(The above picture is of BHHS Hawaii's fearless leaders, Scott Bradley, Kalama Kim, and Earl Lee)

 

O'ahu Real Estate Market Report – May 2025

The O‘ahu real estate market feels a bit like paddling into a changing tide—not chaotic, but shifting. And for those who know how to read the waves, there’s opportunity out there.

Single-Family Homes

Sales dipped 5.6% compared to last year, but prices rose 8.3% to a median of $1,175,000. Homes are taking longer to sell—averaging 21 days on market—and inventory has grown 27.8%. The biggest increase is in the $800K–$1M range, especially in neighborhoods like ʻEwa. For sellers, pricing and preparation matter more than ever. For buyers, the growing inventory means more choices and negotiating power.

Condominiums
Condo sales dropped 21.8%, but prices held steady at $500,000. Properties are now sitting an average of 39 days on market, and active inventory has jumped nearly 55% year-over-year. Almost half of all new listings are priced between $300K and $600K. With 40% of condo listings seeing price reductions, buyers are in a strong position to find value and secure favorable terms.

Where’s the Opportunity?

• Buyers: Increased supply means less pressure and more room to negotiate, especially in the condo market.
• Sellers: Homes in high-demand areas like Kailua are still moving well—success depends on pricing and marketing strategy.
• Investors: The softening condo segment offers long-term buying opportunities, particularly in mid-price ranges with high rental demand.

• The tide is shifting—but that’s when seasoned paddlers find their moment. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s chart the course together.

This report reflects information about re-sales of existing properties only and does not include new home sales. All the MLS information is com­piled from sales reported during the cited months; this data is Known only after closing of escrow. The time delay between the signing of a sales contract and the closing of escrow is usually between one and three months. This report is provided as a service to HBR members. Note: Percentage change compares data from May 2025 to May 2024.

The Best New Front Door Upgrades

When homebuyers pull up to the curb of a home for sale, one of the first things they look for is the front door. As the focal point of the entrance, the door should segue seamlessly to complement the interior. According to Marvin Replacement, buyers are looking for larger doors that admit more light into the home and have unique features such as off-center styling and carvings.

• Home style: Whether your home is Mid-century, Victorian, or Craftsman, the front door should reflect or complement the age and style elements of the home’s inspiration.
• Door style: The door can be expanded to include a transom window, panel of window panes on one or both sides (sidelites), or double doors.
• Materials: Steel, hardwood, or fiberglass are the most durable choices.
• Color: Front door colors are bolder to add more style and personality to the home’s curb appeal.

Take your entryway to the next level by embellishing the door surround with trimming, replacing light fixtures, and adding new hardware, a pot of fresh flowers, and an upscale doormat.

Why Are Credit Scores So Important?

Your credit scores are numbers that creditors, landlords, employers, insurers, and others use as shorthand or an educated guess to determine your attitude toward borrowing and how you might repay a loan. Credit scores are calculated individually by the three major credit reporting bureaus, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, from the information found in your credit reports:

• Liens, child support obligations, etc. reveal your litigation history.
• Payment history shows which accounts you have and how you pay your debts.
• Outstanding balances show how much credit needs to be repaid. Do you make minimum payments, pay a large part of the balance, or pay in full?
• Length of credit history is composed of the original dates you opened accounts or obtained loans.
• Applications for new credit accounts show you plan to owe more. What are you spending your money on?
• Types of credit accounts differentiate between secured loans (cars, homes) and unsecured loans (credit cards).

High credit scores mean better terms and interest rates, improved access to jobs and housing, and lower insurance costs, among other benefits.