Frequently Asked Questions
Owner FAQ
Straight answers to the questions Oahu owners ask most, from getting started and leasing to maintenance, statements and Hawaii rules.
Pick a topic or scroll through. Your management agreement and any written quote are the final word on your specific terms.
Getting Started
What happens after I sign the management agreement?
We schedule a walkthrough, collect keys and documents, set up your owner portal and recommend any rent-ready updates. Then we photograph the home and prepare marketing.
What insurance do I need?
You will need a landlord or dwelling insurance policy that covers the home as a rental, including liability coverage. We will share our specific requirements during onboarding.
Do I need to keep utilities on while the home is vacant?
Yes. Keeping power and water on allows showings, cleaning and repairs. Residents usually transfer utilities they pay for into their own name at move-in.
Will the locks be changed between residents?
We recommend rekeying between every occupancy for security and to keep track of keys.
I live off-island. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Hawaii requires off-island owners to designate an on-island agent (HRS §521-43), and we can serve in that role.
Leasing
How much will my property rent for?
Request a free rental analysis. We review your home and comparable rentals to recommend a realistic rent.
How do you market and show homes?
We use professional photos and online listings, respond to inquiries quickly and schedule showings with qualified prospects.
How long does it take to lease?
It varies with price, condition, location and season. Homes that are clean, well-priced and well-presented lease fastest.
How do you screen residents?
Every applicant is evaluated with the same written criteria covering income, rental history, credit and background, in line with fair housing laws. See our application criteria.
How much security deposit do you collect?
Hawaii law generally limits the security deposit to one month’s rent, plus a separate pet deposit for approved pets (HRS §521-44).
Do you allow pets?
That is your call. Pet-friendly homes reach more renters, and Hawaii allows a separate pet deposit. Assistance animals must be allowed as a reasonable accommodation.
Maintenance
How do you handle maintenance?
Residents submit requests online. We troubleshoot, dispatch a licensed and insured vendor and keep you informed. Larger non-emergency repairs are approved by you first.
Can I use my own vendors or do repairs myself?
Often yes while the home is vacant. For occupied homes we generally use vendors we know so we can respond quickly and document the work.
How are emergencies handled after hours?
Residents can reach us for emergencies, and we coordinate a response to protect people and property, then update you.
What repairs are residents responsible for?
Residents are responsible for damage caused by themselves, guests or pets beyond normal wear and tear, plus routine items like light bulbs and keeping drains clear.
Accounting
When will I receive rent?
Rent is collected online and disbursed to you monthly along with an owner statement in your portal.
How are security deposits handled?
Deposits are held according to Hawaii law and returned with an itemized statement of any deductions within 14 days after a resident moves out (HRS §521-44).
What taxes apply to rental income in Hawaii?
Rental income is generally subject to Hawaii General Excise Tax (GET) as well as income tax. Talk with your tax professional about your obligations; we provide statements and year-end documents to help.
Do you charge a fee while the home is vacant?
Your written quote spells out exactly how and when fees apply. Ask us during your consultation.
Can you pay my HOA dues or other bills?
In many cases we can pay recurring property bills such as HOA dues from rental income. We will discuss what works best during onboarding.
General
Can I visit my property while it is occupied?
Residents have a right to privacy. Hawaii law generally requires at least two days’ notice before entry (HRS §521-53). We can coordinate a visit or share inspection photos.
Can I raise the rent each year?
Rent changes generally take effect at lease renewal. We review the market before each renewal and recommend an amount that balances income and retention.
What if I want to sell the home?
Let us know early. Selling vacant is often simplest, but we can coordinate showings with residents if needed. See Rental Property Sales.
How do I end management if I need to?
The termination terms are spelled out in your management agreement, which we review with you before you sign.
