Aloha! This is Chiaki Yamada with KW-Big Island. I hope you're enjoying the beautiful Spring season! If you are on the island, make a point of driving from Kona to Waimea or Waikoloa along the Mamalahoa Highway to enjoy the blooming Jacaranda and Silver Oak trees at Pu`uwa`awa`a. Gorgeous!

In April, the Kona single-family home market saw a slight improvement in the price range under $1.5 million compared to March. However, the condo market continues to experience slower activity.

So far this year, we are witnessing a decrease in buyers from outside Hawai`i, who typically purchase short-term vacation rental (STVR) condos, second homes, or future retirement properties. This decline is impacting overall buying demand, particularly in these segments.

In today's changing real estate market, properties which are selling quickly tend to share four key factors: views, privacy, move-in ready condition, and competitive pricing.

On a positive note, many local homeowners are looking to upgrade or downsize their homes or condos. These local sellers and buyers remain active in the market. However, a significant challenge is whether they can secure replacement properties before selling their current homes. In today’s market, sellers are often reluctant to accept offers that are contingent on the buyer first selling their existing property. If you need assistance buying a home before selling your existing one, several financial options are available. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me for more information.

Kona Residential Market Overview (as of April 21, 2026)
Here’s a snapshot of the Kona residential market, including key insights:

  1. Active Listings: Decreased by 12% compared to March
  2. Pending Ratio: Increased by 29%, indicating a slight market improvement
  3. Average Days on Market: Currently, properties are taking an average of 120 days 
  4. Closed Properties: Over the past 30 days, properties have closed at an average of 93% of their original asking price and 97% of their revised asking price.

Please keep in mind that market conditions can vary significantly by price range, and it is taking longer to find buyers in some segments.

In Kona’s condo market as of April 21, 2026, inventory remains high, while buying activity is low but steady. The highest inventory levels are observed in properties priced between $500,000 and $1M. The Pending Ratio (the ratio of pending sales to active listings) is concerningly low at 20%, indicating a buyer's market. Currently, average days on the market for condos have reached 120 days.

Over the past 30 days, properties have closed at an average of 93% of their original asking price and 96% of their revised asking price.

For those considering an investment in the Kona condo market, this may be an opportune time to explore potential deals, as increased activity could lead to favorable opportunities.
I am here to provide you with a detailed market analysis for your neighborhood. If you or anyone you know may be thinking of buying, selling or both, I would be happy to be of service!