James S Chan

With over $50 million in closed sales in 2025 and more than two decades of experience, James Chan ranks among the Top 15 Realtors on Oahu and is known for helping clients strategically build wealth through Hawaii real estate. He has participated in more than $400 million in residential real estate sales throughout his career.

James advises buyers, sellers, and investors across Oahu’s diverse real estate market, from luxury coastal properties to renovation opportunities with long-term upside. He has represented clients across a wide range of transactions—from first-time homebuyers to luxury residences, investment opportunities, and complex renovation projects.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, James moved to Honolulu at the age of three. He was raised by parents who immigrated from Hong Kong and Taiwan in pursuit of opportunity in the United States. Their perseverance and strong work ethic shaped James from an early age and continue to influence his approach to both business and life.

James attended Iolani School and later studied at the University of California, Davis.

In 2002, James returned to Hawaii and began working as an appraisal assistant for a respected real estate appraisal company, where he developed a strong understanding of property valuation and the economics behind Hawaii’s housing market. He later transitioned into residential sales and became the youngest Partner at the largest locally owned real estate firm at age 30, where he spent 17 years before joining Compass Hawaii as a Founding Member.

Today, James is known for his analytical mindset, attention to detail, and genuine care for his clients’ success. Whether advising first-time buyers, seasoned investors, or families searching for their next home, he approaches every transaction with a focus on strategy, education, and long-term value.

James also has a strong passion for construction and renovation, and enjoys helping clients recognize the potential in properties others may overlook. Through renovating his own properties and managing improvement projects for clients who live off-island, he has developed practical experience working with contractors, architects, and designers throughout the process. This experience gives him a working understanding of permitting, architectural planning, interior design, and current market trends, allowing him to guide clients on renovations that enhance both livability and long-term resale value.

Beyond real estate, James is a co-founder of Rizen Hawaii, an organization that has raised tens of thousands of dollars for children’s charities including Make-A-Wish Hawaii and Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawaii.

When working with international and mainland clients, James and his team are able to assist buyers and sellers in multiple languages, helping make Hawaii real estate more accessible to a global audience.

When he’s not working with clients, James enjoys surfing, golfing, spearfishing, traveling, mahjong, and spending time with his wife Tessa, who he proudly claims is the best interior designer and home stager in the world.

Above all, James strives to live a life rooted in gratitude and faith, seeking to honor Jesus Christ, whom he credits as the foundation for everything he has been given.

“I’m not in the business of simply selling real estate. My goal is to build meaningful relationships and help people create lasting value in their lives.”