The Oahu real estate market in 2025 presents a fascinating dichotomy that every serious buyer and seller must understand. While headlines might suggest a simple narrative, the reality is far more nuanced—and the opportunities are significant for those who understand the data.
As your local market expert with deep roots in Hawaii’s real estate landscape, I’ve analyzed the latest market data to provide you with the insights you need to make informed decisions. Whether you’re considering buying your first home, upgrading to your dream property, or strategically timing a sale, this comprehensive analysis will give you the competitive edge you need.
The Tale of Two Markets: Single-Family Homes vs. Condominiums
The most striking characteristic of Oahu’s July 2025 real estate market is the clear divergence between single-family homes and condominiums. This split creates distinct opportunities and challenges that require different strategies.
Single-Family Home Market: Steady Strength
The single-family home market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience. With a median sales price of $1,072,000 as of Q2 2025, we’re seeing a modest but steady 2.1% year-over-year increase. This represents sustainable growth rather than the volatile swings we’ve seen in previous years.
Single-Family Home Metrics
Q2 2024
Q2 2025
Change
Median Sales Price
$1,050,000
$1,072,000
+2.1%
Average Days on Market
35
29
-17.1%
Months of Inventory
2.6
2.3
-11.5%
Sales Volume
1,247 units
1,177 units
-5.6%
The reduction in days on market from 35 to 29 days tells a compelling story. Well-priced, move-in-ready homes are selling faster than ever, particularly in the sub-$1.2 million range where we’re seeing the most buyer activity.
Condominium Market: A Buyer’s Opportunity
The condominium market presents a starkly different picture, creating what many consider the best buying opportunity we’ve seen in years. With median prices at $524,000—a 2.7% increase from last year—condos are experiencing slower sales velocity but maintaining price stability.
Condominium Metrics
Q2 2024
Q2 2025
Change
Median Sales Price
$510,000
$524,000
+2.7%
Average Days on Market
25
39
+56%
Active Listings
1,652
2,556
+54.8%
Sales Volume
478 units
374 units
-21.8%
The 54.8% increase in active condo listings represents the most significant shift in our market dynamics. This inventory surge, combined with extended days on market, creates negotiating power for buyers that we haven’t seen since 2019.
Neighborhood-by-Neighborhood Analysis: Where the Opportunities Lie
Understanding hyperlocal trends is crucial for making strategic real estate decisions. Here’s my analysis of some key Oahu neighborhoods and what the data reveals:
Premium Markets: Kahala and Hawaii Kai Lead Growth
Kahala continues to set the pace for luxury real estate, with median single-family home prices reaching $2.65 million—a robust 4.8% year-over-year increase. This growth reflects the neighborhood’s enduring appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking blue-chip real estate assets.
Hawaii Kai demonstrates strong fundamentals with median prices at $1.55 million, up 2.3% year-over-year. The combination of excellent schools, family-friendly amenities, and relative value compared to other premium neighborhoods makes it particularly attractive to move-up buyers.
Emerging Value Plays: Central and West Oahu
Mililani Mauka represents one of the market’s best value propositions, with median prices at $1.01 million and modest 1.6% appreciation. The area’s excellent schools and family-oriented community continue to attract buyers seeking long-term value.
Ewa Beach at $875,000 median price point offers the most accessible entry into single-family home ownership, with steady 1.9% appreciation indicating healthy demand fundamentals.
Neighborhood
Property Type
Median Price
YoY Change
Market Insight
Kahala
Single-Family
$2,650,000
+4.8%
Luxury market leader
Hawaii Kai
Single-Family
$1,550,000
+2.3%
Premium family market
Manoa
Single-Family
$1,430,000
+3.1%
School district premium
Kaimuki
Single-Family
$1,250,000
+3.7%
Urban village appeal
Mililani Mauka
Single-Family
$1,010,000
+1.6%
Best family value
Ewa Beach
Single-Family
$875,000
+1.9%
Entry-level opportunity
Condominium Hotspots: Urban Living Trends
(Photo By Kenta Sato)
Kakaako leads the luxury condo market with median prices at $860,000, reflecting 3.4% growth driven by new development completions and mainland buyer interest. The neighborhood’s transformation into Honolulu’s premier urban district continues to attract young professionals and empty nesters.
(Photo By Kenta Sato)
Ala Moana maintains its position as a premium location with $785,000 median prices and 2.1% appreciation. The combination of shopping, dining, and transportation access makes it particularly appealing to international buyers and local professionals.
Interest Rate Impact: The 6.62% Reality
Current mortgage rates averaging 6.62% for 30-year fixed loans represent a slight improvement from the 6.75% we saw in late 2024, but they remain a significant factor in buyer decision-making. This rate environment creates several important dynamics:
Cash Buyers Gain Advantage: Approximately 35% of single-family home purchases and 42% of luxury transactions ($2M+) are cash deals, giving these buyers significant negotiating power.
VA Buyers Remain Active: Military families continue to represent a substantial portion of our buyer pool, particularly in family-friendly neighborhoods like Mililani, Ewa Beach, and areas near military installations.
First-Time Buyers Face Challenges: The combination of higher rates and elevated prices creates affordability constraints, making condos under $600,000 the primary entry point for first-time buyers.
Market Timing: Strategic Insights for 2025
For Sellers: The Window of Opportunity
Current market conditions favor sellers, particularly in the single-family home segment. Key strategies include:
Price Strategically: Homes priced within 2-3% of market value are receiving multiple offers, while overpriced properties are sitting longer than ever.
Prepare for Fast Action: Well-prepared homes in desirable neighborhoods are selling in 12-18 days on average. Be ready for quick negotiations and fast closings.
Consider Timing: Fall traditionally brings increased inventory, so sellers looking to maximize competition should consider listing before the seasonal uptick.
For Buyers: Patience and Preparation Pay Off
Smart buyers are finding opportunities in this market by:
Focusing on Condos: The condo market offers the best negotiating opportunities, with many sellers willing to consider offers below asking price.
Targeting Longer-Listed Properties: Homes on the market for 30+ days often present negotiation opportunities, particularly if they need updating or have pricing issues.
Getting Pre-Approved: In competitive situations, financing certainty can be the deciding factor between multiple qualified offers.
Looking Ahead: Q3-Q4 2025 Projections
Based on current trends and economic indicators, I anticipate:
Continued Inventory Tightness: Single-family home inventory will likely remain constrained through year-end, supporting price stability.
Condo Market Normalization: The elevated condo inventory should begin to normalize by Q4 2025 as prices adjust and buyer confidence returns.
Interest Rate Stability: Rates will likely remain in the 6.5-7% range through 2025, making cash and VA buyers increasingly important market segments.
The Bottom Line: Knowledge Creates Opportunity
The Oahu real estate market in 2025 rewards those who understand the data and act strategically. Whether you’re buying or selling, success depends on recognizing that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all market—it’s a collection of micro-markets, each with distinct characteristics and opportunities.
As someone who has helped hundreds of families navigate Oahu’s real estate landscape, I believe informed clients make the best decisions. The current market presents genuine opportunities for both buyers and sellers, but only for those who understand the nuances and act with proper guidance.
Are you ready to discuss how these market trends apply to your specific situation? I’d welcome the opportunity to provide personalized insights based on your goals and timeline.
(Purchased Adobe Stock Photo)
I invite you to connect with me for a private market consultation. I’m Jon S. Mann with Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, and I’m here to help you navigate your next move with clarity and care.
Let’s make paradise your new address. Mahalo and Aloha, Jon.
(Note: All Photography by Tron Von Tran, unless labeled differently)
About the Author
Jon Mann
Jon Mann is a REALTOR Broker, Broker-In-Charge with Hawai'i Life.
With a passion for Hawai‘i real estate that spans over two decades, I bring a wealth of expertise and a track record of success to my position as Broker-in-Charge of Hawaii Life's East O‘ahu office. As a seasoned real estate professional since 2003, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals achieve their Hawai‘i real estate goals and aspirations. You can email me at jon.mann@hawaiilife.com or via phone at (808) 728-1230.
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