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Hahaione Elementary School is part of the International Baccalaureate program, emphasizing the inquiry process. Parent tutoring program is offered to help students having issues with reading. School has instituted Thursday Envelopes schedule, so parents know child will be bringing home announcements, notices, etc in that day, every single week.

Kamiloiki Elementary
7788 Hawaii Kai Drive, Honolulu, Hawaii 96825
Website: http://www.kamiloikielementary.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 427
Number of Faculty: 26
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Kamiloiki’s MAST (Math and Science Technology) program integrates the two subjects in instruction, students solving problems using critical thinking and the inquiry process. As an International Baccalaureate school, curriculum follows their plan, with Mandarin taught to all students. After school programs include Golf, Fun Art 808 and Aloha Charm School (6 session course).

Koko Head Elementary
189 Lunalilo Home Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96825
Website: http://kokoheadschool.org/
Grades: K to 5th
Number of Students: 334
Number of Faculty: 24
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Currently a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate program, Koko Head has instituted much of the instruction and structure, but are still in the application phase for recognition. They’ve consistently produced high passing rates for Standardized Tests as earning awards for their achievements, including National Blue Ribbon School in 2011. 100% of the food served in cafeteria is made there every day.

Public Middle Schools in Honolulu

Moanalua Middle School
1289 Mahiole Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.moanaluamiddle.org/
Grades: 7th & 8th
Number of Students: 900
Number of Faculty: 53
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Extraordinarily large Gifted & Talented enrollment – 30% of students, with Standardized Math and ELA Tests showing passing rates exceeding the Hawaii average rate by 16% and 28% respectively. Partnership with Navy Meteorology and Oceanography Center has resulted in regular tours of center, service projects for school and after-school course in Meteorology.

Aliamanu Middle School
3271 Salt Lake Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: https://sites.google.com/site/aliamanumiddleschool/
Grades: 7th & 8th
Number of Students: 745
Number of Faculty: 48
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
UPLINK after-school program gives free tutoring as well as activities such as cooking, drama and sports, all for free to students. ¾ of pupils are military dependents, creating a lot of turnover, but also giving Aliamanu access to programs and occasional funding given to schools that serve these students in large numbers.

FARRINGTON COMPLEX

Dole Middle School
1803 Kamehameha IV Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://dolemiddleschool.weebly.com/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 809
Number of Faculty: 51
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
2016/17 school year saw start of Dole’s 1:1 Program, giving all students a Chromebook and Promethean Boards inside every class. Also recognized as CFES (College For Every Student) School of Distinction 6 years running for success in program that helps underserved students prepare for college. Available Enrichment activities include cooking, service learning, dance and arts & crafts.

Kalakaua Middle School
821 Kalihi Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.kalakauamiddle.org/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 988
Number of Faculty: 65
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
2016/17 school year saw start of Dole’s 1:1 Program, giving all students a Chromebook and Promethean Boards inside every class. Also recognized as CFES (College For Every Student) School of Distinction 6 years running for success in program that helps underserved students prepare for college. Available Enrichment activities include cooking, service learning, dance and arts & crafts.

McKINLEY COMPLEX

Central Middle School
1302 Queen Emma Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Website: https://sites.google.com/site/centralmiddleschoolhonolulu/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 365
Number of Faculty: 22″
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Provides extended and after school support to help students improve through After School All-Stars, Uniting Peer Learning and Integrating New Knowledge (UPLINK). Large (40%) segment have limited English, but Central integrates ELL students with standard classes to keep them in mainstream of learning and social opportunities.

ROOSEVELT COMPLEX

Kawananakoa Middle School
49 Funchal Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Website: http://www.kawananakoams.org/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 840
Number of Faculty: 53
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Has a Native Hawaiian Arboretum students tend and learn from regularly, while also having a full renovation of their auditorium in 2016. Kawananakoa has Sister School relationship with Uwajima Middle School in Japan, with occasional student trips there.

Stevenson Middle School
1202 Prospect Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822
Website: https://sites.google.com/rlsms.com/rlsms/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 611
Number of Faculty: 44
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Offers Ho’onui ‘ike, Stevenson’s unique version of Gifted & Talented program, open to limited number of students. School has numerous community partnerships that provide support such as tutoring and counseling, as well as a significant relationship with Kula No Na Po‘e Hawai‘i. Opened new Science & Technology Center in July 2016 that has lab rooms as well as a room with observation deck.

KAIMUKI COMPLEX

Jarrett Middle School
1903 Palolo Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.jmshi.org/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 250
Number of Faculty: 21
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
One of the smallest middle schools in Hawaii, but has 21% enrollment in Gifted & Talented (10% is Hawaii Middle School average). Also has Ka’i program, where 12 6th grade students from disadvantaged families take summer program at Iolani School in academic enrichment, leadership & college prep, returning every year until graduating high school. Broad after school offerings include Origami, Performing Arts, Filmmaking and other activities.

Washington Middle School
1633 S. King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Website: https://sites.google.com/a/washingtonms.k12.hi.us/washington-middle-school-2/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 801
Number of Faculty: 55
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Principal named 2017 National Distinguished Principal for Hawaii. Math Team has dominated competitions for the last decade, beating both public & private schools.

Public High Schools in Honolulu

Moanalua High School
2825 Ala Ilima Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.moanaluahs.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 2,000
Number of Faculty: 116
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Average number of students taking AP Classes, but Moanalua students pass AP Exams at rate of 42%, exceeding Hawaii’s average pass percentage of 31%. They also have a 10% gain on passing Standardized Math Tests and 24% better than the Hawaii average passed the ELA Test. Career-oriented clubs here include Travel Industry Management, Health Occupations Society of America and Pre-Law Society.

Radford High School
4361 Salt Lake Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
Website: http://www.radfordhs.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 1,350}
Number of Faculty: 75
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
College prep track is strong, with more AP courses than comparable schools, but also has extensive career skills offerings, including Building & Construction and Culinary Art Academies as well as an Arts & Communication Career Pathway. Teachers are trained in using Rigor, Relevance Framework that emphasizes hands-on learning in their lessons.

Farrington High School
1564 North King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Website: http://farringtonhighschool.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 2,417
Number of Faculty: 137
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
2 phase program, where 9th & 10th grade students are divided into teams, then 11th and 12th work in one of the 10 interdisciplinary academies. Strong Career path programs, like Industrial/Engineering, Arts/Communication and an especially strong Health Academy. Brand new, and Farrington’s very 1st, stadium just completed in February 2017.

McKinley High School
1039 S. King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Website: https://www.mckinley.k12.hi.us/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 1,671
Number of Faculty: 100
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
All freshman are assigned older student mentor. Freshman select a House to enter in Sophomore year, where they are grouped with a team of teachers, based on possible career interest – Finance, Culinary Arts, Construction, etc. 43% of AP students pass those exams (3 or higher), well above Hawaii HS average of 31%.

Roosevelt High School
1120 Nehoa Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822
Website: http://www.roosevelthigh.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 1,423
Number of Faculty: 76
Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1
Ranked #1 Public High School in Hawaii by US News & World Report for 2017. Many career and technical programs offered as well as having both Instrumental Music & Media Technology Learning Centers. Now using biometric finger scanning identification system for school security and meal plans.

Kaimuki High School
2705 Kaimuki Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.kaimukihs.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 760
Number of Faculty: 52
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Offers specialized Academies in areas such as Entertainment and Hospitality, which is divided into Culinary and Hotel focuses. 1 of the 2 high school Performing Arts Centers on Oahu is found here. Special programs in place for those with special needs or limited English proficiency.

Kalani High School
4680 Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, Hawaii 96821
Website: http://www.kalanihighschool.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Number of Students: 1277
Number of Faculty: 70
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Wins top rankings regularly, most recently picked as #3 high school in Hawaii in Honolulu Magazine’s 2017 Grading the Public Schools list. 84% of graduates in recent years went on to higher education. Juniors & Seniors can take UH classes for dual credit.

Kaiser High School
511 Lunalilo Home Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96825
Website: http://www.kaiserhighschoolhawaii.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
|Number of Students: 1156
Number of Faculty: 65
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Kaiser is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, the only one in Hawaii to offer both the Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. Just built Girls athletic locker room as well as a sports therapy/treatment center.

Schools Covering Multiple Levels in Honolulu

Anuenue School
2528 10th Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://home.anuenue.org/ (Hawaiian) / http://home.anuenue.org/home/namu-haole (English)
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Number of Students: 403
Number of Faculty: 27
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Hawaiian Immersion school, where students are taught exclusively in Hawaiian from K to 4th Grade. English is first used in the classroom in 5th. Anuenue is DOE, not Charter, but parents must request Geographic Exemption for their child to attend, regardless of where they live. Several Hawaiian cultural events are held each year.

Public Charter Schools in Honolulu

Halau Ku Mana
2101 Makiki Heights Drive, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822
Website: http://www.halaukumana.org/
Grades: 4th to 12th
Number of Students: 134
Number of Faculty: 13
Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Mixes traditions of Native Hawaiian practices & culture with modern technology. In addition to classes, students spend 20 hours each week on a year-long project. Studies and learning done out on the water, in Hawaiian fishponds and outside using Hawaiian agricultural methods, along with instruction indoors

Myron B. Thompson Academy
1040 Richards Street, Suite 220, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Website: http://www.ethompson.org/
Grades: K to 12th
Number of Students: 134
Number of Faculty: 13
Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Courses all taught online, open to students from other Islands as well, with teachers available outside class by email, phone or, by appointment, in-person. Every child has an assigned Counselor and tutoring is available on request. School issues each student a laptop, with a non-refundable $45 fee.

School for Examining Essential Questions of Sustainability (SEEQS)
2705 Kaimuki Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Website: http://www.seeqs.org/
Grades: 6th to 8th
Number of Students: 150
Number of Faculty: 12
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Focus on sustainability across curriculum. Daily classes start at 9:20AM after 45 minutes of physical activity. Last 2 hours is class centered on 1 Essential Sustainability Question (Ex – How does water sustain us?) that’s explored for entire semester. School just moved to campus of Kaimuki High School.

University Laboratory School
1776 University Avenue – UHS Building 3, Room 121 – Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: http://universitylaboratoryschool.org/
Grades: K to 12th
Number of Students: 444
Number of Faculty: 39
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
School is a partnership with UH, using the university’s Curriculum Development & Research Group’s programs and methods as part of their mission to improve education and learning. In recent years at least 94% of graduating students have gone on to a 2 or 4 year institution. Due to unique program, there are no Honors or AP Classes.

Voyager Public Charter School
2428 Wilder Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: http://voyagerschool.com
Grades: K to 8th
Number of Students: 282
Number of Faculty: 23
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Voyager favors hands-on learning, rather than textbooks to teach their students. Children are placed in Learning Teams with other students of different ages to facilitate cooperation and idea exchanges despite the differences. Uses methodologies such as Total Quality Learning and Quantum Learning.

Waialae Elementary
1045 19th Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.waialae.edu/
Grades: Pre-K (Special Needs) to 5th
Number of Students: 506
Number of Faculty: 32
Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1
The 1st Student-Centered school in Hawaii, Waialae uses an Interdisciplinary curriculum, based on beliefs that learning is social and happens through active participation, but at different rates in individuals. Does periodic Self-Study to assess programs and where change is needed.

Private Schools in Honolulu

Christian Academy
3400 Moanalua Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: http://www.capatriots.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/First Assembly of God
Number of Students: 351
Number of Faculty: 29
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Tuition: Preschool – $8,358; K to 5th – $8,393; 6th to 8th – $8,642; 9th & Up – $8,954
Follows the Principle Approach, described as ‘America’s historic Christian method of Biblical reasoning’. Curriculum centers on literary classics, developing writing ability as well as working with cutting edge technology and robotics. Seniors do thesis defense before graduating.

Damien Memorial School
1401 Houghtailing St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Website: http://www.damien.edu/
Grades: 6th to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 594
Number of Faculty: 34
Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Tuition: 6th – $10,025; 7th & 8th – $10,225; 9th & Up – $13,625
Program emphasizes lifelong faith, service and volunteerism along with education. Starting with 6th grade students are given a Mac laptop with all needed software for their curriculum. Senior year Immersion trips are taken to Kalapaupa to learn about Father Damien, meet residents there and perform service projects.

Hanahau’oli School
1922 Makiki St, Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: https://www.hanahauoli.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 6th
Number of Students: 209
Number of Faculty: 18
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Tuition: $21,350
Bases its educational approach on the work of John Dewey, who believed in experiential, progressive and child-centered teaching. Students do hands-on projects, such as raising chickens and composting. Centennial will be reached in 2018.

Hawaii Baptist Academy
420 Wyllie Street, Honolulu, HI 96817
Website: http://www.hba.net/
Grades: K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist
Number of Students: 1,106
Number of Faculty: 87
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tuition: $16,300
Emphasizes technology through 1:1 program – all 7-12 graders have an iPad – and requiring 10-12 grades to take at least 1 Tech Intensive class each year, such as Animation, New Production or Intro to Programming. Consistent record of 100% of graduates going on to college.

Hawaiian Mission Academy Ka Lama Iki
1415 Makiki St, Honolulu, HI 96814
Website: http://www.kalamaiki.org
Grades: K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: 7th Day Adventist
Number of Students: 106
Number of Faculty: 6
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Tuition: $8,270
Elementary & Middle School branch of Hawaii Mission Academy. Christian oriented education, with Bible study and devotions part of every day. For some projects and activities students from different grades are teamed up to encourage learning cooperative skills and leadership.

Hawaiian Mission Academy
1438 Pensacola Street, Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: http://hawaiianmissionacademy.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Religious Affiliation: 7th Day Adventist
Number of Students: 126
Number of Faculty: 11
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Tuition: $12,000
Christian school with College Prep focus. Dormitory facilities available for Int’l, Mainland as well as local students. Athletic department added Stand Up Paddleboarding program year 2017.

Holy Family Catholic Academy
830 Main Street, Honolulu, HI 96818
Website: http://www.hfcahawaii.org | http://www.holyfamilyelc.org/ (Early Learning Center)
Grades: Pre-K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 568
Number of Faculty: 37
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Tuition: Early Learning Center – $8,700; K to 4th – $7,775; 5th to 7th – $8,625; 8th – $9,600
Takes Non-Catholic students, who are not required to participate in church activities. Students in upper grades are evaluated for their ‘Work Habits’, covering assignment completion, active listening and contributing to discussions in class. Parents are encouraged to be active part of school and child’s education.

Holy Nativity School
5286 Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, HI 96821
Website: http://www.holynativityschool.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 7th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Episcopal
Number of Students: 160
Number of Faculty: 18
Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Tuition: $15,490
Expanded year 2017 to serving 7th grade, with 8th grade to be added in 2018. Uses innovative approaches such as Design Thinking and Computational Thinking methodologies and all teachers incorporate yoga into their classes to improve mindfulness. Small sized, but large school facilities – full gymnasium, art room, performing arts room, etc.

Hongwanji Mission School
1728 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HI 96821
Website: http://www.hongwanjimissionschool.com/
Grades: Pre-K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Buddhist
Number of Students: 363
Number of Faculty: 29
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tuition: $10,850
Integrates teaching Buddhist values throughout the curriculum. Children first learn doing work with traditional paper/pencil to develop basic thinking skills before moving to computer. 8th Grade takes 2 week study tour in Japan, taking part in cultural activities.

Honolulu Waldorf School
350 Ulua St (Pre-K to 8th) & 5257 Kalanianaole Hwy (HS), Honolulu, HI 96821
Website: http://honoluluwaldorf.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Number of Students: 283
Number of Faculty: 29
Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Tuition: Pre-K & K – $14,200; 1st to 8th – $16,200; 9th to 12th – $18,500
Creativity and experiential learning, with a holistic approach, are foundation of school’s program. System based on ideas of Rudolf Steiner, emphasizing important role of imagination in learning & artistic development. Student activities include Circus Arts Club, Integrated Fighting Club and Community Service Club.

Iolani School
563 Kamoku Street, Honolulu, HI 96826
Website: http://www.iolani.org/
Grades: K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Episcopal
Number of Students: 1,880
Number of Faculty: 186
Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Tuition: $22,50
One of the preeminent private schools in Hawaii, Iolani offers a solid Student/Teacher ratio with average class size of 16. Recently opened Sullivan Center, where students learn Design & Fabrication, Entrepreneurship and Applied Technology.

Kaimuki Christian School
1117 Koko Head Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816
Website: http://www.kaimukichristianschool.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Number of Students: 285
Number of Faculty: 27
Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $12,995; K to 5th: $13,350; 6th to 8th $13,450; 9th to 12th – $14,995
As part of expansion plan, a $4M educational center was just opened. Currently, grades are capped at 20 students to ensure personal attention and communication. Integrates Biblical values into program.

Kamehameha Schools, Kapalama Campus
1887 Makuakane St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Website: http://www.ksbe.edu/campus_education/campuses/kapalama_campus/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Episcopal
Number of Students: 3,192
Number of Faculty: 250
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $2,176; K to 6th: $4,374; 7th to 12th – $5,381
School admits students of Hawaiian Ancestry, with approx. 450 boarding students, primarily from Outer Islands. Facilities are state-of-the-art, from educational buildings to athletic facilities and performing arts center. Seniors are required to apply to colleges (2/4 year or technical).

Kawaiaha’o Church School
872 Mission Ln, Honolulu, HI 96813
Website: https://www.kawaiahaoschool.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 5th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Church of Christ
Number of Students: 24
Number of Faculty: 2
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Tuition: $7,823
Kawaiaha’o is a Montessori School, following their teaching methods. Students rarely use textboooks, instead learning through research, hands-on projects and sharing their findings with peers. Dual Language program now offered with instruction in Hawaiian.

La Pietra Hawaii School for Girls
2933 Poni Moi Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Website: http://www.lapietra.edu
Grades: 6th to 12th
Gender: All Girls
Number of Students: 200
Number of Faculty: 29
Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1
Tuition: $19,280
Small class sizes, 10 to 15 on average, but students have 153 courses to choose from here. Promoting leadership in girls high priority with opportunities like Peer Leaders and La Pietra Delegates programs. Library changed over into Student Learning Center, modeled on colleges/universities.

Mary, Star of the Sea School
4469 Malia St, Honolulu, HI 96821
Website: https://www.starofthesea.org/
Grades: 1st to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 188
Number of Faculty: 21
Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Tuition: $9,750
Catholic school environment with eye toward 21st Century, with 3D Design & Printing Lab one, digital media center and each student has a Chromebook or iPad. Project-based curriculum and record of 100% of graduates being accepted to ‘top Oahu private schools’.

Maryknoll School
1526 Alexander St, Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: https://www.maryknollschool.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 1,383
Number of Faculty: 89
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Tuition: $17,100
Unique programs, such as K-8th Grade Mandarin Immersion that teaches ½ of school day in English, the other ½ all subjects are taught in Mandarin. Also has Mx Scholar program in which HS students choose from 4 areas to concentrate on – STEM & Aerospace, Medical Innovation, Business & Diplomacy and Creative Arts & Expression.

Mid-Pacific Institute
12445 Ka’ala Street, Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: http://www.midpac.edu/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Number of Students: 1,548
Number of Faculty: 115
Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Tuition: $23,185
Forward looking school, students can learn and work with 3D printers, pro level scanners and virtual reality. Mid-Pacific eXploratory Program has students do collaborative projects to solve real world problems, such as creating/designing electric transportation systems.

Montessori Community School
1239 Nehoa St, Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: https://www.montessorihawaii.org
Grades: Pre-K to 6th
Number of Students: 181
Number of Faculty: 10
Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $9,315; K – $11,268; 6 to 9 years old – $13,095; 10 to 12 years old – $13,680
Uses Montessori model, with students of different ages learning and working together. Teachers are specially trained, using Montessori educational materials, to inspire child to pursue learning.

Navy Hale Keiki School
153 Bougainville Drive, Honolulu, HI 96818
Website: http://www.nhks.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 5th
Number of Students: 220
Number of Faculty: 15
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Tuition: Pre-K – $6,825; K – $8,690; 1st to 5th – $9,025
Open to both military and civilian families, school uses ‘multi-sensory and hands-on learning’. All grades participate in community service projects – Food Bank collections, donating items to Tripler Hospital’s Fisher House, etc. Young Patriots Club provides support and friendship for children with deployed parent.

Pacific Buddhist Academy
1710 Pali Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96813
Website: https://www.pacificbuddhistacademy.org/
Grades: 9th to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Buddhist
Number of Students: 73
Number of Faculty: 7
Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Tuition: $14,900
First Shin Buddhist College Prep high school in the US. Students take Peace Core classes while here, such as ‘The Psychology of Peace’ & ‘Conflict and Social Activism’. Partner of Hongwanji Mission School (K – 8th Grades).

Punahou School
1601 Punahou Street, Honolulu, HI 96822
Website: http://www.punahou.edu/
Grades: K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Number of Students: 3,750
Number of Faculty: 319
Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Tuition: $23,850
Probably the top private school in Hawaii, it provides a College-like experience – glassblowing & ceramics center, music hall with private studios, indoor & outdoor creative learning centers. Offers special programs in Entrepreneurship, Public Service and Global Education among others.

Redemption Academy
423 Kamakee St, Honolulu, HI 96814
Website: http://redemptionacademy.org/index.htm
Grades: K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Non-Denominational
Number of Students: 14
Number of Faculty: 7
Student/Teacher Ratio: 2:1
Tuition: $6,100
HS students can take courses through the Indiana University Independent Program and earn dual high school-college credit, up to 30 total credits. Small student body means child gets more one-on-one attention from teachers. Students given Christian values and education with respect for multiculturalism.

Sacred Hearts Academy
3253 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Website: http://www.sacredhearts.org/
Grades: Pre-K to 12th
Gender: All Girls
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 900
Number of Faculty: 78
Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1
Tuition: Pre-K to 6th – $10,912; 7th & 8th – $12,669; 9th & Up – $14,813
Pre-K to 8th grades offer a standard, but rigorous curriculum, while the high school is firmly college prep, with almost every graduate going on to college. Numerous Enrichment classes and clubs for all grades, including 2 Math clubs, Sailing Club, Debate and Liturgical Corps.

St Andrew’s Schools
224 Queen Emma Square, Honolulu, HI 96813
Website: http://www.standrewsschools.org/
Grades: K to 12th (Priory); K to 5th (Prep)
Gender: All Girls at Priory; All Boys at Prep
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Episcopal
Number of Students: 369
Number of Faculty: 47
Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1
Tuition for Priory: K to 5th – $16,890; 6th to 8th – $17,480; 9th to 12th – $18,355
Tuition for Prep: $16,890
Boys school, called Prep, was opened in 2014. All female Priory School was founded in 1867 to fulfill Queen Emma’s educational vision of giving girls a substantial education, based on her 3 values – Aloha, Pono, ‘Imi Na‘auao, Ho‘omanawanui, Mālama, and Lokomaika‘i. Hawaii’s only Coordinate School, teaching both girls and boys, but in separate institutions.

St Anthony School
640 Puuhale Rd, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Website: https://saintanthonykalihi.org/
Grades: K to 8th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 85
Number of Faculty: 9
Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Tuition: $3,500
Small, intimate Catholic school that offers good Student:Teacher ratio and affordable tuition compared to similar institutions. Music program is excellent, with various intramural sports and hula available for children to participate in.

St Francis School
2707 Pamoa Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822
Website: http://stfrancis-oahu.org/
Grades: K to 12th
Religious Affiliation: Christian/Roman Catholic
Number of Students: 521
Number of Faculty: 54
Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Tuition: K to 6th – $8,500; 7th & 8th – $10,700; 9th & Up – $12,400
All high school students, along with all faculty & staff, must take part in St Francis School Retreat each year to deepen their faith. Uses strict grading system – 90-92 = B+, 93-96 = A-, 97-100 = A. 3 study programs are available to high schoolers – Honors, College Prep, and ESL.