Locations Interim Chief Executive Officer Chad Takesue joined Hawaii News Now's Sunrise to discuss mortgage rates, inventory and what buyers and sellers should know about the Oahu housing market this fall.
As Oahu heads into fall, the housing market continues to show a mix of steady activity and changing conditions. Mortgage rates have moved higher, single-family homes are holding relatively steady, and the condo market has more inventory than it did a year ago.
Here's a closer look at the key points from Takesue's recent appearance on Hawaii News Now's Sunrise.
Key Takeaways
- 30-year mortgage rates recently moved toward the 7% mark.
- Higher rates were largely anticipated by financial markets.
- Oahu's single-family home market remains relatively steady.
- The condo market continues to be softer by comparison.
- Overall housing inventory is roughly flat compared with this time last year.
- Condo inventory is up about 6% year over year, giving buyers more options.
Mortgage Rates Moved Higher
Interest rates on 30-year loans climbed last week, with rates touching the 7% mark.
Takesue noted that the move wasn't a surprise. Financial markets had already been anticipating higher rates, which means the shift is less a shock to the system than a continuation of a trend buyers and lenders have been watching closely.
“It’s the volatility that causes that disruption.” — Chad Takesue, Interim CEO, Locations
For many buyers, however, volatility can be as challenging as the rate itself. When borrowing costs remain relatively stable—even if rates are higher than buyers would prefer—consumers have a better opportunity to understand their purchasing power and plan accordingly. “It’s the volatility that causes that disruption,” he said.
What buyers should keep in mind
The interest rate is only one part of the home-buying equation. Buyers should also consider their budget, down payment, loan type, property taxes, insurance, maintenance costs and how long they expect to own the home.
Oahu's Single-Family Market Is Holding Steady, While Condos Are Softer
August brought a stable single-family home market on Oahu. Prices and activity in that segment have largely held their ground.
The condo market told a different story, remaining softer by comparison. That split isn't unusual for Oahu, where single-family homes and condos can move on their own timelines depending on buyer demand, financing conditions and available inventory.
It's also a useful reminder that "the market" isn't one single number. Where a property falls within the market—whether it's a single-family home or condo, and where it's located—matters.
One Oahu market, many different experiences
Island-wide statistics provide helpful context, but they don't tell the entire story. Conditions can vary considerably by property type, neighborhood and price range.
Inventory Is Flat Year Over Year, While Condo Listings Are Up
Overall home inventory on Oahu is running about even with where it stood at this time in 2025.
Condo inventory, however, is up approximately 6% compared with last year. For buyers, that increase means more properties to consider and potentially a little more room to negotiate than in the tighter single-family segment.
Takesue sees opportunity in that environment. With more condo inventory available and somewhat softer competitive conditions than in the single-family market, buyers may have more choices, but he cautioned that the individual property and building still matter. In particular, buyers should look beyond the unit itself and understand whether a condominium has kept pace with major capital improvements and other building needs.
For sellers, additional competing inventory can make accurate pricing and strong presentation even more important—particularly when buyers have multiple similar properties to compare.
What This Means If You're Buying or Selling
Taken together, the latest trends point to a market that is steady rather than dramatic. But the right strategy can depend on what you're buying, selling or financing.
- If you're buying a single-family home: In addition to price and location, consider insurance costs and how the property handles Hawaii's conditions—including topography, drainage and how water moves around the home.
- If you're buying a condo: More inventory may mean more choices and softer competition, but compare more than price. Consider maintenance costs, insurance, the building's condition and whether major capital improvements have been addressed.
- If you're selling: Pay close attention to competing listings and recent sales for similar properties in your area.
- If you're financing:
- Understand how current mortgage rates affect your monthly payment and overall purchasing power.
A Closer Look Can Make All the Difference
Market headlines can provide a useful snapshot, but real estate decisions are personal. A buyer looking for a condo in one neighborhood may face a very different set of choices from a buyer searching for a single-family home in another part of the island.
The same is true for sellers. Pricing, competition, property condition and buyer demand can vary significantly from one neighborhood or property type to another.
Takesue also emphasized looking beyond the purchase price. Insurance costs, building improvements and property condition can all affect the true cost of ownership. For single-family homes, even practical considerations such as topography and whether water drains toward or away from the home can be important parts of evaluating a property.
The most useful question isn't simply, "How is the Oahu housing market?" It's "How are current market conditions affecting my particular property, neighborhood and plans?"
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mortgage rates going up?
30-year mortgage rates recently moved toward the 7% mark. Financial markets had already been anticipating higher rates, making the move less unexpected for buyers and lenders.
How is the Oahu single-family home market performing?
The single-family market has remained relatively steady, with prices and activity largely holding their ground in August.
How is the Oahu condo market different?
The condo market remains softer by comparison, with condo inventory approximately 6% higher than it was a year ago. That gives buyers more options to consider.
Does more condo inventory mean buyers have more negotiating power?
Additional inventory can give buyers more properties to compare and may create more room to negotiate, although the amount of negotiating flexibility varies by property, building, neighborhood and seller circumstances.
Should I wait to buy because mortgage rates are higher?
There is no single answer that applies to every buyer. The right decision depends on your finances, timeline, budget, financing options and the properties available to you. A real estate and lending professional can help you evaluate your specific circumstances.
Have Questions About the Oahu Market?
Whether you're considering buying, selling or simply want to understand what current market conditions mean for you, a Locations agent can help you look at the numbers for your specific situation.
Connect With a Locations AgentDisclaimer: Market conditions can change and vary by property type, neighborhood and price range. The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes and should not be considered financial, mortgage or real estate advice. Buyers and sellers should consult with qualified professionals about their individual circumstances.
