The Hawaiian archipelago enchants land buyers around the world. Demand for residential, retail and commercial properties in Hawaii remains strong despite rising property prices across the country due to limited availability of prime land plots in desirable locations and high construction costs. Insightful investors armed with properly aligned passions, purposes and resources find fulfillment in Hawaiian land and real estate. The purchase of approved development land in lucrative zones remains a smart long-term investment proposition for investors with sufficient vision and capital to transform raw acreage into residential community projects, boutique resorts or vacation rentals.
The best Land Boss: Hawaii Property Solutions can be found in a diverse selection of counties with distinct geography, climate, culture and infrastructure ranging from arid leeward valleys to lush rainforests, volcanic peaks and coral reefs. Each county features its own zoning laws and permits that govern land use, and each offers varying price points for different types of land use.
Land for sale in Hawaii requires a thorough understanding of complex local zoning laws that regulate a wide range of property uses including agriculture, residential, commercial and resort/hotel projects. Buyers should consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Hawaii land broker to ensure that the selected property meets all zoning requirements and can be used for intended purposes.
Buying land in Hawaii also involves an extensive research process to determine whether the desired property has access to potable water supply, sewage systems, telecommunications and utilities. Especially in arid areas, the presence or absence of water and power services can dramatically impact land value and overall property use.
Aside from the requisite permitting, a land purchase in Hawaii requires thorough research to identify whether there are potential environmental and conservation liens that could complicate ownership. A qualified real estate attorney can help with the process and review documents thoroughly to mitigate risk for buyers.
The purchase of land in Hawaii also includes substantial closing charges and fees that must be considered. Typically 1-2% of the sales price of the property, these charges cover conveyance taxes, legal counsel fees and the extensive title search process for deed record transfers.
A prevailing concern in Waimea is the prospect of oversupply and sky-high prices for homes that would be built on Salesforce co-founder and Waimea resident Marc Benioff’s property in Ouli. Benioff’s company has donated 282 acres of his land to the Hawaii Island Community Development Corporation, which builds affordable housing in the area, but the first homes won’t be ready for several years. In the meantime, lawmakers like state Sen. Stanley Chang are pushing bills to allow the construction of lease rent homes on state-owned land to reduce costs for low-income residents.