South Hilo

South Hilo contains one of the fastest appreciating real estate locations in all of Hawaii. The population in Hilo is actually larger than in Kailua-Kona. Most residents and visitors to the Big Island do not know this. Keaukaka down along the ocean side past the airport is a hidden secret gem full of fantastic lagoons and dreamy ocean turtles gently swaying to the smooth ocean waves. Hilo for the longest time has always been the heart of the islands. A very long and rich history full of hardship (two major tsunamis) and perseverance. The University of Hawaii at Hilo is also a fantastic place for higher level education and a celebrated array of amazing sports teams and international high level athletes. South Hilo real estate is mostly made up of quaint and stunning plantation homes, estates, condos, and vacant lots. Land is becoming a lot harder to find given that the construction boom has not stopped for years. Homes that were once selling for $500,000 in Hilo are now well over the $1 million price point. Investment properties in Hilo are great as the demand from the university students and other vacation rental avenues continues to push relocation to this amazing oceanside town.

Hilo is considered the second rainiest city in America with the first of them being close to Seattle. What this means is that the plants are very green and lush as it most of the landscaping for that matter. Even though the rain is continues and sometimes feels like it never ends, down in Keaukaha in Hilo you will find most days very sunny. It is the best spot in all of hilo to go snorkeling, body boarding, and surfing. The Kaumana area in South Hilo offers a nice cool elevation and is just before you head over saddle road towards Waikoloa and Kona. Hilo real estate also has luxury communities with some homes offering private tennis courts and pools. Along ravines and gulches you will find exotic homes with waterfalls cascading along as they lull you and your family to sleep. Hilo town is more than just a sleepy little place. Old shops and businesses that have even here for years continue to serve patrons, tourists, and visitors each and every day. Sig Zane and Cafe Pesto are two remarkable businesses to have received not only local but also worldwide recognition.

When searching in the Big Island Hawaii Information MLS, there are typically 100+ single family homes to choose from. That is quite a bit. The highest priced listings reached numbers in the $10 million range but most are under $5 million. Of these options 20 out of the 100 are priced over the $1 million price point. The rest of the 80 homes fall under the $1 million mark. When it comes to condos there are 1/4 of that of single family home properties on the market with approx. 25 or so. Vacant land in Hilo offers around 50 MLS listings to choose from at any time. The highest ranging in the $7.5 million price point. Large acreage oceanfront supreme lots are most priced over $1 million, which is still a great deal considering what you are getting. The Pepeekeo area and Hakalau are two fantastic and exclusive options reserved for those who can come up with the necessary funds to make it happen. Hilo is becoming the new forefront for those seeking retirement in an area with a cooler climate and slower pace of life. A true diamond place in this busy world we live in.