The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Hawi, HI
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Hawi, Hawaii. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Hawi
William S. Hunt
William S. Hunt, Attorney at Law, A Limited Liability Law Company
William S. Hunt is a highly respected real estate attorney serving the North Kohala region including Hawi. With over two decades of experience, he specializes in Hawaii real estate transactions, land use matters, and property law. His practice is particularly strong in handling complex Hawaii-specific land issues, including native Hawaiian land rights, agricultural land transactions, and residential property matters. Clients consistently praise his deep knowledge of local real estate laws and his ability to navigate the unique challenges of Hawaii property transactions. He maintains a perfect 5.0 rating across multiple review platforms and is known for his meticulous attention to detail and personalized service for North Kohala clients.
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Gary G. Grimmer
Grimmer & Associates, LLLC
Gary Grimmer leads one of the most established real estate law practices on the Big Island, serving clients throughout Hawaii Island including Hawi. With 25 years of specialized real estate experience, his firm handles complex residential and commercial transactions, development projects, and land use matters. Grimmer is particularly recognized for his expertise in Hawaii's unique land tenure systems and development regulations. The firm receives outstanding client reviews for their professionalism, responsiveness, and deep understanding of Hawaii real estate law. They regularly handle matters in North Kohala and have extensive experience with the specific challenges facing property owners in the Hawi area.
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Roy A. Vitousek III
Cronin, Fried, Sekiya, Kekina & Fairbanks
Roy Vitousek is a highly-regarded real estate attorney with Cronin Fried, one of Hawaii's premier real estate law firms. While based in Honolulu, the firm actively serves clients throughout the Hawaiian Islands, including the Big Island and Hawi area. Vitousek brings 18 years of sophisticated real estate experience, particularly in complex commercial transactions, development projects, and land use matters. His practice includes representation of landowners, developers, and investors in significant real estate ventures across Hawaii. Clients consistently rate his work highly for his strategic approach to complex real estate issues and his ability to navigate Hawaii's unique regulatory environment. The firm has established relationships with local counsel throughout the islands to ensure seamless service for North Kohala clients.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local zoning or land use issues in Hawi, HI, should I discuss with a real estate attorney?
In Hawi and the broader North Kohala district, key issues include agricultural zoning (A), conservation district regulations, and historic preservation rules, as the area contains culturally significant sites. An attorney can help navigate County of Hawaii ordinances regarding ohana dwellings, farm worker housing, and permissible uses on agriculturally-zoned land, which are common for rural Hawi properties.
How can a Hawi-based real estate attorney help with a transaction involving a leasehold property, which is common in Hawaii?
A local attorney is crucial for reviewing the lease terms, ground rent renegotiation schedules, and lessor/lessee rights, which differ from fee simple transactions. They can advise on the specific implications for the North Kohala market, help negotiate lease extension terms, and ensure you understand the long-term financial and ownership implications unique to Hawaii's leasehold system.
When buying a home in Hawi, what unique title issues might a real estate attorney uncover?
Given Hawaii's history, title searches in Hawi may reveal issues like native Hawaiian rights (e.g., access, burial sites), old sugar plantation easements, or incomplete chains of title from the Kingdom era. A local attorney ensures a proper title search addresses these unique historical factors and can secure title insurance that adequately covers such risks specific to the Big Island.
What should I know about hiring a real estate attorney for a vacant land purchase in the Hawi area?
For vacant land in North Kohala, an attorney is essential to verify access rights (often via unpaved roads or easements), confirm availability of water (like a catchment system or well permit), and ensure the land is suitable for your intended use per county codes. They also review CC&Rs for agricultural subdivisions, which are prevalent around Hawi.
Are there any state or county-specific disclosure forms in Hawaii that a real estate attorney in Hawi can help me with?
Yes, a Hawi attorney will ensure compliance with the Hawaii Seller's Real Property Disclosure Statement and any supplemental County of Hawaii disclosures. They are particularly important for advising on disclosures related to lava zones (Hawi is in Zone 9, lower risk), tsunami evacuation zones, and the presence of invasive species like little fire ants, which are relevant concerns for Big Island properties.
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