Perfect sunsets. Warm turquoise ocean waters. World class surfing. Gorgeous, windswept sandy beaches. This is Hawaii. Would you like a piece of paradise?

Hawaii has seen her fair share of visitors, from Pacific Islanders to the Europeans and Americans… over time the world discovered Hawaii's natural beauty, and over time investors discovered the lucrative beauty in Hawaii's real estate market.

So who’s really investing in Oahu real estate? Which country has the largest draw to our warm sandy shores? Internationally, in 2012, the largest investor in Oahu's real estate market was Japan with over $168 million. Coming in a distance second was Canada with $37 million, followed by China at $11.8 million and then Australia with $9.6 million and rounding off the top five with Hong Kong at $6.5 million.

Many people think they can’t buy a home, for a variety of reasons. Maybe they have poor credit, perhaps very little money saved or maybe the whole process of buying and owning a home is just so overwhelming it’s simply easier to rent.

Well, the unknowns of buying a home shouldn't be a deterrent. Start by asking a simple question. Is buying a home right for me? Oftentimes there is a need, motivation or driving force leading towards the thought of buying?

• Are you tired of paying rent?
• Do you want more privacy?
• Are you looking to move out of your parent’s home?
• Has your family grown and you need more space?

A Wave of Giving Creates an Ocean of Caring 

Giving back to the community, where we live and work, defines the Locations Foundation, the not-for-profit arm of Prudential Locations, Hawaii’s No. 1 locally owned and operated real estate agency, with more transactions than any other company.

Last night, November 14, the Pacific Business News held the 12th Annual Business Leadership Hawaii Dinner and Awards Event and recognized the Locations Foundation as the Community Spirit Award winner from a panel of eight finalists. 

“The key to a successful volunteer effort is simple: offer employees an organized and empowering opportunity to give back to the community,” says Bill Chee, Prudential Locations CEO.

In attendance to accept the PBN Community Spirit Award were Locations Foundation donors: Jodee Farm, Locations Foundation president; Dolores Bediones (R), Stephanie Chan (R), Michael Marks (RA), Brandon Lau (R), Chad Takesue (R), James Chan (R) and Mary Tess Edu (R).