The Oʻahu
Buyer's Guide

Step One

Preparing financially

Before you begin touring homes, it is important to understand your financial position. A pre-approval from a qualified lender gives you a clear picture of your budget and demonstrates to sellers that you are a serious buyer.

Step Two

Understanding the buying process

Every successful purchase begins with a conversation. Marilou starts by listening to your goals, timeline, and budget, and explains how she serves as your buyer's representative: what that relationship means, how she advocates for your interests, and what you can expect when working together. Before the property search begins, you and Marilou develop a clear strategy based on your priorities.

From there, the purchase generally follows a clear path. Here's an overview of the major stages, with several explored in greater detail below:

Step Three

Finding the right property

Oʻahu offers an extraordinary range of properties and lifestyles. From the urban energy of Honolulu and Waikīkī to the beach-town charm of Kailua, the luxury estates of Kahala, and the country living of the North Shore, each community has its own character. Marilou's deep knowledge of these neighborhoods helps you find the match that fits not just your budget, but your life.

Think about what matters most: proximity to work, schools, outdoor recreation, or the beach, and be realistic about the daily commute and the character of the neighborhood. Consider the type of home that suits your needs, from a condominium with low maintenance to a single-family home with space to grow, and ask whether a property is fee-simple or leasehold, since ownership type can affect value, financing, and future marketability.

Step Four

Financing your purchase

Oʻahu's real estate market has its own dynamics, and understanding your financing options is essential. Conventional loans, FHA, VA for eligible military buyers, and local financing programs each have different requirements and advantages. A knowledgeable lender can help you navigate these options, and Marilou can connect you with professionals who understand the Hawaiʻi market.

Be prepared for the full cost of homeownership in Hawaiʻi: property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and HOA or maintenance fees for condominiums. For condo purchases, plan to review the association's documents and financial condition, including reserves and any pending special assessments. Understanding these costs upfront means no surprises after closing.

Step Five

Inspections and due diligence

Once your offer is accepted, the due diligence period is your opportunity to fully understand the condition of the property. Many buyers choose to have a professional home inspection during the due diligence period, and additional inspections may be appropriate depending on the property's age, type, condition, and location.

On Oʻahu, particular attention should be paid to termite inspections, roof condition, plumbing and electrical systems, and any environmental considerations specific to the property's location. Professional inspectors and other appropriate specialists provide their findings. Marilou helps you understand what the information means, identify good questions to ask the professionals, and consider how the findings may affect the transaction.

Step Six

Escrow and closing

In a typical Hawaiʻi real estate transaction, a neutral escrow company helps coordinate funds, documents, and the transfer of title. During escrow, your lender will finalize your mortgage, a title search will be conducted, and all contractual conditions must be satisfied.

Marilou will monitor the process from offer acceptance through closing, addressing any issues that arise and keeping you informed at every stage. Her goal is a smooth closing and a clear path to your new home.

Why an experienced Oʻahu broker matters

Oʻahu's real estate market has its own characteristics, practices, and local considerations that can differ from other markets. Local knowledge matters, from understanding neighborhood values and school boundaries to navigating Hawaiʻi-specific contracts, escrow procedures, and disclosure requirements. Marilou has served Oʻahu real estate clients since 1987, and she brings that perspective to every step of your purchase.