Most
single family homes are single story, wood frames with concrete
foundation and wood or composition exterior siding. With a
single family home, an average lot size is 5,000 to 7,500
sq ft; most are attractively landscaped with tropical flowers
and fruit trees.
Houses tend to be smaller than most areas
on the mainland because of high construction costs and because
of our outdoor lifestyle in the islands. Three or four bedroom
houses are readily available; two bedroom houses are less
plentiful; more than four bedrooms can be found on occasion.
Co-ops tend to be medium-rise and generally
were constructed prior to 1964. Board of Directors approval
usually is required for a prospective purchaser. Bank financing
can be difficult because the purchaser does not own a unit,
but instead owns stock in a corporation and is allowed to
live in a unit owned by the corporation. One advantage to
co-ops is that rooms tend to be larger than in other types
of homes.
Condominiums include high, medium and low
rise communities with a variety of unit sizes. Owners have
an individual interest in their own units and a proportional
interest in the common areas and expenses. Maintenance fees
usually include physical maintenance of common areas and a
master insurance policy for the structure.
Water and sewage frequently are included;
electricity may be included. Usual amenities include swimming
pools, playgrounds, fitness facilities, tennis courts, and
party areas. The average maintenance fee will run about $400.00
per month.
Rentals are available on both long-term and
short-term rates. Vacation rates vary considerably depending
on tourist season and island location.
Construction materials usually are brought
to Hawaii from the mainland, which is one reason homes may
seem expensive, depending on your previous experience. In
addition, land zoned for residential use is limited. Waterfront
properties command the highest prices on the market. Properties
with views tend to be higher-priced as well.
Finding storage space can be difficult and
expensive. In most homes, storage space is severely limited.
Basements are rare and most homes have carports rather than
garages. Attic crawl spaces tend to be small.
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