Are you trying to sell your house in Hawaii, but don't know where to start? In this article I'm going to show you a few different options you have for selling your house (or condo, townhouse, multi-family, etc. ), whether you're looking for a top of market retail value or a quick sale, whether you're in preforeclosure or have oodles of equity. The right option will be determined by you alone, so buckle up and let's get right to it!Sell my home Kansas city

It's no secret that the Hawaii real estate market operates at a different price point than most markets in America. Oahu, Maui, Kaua, Big Island - of course, there are differences across and between the islands, but real estate here is generally expensive compared to the rest of the country. For this reason (among many others), it's critical to understand both the local market as well as your options for selling your property.

Option #1: List Your House With A Realtor

This is the option most people selling their home are familiar with. It is not - I repeat, not - the only way to sell your house, no matter what some might tell you. It is perfectly legal to sell your house on your own, however most people do enlist the services of a licensed real estate agent.

Pros: A good agent will know your local market conditions if you aren't up to speed yourself. Trending prices of Waikiki condos? The affects of Chinese tourism increases on townhouses in Kihei? Whether you should buy in Poipu or Kapaa? Your agent should have industry insight into these questions. They should also know about local Hawaii-specific guidelines and regulations, such as the differences in shoreline setback regulations between Oahu and Kauai and legalities of erosion control structures. Being a coastal state means extra considerations. A realtor will also handle most if not all of the paperwork, filings, open houses and other activities that stand in the way of a closing.

Cons: Listing your house with an agent will, in most cases, cost you 6% in commission fees. That might not be a big deal in some states, but in Hawaii that can easily be $30, 000 or more for a single family house. You might also have differing opinions on the listing price and timeframe for price drops than your agent. What will you do when opinions differ? If your house is in foreclosure, then you also need to have an agent who understands how foreclosures are handled here - our laws and guidelines aren't the same as on the mainland. Many realtors, unfortunately, don't know how to handle a short sale and Hawaii has no shortage of overleveraged mortgages.

Bottom Line: If you have the budget and don't mind waiting for a top of the line retail price, than using an agent to sell your house is likely the best bet. Ask me for a local referral if you need one.

Option #2: Selling Your House Yourself On The Market

This option has become quite popular in recent years. The "For Sale By Owner" or "FSBO" tactic has become the method of choice for home sellers from Honolulu to Kehaka. Do you have the chops?

Pros: Save that 6%. Probably the most common reason for home sellers to go it alone is to save that commission and keep it in their pocket. As stated earlier, that's a large chunk of change in Hawaii where homes can easily sell for over $500, 000. Another reason might be controlling to whom and when you show your house. You and you alone will determine your open house schedule. Want to go surfing on Sunday? Go for it - tell the buyers to pop in on Saturday morning instead. It's your call. Lastly, you can list your own property on the MLS for $300 or less for added exposure.