5 up-and-coming neighborhoods

If you're looking for value in Hawaii, here are my top picks for neighborhoods that have shown significant growth, offer well thought out layouts, and are designed with class and style. Of course, as realtor, I am not allowed to, and cannot guarantee appreciation but I am happy to send you Hawaii real estate statistics gathered over the last 30-40 years to help you with your decision and determine which neighborhoods will be the best fit for you.

1 - Kahiwelo (Makakilo)

This gem of a neighborhood is situated part way up Makakilo Drive and offers many different home layouts to fit your lifestyle. Most of the lots in this neighborhood are larger than typical (for Hawaii), providing more breathing room between homes with yards large enough for gardens, pools, and plenty of room for kids and/or pets to play.

The developer for this neighborhood is DR Horton. With plenty of thought as to home orientation on each lot, many of the homes have a beautiful ocean and/or Diamond Head view. The elevation of the neighborhood also offers cooler temperatures than homes located on the opposite side of the freeway. Most of these homes, if not all, are constructed using steel frame, double-wall construction which significantly reduces concerns for wood destroying pests and creates a more energy efficient home. From beautiful travertine tile, high end carpet, and vinyl flooring to elegant cabinets and a variety of counter-tops these homes boast pride of ownership for a value unlike any other neighborhood on the island.

The location of this neighborhood is about as convenient as it gets. You can enter the neighborhood at the first stop light as you exit the freeway and go up Makakilo Dr. Shopping, dining, and movies are within a 5-7 minute drive of the neighborhood and approximately 10 minute drive to get to Kamakana Ali'i Mall. This is a newer neighborhood which has experienced healthy growth and appreciation over the last 7 years.

2 - Ho'opili (Ewa Plain)

Located just a few minutes drive away from Kamakana Ali'i, Ho'ipili is also a DR Horton development. From condo's, flex-homes, and single-family homes Ho'opili has everything to offer. Most people know what a condo and single family home are, but often times are not sure what a flex-home is. A flex home is a home that is designed and zoned in a way that the owner can live in a portion of the home while running a business out of the other portion of the home. In this neighborhood you will find a variety of businesses in these flex homes ranging from salons to massage therapy.

Directly across the highway is University of Hawaii West. The master plan for this neighborhood consists of developments of an elementary, middle, and high school, a rail transit station, community parks and pools, and a business district with the intention to be as pedestrian commutable as possible and reduce the need to use a vehicle.

This neighborhood is in year 5 of development (as of 2021) with a total estimated completion date of 20 years. With multiple housing releases each year, prices have typically increased with each release so far. Should the housing market stay stable and continue they way they have been over the last 30 years, and within the last 5 years at Ho'opili, your chances of built in appreciation are very good if you're able to get into this neighborhood sooner rather than later.

3 - Makamae (Ewa Plain)

This is a Gentry Homes development. I am in love with the developers layout and design choices for this neighborhood. Each floor plan is designed with a modern style, open layout which creates a living space that feels much larger than your typical Hawaii home. These homes began construction around 2019/2020 and are accepting applications. As a buyer of a brand new home, to be constructed, you will be able to choose your flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and select finishes to fit your lifestyle and personality. Being the first owner of a brand new home is a special feeling and I am certain you will be happy with these homes!

Neighborhoods 4 and 5 to come (under construction)