The Price is Right: The Cabana at Waikiki

Down a small, hostel-lined side street is The Cabana at Waikiki, a 15-unit former hotel/condo conversion that recently came on market. Century 21 All Islands realtor Eti Fuchs, who showed me a few units in the building, told me that the building was a great deal in a fantastic location—a block to the beach, zoo and Kapiolani Park. And despite my initial hesitations (it’s an older building and a four-floor walk-up), after seeing the refurbished condos, I have to agree.

There are nine one-bedroom/one-bath condos available (one is in escrow; five have sold) listed between $209,000 and $219,000. The pet-friendly condos are being sold fully furnished, and have been tastefully outfitted with wood furnishings and Island-style accessories and linens (think subtle floral and pineapple motifs). There’s wood-laminate flooring in the living room, ceramic tile in the bath and cream-color carpet in the bedroom, which is separated from the common space with sliding wood doors.

The fully equipped kitchenette is small but functional, with new cabinets, a refrigerator and microwave, while the bathrooms have neutral-color tiles and either a walk-in shower or tub/shower combo. Each condo also has a smallish lanai (between 50 and 58 square feet) with a bistro table and chairs and a small bar fridge. The lanai have views of the building next-door, which isn’t ideal, but outdoor space in Waikiki is always in demand, even if it doesn’t come with an ocean vista (and, at this price point, I think that would be wishful thinking).

Overall, I only have two qualms: The condos do not come with parking, though buyers can purchase one of seven ground-floor spaces (three have already sold) for $45,000. And secondly, the laundry facility is located outside on the ground floor and has coin-operated machines. While these probably aren’t deal-breakers for most buyers, they’re definitely worth noting.

Money talk: One-bedroom, one-bath condos are listed between $209,000 and $219,000 fee simple. Monthly maintenance fees are $295, though they could go up soon if owners decide to have cable installed.

Listing agent: Cliff Colvin, Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties. 381-6703, cliff@cliffcolvin.com.