BILL &
SHELLEY's
HONOLULU HALE
For Billy and Shelley, the biggest lesson in the home buying process was purchasing a home in a completely different location than they originally targeted. Their experience shows how important it is to keep an open mind, because incredible opportunities may be where you least expect!
Particularly in a market as competitive as Hawaii, it pays to be open-minded. “Truthfully, we would never have been able to get this house on the windward side,” Bill explains. “But we couldn’t be happier. Be open to all possibilities!”
After living in Hawaii for a few years, the Schoonover-Gustafson Ohana started considering purchasing a home. “It made the most sense economically to own, rather than spending so much on rent. We also felt the pull to nest and make a place our own.” Before Oahu, this family had been living and working abroad in Thailand for 5 years, and while it was time to return to the States, Hawaii felt a much easier and natural transition than the mainland. They were drawn to the island’s diversity, culture and environment.
Their initial hunt for a home began in Kailua. They absolutely love the windward side of Oahu, and at first they didn’t consider much else. But when they weren’t able to find the right fit in Kailua, they expanded their search, and wound up purchasing a home on a completely different part of the island. And they are absolutely thrilled about it!
The house truly is incredible. Immediately upon walking up winding stairs to the front door, you are greeted by the most incredible, sweeping view of Honolulu and Diamond Head. The front lanai opens up to the cozy main living area and kitchen, providing the much desired indoor-outdoor living concept that so many in Hawaii dream of. Walking through the house, you are taken to a quiant courtyard garden, and finally to the backyard with beautiful lush landscaping and a continued opportunity to take in the incredible view. Bill also excitedly shows off their newly installed solar panels; both Shelley and Bill work in environmental careers and are passionate about green energy.
When discussing their favorite parts of the home, Bill explains “The view is top, of course. But the biggest surprise to us was the night view!” During the time they initially toured the home and then were in escrow, they never actually saw the house at night. “That first evening here was spectacular, watching the way the city comes alive at night. It is a completely different, but fantastic scene!”
Particularly in a market as competitive as Hawaii, it pays to be open-minded. “Truthfully, we would never have been able to get this house on the windward side,” Bill explains. “But we couldn’t be happier. Be open to all possibilities!”
Read Shannon's thoughts on her journey with Bill and Shelley.
"Working with the Schoonovers was a breath of fresh air"
Shannon King
Working with the Schoonovers was a breath of fresh air. Their contagious energy and global perspective (having lived all over the world) made working with them a dream. When we started looking in Kailua, it was obvious finding a home with a view was going to play into their decision.
With Bill having started a new career in selling solar PV for RevoluSun when they moved to Oahu, they were faced with the same issue many of our clients face - new career in sales - means you have to wait 2 years of documented income to purchase. That was a bit frustrating for them, but I think in the end it worked out in their favor, as they were buying in the spring of 2020 when the Pandemic was in full swing - and few buyers were out looking. They landed a home with an incredible view, at an amazing price and already have a HUGE amount of equity built due to timing the market well.
Their home is the ultimate Pau Hana escape with such a cool vibe. We are super excited for this amazing family!
SHANNON W. KING (R - 22278)
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