Why Ethics Matter in Hawaiʻi Real Estate

Real estate transactions are among the most significant financial and personal decisions people make. In Hawaiʻi, where land carries deep cultural, historical, and community meaning, ethical real estate practice is not optional; it is essential.

For more than four decades as a licensed Oʻahu real estate professional, I have believed that ethics, transparency, and consumer protection must guide every decision a Realtor makes. Markets change, interest rates rise and fall, and trends come and go, but ethical responsibility remains constant.

Ethics as the Foundation of Trust

At its core, real estate is built on trust. Buyers and sellers rely on their Realtor to guide them through complex contracts, negotiations, disclosures, and life-changing decisions. An ethical Realtor does more than facilitate a transaction. They protect their clients’ interests, even when it is inconvenient or financially disadvantageous to do so.

In Hawaiʻi real estate, ethical practice means:

• Full and honest disclosure
• Clear, timely communication
• Avoiding conflicts of interest
• Respecting cultural and community considerations
• Putting the client’s needs ahead of personal gain

These principles are not abstract ideals; they directly affect outcomes for families, retirees, first-time buyers, and long-time kamaʻāina.

The REALTOR® Code of Ethics and Consumer Protection

As a REALTOR®, I am bound by the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics, which exists to protect the public and uphold the integrity of the profession. This code emphasizes honesty, integrity,  accountability, and protecting and promoting the best interests of the client. These are values that should be evident in every interaction with clients and colleagues.

Ethical real estate practice is especially important in competitive markets like Oʻahu, where pressure can tempt shortcuts or aggressive tactics. A truly ethical Realtor slows the process down when needed, ensures clients fully understand their options, and advocates for informed decision-making rather than rushed choices.

Experience Matters in Ethical Decision-Making

Ethics are strengthened by experience. Over decades of working through multiple market cycles, I have seen how short-term thinking can cause long-term harm. An experienced, ethical Realtor recognizes potential risks early, explains them clearly, and helps clients navigate challenges with confidence.

This includes:

• Advising clients when not to proceed with a transaction
• Ensuring contracts are fair and balanced
• Protecting clients from unnecessary legal or financial exposure
• Maintaining professionalism even in difficult negotiations

Ethics are often most visible in moments when no one is watching, and those moments define a Realtor’s true character.

Hawaiʻi’s Unique Responsibility

Real estate in Hawaiʻi is not just about property; it is about place. The islands’ limited land, strong sense of community, and cultural heritage create a responsibility for Realtors to act as careful stewards. Ethical real estate professionals understand that their work impacts neighborhoods, families, and future generations.

Respect for Hawaiʻi means approaching every transaction with humility, cultural awareness, and a long-term perspective, not just a focus on closing a deal.

A Commitment Beyond the Transaction

Being named Hawaiʻi REALTOR® of the Year was a profound honor, not because of recognition, but because it reflects a shared commitment within our profession to ethical leadership and service. Teaching, mentoring, and promoting ethical standards among fellow Realtors is one of the most meaningful aspects of my career.

Ethical real estate is not a marketing slogan. It is a daily practice that requires consistency, courage, and care.

Choosing an Ethical Realtor on Oʻahu

For consumers, choosing an ethical Realtor can make all the difference. Look for professionals who:

• Have a long-standing presence in the community
• Are active in REALTOR® organizations
• Are transparent, patient, and willing to educate
• Prioritize your interests over the transaction itself