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Honolulu Rental Properties
We've lived in apartments in several cities in the United States and Europe and finding a Honolulu rental was by far the most stressful.
In the past, to find an apartment we walked around, chose the buildings we were interested in and went in to talk to the managers. Here, the property managers have very limited ofice hours and more often than not don't have any information about units for sale or rent. So we scoured the local newspapers and online listings and looked at as many places as we could until we found an apartment and a realtor that we liked. The apartment we chose is one we found through the Hononolulu Advertiser newspaper and our realtor is Cheryl “Maiki” Mikel, (RA). She is helpful, responsive and always pleasant and professional. If you would like help finding a Honolulu rental, Cheryl would be happy to speak with you.
Viewing AppointmentsUsually realtors show the unit for the owner. Sometimes realtors announce a pre selected, fixed time for the viewing. Other times, the realtor takes down names and phones numbers of interested parties, then chooses a time and date to show the place. Some realtors show the unit only this once and will not make arrangements for those who cannot make it. Others are more flexible and will try to work with your schedule.
Remember: if a realtor is representing the owner, you as a renter will be dealing most often with the realtor. If you have trouble with a realtor when you are just looking, you might have trouble when you need help during your lease. LeasesThere are many short term vacation rentals all over Honolulu, especially in Waikiki but if you're looking for a long term rental, a 6 month or 1 year lease is usually required. Owners are allowed to charge up to one month's rent for a deposit so basically you will have to pay two months rent up front.There is generally a penalty for breaking a lease if you move before the lease is up. Make sure you understand the penalty even if you do expect to stay for the whole lease. Make sure you understand the renter's responsibilities at the end of the lease. For example, some places require the renter to have the carpets shampooed before moving out. Read and understand the lease so you don't have any unpleasant surprises. If you don't understand or agree with certain terms of the lease, get clarification from the realtor or owner. Again, some conditions may be negotiable.
It can be both an exciting time and a tense time when looking for a place to live but once you're moved in and settled, you can really start enjoying all that Honolulu and Waikiki have to offer.
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