A new year often brings a fresh perspective, and for many, it’s the perfect time to think about what “home” and financial security look like in the years ahead. Whether you’re imagining your first home, considering a move, or exploring real estate as an investment, setting clear goals can help turn long-term ideas into meaningful progress. Real estate decisions don’t have to be rushed, but they do benefit from thoughtful planning.
Why Local Market Knowledge Matters
Hawaii’s real estate market continues to evolve, and local conditions play a major role in shaping what’s possible. Inventory levels, pricing trends and neighborhood demand can vary significantly from one area or even one building to the next. Understanding how these local dynamics affect your buying power, timing, or potential return can help you set more realistic goals and avoid unnecessary surprises. That kind of insight comes from deep, on-the-ground experience in Oahu's many neighborhoods, where long-term perspective matters just as much as current data.
Every real estate goal is different, and local insight can help clarify your next steps. A Locations agent can help you work through your options and map out a plan at your pace.
Tip: Search for a Locations agent by office location or languages spoken.
Become a Homeowner
If you’re currently renting your home, ask yourself if you're ready to become a homeowner. While housing prices have increased significantly over the past several years, the rate of price acceleration has slowed. At around 6.2%, mortgage interest rates are now trending lower and showing more stability. Based on stronger than expected sales in 2025 and continued competitive market conditions, Locations expects moderate increases in sales activity and prices in 2026.
If owning a home is one of your goals for the new year, you’ll want to start working with an agent sooner rather than later. You should also meet with a lender to determine your budget and get prequalified. Remember, the best time to own a home is always as soon as you are able!
Tip: Use our Rent Accumulation Calculator to see how much money you're spending on rent that could be going toward a mortgage instead.
Trade Up to a New Home
The Oahu single-family home median price increased by four percent last year, ending 2025 at $1.148 million, while the condo median price dipped by one percent to $505,000 to end the year. However, the divergence between the two markets that characterized 2025 is reversing, as the condo market gradually strengthens.
With low inventory for single-family homes and high property values, many homeowners may be able to leverage the equity in their current homes to move into a new home that better suits their needs. Think you don’t have enough home equity to trade up? You might be surprised to learn how much your home has appreciated!
Tip: Use the Locations Home Valuator to get an instant, free home valuation.
Start or Add to a Real Estate Portfolio
If you’ve been thinking about purchasing your first investment property, this could be the year to turn your dream into reality! Investing in a rental property now will allow you to take advantage of growing equity as prices rise. Investment properties have other perks, too, like tax benefits and added monthly income. If you already own real estate investments—whether in Hawaii or somewhere else—the beginning of a new year is a good time to examine your portfolio and note how your investments are performing.
If you have an underperforming property, or one that may require costly maintenance in the near future, you may want to consider using a 1031 exchange to secure a replacement property. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first timer, you’ll want to partner with a Realtor who can match you to an investment property that will best meet your needs.
Tip: Browse Oahu Legal Vacation Rental Condos.
How to Turn a Goal Into a Real Plan
A real estate goal becomes achievable when it’s paired with a strategy. That usually includes:
- A realistic budget and timeline
- Neighborhood and property research
- Financing or equity planning
- Clear next steps
This is where working with a knowledgeable local team matters. At Locations, we help clients:
- Clarify their goals
- Understand current market conditions
- Identify opportunities that fit their plans
- Create a step-by-step path forward
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Setting real estate goals is only the first step. The next is having the right guidance to help you understand your options, timing, and local market realities. Whether you're ready to act this year or simply want to plan ahead, a thoughtful conversation can bring clarity and confidence. If you don't have a relationship with a Realtor already, you can search for a Locations agent by office location and language spoken. We suggest interviewing a few agents until you find the best match for your needs.
Get Started Today:
- Find a Locations agent and schedule a buyers or investor consultation
- See what your home is worth with our Locations Home Valuator
- Looking for new construction? View new developments on Oahu
- Looking for a starter condo? Browse Oahu condos for sale
- Attend a complimentary Locations seminar—we offer seminars for First-Time Homebuyers, Investors, Seniors and more!
- Search all Oahu homes for sale
