Big Island

Big Island Market Update – Third Quarter 2016: Still Going Up

By all accounts, 2006 was the historical height of the market. It was considered a “seller’s market.” Things went downhill quickly from there. Two years later, things had gotten so bad that foreclosures were the norm and “bottom feeders” happily submitted offers so low they would normally be considered insulting.

3Q2016

Guess What?

Ten years later after the market peaked, the median sales prices are rising quickly. In 2006, there were 344 residential sales in Hilo. We are currently on pace to reach 377 closed sales this year.

Watch this. Puna had 652 residential sales in 2006. The number of sales has already surpassed that total with 658 sales and we still have 1 more quarter to go.

As for pricing, the median priced home sale in Hilo 10 years back closed at $365,000. We are quickly approaching that price point. A home in Puna was closing at $269,000. Many areas have already hit that number as indicated above. Lower Puna, currently trending at a median sales price of $195,000, was very popular during the 2005/2006 run up.

The median price is still a bit sluggish at the higher price points, which means there are some fabulous properties and great values in areas like Leilani Estates, Puna Palisades, Opihikoa, and Kapoho.

It’s Really a Matter of Time

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reports that the time on market decreased 4% this year over last while the median sales price (national) is up 9%. One of the biggest components of supply and demand is inventory. NAR reports a similar 9% decrease in supply.

Some numbers above might indicate a different direction when it comes to supply. My personal experience is that there’s a large group of sellers who have been waiting for this turn-around moment to enter or re-enter the market.

Bottom line is bottom feeders will soon be a thing of the past. Those looking for an extreme bargain will be facing steep competition. Offers on market rate properties should be fair and within a normal tolerance to be competitive. Buyers should come “ready to buy.” Cash and buyers with proof of their ability to perform rule.

Don’t See Your Neighborhood?

As always, if you don’t see your neighborhood reported, I’m happy to provide a custom report. Keeping up with your neighborhood on a regular basis is very easy. All you need is your address or TMK and I can arrange for you to receive periodic, factual updates right to your inbox. It’s the simplest way I know to determine if your piece of paradise is going up!

About the Author

Denise Nakanishi

Denise Nakanishi is a REALTOR Broker with Hawai'i Life. Denise Nakanishi is one of Hilo's most acclaimed real estate agents. She reached the rank of Major in the US Army and is now known by many as "Major Mom." The nickname fits–not only does Denise bring the discipline and mission-oriented attitude you'd expect, she's also caring and compassionate, always looking out for her clients like they're her own family. Having made the Big Island her home since 1987, Denise combines her extensive knowledge of the area with a sharp focus on customer service and the results speak for themselves. She's the recent recipient of the Best East Hawai`i, Best of Zillow, Chairman's Circle Award, President's Circle, Top Producing Agent since 2001, and Realtor of the Year awards. Denise stays ahead of the curve because she's passionate about education–she served as Education Chair for Hawaii Island REALTORS® for many years. She's one of Big Island's best real estate resources, known for her weekly article in the Hawaii Tribune Herald. Denise leads Team Nakanishi for Hawai`i Life, who is committed to their family, work, and community. In her little time away from work, Denise is a committed runner and Grandy. She also devotes many hours to various Veterans' Organizations, the East Hawaii Cultural Center, and the Hawaii Island REALTORS®. You can email me at denise@hawaiilife.com or via phone at (808) 936-5100.

Comments (0) Show CommentsHide Comments (Remember)

Cool. Add your comment...

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Leave your opinion here. Please be nice. Your Email address will be kept private, this form is secure and we never spam you.

More Articles from Hawaii Life