Aerial view of Mililani, Oahu - Central Oahu real estate by Your Oahu Home Team

Oahu Real Estate Market Updates, Neighborhood Guides & Homebuyer Tips

Welcome to Your Oahu Home Team's blog — your local resource for Oahu real estate market updates, neighborhood guides, and practical advice for buyers, sellers, and investors. We share insight on Mililani, Central Oahu, Kapolei, Ewa Beach, Ho'opili, and Koa Ridge, along with guidance on VA home loans, military relocation to Hawaii, and first-time homebuyer programs.

Whether you're searching for current Oahu market trends, exploring a new neighborhood, or preparing to buy or sell a home, you'll find clear, locally-focused information here to help you make confident real estate decisions.

Have a question about a specific neighborhood or property? Reach out anytime — we'd love to talk story with you.

April 2, 2026

Royal Kunia Shopping Guide 2026: Where to Shop & Eat in Central Oahu

Shopping & Dining Near Royal Kunia: Your 2026 Guide

Royal Kunia residents enjoy easy access to a variety of shopping centers, grocery stores, and restaurants in Central Oahu. Whether you need everyday essentials or a fun weekend outing, here's where to shop and eat near this growing community.

Kunia Shopping Center

Located at 94-673 Kupuohi Street, Kunia Shopping Center is the closest retail hub to Royal Kunia and serves as the neighborhood's go-to spot for daily needs.

  • Donpen Times Supermarket — Full-service grocery store with pharmacy, open daily 6 AM – 11 PM
  • Bank of Hawaii — Local banking services
  • Denny's — Family-friendly dining
  • Jack In The Box — Quick-service restaurant
  • Domino's Pizza — Pizza delivery and takeout
  • Baskin Robbins — Ice cream and treats
  • BBQ Hut — Local BBQ plates
  • T-Mobile — Wireless services

Walmart Waipahu

Just minutes from Royal Kunia at 94-595 Kupuohi Street, Walmart offers one-stop shopping for groceries, electronics, home goods, and more. Open daily 6 AM – 11 PM.

Waikele Premium Outlets

A short drive down the H-2 freeway, Waikele Premium Outlets features brand-name stores at discounted prices, including Coach, Nike, Kate Spade, and more. The adjacent Waikele Center adds big-box retailers and restaurants.

Ka Makana Aliʻi

Oahu's newest major shopping center in Kapolei is about a 15-minute drive from Royal Kunia. It features over 100 stores, a movie theater, and diverse dining options — making it a popular weekend destination for Central and West Oahu families.

Nearby Dining Favorites

  • Restaurant Kunio — Popular local eatery near Royal Kunia
  • Chili's Grill & Bar — Casual American dining at Waikele
  • Shay's Filipino Cafe — Authentic Filipino food
  • Down to Earth — Organic and natural foods with a hot bar
  • Y'Kele Korean BBQ — Korean barbecue near Waipahu

Grocery Shopping Options

  • Donpen Times Supermarket (Kunia Shopping Center) — Closest option
  • Walmart Waipahu — Budget-friendly groceries
  • Costco Waipahu — Bulk shopping, about 10 minutes away
  • Safeway Mililani — Full-service supermarket heading north on H-2

Why Royal Kunia's Location Works for Shoppers

Royal Kunia sits at the crossroads of Central and West Oahu, giving residents convenient access to multiple shopping areas without the traffic of Honolulu. Military families stationed at nearby bases like Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Army Airfield will find all major retailers within a short drive.

Thinking about moving to Royal Kunia? Contact us today to learn more about homes available in this convenient Central Oahu community.

Posted in Royal Kunia
April 2, 2026

Royal Kunia Property Tax Guide 2026: What Homeowners Need to Know

Property Taxes in Royal Kunia: What to Expect in 2026

Royal Kunia is part of the City & County of Honolulu tax jurisdiction, and property taxes here follow the same structure as all of Oahu. With home prices typically ranging from $700,000 to $1,000,000 for single-family homes, here's what you need to know about property taxes in this Central Oahu community.

How Honolulu Property Taxes Work

  • Tax rates are set annually by the Honolulu City Council for the fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).
  • Assessed values are based on market value as of October 1 of the prior year.
  • Bills are mailed twice yearly — due August and February.

2025–2026 Residential Tax Rates

  • Residential (owner-occupied) — $3.50 per $1,000 of assessed value
  • Residential A (non-owner-occupied, under $1M) — $4.50 per $1,000
  • Residential A (non-owner-occupied, $1M+) — $10.50 per $1,000

What Royal Kunia Homeowners Typically Pay

  • $700,000 home (owner-occupied) — Approximately $2,100/year after home exemption
  • $850,000 home (owner-occupied) — Approximately $2,625/year after home exemption
  • $1,000,000 home (owner-occupied) — Approximately $3,150/year after home exemption

Home Exemption

  • Under 65 — $100,000 exemption
  • 65–69 — $140,000 exemption
  • 70–74 — $160,000 exemption
  • 75–79 — $180,000 exemption
  • 80+ — $200,000 exemption

File by September 30 through the City's Real Property Assessment Division.

Tips for Royal Kunia Buyers

  • File your home exemption right after closing.
  • Check assessed values at realpropertyhonolulu.com before purchasing.
  • VA loan buyers — taxes are typically escrowed into your monthly payment.
  • Royal Kunia homes are newer construction with potentially higher assessed values than older Waipahu neighborhoods.

Questions about Royal Kunia property taxes? Contact us today for a personalized cost analysis.

Posted in Royal Kunia
April 2, 2026

Royal Kunia Commute Guide 2026: Getting Around Central Oahu

Commuting from Royal Kunia: A Central Oahu Guide

Royal Kunia sits in a convenient Central Oahu location with direct access to H-1, making commutes to military bases, downtown Honolulu, and West Oahu relatively straightforward. Here's everything you need to know about getting around from Royal Kunia.

Major Roads & Highways

  • H-1 Freeway — Royal Kunia has easy access to H-1 via Kunia Road. Head east toward Pearl City, Aiea, and downtown Honolulu, or west toward Kapolei and Ewa Beach.
  • H-2 Freeway — Accessible via H-1, H-2 heads north to Wahiawa, Schofield Barracks, and the North Shore.
  • Kunia Road — The main surface road connecting Royal Kunia to H-1 and the surrounding agricultural lands.
  • Fort Weaver Road — An alternate route south to Ewa Beach.

Commute Times from Royal Kunia

  • Downtown Honolulu — 25–40 minutes (18 miles via H-1 East)
  • Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam — 15–20 minutes (10 miles via H-1 East)
  • Schofield Barracks — 15–20 minutes (10 miles via H-2 North)
  • Wheeler Army Airfield — 12–18 minutes (8 miles via H-2 North)
  • Tripler Army Medical Center — 20–30 minutes (14 miles via H-1 East)
  • Camp Smith — 18–25 minutes (12 miles via H-1 East)
  • Kapolei — 10–15 minutes (7 miles via H-1 West)
  • Waikiki — 30–45 minutes (22 miles via H-1 East)

Public Transportation

  • TheBus — Routes serve the Royal Kunia area connecting to Waipahu Transit Center, where transfers are available to most island destinations.
  • Skyline (Rail Transit) — The nearest rail stations are in West Loch and Waipahu, providing access to the rail line running from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium, with future extensions to downtown.

Tips for Royal Kunia Commuters

  • Morning rush — H-1 eastbound slows between Waipahu and Pearl City from 6:00–8:30 AM. Leave before 6:00 or after 8:30 to avoid the worst.
  • Military commuters — Schofield and Wheeler are an easy reverse commute via H-2 North with minimal traffic.
  • Use Kunia Road as an alternate to avoid H-1 congestion during peak hours.
  • Rail advantage — Drive to a nearby rail station and ride the Skyline to avoid highway traffic for westbound commutes.

Considering a move to Royal Kunia? Contact us today to explore homes in this family-friendly Central Oahu community.

Posted in Waipahu
April 2, 2026

Royal Kunia Schools Guide 2026: Elementary, Middle & High Schools

Schools in Royal Kunia: A Guide for Families

Royal Kunia is a master-planned community in Central Oahu, situated between Waipahu and Kunia along the H-1 freeway corridor. Known for its newer homes, well-maintained streets, and family-friendly atmosphere, Royal Kunia falls within the Leilehua-Mililani-Waipahu Complex Area of the Hawaii Department of Education.

Elementary Schools

  • Honowai Elementary School — Grades K-5, located at 94-600 Honowai Street. The primary elementary school for Royal Kunia families. Known for strong academic programs and community involvement.
  • Holomua Elementary School — Grades K-5, located in nearby Ewa Beach. Some Royal Kunia students may attend based on geographic eligibility.

Middle Schools

  • Waipahu Intermediate School — Grades 7-8, located at 94-455 Farrington Highway in Waipahu. The primary feeder school for Royal Kunia students. Offers a variety of elective programs.

High Schools

  • Waipahu High School — Grades 9-12, located at 94-1211 Farrington Highway. The designated public high school for Royal Kunia. Known for career and technical education (CTE) programs, strong JROTC, and competitive athletics.

Private & Charter School Options

  • Island Pacific Academy — A private K-12 school in Kapolei offering rigorous academics and small class sizes. About 10 minutes from Royal Kunia.
  • Our Lady of Good Counsel — A Catholic school in Pearl City offering Pre-K through 8th grade. About 10 minutes away.
  • Maryknoll School — A well-regarded private school in Punahou area serving K-12 students.

Tips for Royal Kunia Families

  • School bus service is available for elementary and intermediate students living more than 1 mile from campus.
  • Geographic exceptions (GE) may allow enrollment at other schools if desired — apply through the DOE.
  • Royal Kunia's central location provides easy access to many private schools across Central and West Oahu.

Moving to Royal Kunia with school-age children? Contact us today to learn about available homes in this family-friendly community and get connected with the right school resources.

Posted in Waipahu
April 2, 2026

Kalihi Shopping Guide 2026: Where to Shop & Eat in Central Honolulu

Shopping & Dining in Kalihi: A Local's Guide

Kalihi is one of Honolulu's best-kept secrets for shopping and dining. Known for its authentic local flavor, diverse cultural influences, and affordable prices, this neighborhood offers everything from fresh produce markets to iconic plate lunch spots. Here's your guide to shopping and eating in Kalihi.

Grocery & Everyday Shopping

  • Don Quijote (Dillingham) — A 24-hour Japanese discount store on Dillingham Boulevard. One of the best places on Oahu for affordable groceries, household goods, bento boxes, and Japanese snacks.
  • Tamura's Fine Wines & Liquors — A local favorite for poke, specialty wines, and unique Hawaiian gifts. Located on School Street.
  • Longs Drugs (CVS) — Pharmacy and everyday essentials on Dillingham Boulevard.
  • City Mill — Hawaii's own hardware store chain, headquartered in Kalihi. Perfect for home improvement supplies.
  • Costco (Iwilei) — Just across the border in neighboring Iwilei, this Costco is one of the busiest in the nation and easily accessible from Kalihi.

Local Markets & Specialty Shops

  • Chinatown (adjacent) — Just minutes from Kalihi, Chinatown's open-air markets offer fresh fish, tropical fruits, vegetables, and specialty Asian ingredients at unbeatable prices.
  • Kalihi Poi Factory — One of the last traditional poi factories on Oahu. Pick up fresh poi, kulolo, and other Hawaiian staples.
  • O'ahu Market (Chinatown) — An iconic wet market for fresh seafood, meats, and produce. A 5-minute drive from Kalihi.

Popular Restaurants & Food Spots

  • Helena's Hawaiian Food — A James Beard Award-winning restaurant serving traditional Hawaiian dishes like pipikaula short ribs, laulau, and poi. A Kalihi institution since 1946.
  • Mitsu-Ken — Famous for its garlic chicken, this no-frills takeout spot draws lines down the block. A Kalihi must-try.
  • Ethel's Grill — Japanese home-style cooking with generous portions at affordable prices. A local favorite for lunch.
  • Palace Saimin — Classic Hawaiian saimin and comfort food since 1946. An iconic Kalihi dining experience.
  • Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering — While technically in Waipahu, many Kalihi residents make the short drive for their legendary poke and party platters.
  • Gulick Delicatessen — Old-school plate lunches, sandwiches, and baked goods. A hidden gem on Gulick Avenue.

Shopping Centers Nearby

  • Dillingham Shopping Plaza — A small strip mall on Dillingham Boulevard with local shops and services.
  • Kalihi Shopping Center — Located on King Street, offering everyday retail and dining options.
  • Ala Moana Center — Hawaii's largest open-air shopping center is just 10 minutes east. Features over 350 shops and restaurants including luxury brands and department stores.
  • Iwilei Shopping Centers — Adjacent to Kalihi, the Iwilei area has Ross, Nordstrom Rack, and various big-box retailers.

Why Kalihi for Shopping & Dining?

Kalihi's appeal is its authenticity. This isn't a tourist neighborhood — it's where locals eat, shop, and live. Prices are generally lower than Waikiki or Ala Moana, portions are bigger, and the cultural diversity means you can find Filipino, Japanese, Hawaiian, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean food all within a few blocks.

Interested in making Kalihi your home? Contact us today to explore available properties and discover why so many families choose this vibrant Central Honolulu neighborhood.

Posted in Honolulu
April 2, 2026

Kalihi Parks & Recreation Guide 2026: Best Parks in Central Honolulu

Parks & Recreation in Kalihi: A Guide for Families & Outdoor Lovers

Kalihi may be known as one of Honolulu's most urban neighborhoods, but it's also home to some incredible parks, recreation centers, and outdoor spaces. From community sports leagues to lush valley hikes, Kalihi has more green space than most people expect.

Top Parks in Kalihi

  • Kalihi Valley District Park — One of the largest parks in the area, featuring basketball courts, a baseball field, playground, and a community recreation center. Located on Kalihi Street, this is the hub for youth sports and community events.
  • Kalihi Uka Park — A neighborhood park in upper Kalihi Valley with open green space, a playground, and picnic areas. Great for families with young children.
  • Kamehameha Community Park — Located along Kamehameha Highway near Kalihi Kai, this park offers basketball courts, a walking path, and open fields for soccer and informal play.
  • Pu'uhale Park — A small but well-maintained community park near Dillingham Boulevard with a playground and grassy area for picnics.
  • Kalihi Waena Park — A centrally located park with a basketball court, playground, and open field. Popular with after-school programs.

Recreation Centers

  • Kalihi Valley District Park Recreation Center — Offers youth and adult programs including basketball leagues, fitness classes, after-school activities, and summer fun programs. Open to all Honolulu residents.
  • Palama Settlement — A historic community center on the edge of Kalihi offering youth programs, sports leagues, cultural activities, and educational workshops. One of Hawaii's oldest community organizations.

Hiking & Nature

  • Kalihi Valley Trail (Bowman Trail) — A moderate hike through lush Kalihi Valley that offers panoramic ridge views. Access from the end of Kalihi Street past the housing areas.
  • Kalihi Saddle (Powerline Trail) — Connects Kalihi Valley to Moanalua Valley via a ridge trail. For experienced hikers, this trail offers stunning views of both valleys.
  • Kamanaiki Trail — A short but rewarding ridge hike accessible from upper Kalihi with views of the valley and the Koolau Range.

Sports & Activities

  • Youth sports leagues — The Kalihi recreation centers run basketball, baseball, and volleyball leagues year-round for keiki.
  • Community fitness — Free outdoor fitness equipment and walking paths are available at several Kalihi parks.
  • Cultural programs — Palama Settlement and local organizations offer hula, Hawaiian language, and cultural arts programs.

Nearby Beaches

While Kalihi doesn't have its own beach, several are a short drive away:

  • Sand Island State Recreation Area — 5 minutes south, offers picnic pavilions, shoreline fishing, and sunset views of the harbor.
  • Ala Moana Beach Park — 10 minutes east, Honolulu's premier beach park with calm swimming, a magic island peninsula, and ample facilities.
  • Ke'ehi Lagoon Beach Park — 5 minutes west, a quiet spot for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and watching planes land at the airport.

Looking for a home near Kalihi's best parks? Contact us today to explore properties in Kalihi and find the perfect neighborhood fit for your family's lifestyle.

Posted in Honolulu
April 2, 2026

Kalihi Property Tax Guide 2026: What Homeowners Pay in Central Honolulu

Property Taxes in Kalihi: What to Expect in 2026

If you're buying a home in Kalihi, understanding Honolulu's property tax system is essential for budgeting. Kalihi offers some of the most affordable home prices in urban Honolulu, and the property tax structure in Hawaii is among the lowest in the nation — but there are important details every buyer should know.

How Honolulu Property Taxes Work

All properties in Kalihi fall under the City & County of Honolulu tax jurisdiction. Key points:

  • Tax rates are set annually by the Honolulu City Council, typically in June for the upcoming fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).
  • Assessed values are determined by the City's Real Property Assessment Division based on market value as of October 1 of the prior year.
  • Tax bills are mailed twice a year — due in August and February.

2025–2026 Residential Tax Rates

For the current fiscal year, Honolulu's residential property tax rates are:

  • Residential (owner-occupied) — $3.50 per $1,000 of assessed value
  • Residential A (non-owner-occupied, under $1M) — $4.50 per $1,000
  • Residential A (non-owner-occupied, $1M+) — $10.50 per $1,000
  • Hotel & Resort — $13.90 per $1,000
  • Commercial — $12.40 per $1,000

What Kalihi Homeowners Typically Pay

Kalihi home prices generally range from $500,000 to $900,000 for single-family homes and $200,000 to $500,000 for condos. Here's what that means for annual property taxes:

  • $400,000 condo (owner-occupied) — Approximately $1,400/year after home exemption
  • $600,000 home (owner-occupied) — Approximately $2,100/year after home exemption
  • $800,000 home (owner-occupied) — Approximately $2,800/year after home exemption

Home Exemption

Honolulu offers a generous home exemption for owner-occupants:

  • Under 65 — $100,000 exemption (reduces your taxable assessed value by $100,000)
  • 65–69 — $140,000 exemption
  • 70–74 — $160,000 exemption
  • 75–79 — $180,000 exemption
  • 80+ — $200,000 exemption

You must file for the home exemption by September 30 for it to apply to the following tax year. This is done through the City's Real Property Assessment Division.

Tax Credits & Relief Programs

  • Tax Credit for Home Owners — A credit of $300 is applied to owner-occupied residential properties.
  • Circuit Breaker Tax Credit — For homeowners whose property taxes exceed a percentage of their gross household income (especially beneficial for seniors on fixed incomes).
  • Exemptions for Disabled Veterans — Additional exemptions available for qualifying disabled veterans.

Tips for Kalihi Home Buyers

  • File your home exemption immediately after closing — it can save you hundreds per year.
  • Check the assessed value on realpropertyhonolulu.com to verify accuracy before purchasing.
  • Budget for two payments per year — August and February.
  • VA loan buyers — Property taxes are typically included in your monthly escrow payment through your lender.

Have questions about property taxes in Kalihi? Contact us today — we help buyers understand the full cost of homeownership in every Honolulu neighborhood.

Posted in Honolulu
April 2, 2026

Kalihi Commute Guide 2026: Getting Around Central Honolulu

Commuting from Kalihi: A Guide for Central Honolulu Residents

Kalihi sits in one of the most accessible locations on Oahu, just minutes from downtown Honolulu and well-connected to major highways and public transit routes. Whether you're commuting to a military base, downtown office, or across the island, Kalihi offers convenient options for getting around.

Major Roads & Highways

  • H-1 Freeway — Kalihi has multiple on-ramps to the H-1, Oahu's main east-west highway. Head east toward downtown, Waikiki, and Hawaii Kai, or west toward Pearl City, Waipahu, and Kapolei.
  • Likelike Highway (Route 63) — Connects Kalihi directly to the Windward Side through the Wilson Tunnel, providing quick access to Kaneohe.
  • Moanalua Freeway (H-201) — An alternate route west that connects to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and the Aiea/Pearl City corridor.
  • Kamehameha Highway (Route 99) — Runs through Kalihi and connects to Salt Lake, Aiea, and Pearl City via surface streets.
  • Dillingham Boulevard & North King Street — Major surface arteries through Kalihi connecting to Chinatown and downtown Honolulu.

Commute Times from Kalihi

  • Downtown Honolulu — 10–15 minutes (3 miles via H-1 or surface streets)
  • Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam — 15–20 minutes (8 miles via H-1 West)
  • Tripler Army Medical Center — 5–10 minutes (2 miles via Moanalua Road)
  • Camp Smith — 10–15 minutes (5 miles via H-1/H-201)
  • Fort Shafter — 5–8 minutes (1.5 miles, adjacent to Kalihi)
  • Schofield Barracks — 25–35 minutes (20 miles via H-1/H-2)
  • Marine Corps Base Hawaii (Kaneohe) — 20–25 minutes (12 miles via Likelike Highway)
  • Waikiki — 15–20 minutes (6 miles via H-1 East)
  • Kapolei — 25–35 minutes (20 miles via H-1 West)

Public Transportation

Kalihi is one of the best-served neighborhoods for public transit on Oahu:

  • TheBus — Multiple routes run through Kalihi, including Routes 1, 2, 9, 19, and the Kalihi Transit Center serves as a major hub. Route A CityExpress provides rapid service to downtown.
  • Skyline (Rail Transit) — The Honolulu Rail Transit project includes stations near Kalihi. The Middle Street Transit Center station provides direct rail access west to Aloha Stadium, Pearl Highlands, and East Kapolei, with future extensions planned toward downtown and Ala Moana.
  • Kalihi Transit Center — Located on Dillingham Boulevard, this hub connects multiple bus routes and will integrate with the rail system.

Biking & Walking

  • Bike lanes — Dillingham Boulevard and King Street have designated bike infrastructure. The city has been expanding protected bike lanes in the Kalihi corridor.
  • Walkability — Kalihi is moderately walkable with sidewalks throughout residential areas. Many daily errands can be done on foot thanks to the dense mix of shops and services along King Street and Dillingham.

Tips for Kalihi Commuters

  • Avoid peak hours — H-1 eastbound backs up 6:30–8:30 AM and westbound 3:30–6:00 PM. Leave early or use surface streets like King or Dillingham.
  • Use the Likelike Tunnel strategically — Windward-bound traffic is lighter in the mornings; reverse in the afternoon.
  • Take advantage of rail — The Skyline can bypass highway congestion entirely for westbound commutes to Pearl City and Kapolei.
  • Fort Shafter & Tripler commuters — You're in the best location on the island. Both bases are practically in your backyard.

Thinking about moving to Kalihi? The central location and transit options make it one of Oahu's most commuter-friendly neighborhoods. Contact us today to explore homes in the Kalihi area and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Posted in Honolulu
April 2, 2026

Kalihi Schools Guide 2026: Elementary, Middle, and High Schools for Families

Schools in Kalihi: A Guide for Families Moving to Central Honolulu

Kalihi is one of Honolulu's most diverse and culturally rich neighborhoods, located just west of downtown between Iwilei and Moanalua. If you're considering a move to Kalihi — whether for its affordability, central location, or proximity to military bases — understanding the local school options is essential for families with children.

Kalihi falls within the Farrington-Kaiser-Kalani Complex Area of the Hawaii Department of Education. Here's a breakdown of the public and private school options available to Kalihi families.

Elementary Schools

  • Kalihi Elementary School — Grades K–5, located at 2471 Kula Kolea Drive. A small neighborhood school with about 183 students and a student-teacher ratio of 10:1. Part of the Farrington complex.
  • Kalihi Uka Elementary School — Grades K–5, located in upper Kalihi Valley. Ranked among Hawaii's better elementary schools with a focus on STEM and community engagement.
  • Kalihi Kai Elementary School — Grades K–5, serving the lower Kalihi area near the harbor. Known for its leadership development program and community events.
  • Kalihi Waena Elementary School — Grades K–5, centrally located in Kalihi. Offers a well-rounded curriculum with after-school programs.
  • Puʻuhale Elementary School — Grades K–5, on the border of Kalihi and Moanalua. Serves families in the Salt Lake-adjacent areas.

Middle Schools

  • Dillingham Middle School — Grades 6–8, located at 1940 Kalihi Street. The primary feeder middle school for Kalihi elementary schools. Offers elective programs in technology, arts, and athletics.
  • Kalakaua Middle School — Grades 6–8, also serving some Kalihi students depending on district boundaries. Located nearby in the Kalihi-Palama area.

High Schools

  • Farrington High School — Grades 9–12, located at 1564 North King Street. The main high school serving Kalihi, with over 2,000 students. Ranked among Hawaii's top public high schools with strong academy programs in STEM, business, and health sciences. Farrington is a National Historic Landmark-eligible campus designed by architect Charles William Dickey.
  • Kamehameha Schools — A prestigious private school system nearby that serves students of Native Hawaiian ancestry. Campus is located in Kalihi Valley with beautiful hillside grounds.

Private & Charter School Options

  • Kamehameha Schools – Kapālama Campus — One of Hawaii's top private schools, located in Kalihi Valley. K–12 education with a focus on Hawaiian culture, leadership, and college preparation.
  • Damien Memorial School — A Catholic college-prep school for boys in grades 7–12, located in Kalihi. Strong athletics and academic programs.
  • St. Anthony School — Catholic elementary school serving Kalihi families with a faith-based curriculum.

Tips for Families

  • School zoning in Hawaii is managed by the state DOE — check hawaiipublicschools.org for current boundaries.
  • Geographic exceptions (GEs) allow students to attend schools outside their zone if space is available.
  • Military families may qualify for inter-district transfers through the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.

Explore Kalihi Homes

Kalihi offers some of the most affordable housing in the Honolulu metro area, with easy access to downtown, H-1 freeway, and military bases. If you're looking for a home near great schools, start your search today.

👉 Search homes in Kalihi

👉 Contact Your Oahu Home Team for a free consultation

Posted in Honolulu
April 2, 2026

Oahu Real Estate Market Report: February 2026 | Record Prices & What It Means for Buyers

Oahu Real Estate Market Report: February 2026

The Oahu housing market kicked off 2026 with a milestone — the median single-family home price hit $1,205,000 in February, a new record and a 1.7% increase year-over-year. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or investor, here's what the latest numbers mean for you.

Single-Family Homes: Record Prices, Faster Sales

February 2026 showed continued strength in the single-family home market:

  • Median Sales Price: $1,205,000 (up 1.7% from Feb 2025)
  • Closed Sales: 177 homes (up 6% year-over-year)
  • Median Days on Market: 17 days (down from 23 days last year)
  • Homes Sold Above Asking: 31% of all sales
  • Active Inventory: Down 7.6% year-over-year

Homes are selling faster and for more money. With inventory continuing to tighten and nearly a third of homes going above asking price, well-priced properties in desirable neighborhoods are drawing strong competition.

Condos: Steady Prices, Slower Pace

The condo market tells a different story:

  • Median Sales Price: $500,000 (up 1.2% year-over-year)
  • Closed Sales: 291 units (down 0.7%)
  • Median Days on Market: 56 days (up from 48 days last year)
  • Active Inventory: 2,210 listings (up 5.8%)

Condos are taking over three times longer to sell compared to single-family homes. Rising inventory and longer days on market suggest more negotiating room for condo buyers — especially in the $400K–$600K range.

What This Means for Military Families & VA Buyers

If you're PCSing to Oahu or already stationed here, the February data highlights a few key takeaways:

  • Single-family homes move fast. At 17 days median, you need to be pre-approved and ready to act. Working with a VA-savvy agent is critical.
  • Condos offer opportunity. With more inventory and slower sales, condo buyers have more room to negotiate — and your 2026 BAH can cover many condo mortgages with a VA loan.
  • Homes under $1M exist. The $500K–$999K range saw a 28.3% jump in single-family sales, proving there are still options for families using their VA benefit.
  • Pending sales are up 14.4% for single-family homes, signaling a strong spring market ahead.

Rolling 12-Month Trend

The rolling 12-month median for single-family homes reached $1,140,000, up 3.6% from the same period last year. This smooths out monthly fluctuations and confirms the overall upward trajectory of Oahu home values.

Bottom Line

Oahu's housing market remains competitive for single-family homes but is showing more balance in the condo segment. For military families weighing rent vs. buy, the math still favors purchasing with a VA loan — especially with 2026 BAH rates up 4.4% and $0 down payment required.

Whether you're eyeing a townhome in Ewa Beach, a condo in Kapolei, or a single-family home in Mililani, the key is getting started early with an agent who understands the VA process and Oahu's unique market dynamics.

Ready to Make Your Move?

👉 Search Oahu homes & condos

👉 Get a free VA buyer consultation

👉 Learn about Your Oahu Home Team

Data source: Honolulu Board of REALTORS®, February 2026 Market Report

Posted in Honolulu