The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Honolulu, HI
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Honolulu, Hawaii. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Honolulu
Mark K. K. Murakami
Damon Key Leong Kupchak Hastert
Mark Murakami is a highly respected real estate attorney with over 25 years of experience handling complex real estate transactions in Hawaii. He chairs the firm's Real Estate & Finance Practice Group and is recognized by Chambers USA and Best Lawyers in America. His practice encompasses commercial and residential real estate, development, financing, and land use matters. Clients consistently praise his thoroughness, strategic approach, and ability to navigate Hawaii's unique real estate laws.
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Robert H. Thomas
Damon Key Leong Kupchak Hastert
Robert Thomas is a leading real estate litigator specializing in eminent domain, inverse condemnation, and property rights cases. With over two decades of experience, he has successfully represented clients in high-stakes real estate disputes and is regularly appointed by courts as a mediator in complex property cases. He maintains the influential Hawaii Inverse Condemnation blog and is recognized nationally for his expertise in takings law and property rights litigation.
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James J. Bickerton
Bickerton Law Group LLP
James Bickerton is a seasoned real estate attorney with over three decades of experience representing developers, investors, and property owners in Hawaii. His practice focuses on complex real estate development projects, commercial transactions, and land use approvals. He has been instrumental in numerous high-profile development projects across Oahu and is known for his strategic counsel in navigating Hawaii's regulatory environment. Clients value his practical approach and deep understanding of local real estate markets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to hire a Honolulu-based real estate attorney for a residential purchase, given Hawaii's unique laws?
Hawaii has distinct property laws not found on the mainland, such as the Land Court and Regular System for titles, complex leasehold property rules, and specific regulations regarding water rights and easements. A Honolulu attorney understands these local intricacies, can navigate the unique State of Hawaii Land Court process, and ensures compliance with county-specific ordinances that affect your transaction.
What specific local issues can a Honolulu real estate attorney help with for a condo purchase in Waikiki?
An attorney can review the condo's governing documents for any unique restrictions, assess the financial health of the association (crucial in high-rise buildings), and clarify leasehold terms if the land is not fee simple. They also ensure compliance with Honolulu's strict short-term rental ordinances (like Ordinance 22-7) and zoning laws that are particularly relevant in dense tourist areas.
How do real estate attorney fees typically work for a transaction in Honolulu, and are they higher than the national average?
Fees are usually a flat rate or hourly, not a percentage of the sale price. Costs can be higher than the national average due to Honolulu's high cost of living and the added complexity of Hawaii's land laws. It's standard to receive a written fee agreement upfront, and the investment is justified by the attorney's role in preventing costly title defects or contractual disputes unique to the island's market.
Can a Honolulu real estate attorney assist with issues related to 'ohana' dwellings or accessory dwelling units (ADUs)?
Yes, absolutely. Honolulu has specific rules under the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu (ROH) governing the creation and use of ADUs and 'ohana' units. An attorney can guide you through the permitting process with the City and County of Honolulu, ensure the structure is legally compliant, and help draft proper rental or use agreements that adhere to local zoning codes.
What role does a real estate attorney play in a leasehold property transaction in Honolulu?
This is a critical service. The attorney will meticulously review the ground lease terms, including rent renegotiation dates, fees, and expiration. They advise on the implications of the lease's remaining term on financing and resale value, and may negotiate with the landowner (often a large estate or trust) on your behalf. This expertise is vital as leasehold properties are common in Hawaii but rare elsewhere.
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