FSBO in Honolulu, HI
Hawaii does not require an attorney at closing — escrow companies handle most transactions. However, Hawaii real estate has unique complexities — especially leasehold land, condo AOAO (association) regulations, and foreign buyer FIRPTA requirements.
Required Disclosures
Hawaii requires sellers to complete the Seller's Real Property Disclosure Statement (SRPDS) for residential sales. Disclose all known material defects. Hawaii also has specific disclosures for tsunami inundation zones, lava zones, and flood zones.
Leasehold vs. Fee Simple
This is Hawaii's most important disclosure: is your property fee simple (you own the land) or leasehold (you own the structure but lease the land from a ground lessor)? Leasehold properties have lower values, financing restrictions, and lease renegotiation risk. Disclose this prominently — buyers unfamiliar with Hawaii often don't understand the distinction.
Lava and Natural Hazard Zones
Hawaii has lava flow risk maps (Lava Flow Hazard Zones 1–9). Oahu is lower risk than Big Island, but some areas carry hazard designations. Disclose all applicable hazard zone designations. Tsunami inundation zones must also be disclosed.
Condo (AOAO) Properties
If selling a condo, Hawaii AOAO law requires you to provide: AOAO Declaration, Bylaws, House Rules, financial statements, reserve study, and pending litigation disclosures. Budget for this document assembly — it takes time.
MLS Access
Hawaii Information Service (HAREIS) is Hawaii's statewide MLS. Flat fee services list for $199–$499 given Hawaii's higher-value market. Offer 2–2.5% buyer's agent commission.
Full Honolulu FSBO guide at byownerhub.com/honolulu.