The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Makaweli, HI
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Makaweli, Hawaii. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Makaweli
John S. K. Chang
Law Offices of John S. K. Chang
John S. K. Chang is a highly regarded real estate attorney with over 20 years of experience, specializing in residential and commercial real estate transactions across Hawaii, including Kauai. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail, strong negotiation skills, and high client satisfaction rates. His practice focuses on property acquisitions, sales, leasing, and title issues, with a reputation for achieving favorable outcomes in complex real estate matters. He serves clients statewide, including Makaweli, and maintains a 4.9 rating based on extensive positive reviews.
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Lance D. Collins
Collins Law Office
Lance D. Collins has built a strong reputation over 18 years as a real estate attorney, with expertise in land use, property disputes, and transactional law. He serves clients on multiple islands, including Kauai and Makaweli, and is praised for his practical approach and successful resolution of real estate conflicts. His practice emphasizes client communication and cost-effective solutions, resulting in a 4.8 rating from numerous satisfied clients. He is actively involved in Hawaii's real estate legal community and has a track record of positive case outcomes.
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Keith K. Kobayashi
Kobayashi Sugita & Goda, LLP
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local Kauaʻi or Makaweli regulations should a real estate attorney help me navigate?
A Makaweli real estate attorney should be well-versed in Kauaʻi County zoning laws, shoreline setback rules, and the State of Hawaii's Land Use Commission (LUC) classifications. They are crucial for navigating regulations related to agricultural land use, water rights, and any historic preservation considerations unique to the area, ensuring your transaction or development complies with local and state mandates.
Why is it important to hire a Hawaii-licensed attorney for a real estate transaction in Makaweli, rather than just using a mainland title company?
Hawaii has unique property laws, including the Land Court and Regular System for titles, specific leasehold and fee simple issues, and complex rights related to water and access (e.g., traditional Hawaiian gathering rights). A local attorney ensures proper due diligence on these matters, which a mainland title company may not fully understand, protecting you from future legal disputes over ownership.
What should I look for when choosing a real estate attorney for an agricultural property purchase in the Makaweli area?
Look for an attorney with specific experience in Hawaii agricultural transactions. They should understand water lease agreements from the Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative or other sources, agricultural easements, and County requirements for farm dwellings. Their expertise is vital for reviewing the terms of agricultural leases and ensuring the land's designated use aligns with your plans and legal restrictions.
Can a real estate attorney in Makaweli help with quiet title actions or boundary disputes common in older Hawaiian properties?
Yes, this is a key service. Many properties on Kauaʻi, especially in older areas like Makaweli, may have unclear historical boundaries or title issues stemming from the Great Mahele or informal family transfers. A local attorney can file a quiet title action in Kauaʻi's Fifth Circuit Court to legally establish clear ownership, which is often a prerequisite for selling or financing the property.
How do real estate attorney fees typically work for a residential closing in Makaweli, and what is usually included?
Fees are often a flat rate or hourly, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,500+ depending on complexity. The service includes reviewing the Purchase Contract, conducting a title search, preparing or reviewing the deed, overseeing escrow instructions, and representing you at closing. For unique properties, they also coordinate with surveyors and title companies to address any Kauaʻi-specific title exceptions.
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