Hawaii Real Estate & Community News

June 6, 2026

Joe Castaneda Nominated for Pacific Business News 40 Under 40 Class of 2026

We’re thrilled to share some wonderful news from our team — Joe Castaneda has been nominated for Pacific Business News’ 40 Under 40 Class of 2026.


Joe Castaneda 40 Under 40 2026

⭐ A Prestigious Recognition

Dear Friends, Clients, and Community Partners,

We’re excited to share some wonderful news from our team.

Our Team Lead and Principal Broker, Joe Castaneda, has been nominated for Pacific Business News’ 40 Under 40 Class of 2026 — a prestigious recognition that honors emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact in business and throughout our community.

🌴 A Commitment to Community

This nomination reflects Joe’s dedication to serving others — whether through his leadership at REMAX Hawaii West O‘ahu, his commitment to supporting real estate professionals, or his service as Board President of HUGS (Help, Understanding & Group Support). More importantly, it represents the relationships, partnerships, and community connections that have shaped his journey.

Joe is the first to say that accomplishments like this are never achieved alone. They are made possible by the trust and support of clients, colleagues, family, friends, and community organizations who share a commitment to helping others succeed.

🧡 A Heartfelt Thank You

As a team, we are incredibly proud of this recognition and grateful to work alongside a leader who consistently invests in people, gives back to the community, and strives to make a positive difference both professionally and personally.

Please join us in congratulating Joe on this well-deserved honor, as well as all of the outstanding nominees who have been recognized this year.

Thank you for being part of our journey and for allowing us the privilege of serving you and our community.

Warm regards,
Team Castaneda | Hawaii Starts Here

 

June 5, 2026

Just Listed: Hillside Terrace 3 Townhome in Aiea

A beautifully renovated 2-bedroom townhome just hit the market in Aiea’s highly desirable Hillside Terrace 3 community — here are all the details.


🏡 New Listing: Aiea Townhome at Hillside Terrace 3

Welcome to this beautifully renovated 2BR/1.5BA townhome in highly desirable Hillside Terrace 3! Spanning 1,187 sq ft, this spacious home features a private entry courtyard and an open-concept kitchen with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Recent Updates & Features

  • Fresh interior paint throughout
  • Durable vinyl plank flooring
  • Quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances
  • Private lanai
  • In-unit laundry
  • Enclosed 1-car garage
  • Additional uncovered stall located right across from the unit

Close to guest parking and just minutes from shopping, schools, dining, and easy freeway access.

Listing Details

  • Address: 98-1451 Ka‘ahumanu St. #E221, Aiea, HI 96701
  • Beds / Baths / Parking: 2 BR | 1.5 BA | 2 Parking
  • Interior: 1,187 sq ft
  • Listed by: Joe Castaneda (R) of REMAX Hawai‘i West Oahu

👉 Watch the Home Tour on Instagram

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

June 4, 2026

Naniwa Gardens Listing, Noho Papa Closing

From a newly listed ocean-view residence in Hawai‘i Kai to a recent above-asking sale in Ho‘opili, we’re excited to share a few notable market highlights this week at Hawaii Starts Here.


🏡 New Listing: Naniwa Gardens in Hawai‘i Kai

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a spacious high-floor residence in Naniwa Gardens with sweeping views overlooking the ocean and Hawai‘i Kai Marina. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence features 1,238 sq ft of interior living space ready for your personal touch, plus a large private lanai.

Enjoy added privacy with only 2 units per floor in this well-secured building. The home includes a large storage unit and 2 covered, side-by-side parking stalls conveniently located near the elevator.

Building & Amenities

  • Currently undergoing building refreshes, including new plumbing
  • Pool and exercise room
  • Ample guest parking
  • Well-secured building with only 2 units per floor

Conveniently located near Costco, Safeway, shopping, eateries, boutiques, beaches, hiking, and more — this is an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the best of the Hawai‘i Kai lifestyle.

Listing Details

  • Address: 6750 Hawai‘i Kai Dr. Unit 805
  • Beds / Baths / Parking: 2 BR | 2 BA | 1 Parking
  • Interior: 1,238 sq ft
  • Listed by: Joe Castaneda (R) of REMAX Hawai‘i West Oahu

*Some images have been virtually staged (enhanced).

👉 Watch the Home Tour on Instagram


🎉 Just Sold: Noho Papa at Pōhaku Estates, Ho‘opili

We’re excited to share that this beautiful home in the Ho‘opili community has officially sold for $1,100,000 — with multiple offers over asking price.

We’re incredibly grateful to our sellers for trusting us with the sale of their home and allowing us to guide them through this important transition. Wishing them all the best in the next chapter of their lives.

If you’re thinking about selling and want to discuss how we can help maximize your home’s value, reach out to us — we’d be happy to help.

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

June 4, 2026

Royal Palm Closed and 3648 Campbell Ave in Escrow

Happy Aloha Friday! Congratulations to our clients this week — we helped our buyers into Royal Palm and got our latest Kapahulu listing in escrow. Here’s what’s happening this week at Hawaii Starts Here.


🎉 Just Sold at Royal Palm

Another successful closing in the books! 🌴🏡

We just helped our buyers secure this home through a VA loan assumption with an interest rate in the 3’s — a huge win in today’s market. After being in contract since January, patience and persistence paid off.

Congratulations to our clients on their new home at Royal Palm! Grateful to help navigate a unique process and make homeownership happen. 🤝


🔒 Kapahulu Home Under Contract

Another one under contract! 🏡✨

3648 Campbell Avenue is officially in escrow. 🎉

Honored to represent the sellers and help guide this beautiful home to its next chapter. Grateful for the trust, teamwork, and everyone involved in making this possible. 🤝🔑

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

June 4, 2026

Just Listed: 3648 Campbell Ave

Lots of activity right now — the market is heating up! We just listed a new single-family home in Kapahulu and have a new escrow at Uluwehi at Ho‘opili. Here’s what’s happening this week at Hawaii Starts Here.


🏡 Just Listed: Kapahulu Single-Family Home

3648 Campbell Avenue - Watch Video Tour

👉 Watch the Video Tour on YouTube

Charming single-level, single-family home in the highly desirable Kapahulu neighborhood! Right off Monsarrat Ave. and conveniently located close to Diamond Head, Kapi‘olani Park, and the vibrant energy of Waikiki.

This spacious and functional home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and a large carport with additional storage. Move-in ready with an updated kitchen, jalousie windows, and freshly updated interior paint. A large, gated driveway provides ample parking for guests.

Nestled in a vibrant community close to dining, shopping, and outdoor activities, this home combines comfort and location for the perfect island lifestyle. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Open House

  • Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
  • Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Address: 3648 Campbell Avenue

Listing Details

  • Beds / Baths: 3 BD | 2 BA
  • Price: $1,395,000 FS
  • MLS #: 202606544
  • Listed by: Joe Castaneda (R) of REMAX Hawai‘i West Oahu

👉 View the Full Listing


🔒 New Home Under Contract at Uluwehi at Ho‘opili

Congratulations to our buyers who got a 1-bedroom at Uluwehi at Ho‘opili under contract!

Uluwehi features eight condominium unit floor plans ranging from 572 to 1,056 square feet of net living area and one to two stories high. Each home includes:

  • Designer-selected flooring packages
  • Whole-house split air conditioning
  • Stainless steel appliances

We’re thrilled for our buyers and looking forward to a smooth closing ahead.

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

Posted in Real Estate News
May 8, 2026

Nanehea at Ho'opili First Release

We’ve got a new home release tomorrow, a look back at the April housing stats, and a #FlashbackFriday of our team as kids — here’s what’s happening this week at Hawaii Starts Here.


🏡 Nanahea at Ho‘opili — First Release

D.R. Horton Hawai‘i is releasing the first homes at Nanahea at Ho‘opili, their newest single-family detached condominium community. If you’ve been waiting for a brand-new home in Ewa Beach, this is your chance.

Homes will be released on a first come, first served basis. We’ve helped many buyers into Ho‘opili already and would love to help you too.

Release Date & Location

  • Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM
  • Location: Ho‘opili Pōhaku Estates Sales Center
  • Address: 91-4116 Hikuha Street, Kapolei, HI 96707

Homes Available in This Release

Home Plan Sq. Ft. Bd / Ba Price
Home 2
Nanahea Ash Pkg.
Alley Load KŌLEA
Plan 19 1,092 3 / 2 $925,990
Home 3
Nanahea Oak Pkg.
Alley Load KOLOA
Plan 24 1,859 5 / 3 $1,144,990
Home 152
Nanahea Ash Pkg.
AE‘O
Plan 23R 1,741 4 / 2.5 $1,069,990
Home 153
Nanahea Oak Pkg.
KŌLEA
Plan 19 1,092 3 / 2 $930,990

Interested in buying or have questions? Send our team an email or call us directly.

👉 View the Brochure


📈 April 2026 Housing Stats

Here’s a quick snapshot of the O‘ahu real estate market for April 2026.

🏡 Single-Family Homes

  • Median Sales Price: $1,150,000 (down 1.7% year-over-year)
  • Closed Sales: 230 (down 4.6%)
  • Average Time on Market: 24 days (improved 17.2%)
  • Sellers Received: 98.3% of original asking price (up 0.5%)
  • New Listings: 351 (down 4.1%)

🏢 Condominiums

  • Median Sales Price: $500,000 (down 1.0% year-over-year)
  • Closed Sales: 378 (down 4.3%)
  • Average Time on Market: 38 days (improved 11.6%)
  • Sellers Received: 97.3% of original asking price (up 1.0%)
  • New Listings: 698 (down 18.0%)

Overall, the market continues to show balanced conditions with steady pricing, improved market times, and sellers still receiving close to asking price. Inventory remains somewhat limited, especially with fewer new listings entering the market.


📸 #FlashbackFriday: Our Team as Kids

Get to know our team a little better and take a look back at what we looked like as kids! 👉 Watch the Reel on Instagram

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

May 1, 2026

Just Listed at Nanea Kai

It’s already May and 2026 is moving quick! Check out our new Nanea Kai listing, a recap of our community shred event, and your last chance to win a $10K VIP race weekend — here’s what’s happening this week at Hawaii Starts Here.


🏡 Just Listed at Nanea Kai

Experience elegant island living in the coveted Nanea Kai community of Hawai‘i Kai. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome offers a refined balance of comfort and style, featuring 1,582 sq ft of interior living space, an open-concept floor plan, a private 2-car garage, and a charming lanai perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation.

Set within a quaint and well-maintained enclave, this residence captures the essence of Hawai‘i Kai living — bright, breezy, and beautifully connected to its surroundings. Enjoy close proximity to Koko Head, the Hawai‘i Kai Marina, Costco, Safeway, and a variety of local boutiques and eateries.

Listing Details

  • Address: 7018 Hawai‘i Kai Dr. #206
  • Beds / Baths / Parking: 3 BD | 2.5 BA | 2 Parking
  • Interior: 1,582 sq ft
  • Price: $1,025,000 FS
  • MLS #: 202608437
  • Listed by: Joe Castaneda (R) of RE/MAX Hawai‘i West Oahu

👉 View the Full Listing


💪 Thanks for Shredding!

This past Saturday, our team and agents from our West, North Shore, and Kahala offices came together for a Community Shred-It Event — and the turnout was incredible.

By the Numbers

  • 115+ cars came through the event
  • 3,000 pounds of documents securely shredded
  • E-Opala Waste on site to collect old electronics for proper disposal
  • Parents and Children Together (PACT) collected generous donations including art supplies, baking supplies, and hygiene items

Thank you to everyone who came through, helped spread the word, and donated to support local families. We’ll see you all at the next event!


🏁 Last Chance to Win the Ultimate VIP Race Weekend

The last day to enter is May 3! Our partners at RE/MAX and INDYCAR Team Meyer Shank Racing are giving away two VIP race-day tickets to the iconic 500-mile race in Indianapolis — a once-in-a-lifetime experience valued at $10,000.

What’s Included (May 22–24, 2026)

  • Tickets to Carb Day (May 22) and Race Day (May 24, 2026)
  • Exclusive access to the grid, pit, and paddock
  • Premium hospitality
  • A $5,000 gift card toward hotel and airfare

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — entering is quick and free.

👉 Enter to Win Here

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

Posted in Real Estate News
April 24, 2026

New Kaka‘ako Listing, Free Community Event, & Big Wins

Happy Aloha Friday! A brand-new Kaka‘ako listing just hit the market, plus a free community shred event, recent client wins, and a chance to win a $10K VIP race weekend — here’s what’s happening this week at Hawaii Starts Here.


🏡 New Listing in Kaka‘ako

This beautifully upgraded studio offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Featuring an open floor plan, a sleek kitchen, in-unit washer/dryer, and a spacious closet with custom storage, this unit is move-in ready. Additional highlights include air conditioning, vinyl plank flooring, and a ceiling fan for added comfort.

Located just blocks from Downtown Honolulu, SALT Kaka‘ako, and Ward Village, and minutes from Ala Moana Center and the beach, this unit offers easy access to the best of city living. Whether you’re seeking a stylish home or a rental investment, this prime Kaka‘ako location is ideal for both — perfect for city dwellers or those looking for a turnkey property with unmatched convenience.

Listing Details

  • Address: 545 Queen St. #543
  • Beds / Baths / Parking: Studio | 1 BA | 1 Parking
  • Price: $315,000 FS
  • MLS #: 202606032
  • Listed by: Joe Castaneda (R) of RE/MAX Hawai‘i West Oahu

👉 View the Full Listing


Free Community Shred & E-Waste Event

RE/MAX Hawai‘i West O‘ahu and Ka Makana Ali‘i invite you to a free community shred day and e-waste collection event on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

What to Bring

  • Up to two file boxes of paper for secure on-site shredding
  • Accepted e-waste items for responsible recycling
  • New, unopened donations for PACT Hawai‘i to support local families in need

The event takes place in the parking lot between Macy’s and Wendy’s. We hope to see you there!

👉 More Event Information


🔒 Under Contract at Noho Papa

Excited to share that this single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is officially under contract. This like-new, move-in ready property with 20 PV panels generated strong interest and is now one step closer to closing.

Grateful for our clients’ trust — we’re looking forward to a smooth closing ahead.


🎉 Just Sold at Bishop Gardens

So excited to share that this ground floor unit at Bishop Gardens has officially sold! Grateful to our sellers for trusting us throughout the process and allowing us to represent them from start to finish.

Wishing all parties a smooth transition and the very best in the next chapter ahead.


🏁 Win the Ultimate VIP Race Weekend

Our partners at RE/MAX and INDYCAR Team Meyer Shank Racing are giving away two VIP race-day tickets to the iconic 500-mile race in Indianapolis — a once-in-a-lifetime experience valued at $10,000.

What’s Included (May 22–24, 2026)

  • Tickets to Carb Day (May 22) and Race Day (May 24, 2026)
  • Exclusive access to the grid, pit, and paddock
  • Premium hospitality
  • A $5,000 gift card toward hotel and airfare

This is an unforgettable weekend for any motorsport fan — and entering is quick and free.

👉 Enter to Win Here

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

Posted in Real Estate News
April 18, 2026

This Week at Hawaii Starts Here: $10,000 Indy 500 Giveaway, a Just-Sold Celebration & New Kaka'ako Homes at Kahuina

From a $10,000 VIP Indy 500 race weekend giveaway to a just-sold milestone, a brand-new Kaka‘ako project, and a quick favor we’d truly appreciate — here’s what’s happening this week at Hawaii Starts Here.


🏁 Win the Ultimate VIP Race Weekend

Our partners at RE/MAX and INDYCAR Team Meyer Shank Racing are giving away two VIP race-day tickets to the iconic 500-mile race in Indianapolis — a once-in-a-lifetime experience valued at $10,000.

What’s Included (May 22–24, 2026)

  • Tickets to Carb Day (May 22) and Race Day (May 24, 2026)
  • Exclusive access to the grid, pit, and paddock
  • Premium hospitality
  • A $5,000 gift card toward hotel and airfare

This is an unforgettable weekend for any motorsport fan — and entering is quick and free.

👉 Enter to Win Here


🎉 Just Sold at Spinnaker Place

We’re so excited for our buyers who just purchased their first home at Spinnaker Place Townhomes! With a cute yard perfect for entertaining, we can already picture all the gatherings and memories that will be created there.

We’re truly grateful for the trust they placed in our team and wish them all the best in this new chapter filled with many celebrations ahead. Congratulations on closing on your first home — welcome home!


🏙️ Kahuina Kaka‘ako — New Project Now Selling

Kahuina is Kaka‘ako’s newest residential project, featuring both market-priced and HHFDC (affordable) units. Whether you’re a first-time buyer pursuing homeownership through an affordable program or looking to invest in one of Honolulu’s most walkable urban neighborhoods, Kahuina is worth a serious look.

Market Pricing

  • 1 Bedroom — from $690,000
  • 2 Bedroom — from $910,000
  • 3 Bedroom — from $1,295,000

HHFDC Affordable Pricing

  • 1 Bedroom — from $598,888
  • 2 Bedroom — from $692,800
  • 3 Bedroom — from $839,900

HHFDC Program Terms

  • 10-year owner-occupancy restriction
  • Shared Appreciation Equity
  • 5% down payment requirement

HHFDC Buyer Qualifications

  • Household income under 140% AMI (Area Median Income)
  • U.S. citizen
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Hawaii resident, and will physically reside in the unit purchased
  • Gross income sufficient to qualify for a loan
  • First-time home buyer

HHFDC units sell quickly and the qualification process takes time, so don’t wait to get started. Contact us today to learn more about Kahuina and take the first step toward homeownership.


⭐ Nominate Joe Castaneda for Hawai‘i’s Best Realtor

Nominations are now open for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s Hawai‘i’s Best 2026 — and we would be honored to have your support. The nomination deadline is Tuesday, April 21.

If you’ve had a great experience working with our team, we’d truly appreciate your nomination for Joe Castaneda in the Realtor category. Your support means everything and helps us continue serving our Oahu community at the highest level.

👉 Nominate Here

Mahalo for your continued trust and support. It’s a privilege to be part of your real estate journey.

 

Posted in Real Estate News
Dec. 29, 2022

Just Sold 2 Homes at Kaikea at Hoopili

Are you considering buying a new home in the Hoopili development? Look no further! Our team is here to help you every step of the way. We've just helped 2 of our clients buy into the new Kaikea condos/townhomes. 

 

Located in the growing community of Hoopili on the island of Oahu, Kaikea at Hoopili is a collection of new project homes that offer a range of amenities and features. From spacious living areas and modern kitchens, to private outdoor lanais and energy-efficient design, these homes have something for everyone. All Hoopili residents have the use of neighborhood pool, dog park, parks, and soccer field. 

 

But why should you consider using our team to help you buy into Hoopili? Here are a few reasons:

 

Expertise: Our team has extensive knowledge of the real estate market in Hawaii, and we have helped countless clients find their dream homes at Hoopili already. We are well-versed in the unique features and amenities of the Hoopili development, and can help you make an informed decision about which home is right for you. Hoopili has a wide variety of condo/townhomes and single family homes ranging from studios to FLEX homes (live/work flexibility) and even single family homes with an ADU (accessory dwelling unit). 

 

Convenience: The process of buying a home can be complex and time-consuming, but with our team by your side, we can handle all of the details for you. We will work closely with you to understand your needs and preferences, and will use our expertise to help you find the perfect home in Kaikea at Hoopili.

 

Personalized service: We pride ourselves on providing personalized service to each of our clients. We understand that buying a home is a major investment, and we will take the time to get to know you and your unique situation to ensure that you are completely satisfied with your purchase.

 

If you are interested in buying a new home in Hoopili, don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to help you every step of the way, and we are confident that we can find the perfect home for you in this exciting new development.

Posted in Just Sold