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| New Year | Whale and Seaglider | 2025 Color | Shohei |
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| Aloha, Friends and Family,
We hope 2025 is off to a joyful and peaceful start for you. The Big Island welcomed the new year with dramatic, uncharacteristic waves—a breathtaking reminder of nature’s beauty and power.
Our hearts go out to California as they face challenges from the wildfires as Hawaii did in 2023. With many friends and clients and nearly half of our buyers coming from the Golden State, this hits close to home. In a gesture of support, Compass agents have collectively donated over $230,000 to aid recovery efforts—proof that even small actions can make a difference.
Core inflation has eased slightly on the economic front, but employment remains strong. The FED may hold back on significant rate cuts early this year; here are 2025 mortgage rate predictions from top sources: Economic trends often shift with new leadership, and we’ll keep a close eye as policies evolve under the incoming president.
This month’s newsletter includes highlights from 2024, updates on whales, lava, 2025 color trends, and innovative ocean gliders. Let's connect if you’re visiting the Big Island soon—I’d love to catch up.
Thank you, as always, for your trust, support, and referrals.
Mahalo,
Kai |
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| | The New Year is a special time filled with meaning and tradition. We cook symbolic dishes and toast with sake to cleanse the past year. Lotus root represents clarity, sweet black beans remind us of diligence, vibrant carrots celebrate life, and shrimp signify longevity. These little rituals make the New Year feel extra special, connecting us to the future with gratitude and hope. |
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This holiday season, Kilauea Volcano is putting on quite the show! Its fifth eruption since December 23 has started again today. So far, these eruptions have been brief, lasting only a few days each time. Kilauea is a small volcano located on the other side of the island, there’s no safety concern. If you hear news of the eruption, don’t hesitate—go check it out! You can watch Kilauea’s live webcam feed here. |
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| | | Shohei Ohtani, the 2024 MVP and a proud Dodger, has officially begun construction on his dream home at the stunning Mauna Kea Resort. I had the privilege of selling the neighboring lot($7.5M) and celebrating at the groundbreaking party. A few exclusive lots are still available—imagine calling Shohei your neighbor! |
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| The 2025 PGA Mitsubishi Electric Championship wrapped up with Ernie Els taking the win and Alex Cejka as runner-up. A special highlight was seeing Kevin, our daughters' longtime classmate, caddying for Cejka to a second-place finish. Kevin, now on UH Hilo’s golf team, surely deserves a cut of the prize! Watch Ernie’s incredible tee shot in this month’s VIDEO! |
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Here is the summary of 2024 Kona and Kohala Coast. We will track the market data through out 2025. |
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Whales, Seagliders & A Vision for Hawaii |
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| I recently spotted the season’s first humpback whale off the Kona Coast, and it took me back to my days as a whaleboat guide—moments filled with awe and reality checks about the threats these gentle giants face. This magical sighting and memories of the 2007 Superferry debate got me thinking: Can Hawaii embrace innovation without compromising its delicate ecosystem? Enter the Hawaii Seaglider Initiative, a groundbreaking approach to interisland travel. These eco-friendly, electric vessels glide above the ocean at 180 mph, avoiding harm to marine life while offering a sustainable alternative to planes and ferries. Backed by Hawaiian Airlines and local communities, this initiative could transform life here, improving connectivity while respecting our islands’ essence. Can tradition and technology coexist in Hawaii’s future? |
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Kuleana Rum Works: A Sip of Hawaii’s Soul |
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| On Hawaii’s Big Island, Kuleana Rum Works is redefining the craft of rum-making while honoring the islands' deep heritage. My personal connection with Steve Jefferson, the inspiring CEO, has given me a firsthand look at the passion behind his vision. What sets Kuleana apart? They craft their rum from fresh sugarcane juice grown right on their plantation and never add flavors, sweeteners, or colors, preserving the original and unrivaled flavors of Hawaiian sugarcane. At a recent investor Pau Hana, I experienced a rare 13-year-old Jamaican rum from their collection—a testament to their excellence and Hawaii’s emerging status in the world of fine spirits. Ready to experience the true flavor of the islands? |
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HOME INSPIRATION 2025 Trend Color and Quiet Luxury |
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The 2025 Color of the Year selections are here! From left to right, Behr(Rumors), Sherwin-Williams(Quietude), Pantone(Mocha Mousse), and Benjamin Moore(Cinnamon Slate). The deep crimsons, heathered plums, and soft mocha hues exude sophistication and comfort. These trends perfectly align with the “Quiet Luxury” movement in high-end homes, reflecting a global shift towards warmth, depth, and understated elegance. For buyers and sellers alike, the power of these curated palettes is undeniable. Combine these colors with serene, neutral tones and natural materials, like stone and linen, to create a home that feels like an effortlessly elegant retreat. Whether you’re staging to sell or curating your dream home, the 2025 trend emphasizes discreet luxury that is timeless. Learn more below... |
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Local Artist: Terry Field |
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Reconnecting with local artist Terry Field at a recent Kuleana Rum event was a heartwarming reminder of the talent and creativity that thrives on the Big Island. Terry continues to inspire with her latest collaboration: a beautifully designed Kuleana Rum bottle label that perfectly captures the spirit of Hawaii. Beyond her art, Terry hosts Paint and Sip workshops—an ideal way to unwind, connect, and embrace your inner artist. I haven’t tried one yet, but it’s definitely on my list after hearing rave reviews from friends! Whether you’re a fan of art, fine rum, or unique island experiences, Terry’s work and workshops highlight the magic of life here on the Big Island. |
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Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival When: February 1, 2025 Where: Waimea Town |
| This festival celebrates Japanese heritage with vibrant cherry blossoms. From 9 AM to 3 PM, immerse yourself in Japanese and multicultural traditions, including mochi pounding, bon dancing, and sake tasting. There will be crafts and food vendors. The event sprawls across Waimea. 📍 Tip: Arrive early to enjoy pleasant weather |
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| HAWAI'I Island Living and Design Expo When: February 24- 25, 9:00–5:00 PM Where: Outrigger Keauhou |
| Explore the latest in home design, sustainability, and living trends at this annual expo at the Outrigger Kona Resort. Perfect for homeowners and those planning renovations! 👉 Learn more here |
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| KE TEAM Kicking Off 2025 with Exciting Upcoming Listings |
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| The KE Team is thrilled to kick off the year by showcasing an exciting preview of our upcoming listings. Here’s a sneak peek at a few:
A two-story Kona multifamily home with a pool, perfect for entertaining. A stunning 7,000+ sq. ft. Kona luxury estate offering resort-style amenities. A charming Holualoa compound with a main house, guest house, and pool on an acre of land. A modern 5,000+ sq. ft. Mauna Lani new build featuring premium finishes and a private pool.
Stay tuned for details! |
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KE Listing Successful Vacation Rental |
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| | 77-212 Ke Alohi Kai Place |
| 4 BD 7 BA 4,035 SF $4,595,000 |
| Welcome to your Hawaiian paradise! This luxurious 4-bedroom, 7-bathroom (4 full, 3 half) custom home is nestled in the exclusive "resort zone" oceanfront gated community of Ke Alohi Kai, Kailua Kona. |
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| | | 3 BD 3 BA 2276 SF $1,399,950 |
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| | | | 82-6115 Hawaiʻi Belt Road |
| 0 BD 0 BA 0 SF $1,995,000 |
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| " Working with Kai and Emil from Compass Realtors on the Big Island was nothing short of extraordinary. They turned the process of purchasing my dream home in Kona into a seamless, door-to-door white-glove experience that was both classy and deeply personal. Kai’s exceptional expertise and genuine care stood out from the very beginning. He took the time to explain the different areas of Kona, helping me understand where I would truly feel happy and at home, especially after a significant life transition. His thoughtful guidance, combined with an in-depth knowledge of the island, ensured that every aspect of my decision was well-informed and aligned with my vision. Emil’s support and professionalism perfectly complemented the journey, creating a team dynamic that felt effortless and inspired confidence. What truly sets them apart is their ability to transform a business transaction into a lifelong connection. Kai, Emil, and I are now forever friends, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have had them by my side during such a monumental milestone.
If you’re looking for a team that combines impeccable service, deep local knowledge, and a personal touch, Kai and Emil are the ones to trust. Thanks to them, I’m now enjoying the beauty of Kona in my dream home!"
K. Kupau
By the way, We never too busy for any of your referrals. |
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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. |
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