Mortgage rates just dropped again — the 30-year fixed is now averaging 6.17%, the lowest we’ve seen in over a year. The 15-year fixed also dipped to 5.41%. The good news: More homeowners are taking advantage of this opportunity to refinance and lower their monthly payments. The catch: After the Federal Reserve’s meeting this week, daily rates started to rise slightly following comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell suggesting another rate cut in December isn’t guaranteed. Even

Many local homeowners are holding tight to their homes — and it’s easy to see why. Those who locked in low 3–4% mortgage rates during the pandemic aren’t eager to give them up for today’s mid-6% rates. This “golden handcuffs” effect is keeping inventory low across the islands. Homes that would normally come back on the market are staying off, making it harder for new buyers to find options and keeping prices steady. Here in Hawai‘i, that means fewer listings, strong demand, a

The current housing market is challenging for buyers, with home prices reaching a record high due to elevated mortgage rates and limited...