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The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Home in Kahala, HI

Kahala shores

The Beverly Hills of Oahu, HIi, Kahala is a beautiful neighborhood of luxury properties, turquoise beaches, palm-lined shores, and sunny weather all year round. And the best part? Kahala Beach is away from the crowd,  perfect for those who want to bask in tranquility as they savor this slice of paradise. 

A quiet agricultural town back in the 19th century, Kahala experienced a boom in the luxury real estate market in the 20th century. From exclusive country clubs to premier hotels and oceanfront estates, Kahala has attracted affluent and prominent figures, including celebrities, royalties, and political figures, to invest in real estate here.

If you’re looking to sell your home in Kahala, it’s important to keep in mind that selling luxury real estate in Hawaii is an especially nuanced undertaking. To sell your home fast and at the highest price, it’s important to know and understand the market and plan your selling strategies accordingly. 

With this ultimate guide to selling your home in Kahala, HI, you can get plenty of insights on what to prepare for to get the highest profit for your property.

Selling your Kahala Home

Selling your luxury home in Kahala requires a specialized approach that caters to the unique needs and expectations of your target buyers. Recall the experience that you went through in buying the property – your challenges, the standards you set in searching for the right property, the financial aspect of the transaction, and so on – and let this serve as a guide in your approach to selling your home now.

These are some of the most important things to keep in mind when selling your home in Kahala.

  1. Know what luxury buyers are looking for

    With the high price tags that come with luxury homes, particularly in exclusive neighborhoods like Kahala, buyers will be highly discerning about which home to buy and will make sure they get their money’s worth. 

    The qualities buyers generally look for in a luxury home include:

    • Distinctiveness: Unique features, high-end finishes, and exceptional design are some of the top features high end buyers look for in a home.
    • Exclusivity and privacy. Luxury homeowners in Kahala value properties that offer a sense of seclusion and escape from the public eye.
    • Quality. Buyers of high end homes appreciate fine craftsmanship, premium materials, and attention to detail, and will inspect your home closely to check if the quality meets their expectations.
    • Lifestyle. A luxury home is more than just a structure – it also represents an elevated lifestyle where comfort and recreation are at your fingertips. Luxury buyers seek properties that offer amenities such as spa facilities, gourmet kitchens, home theaters, and outdoor entertainment spaces. Easy access to destinations and recreational facilities such as the beach, golf courses, and clubhouses add to the allure of these properties.
    • Location. While location is important in any real estate transaction, it’s especially critical for luxury buyers. They seek prime locations with proximity to amenities like upscale shopping, fine dining, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational activities.
    • Long term investment: Luxury buyers often view their real estate purchases as long-term investments. They are willing to pay a premium for properties that hold their value or appreciate over time.
    • International perspective: Many luxury buyers come from different countries or have a global perspective. They might be interested in properties for vacation homes, investments, or as a part of their global real estate portfolio.
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    Kahala

  3. Know the market 

    Understanding the Kahala real estate market and researching local market trends can guide you in making important home selling decisions, such as the listing price, the timing of the sale, and your negotiation strategy. 

    Keep the following factors in mind when looking into Kahala’s real estate market trends:

    • Property values

      Property values in Kahala tend to be among the highest on the island of Oahu due to their prime location, oceanfront views, and luxurious amenities.

    • Limited inventory

      Kahala is a desirable and established neighborhood with limited available land for new construction. This scarcity of land can contribute to a relatively limited supply of homes, which can drive property prices higher.

    • International buyers

      Hawaii’s luxury real estate market, including Kahala, often attracts international buyers, particularly from Asia and North America. This can lead to a diverse pool of potential buyers.

    • Seasonal variations

      Hawaii’s real estate market can experience seasonal fluctuations. The peak buying seasons are often during the winter months when many tourists visit the islands. This influx of visitors can also include potential homebuyers.

    As part of this ultimate guide to selling your home in Kahala, HI, we compiled these real estate statistics for the Waialae-Kahala area as of July, 2023:

    • The median listing home price was $4.1 million, an increase of 3% from the same period in 2022. This translates to $1,000 per square foot. 
    • Homes tend to sell at 99.21% of their list price.
    • Homes stay on the market for an average of 54 days.
  4. Set the right price

    Pricing your home correctly can spell the difference between selling your home fast and watching it languish on the market. Overpricing might lead to your property sitting on the market for too long, while underpricing means leaving money on the table.

    However, setting the price of a luxury home can be challenging due to its unique features and lack of comparable sales. With their experience and market knowledge, your real estate agent can help you determine the right asking price for your home. 

    You can also consider hiring a professional appraiser experienced in evaluating luxury properties. They will consider various factors like location, size, amenities, unique features, and current market conditions to provide an accurate valuation.

  5. Stage your home to impress luxury buyers

    Home staging is very important in selling a luxury property. It’s instrumental in highlighting the home’s best features and turning the property into a showcase of luxury living. At its root, it’s all about creating a lifestyle experience. 

    Here are some tips to consider:

    • Luxury buyers often seek customization and unique features. Stage your home to offer insights into potential customization or to showcase distinctive amenities that can set your home apart.
    • Highlight your home’s best features, particularly fabulous views of the beach, mountains, or lush greenery. Highlight the tropical Hawaiian experience with the right decors and furnishings. If you have an open floor plan, arrange the furniture in a way that emphasizes space and flow.
    • Every room should have a purpose. Transform any unused space into something that adds value, like a home office or a gym. Luxury home buyers often appreciate wine cellars, theater rooms, or smart home features.
    • High-quality, professional photographs are crucial for online listings. Consider hiring a professional home stager and a photographer who specializes in luxury real estate to showcase your home in the best light.
  6. Kahala outdoor view

  7. Boost your curb appeal

    Curb appeal is the first impression potential buyers get of your home. For luxury homes, the expectations are high. You’ll need to ensure that the property exterior is well-maintained, clean, and aesthetically pleasing.

    Landscaping is a crucial aspect of curb appeal. Make sure the lawn is trimmed and looks neat, bushes are trimmed, and pavers are in good condition. If your property has a pool or a garden,see to it that they are clean and well-kept. And as buyers of luxury homes value uniqueness, consider incorporating custom features such as a water fountain or outdoor lighting that highlights the best details of your home and garden, while showcasing its beauty at night.

  8. Create a comprehensive marketing plan

    Selling a luxury home requires a strategic marketing plan tailored to reach high-end buyers. Work with your Realtor in determining the right marketing techniques and tools to target the right buyers and stir interest in your property.

    Here are some tips to consider:

    • Have a great listing. Hire a professional photographer to take high quality photos of your home. Your Realtor will also create a great description that highlights all the best features of your property and tells its unique story. 

      In addition to photos and descriptions, virtual tours are another excellent tool to attract potential buyers. A 3D virtual tour allows buyers to explore every nook and corner of the property from the comfort of their homes – an invaluable feature, especially for international buyers.

      • List and advertise on the right platforms. Aside from the traditional methods of listing your property, consider advertising on luxury home magazines and websites that cater specifically to the high-end market.
      • Take advantage of your agent’s network. Your Realtor will likely have an extensive network that includes other agents and real estate professionals. They can leverage this network to spread word about your listing and invite private luxury buyers who don’t rely on the MLS or other listing sites to search homes for sale. 
      • Hold open houses. An open house is a great way to showcase your home to several buyers at the same time. In addition to a regular open house, your Realtor might suggest a brokers’ open house where only professional brokers and real estate agents are invited. 

The importance of working with a Kahala real estate agent in selling your home

Family wearing black

Luxury real estate is a niche market that only a limited number of home buyers and sellers may truly understand. In addition, selling a home in an upscale Hawaiian market like Kahala requires a deep understanding of the community in particular and of Hawaiian real estate in general.

This  ultimate guide to selling your home in Kahala, HI can help prepare you for your process. However, there’s no substitute to working with a skilled real estate agent who specializes in Hawaii’s luxury properties. This kind of professional knows the ins and outs of the market and has an in-depth understanding of the needs and preferences of high end buyers and sellers.

When you work with a luxury real estate agent in Kahala, you can expect the following benefits:

  • Expert pricing strategies

    Luxury real estate agents have a deep understanding of the intricacies of the luxury market and can accurately assess the value of your home. They can use their expertise to price your property competitively while ensuring you get the best possible return on your investment.

  • Targeted marketing

    Specialized agents have access to high-end marketing tools, connections, and platforms that can effectively showcase your property to affluent buyers.

  • High-end presentation

    A luxury real estate specialist understands the importance of presenting your home in the best light. They can provide advice on staging, interior design, and even virtual tours to highlight the unique features and aesthetics of your property.

  • Wide network of buyers

    Luxury agents have an established network of potential buyers and other Realtors who are actively seeking high-end properties in different parts of Hawaii. This network can help expedite the selling process and increase the likelihood of finding a qualified buyer quickly.

  • Discreet marketing

    If you or potential buyers want to keep the transaction private, a luxury real estate agent is experienced in managing the marketing process with confidentiality and professionalism.

  • Negotiation expertise

    Negotiating the sale of a luxury property can be intricate, involving substantial sums of money and complex terms. Luxury agents are skilled negotiators who can advocate for your best interests and secure favorable terms.

  • Market insights

    Luxury real estate agents stay up-to-date with market trends and can provide valuable insights into the current state of the luxury real estate market. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about your listing price and negotiation strategy.

  • Time efficiency

    Luxury agents are well-versed in managing high-end transactions efficiently. Their experience can help streamline the selling process, from preparing the property for listing to handling paperwork and coordinating showings.

  • Access to resources

    Luxury real estate agents often have access to a network of professionals, including photographers, videographers, interior designers, and legal experts, who can contribute to the successful sale of your high-end property.

  • International reach

    In the luxury market, buyers may come from various parts of the world. Luxury agents often have connections and marketing strategies to reach international buyers, expanding the pool of potential purchasers for your property.

  • Credibility and reputation

    Luxury real estate agents build their reputation in the high-end market through successful transactions and satisfied clients. Working with a reputable luxury agent can enhance your property’s credibility and attract serious buyers.

  • Tailored marketing plan

    Luxury properties require a customized marketing plan that highlights their unique features and appeals to the right audience. A specialized agent can create a tailored marketing strategy that effectively showcases your property’s exclusivity.

SELL YOUR HOME SUCCESSFULLY WITH A KAHALA REAL ESTATE EXPERT

Let Taniguchi & Associates guide you through this important milestone. Ranked a Top 10 Realtor in Hawaii for the past three years and named one of Hawaii’s Top Real Estate teams, the Realtors at Taniguchi & Associates have the expertise you need to successfully sell your luxury home at the best profit. 

The team is committed to be your dedicated partner who values customer service, excellence, and trust above all. Armed with an intimate knowledge of the local luxury market, and a global network consisting of 54 countries, the real estate experts at Taniguchi & Associates are committed to ensuring every transaction is smooth, successful, and tailored to your needs. 

Take the first step towards closing the best and most profitable sale for your luxury home in Hawaii! Call Taniguchi & Associates at 808.596.2888 or send an email here



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