HONOLULU (KHON2) — An event coming up on Saturday, October 25th, is scaling some of the hurdles that plague Oahu residents from becoming homeowners in one of the most challenging real estate markets in the world.
“The idea came from seeing too many of our local families being priced out of their homeland,” Honolulu City Councilmember Andria Tupola said. “It’s heartbreaking to watch people who were born and raised here feel like they can’t afford to stay. That’s why on Saturday, October 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center, we’re bringing everyone together — lenders, real estate experts, career coaches, and community organizations — to give residents real tools and guidance to build a future and find a home in Hawaii. The Priced Into Paradise Expo is about reversing that trend and showing that with access to the right information, local families can thrive right here where they belong.”
According to the Honolulu Board of REALTORS, the September median sales price for single-family homes was $1,155,000, up 3.8% year-over-year, while the condo median sales price dipped 1.7% to $508,750.
“We understand that many residents have lost faith in the idea of owning a home here,” Councilmember Tupola said. “That’s why we’ve built a ‘Homebuying 101’ track with step-by-step guidance — from improving credit and qualifying for loans to understanding affordable housing programs. We’re showing people what’s possible. Our goal is to replace fear with confidence and frustration with a plan.”
The event requires registration and is scheduled for Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Blaisdell Exposition Hall.