As mortgage rates edge lower, the Oahu real estate market is expected to become even more competitive for buyers. As lower rates attract greater buyer interest, demand for homes and condos increases across the island. In this fast-moving environment, homebuyers need to be prepared and informed to gain a competitive advantage. One of the best ways to strengthen your position as a buyer is to understand the difference between getting prequalified and being preapproved for a mortgage.

The interest rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell 6 basis points to 6.44% last week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. That's the lowest rate since April 2023! Mortgage rates have been trending down since the Federal Reserve's recent indication that they are set to cut interest rates in September 2024. Falling rates are welcome news for both buyers and sellers, and create a unique window of opportunity in Hawaii's highly competitive real estate market.

You may have heard about a settlement reached with the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) that affects the way people buy and sell homes in the United States. These policy changes, which are required by the settlement, took effect Saturday, August 17, 2024. Keep reading to find out how these changes will affect homebuyers and sellers going forward—here in Hawaii and across the country.

The first residents of Ililani, the newest condominium in Oahu’s booming Kaka’ako neighborhood, moved into their homes in May 2024, but a limited number of market and affordable units are still available. Ililani offers well-priced, thoughtfully designed modern homes, conveniently located near popular attractions, including SALT at Kaka’ako and Ala Moana Beach Park.