Buyers

The Buying Process

I am so excited that you are taking the first step toward buying property!

In today’s market, buyers need solid representation. That’s where I come in. As your exclusive buyer’s agents, I can negotiate on your behalf. I will look out for your best interests and listen to your specific objectives, needs and style. I will help you find all the experts you need for matters of importance in any property you are considering. My goal is to get you the right property, for the best value.

01.

LET'S MEET!

I offer fun and free virtual buyer consultations. Let’s jump on a call or video chat so we can chat about your real estate goals.

02.

Get Pre-approved

If you’re financing, I can help connect you with trustworthy local lenders so you are ready to go when the perfect place comes along.

03.

Search Online

I will set you up on your own unique Client Portal, a powerful online MLS property search tool. We can get to know your likes & dislikes and narrow the search.

04.

Tour Property

I will work hard to schedule property tours for you, virtually or in person. Let me show you around the Big Island property, so you can find your perfect home.

05.

MAKE AN OFFER

In a hot market, let me help you make the best offer possible and rest easy while I draft up all the documents to give you the best chance of owning your dream property.

06.

Escrow > Closing

I will help you navigate your escrow timeline, help you schedule inspections, coordinate with your lender and get you to closing day!

Ask about my virtual services!

The real estate process has become more virtual than ever. From property tours to closing documents, you might be surprised by how much we can accomplish together online. I offer numerous unique options to optimize your buying experience.

How can we help you get started?

What they're saying....

"Amber is a super knowledgeable Big Island real estate agent and I am so lucky I found her. She is more than a realtor, I now consider her a friend and definitely recommender her to anyone that is looking for a their Hawaii dream home. Mahalo!"

Amber Haley RS
Hawaii Life

Buyers Guides & Resources

Real Estate

Hawai‘i Island Real Estate Market Report, Q2 2022

Real Estate

Hawaii Island Real Estate Market Report, Q3 2021

Real Estate

Big Island Lava Zones

Real Estate

Financing Land on Big Island

Real Estate

Buying in Hawaii – Escrow 101

Real Estate

What does a Seller’s Market mean for Buyers?

FAQs

Here are some answers to the questions I receive the most about our buying Big Island property.
If I missed anything, please do not hesitate to contact me. I’ll be happy to help.

What can I do now to prepare to purchase Big Island property in the future?

Determine which part of the island you want to live. Talk to locals. If possible, drive around different areas get to know them.
Join my FB group to connect with other current and future Big Island residents.
Read my blog and view listings online.
Give me a call, or schedule a virtual consultation with us.
Make sure your finances are in order and learn about the current lending requirements.
Make sure you can access digital copies of your tax documents, any recent pay stubs, bank statements, and proof of income. These things will
Speak to a local Hawaii lender. I can help connect you!

What is the first step?

Consulting with a local real estate agent. Here’s the card of an awesome real estate team who would love to connect.

Why should I get pre-approved with a local lender?

A local lender will work to qualify you for financing a Big Island property. In order to start touring property in person (and not just online), you will first want to get pre-qualified or pre-approved by the lender of your choice. Once we know what type of loan you can get, we can insure that you are looking at the right types of properties in the right price range. Your pre-approval will also put you in a competitive position to make an offer when you find “the one.” Using a local lender (as opposed to a mainland lender) is highly recommended. For starters, they operate in the same time zone, which is really helpful. They also understand Hawaii’s escrow timelines and the nuances of Big Island real estate (like lava zones!) Using a local lender can be the difference between a smooth closing closing or a bumpy one. If you would like, I can help connect you to lenders that I know and trust!

How long does it take to close?

A typical closing/escrow on Big Island right now is taking between 45-60 days. During this time you conduct your inspections and due diligence and escrow collects funds and documents. If you are paying all cash, sometimes we can close faster, but it usually takes at least 30 days. If you are buying for the first time in the State of Hawaii, our escrow timeline may not be the same as you’ve experienced elsewhere. For example, once your loan has funded and you’ve signed your final documents, it will take 3 more business days to record the sale at the Bureau of Conveyances before you can close and get your keys.

What do your services cost?

Great news! In most cases, my buyer’s services are completely free since the seller’s side typically pays our commission.

What are Lava Hazard Zones and how can they affect my purchase?

Since the Big Island has active volcanoes, there are 9 designated Lava Zones, with new flows most likely to occur in 1 and least likely in 9. Here is a map from the USGS illustrating them. Although things are always changing with our volcanoes, in general there can be a greater challenge obtaining financing and insurance in riskier Lava Zones 1 and 2, due to the lava hazard.