|
| Humpback Whales | KE Team Sunset Cruise | Fire Horse |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aloha Friends and O'hana,
I hope everyone is off to a great start of 2026. Emil and I started 2026 on a high note. We kicked off the year with a private KE Team Whale Watch and Sunset Cruise, joined by 90 of our wonderful clients. Rainbows, dolphins, and whales all showed up to make the afternoon unforgettable. Big mahalo to the Fair Wind crew for taking such good care of us. More details below, and be sure to check out this month’s Big Island video for some truly magical moments from the cruise! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Happy Year of the Horse! Japan is full of New Year traditions, and we were busy cooking and enjoying classic dishes. Yes, we gained a little weight. In the Japanese zodiac, the Horse represents energy, freedom, independence, and forward momentum. 2026 is especially rare as it is the Year of the Fire Horse, which comes only once every 60 years. Those turning 60 this year are said to carry especially strong energy. |
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
| | Compass has completed its acquisition of legacy brands including Coldwell Banker and Sotheby’s International Realty. While each brand will keep its name, Compass plans to streamline key operations across the board. The company has ranked as the number one brokerage in the U.S. by sales volume for four consecutive years. This marks our fifth year with Compass - and we never imagined it would one day acquire our former brokerage, Sotheby’s. |
|
|
|
|
| Mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest level in over three years(6.06%), last seen in September 2022. But here in Kona, cash remains king. In 2025, 34.3% of single-family home buyers and 45.4% of condo buyers paid cash. That jumps to 76% for homes over $2 million and 59% for condos over $1 million. While rates matter, discretionary wealth, lifestyle, and second-home demand continue to drive the market—especially at higher price points. |
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
If you’re planning a visit to the Big Island, let’s connect—we’d love to catch up.
As always, I’ve linked the latest Big Island lifestyle video above, along with market insights, local happenings, and a little slice of life from here in Kona.
Thank you, as always, for your trust, support, and referrals.
Mahalo,
Kai |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Each month we share our Market Update - insights carefully gathered and analyzed to help you stay on top of what really matters. If you’d like to receive these updates directly, let us know and we’ll be happy to add you to our mailing list. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Oahu : $1,141,000 | $507,500 Maui: $1,290,000 | $695,000 Kauai: $1,200,000 | $825,000 Hawaii(Kona): $1,250,000| $615,000
source: Title Guaranty Escrow |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fresh on the Market: Latest Listings from the Past 30 Days |
| Ready to explore your next dream property? Here are the newest listings in Kona and across the Big Island Resorts, each offering its own slice of paradise. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Why We Host Our Private Whale Watch & Sunset Cruise |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As we step into a new year, Emil and I began 2026 in a way that felt especially meaningful - together on the water with our clients. 90 guests joined us for our Private Whale Watch & Sunset Cruise off the Kona coast. Over two relaxed hours, we spotted three whales, watched Hawaiian rainbows from Kealakekua Bay, and, most memorably, shared countless smiles and conversations. This year also marks a few milestones. Emil and I are now eight years strong working together, grounded in shared values and long-term relationships. And for me personally, 2026 marks my 25th year on the Big Island, a place that has shaped both my life and perspective in ways I’m deeply grateful for. The cruise wasn’t about real estate or business. It was simply about starting the year with gratitude, community, and ohana, and being reminded how fortunate we are to share this place and this journey together. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Humpback Whales, Kona, and the Sanctuary That Protects Them |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Every winter, humpback whales migrate nearly 3,000 miles from Alaska to Hawai‘i, and from December through April, the waters off Kona and the Kohala Coast become one of their most important destinations. These warm, shallow waters are where humpbacks breed, give birth, and nurse their calves. Hawaii waters are officially protected as part of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, established in 1992 and spanning thousands of square miles around the main Hawaiian Islands. The sanctuary helps reduce risks such as vessel strikes and human disturbance during this critical season. Having worked as a whale watching guide when I first moved to Hawai‘i, I was reminded that whale watching isn’t about constant action. It’s about patience and imagination. Most of the time, we only see part of a whale -perhaps a spout or the curve of a back - belonging to an animal that can reach nearly 50 feet in length. Knowing how far these whales travel, and how carefully these waters are protected, adds depth to every sighting. It’s a powerful reminder that life in Kona means sharing space with a living ocean ecosystem that still operates on its own terms. |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Enjoy a full lineup of hands-on Japanese and multi-cultural activities and performances. The festival offers hands-on mochi pounding, sake tasting, bon dancing, broke da' mouth food prepared by local organizations, loads of craft vendors, and viewing of the blooming cherry trees. |
|
|
| | |
|
| | Festival-goers can enjoy a full day of activities across two event locations at both the Waikoloa Dry Forest Preserve and Waikoloa Stables. Attendees can explore the forest through guided hikes, participate in hands-on workshops, and visit educational booths hosted by local conservation and cultural organizations. |
|
|
| | |
|
| Mukashi Mukashi Sale When: February 14, 2026 Where: Hawaiʻi Japanese Center |
| Popular sale of treasured vintage gems.
For any questions or inquiries contact the Hawaii Japanese Center 808-934-9611 or info@hawaiijapanesecetner.com |
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
|
|
| 73-1235 Kauilaniakea Dr, 96740 |
| 4 BD 4 BA with Quest Quarter: 2,728 SF $2,200,000 |
| | Situated on a 1.17-acre lot at the top of the subdivision around 2,000-foot elevation, this 2019-built home enjoys cool breezes and year-round comfort without the need for costly A/C. Its elevated position captures beautiful ocean and sunset views from the living room, kitchen/dining area, primary suite, and a guest bedroom - creating a peaceful setting that blends privacy, views, and ideal climate. The property is part of a relaxed, easy-going community with simple CC&Rs and no monthly HOA fees.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
KE TEAM Featured Listings and their Distinctive Lifestyles |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | Four Seasons Hualalai Resort |
| | 2 BD 2 BA 1678 SF $3,995,000 IN ESCROW |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| | | | Vacant Lot NEW PRICE $1,149,000 Shovel-ready homesite comes with HOA approval and a building permits |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | | Vacant Lot NEW PRICE $599,000 An opportunity to build your dream home on a fully-developed homesite |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | | 0 BD 0 BA 0 SF NEW LISTING $549,000 1-acre ocean-view building site. Currently features a mature coffee farm and a permitted storage |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| After an unsuccessful search with another agent, we contacted Emil & Kai, and it made all the difference. We had viewed a dozen homes and made multiple offers with the prior agent, but hadn't found the right fit or approach. We needed someone who would truly partner with us.
We got that from the KE Team. From the start, Emil & Kai took the time to understand what we actually wanted... not just what was on the market. When we sent them listings, they provided honest, thoughtful feedback, sometimes gently steering us away from properties that wouldn't meet our needs. It wasn't about closing a deal quickly; it was about finding the right home. After our previous experience left us feeling defeated, their patience and objectivity were exactly what we needed. They became trusted advisors who encouraged us to stay optimistic and strategic. The right home would come, they assured us.
And it did. When we found the property that checked all our boxes, Emil & Kai guided us through a smart, strategic approach. They advocated strongly on our behalf through several rounds of negotiations, and our offer was accepted with favorable terms. We've been thrilled with our purchase ever since.
What really sets the KE Team apart is how the relationship hasn't ended at closing. I see at least one of them regularly in the community, and they always make me feel like an old friend rather than just a past client. If you're looking for real estate agents in Kailua-Kona who will truly listen to your needs, provide honest guidance, and fight for your best interests, I can't recommend Emil & Kai highly enough.
Logan & Darcie B.
By the way, We never too busy for any of your referrals. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,185,1200,334]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/f6cf4628-622e-4e4b-95f4-d29868bbe11b/origin.png")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[175,12,249,249]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/6c7478bf-acf3-42f3-95c1-56f43a12e9a4/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,0,1080,1080]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/0f8527b4-dd38-4df1-aefb-ef3c6c32b5a6/origin.png")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[79,0,480,480]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/34d2b684-c19c-4056-9e87-afb306305da9/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,356,3291,1658]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/18060765-fa81-46cd-939b-da805a9a5bcb/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[5,0,270,181]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/54f94978-85e2-4805-a0a3-a2e6d7ea57bc/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,58,1164,654]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/f6898a5a-e204-4559-a9fb-6c108552d222/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[27,0,2496,1650]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/26d29ddb-c98e-4c2b-ab0d-461d8a276d36/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[120,0,346,361]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/28430945-a418-415f-a120-9d12c87dfdf8/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[53,0,371,415]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/5c6ad981-1dac-4de9-b617-0f9e70a36069/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,0,604,604]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/13301cf4-956c-43f5-b1dd-5c81bcc152a3/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[27,85,1674,941]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/371e8fbf-9108-4735-8c9c-05a0e593478e/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,0,1422,856]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/777122eebc42772e77e3145fef120d6648a32baa_img_0_89901/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,7,2200,1454]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/75b4d1407461638c1571c7290e26a4651a866cd3_img_0_68c74/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[71,96,3707,2528]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/6072860869f1f23054ac5b791c28816e0c885fe7_img_2_0355e/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[305,0,3422,2268]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/63c9e0aadfab2363220138ebd2a5f80cc62f7012_img_0_41438/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[305,0,3422,2268]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/74c846599ecf99d28f61004c56833790f2362b7e_img_3_4272b/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,103,2209,3108]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/a1089d2f-9f32-4d99-8286-1e4670836aee/origin.jpg")
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/output=format:png,density:360,background:ffffff/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/ucfe-assets/mc-assets/3/Compass_Logo_H_K.svg"){kind=logo}
![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/ALjVIPyY5SBCdSTP1630Sz/rotate=deg:exif/crop=dim:[0,0,1459,554]/output=format:png,density:500/resize=width:600,fit:max/auto_image/compress/"https://www.compass.com/m/15/9b57df36-faf6-428c-972d-a9b70ba53853/origin.png")