Location, location, renovation

This past Sunday, we decided to look at places that seemed to be good values, like yesterday’s home at 140 S. Kuakini St. Another new listing that has good potential is this top floor unit at 2845 Waialae Pl., a low-rise condo near the University of Hawaii. (Click here for details.)

It’s just under $200,000, which is pretty reasonable for the location. The building is 36 years old, but the renovations are brand new, including paint, carpet, kitchen, and bathroom. The owners even put in a new air conditioning unit and ceiling fan to make it convenient to move right in.

One thing that struck me as I looked at this smallish one-bedroom unit—it’s just 445 square feet—the space looks bigger thanks to the renovations and, most of all, the staging. (Pay attention, realtors!)

“Normally, I leave the staging to professionals,” says realtor Tom Presler. “But the owners had extra furniture and accessories that matched the layout, so we could create a space that added just enough pops of color for showing.”

The condo unit comes with covered parking and storage. If you’re not familiar with the building, it’s right off Waialae and Kapiolani as you head to the westbound freeway entrance near UH.

“The location makes it a great starter home or an investment property,” Presler adds.

Money talk: $199,000 fee simple
Contact: Tom Presler, Prudential Locations, 808-222-4054, Tom.Presler@pruhawaii.com