Renovated Puunui cottage

Despite the yardwork, there's something about single-family living that is charming and, well, independent. If you're hoping to live in a single-family home but have a condo budget, this cute little cottage may be for you. (Click here for details.)

At 624 square feet, this home is the size of many condos in Honolulu, but it does sit on a 2,509-square-foot lot, so you have some yard space. There are two bedrooms and one bathroom, even a covered garage and carport so you can fit two cars on the property.

Like many homes in Puunui, this is older-65 years old-so there's nothing remarkable about the design, inside or out. However, since the owners have had it for decades, they took the time to renovate it completely and carefully, with attention to detail. In addition to new appliances, laminate flooring and granite countertops, the electrical wiring and plumbing throughout is completely new.

This area of Puunui is very quiet and tucked away from the general area traffic, so you can hear the stream in the back and enjoy lush foliage. It's still very convenient to the bus line and the park, however, for days when you need to get out.