Some advice on moving to Hawaii

[leelee2223]

Hello to All!!

My husband and I are moving to Hawaii and I've been trying to do my homework, but I thought that maybe asking the locals or people who have made the same move, might help in acquiring some better, more tangible information.

My husband and I are both in the banking industry and would like to know if anyone knows what the average wages are for a personal banker, teller, and/or asst. Managers. Even so, what would be the best jobs to keep, over there?

I am also trying to figure out which island would meet our needs the best? I was thinking of moving to Oahu. We are looking for housing within distance of town that are not outrageously expensive. We wish we could live quite close to the beach, but I know it is much more expensive. Also we want an island that's not to quite and rural, but not so hustle and bustle.

Also would anyone be able to tell me what might might be best: bringing my car over or buying one when we get there?

Anyway...this is just a few of many, but I can't seem to bring them into words yet.....

Well thank you to all of you in advance.....for all your help and advice and suggestions. I really appreciate it alot!!

With regards,
LeeLee

[tutusue]

[...]My husband and I are moving to Hawaii and I've been trying to do my homework, [...]My husband and I are both in the banking industry and would like to know if anyone knows what the average wages are [...]
What brings you and your husband to Hawaii? May we assume that both of you have yet to line up jobs? Knowing the answers to these questions will help the HT denizen offer up some advice!

[Karen]

If you both still have to find jobs, why not look on the big Island? real estate is much more affordable and in fact has gone down while our island has risen, recently. You won't have so much cement and congestion there, either.

[leelee2223]

First of all...thank all of you again for taking the time to answer my questions and try and help me out.

Well, why Hawaii?? Myself, personally, I was born and raised in Houston, Texas and have been not too many places. We wanted to move to another state, but everything here small town or big, is all the same, but Hawaii, Hawaii is like a whole 'nother country within the US!! It is much different from the mainlands **Good different**;) Maybe Ill feel more at home there than here. My mother is Filipina and there are many Filipinos there. Aside from that, Hawaii is rich in culture, traditions, ethnic backgrounds, and so on. I have ALWAYS loved learning and emersing myself in different countries, cultures, traditions and people!!

As of et, we have not lined up a job there. (Tutusue, I have read other threads and I believe it was you who recommended a book to read on moving to Hawaii) and from my understanding, it is very hard getting a job unless you have plane ticket in hand and date set. We don't have that yet. We are still eyeballing where would be the best islad, how long it would take to save for the move...we were thinking late January to Feburary next year, but hopefully sooner!!:p

OK..I also would like some opinions on which of the islands would be the best to reside:
I want somewhere where there is alot of activities and things going on, where housing is not as expensive and maybe able to live by or close by a beach, jobs are easier to find, I was looking into either Big Island or Oahu, but you guys would know better. Some advice?

[DKP]

Although real estate is v.expensive here, you might want to choose O'ahu for a few reasons.

- Waipahu/Kunia/Ewa have many Filipinos and it is their cultural center of the entire island chain. You may not want to live in those areas specifically, though, as it is hell to get to town in the morning and going back in the evening (not as bad) thanks to traffic. My girlfriend lives in Kunia and has to leave at 5 a.m. and she sometimes doesn't get to town until 2 hours later. To give you perspective, w/out traffic, I can make the trip in 15 minutes. She is full Filipino and heavily involved in culture, and her family just recently assisted the opening of the Filipino Cultural Center in Waipahu (? or Ewa?) There are places closer to town w/out taking all your $$$, such as Pearl City, Salt Lake, etc. Generally, the closer you get to town, the more you pay.

- I've worked in bank vaults and branches for 2 different banks and 1 credit union. All the companies are based on O'ahu, and their headquarters are all in downtown Honolulu...but...there are still many open positions on outer islands. There are many jobs in finance/banking avail. (always!), so don't worry. Both the credit unions and normal banks here pay about the same for positions.

For starters, check out the positions at:

www.boh.com
www.americansavingsbank.com
www.centralpacificbank.com
www.fhb.com

For credit unions:

www.thehawaiichannel.com/creditunions/index.html
(most are listed)


* Personal bankers (which there are usually open positions for), ususally start you off around 38,000 and can get you upwards of 65,000 (maybe more dep. on your exp.) This is enough to live comfortably, esp. if your spouse is doing the same.

* Tellers usually start around 8.50/hr. If you are peak time, expect around 11.50, but you won't get benefits and your hours will be capped, most likely at 19 hrs./wk. If you are full or part time and are successful at referrals, expect your hourly to go up pretty quick (after the initial 6mos., but more frequent after that). My coworker was a teller for 15 years (full time), and making about $15/hr., good or bad depending on how much material things you want in life.

Most every large bank here offers great benefits. You might not be able to afford what you want on a teller's salary. You might as well work 'New Accounts' as you can make a good commission off bank products, whereas, if you are a teller referring clients to 'New Accounts', you are just helping your chances of getting a raise...but not getting the commission off each product.

* Asst. Managers (branch) make about the same as personal/private bankers.

One thing to enjoy about the banking environment here...we aren't as formal as many parts of the mainland! Expect a fun environment (of course, it all depends on the Branch Manager), but for the most part, it's cool.

I left the industry because I felt I'm needed more for native habitat conservation/invasive species control. Big tradeoff in kala ($$$), but worth it :)

[DKP]

Oh, forgot to mention: If you folks are planning on purchasing and becoming owner-occupants, most banks here as an employee-benefit, offer very low interest rates on their mortgages...I think between 3 and 4 percent, fixed. I haven't been in banking since 2003, but that is (if I remember correctly) what I was offered. :) That benefit alone can be worth it :)

I've always told friends who were struggling here to try and get into finance/banking as there are always jobs.

[leelee2223]

Hey thanks DKP....That was quite helpful.

The Filipino community isn't totally the decision maker for where I want to live, but it is def. something I would love. I am actually half filipina and polish and israeli. I had a chance to explore my israli and jewish background, but not my Filipina background. I mean hear the stories and I got to visit twice for only 2 wks each, but in school it was very hard to mix with the filipinos because I wasn't full blooded Filipina. I just want a chance to submerge myself with my mother's background to be able to be proud of my heritage and to have a good understanding and when I eventually have children, to be able to pass that heritage on.

What exactly is the Filipino Culture Center? Do they have events? Maybe it would be a great deal of help if I could even keep in touch with you and your girlfriend (if both of you are ok with that) SHould I decide to move to Oahu....It would be really nice to have someone so involved within her cultural community, and even more to have some friends in a place where we are starting over!!

See I'm between Oahu and Big Island. Which is more of a "happenin" island...more to do, but still not very very busy ( I guess compared to Houston, anywhere there is not very busy eh?) Because Honolulu is in Oahu and is the capital, Im pretty sure that cost of living would generally be higher, right? I'm leaning more to Oahu, but I don't know...

My husband would def. be suitable and interested in moving into bankin (he's been in that industry for over 5 years now) Myself I have about a year total experience as teller and about 6 months of that as a lead, or supervisor, teller. Now, I don't neccessarily have to work in the banking industry, but it would be nice. I don't mind doing other jobs. What is your take between a (hopefully) FT teller (or supervisory teller) position and a personal banker (or even asst. manager) position, would our income be able to cover cost of living? **We would prob. be shipping over our car, which at the moment we pay $385/month and Im sure insurance would cost alot too**???

And thank you soooo very much for all your help any other adive..let me know!

[tutusue]

[...]I want somewhere where there is alot of activities and things going on, where housing is not as expensive and maybe able to live by or close by a beach, jobs are easier to find,[...]
Leelee...if you find that place please let all of us know where it it!!! That sounds like paradise! ;)

[leelee2223]

Okay...I guess it was wishful thinking hahaha, but I guess ya know what I mean?? But there's something close to it in Australia...Perth maybe. I guess maybe the closest you can get

[DKP]

Personally, I've been to the center once. My girl's father is rather prominent in the business and cultural fronts (he's Filipino talk show host on the radio), and she tells me (only jokingly, now)..."It's a place for Filipino businessmen to get together and talk sh*t." :P Seriously though, I know of some youths who are allowed to do organized break-dancing, learn languages, other dances, etc. I guess it's basically a community center w/emphasis on culture. There are choke (many) organizations aside from this place that have festivals/cultural courses all the time, most free, otherwise cheap. If you wanna learn, you won't be disappointed. Other islands probably have many events too, cuz like you said (and are correct about), there are many longtime and new Filipino residents all over the chain.

As an ex-Lead Teller, you'll have lots of opportunity to become Teller Supervisor (I think they make around between 32,000 - 45,000, could be wrong). At 3 of the branches I worked at, we were always in need for Teller Supervisors. I think they get progress incentives as well cuz you'll be competing against other branches for referrals. Not a bad job, from what I hear. Also, you shouldn't have a problem working 'New Accounts' w/your exp. One guy I knew was making about 50k from commission because of his location (new subdivision). He used to be a stevedore for Matson (they make BANK here), and he didn't want to go back.

I love Hawai'i island (Big Island). Less nightlife but MUCH more unspoiled natural enjoyment (my real interest, I'm just part-urban cause it's around me), but I'm the kind of guy that sometimes spends days alone in the mountains (honestly). I've only visited Mau'i, Big Island, and Moloka'i...many times, but haven't lived there longer than a month at a time, so I'm not the one to answer about those places (I know real estate is cheaper in certain areas, don't know by how much.) I do know that most everything other than real estate costs MORE on the outer islands, cuz most things are first shipped here, then there. Gas is more costly on outer islands (on O'ahu, cheapest on the West Side...aside from Costco).

There is more food processing/distribution done on O'ahu, so food tends to be cheaper here too. Locally grown produce might be cheaper on outer islands, not sure, but there is less land avail. here for agriculture. Locally caught ocean life is also probably cheaper on outer islands (more abundance there).

O'ahu is definately the urban center and nightlife place...but we still have some 'boonie areas' (and I mean that in the most positive way possible), but if you work alot and don't live near the boonies (if even interested in that stuff), you may only be able to visit on weekends (b/c of traffic/time constraints).

As for beaches, they are everywhere...shouldn't be too much of a problem. We have a state law that noone can own the land makai (seaward) of the high tide line...or breaker line (though some try to extend their properties with vegetation, fences, etc...bastards, especially the ones that destroy the areas with limu!), but access usually isn't a problem.

PM me for contact info.

[leelee2223]

why not look on the big Island? real estate is much more affordable and in fact has gone down while our island has risen, recently. You won't have so much cement and congestion there, either.

what ya mean by cement and congestion? LIke...it's not as busy an island? How much is housing...on average there "RENT v.s. OWN":confused: Youre knowledge is most appreciated:D

DKP...

Maybe you might have really helped me in my decision. Seeing as Texas is one of the biggest cities in the mainlands, there is alot more night life. and to make for a smoother transition, especially for my husband *he likes the night life* it may be a good idea to go to Oahu. But then again I love nature. I have a green thumb, just like my momma, So I love all the flowers and greenery in untouched land...so this may be a toughy!!! I don't know. Plus housing is a huge chunk of your income right? And agricultural areas are more likely to produce alot of veg. & fruits, therby those items would be cheeper.
But I would definitely love seeing the natural enjoyment your islands have....Is there at least some really nice ones in Oahu?

As it is....I don't really get to do much until the weekends anyway, but I bet over there with the beautiful weather, the beautiful eco scenery, I'd be aching to just leave work early!! and I've been aching to catch some great waves *don't get the idea that I'm a grand surfer, but ever since I went to visit my parents in Australia, I've really been wanting to learn to surf**

It would be great to be around my fellow filipinos coz I don't know why, but I feel at home it makes me cry and laugh all at the same time!!! I think that community center would be so wonderful!!!

Again, I know I say this alot, but thanks so much for your help

[Leo Lakio]

Seeing as Texas is one of the biggest cities in the mainlandsTexas is one big city now? :D

[Karen]

LOL Texas still has huge sprawl and more land than uh, anything, but Texas.....is a whole other nation, heck, it seriously was a nation, and is the only state of the 50 that can legally fly its flag as high, equally with the US flag, I believe as long as it's on its own flagpole, cuz mostly I still see the texas flag under the US, when there and paying attention.

Leelee, here's the official real estate link for all islands. You'll dig the difference in ours and the Big Island, and yes, big island is real country, where as ours is so crowded that one of my friends came here even twenty years ago and she was diasppointed how crowded this place is.


http://hicentral.com/

[timkona]

Most folks who move here love the ocean and ocean sports and activities. That is what keeps my sails filled. Warm, friendly oceans rule.

If you find yourself NOT going to the beach, or if you hate sand in your car (or your cracks for that matter), or if you don't swim at all, then those are the folks I see who move back to the mainland.

As far as jobs go, if you show up on time, have a clean pee test, and come back to work after your first paycheck, you can pretty much work wherever you like.

[leelee2223]

Leelee, here's the official real estate link for all islands. You'll dig the difference in ours and the Big Island, and yes, big island is real country, where as ours is so crowded that one of my friends came here even twenty years ago and she was diasppointed how crowded this place is.


http://hicentral.com/

ours...meaning you livve in Oahu?And so crouded compared to where? And how crowded, where you, as a long time resident don't even feel the eco beauty and beach, crowded? or crowded as in to many shops and houses crammed in one tiny little area?

[1stwahine]

ours...meaning you livve in Oahu?And so crouded compared to where? And how crowded, where you, as a long time resident don't even feel the eco beauty and beach, crowded? or crowded as in to many shops and houses crammed in one tiny little area?

Hui! Only easy to see the comparisons of our islands. Use Google Earth!!:rolleyes:

For starters here's the url for Honolulu!
http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/google_map_Honolulu.htm

Auntie Lynn

[leelee2223]

Hey thanks 1stwahine...That was a smart one! Why didn't I think of that? It's not as bad as Houston (where I live)...check it out:

http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/google_map_Houston.htm

But I still can't get a grasp as to how crowded I would FEEL. Does it still feel beach-like, layed back, and light to a long-time Houstonian? I guess Ill have to find out!

Ok now Im stuck!!! I really love the nature and less crowdedness (is that a even a word??) of Big Island, but I also like to have some sort of nihgt life every once in a while, I guess the crowded-ness of Oahu may be a smoother transition, but I dont know!! All of you have compelling arguments! what to do, what to do.....

[1stwahine]

Ok now Im stuck!!! I really love the nature and less crowdedness (is that a even a word??) of Big Island, but I also like to have some sort of nihgt life every once in a while, I guess the crowded-ness of Oahu may be a smoother transition, but I dont know!! All of you have compelling arguments! what to do, what to do.....

Easily solved. You want the night life? Just hop a plane or catch the Super Ferry!;)

Auntie Lynn

[acousticlady]

You haven't really talked about Maui, but I'm going to throw in my 2 cents anyway. We consider Honolulu to be Manhattan on the beach. It is definitly "big city" (never been to the country of Texas :p so I can't compare there). Maui in sort of in between the BI and Oahu. Though it has grown by leaps and bounds in the past few years - which most do not consider a good thing. We are not really night life people so I can't comment on that. I know Kihei pretty much closes up by 10 PM. I think Lahaina and/or Kahului has some though. There is plenty of nature as well as plenty of dining/shopping too. All the islands have great beaches so that really shouldn't be a big issue if you don't mind driving to one. Personally, I grew up right on the beach so the idea of driving to one is a foriegn concept - but that's just me :D. It is very easy to get away from it all - just hop in the car and drive a little bit or hop on a ferry and go to Molokai or Lanai. And as Auntie Lynn says you can always get to Oahu or the BI by plane or Superferry. Jobs shouldn't much of an issue - I think Timkona said it best - it applies here as well. The cost of living here (or anywhere in HI) is more expensive but it depends on prioritys. You get the good with the bad. But that applies anywhere you live, doesn't it? Anyhoo - that's my 2 cents.

[leelee2223]

Acousticlady....

Now you just put in your 2 cents (not a bad thing at all...thank you very much ;> ) and swirled everything around in my head.... How do I now figure out which island now??

What are superferrys?? how long do they take between islands, and how much?

I would love to be able to live on the beach...had I grown up in Australia or the Philippines, I wouldv'e had the blessing to grow on the beach! But I guess anywhere now is too expensive to live ON the beach is it not?

Help!!! Where to live wher to live. All of you have given compelling arguments!

Again all of you...I can't stress how appreciative I am of all your advice and counseling and response. Thank you Thank you Thank you!

[Miulang]

Leelee...you sound like you and your husband are still young, and if you want night life, Oahu is definitely the place for you. The Neighbor Islands' nightlife is concentrated around the resorts. All the towns on the Neighbor Islands roll up their sidewalks after 7 or so. There's virtually no public transportation (although Maui is starting to have a semblance of a bus system with regular schedules) whereas Oahu has The Bus, which is an excellent way to get around town. Oahu is still the hub for business, consequently, more people live there because of the job opportunities. On the Neighbor Islands (Maui in particular), most jobs revolve around the hospitality industry.

For a better idea of life on each of the islands, looking at newspapers from each island would help you figure out what they're like, what's happening and what the housing situation is like. On Kauai, there's the Garden Isle News (http://www.kauaiworld.com/), on Maui there's the Maui News (http://www.mauinews.com/default.aspx), on the Big Island there's the Hawaii Tribune-Herald (http://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/) and the West Hawaii Today (http://www.westhawaiitoday.com/)(Kona).

Miulang

[1stwahine]

What are superferrys?? how long do they take between islands, and how much?

Oh! Pleeez..you're not dat naive!:rolleyes:
http://www.hawaiithreads.com/showthread.php?t=11734

Auntie Lynn

[tutusue]

[...]But I still can't get a grasp as to how crowded I would FEEL. Does it still feel beach-like, layed back, and light to a long-time Houstonian? I guess Ill have to find out![...]
[...]How do I now figure out which island now??[...]
In all honesty, leelee, YOU are the only one who can get a grasp on how you will feel and which island you like best by visiting Hawaii first.

I love Makaha on Oahu and FEEL absolutely wonderful there. But that doesn't mean you'd feel the same. I'm a grandmother in my 60s so what appeals to me will probably not appeal to you.

I highly suggest that, as part of your research, you see Hawaii up close and personal prior to making any decisions. It isn't for everyone but for those of us who love it, well, we REALLY love it. HT has members who live on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the Big Island. We love our particular islands for a variety of reasons...some of which may not apply to you. A life event as huge as moving out of state, in general, and to a dot of land in the middle of the Pacific, in particular, is something that needs in depth research, esp. since it doesn't involve a job transfer.

In summary...visit first! ;)

[leelee2223]

In all honesty, leelee, YOU are the only one who can get a grasp on how you will feel and which island you like best by visiting Hawaii first.....In summary...visit first! ;)

I know, that is always the best idea.

And 1stwahine....I'm not really that naive..I just didn't think about it before I replied hehehe But how much do they usually charge and how long relatively do they take to get to and from

[Karen]

ours...meaning you livve in Oahu?And so crouded compared to where? And how crowded, where you, as a long time resident don't even feel the eco beauty and beach, crowded? or crowded as in to many shops and houses crammed in one tiny little area?


Sorry, leelee, I mean Oahu when I say "ours." Been here more than 13yrs. and traffic can be a nightmare so much so that our govt. is forcing us to pay for an above-ground rail system that's guaranteed to cost a billion more than they say it will. However, it's crowded in every way, the parking lots of the malls are, doc offices, etc. If you can find a job on the big island, why look here? However, you gotta taste your own wine and see what is delicious to YOU. No one can really make this work for you, we can only suggest things. I hope so much that you can come here and visit the other islands. We have very cheap flights for now.

Real estate on Oahu, be it rentals or buying like we finally have, is very pricey. I have a friend on the big island that wouldn't move here if you paid him to. He loves every day of his life, so far as traffic, business, etc, but then he's been there 25yrs and is so settled. he keeps telling me and hubby to move there, and we could, and cash out big on our house here, but gotta stay where the job is.

[alohacandy]

OK...time for me to speak up on the beautiful windward side of Oahu...where you can have a slower pace of life yet be a hop, skip and jump over the mountain to the "big city" of Honolulu. My hubby, daughter and I moved to Oahu 5 years ago from Corpus Christi, Texas (after last living on Oahu 20+ years ago in my previous life). We love Kaneohe and the windward side because of the slower pace, the tropical surroundings framed by the beautiful Ko'olau Mountains, the ease of driving into Honolulu via any one of 4 routes, the cool nights with gentle breezes and the drive-thru Starbucks (just kidding! :D we DO have one but that wouldn't be a MAIN reason to live on this side). Yes, it's much more expensive in Hawaii than in Texas and we are living in a townhome rather than a sprawling house with a large lot and 20 x 40 swimming pool.....but life is what you make it and home is where you make it. I would rather be here than anywhere else in the world. Good luck in your decisionmaking!

[Fritz]

"and traffic can be a nightmare so much so that our govt. is forcing us to pay for an above-ground rail system that's guaranteed to cost a billion more than they say it will."


The above ground rail transit in some cities in the east has been in use for more than 100 years. Think of it as long term planning.

Imagine families riding the train to the fireworks and fairs in town. Flying over street traffic and no parking worries. And those who "like to have a few" being kept off the roads after imbibing.

[leelee2223]

OK...time for me to speak up on the beautiful windward side of Oahu...where you can have a slower pace of life yet be a hop, skip and jump over the mountain to the "big city" of Honolulu...... We love Kaneohe and the windward side because of the slower pace, the tropical surroundings framed by the beautiful Ko'olau Mountains

the ease of driving into Honolulu via any one of 4 routes, the cool nights with gentle breezes and the drive-thru Starbucks (just kidding! :D we DO have one but that wouldn't be a MAIN reason to live on this side). Yes, it's much more expensive in Hawaii than in Texas and we are living in a townhome... but life is what you make it and home is where you make it. I would rather be here than anywhere else in the world. Good luck in your decisionmaking!

Well again, thank you for all your advice.

That's exactly what I want...slower paced and surrounded by nature's beauty, but easily able to get to activities, night life, etc.!

Through these four major routes, how long would it take to get to say Honolulu, if for instance,I work in or close to there?

It's nice to speak to somebody who's moved from Tx, and a city close by Houston because you have experience in the & the perspective closest to me..right?:D

[alohacandy]

Well again, thank you for all your advice.


Through these four major routes, how long would it take to get to say Honolulu, if for instance,I work in or close to there?

It's nice to speak to somebody who's moved from Tx, and a city close by Houston because you have experience in the & the perspective closest to me..right?:D

First of all...there are 4 routes....but one of them is longer and along the coastline...definitely a beautiful route if you're going into the Hawaii Kai area of Honolulu from Kaneohe. When I drive to work in Honolulu, I take the route closer to my home and destination...and the time it takes is usually 20 minutes of driving time...sometimes less. I avoid the school traffic by leaving a little later and so that I can get street parking that becomes available at 8:30 a.m. I don't get on the H-1 Freeway AT ALL during that time because I don't like the craziness and stress of rush hour traffic.

As you know, Corpus Christi is along the coast of Texas and much smaller than Houston. I find that the drivers in most of the larger cities of Texas (including Corpus) were MUCH worse and MUCH more rude than the drivers in Honolulu. The beaches here are much nicer than the beaches (and water) of the Texas Gulf Coast.

[leelee2223]

well... I know corpus is much smaller, but haven't you ever visited Houston?

But... 20 minutes is about the time it takes for me to get to work, so that's not bad at all!

What is the average cost to rent a townhome or apartment in that area?

[Fritz]

1600$ is the average rent for a basic 2 bedroom 1 bath, 1 parking.

[alohacandy]

well... I know corpus is much smaller, but haven't you ever visited Houston?

But... 20 minutes is about the time it takes for me to get to work, so that's not bad at all!

What is the average cost to rent a townhome or apartment in that area?

Yep, visited Houston many times, especially when my sis lived there.

No, 20 minutes isn't bad when it's not bumper to bumper like on the freeways.

How many bedrooms minimum are you wanting?

[leelee2223]

Looking for a 1 bedroom for myself & my husband

[tutusue]

Looking for a 1 bedroom for myself & my husband
What price range?

I'd guess Waikiki to be too congested for you but there's a 1 bedroom available in the next block mauka of my building. It's renting for $1000./mo. And you really wouldn't wanna live there! Trust me! It's a 2 story walk up, no security measures at all and no parking!

[leelee2223]

Well...Im just looking for a 1 bed 1 bath at least 500 square feet and up. I cannot say the cost just yet because We havent gotten jobs yet and so we wouldn't know our salary, though I have some idea **assuming that we do get the position in banking that we wanted**thus not being able to gauge whats affordable & what's not.

Aloha Lady what does townhomes or apartments cost in your area and around how many square footage.

tutusue.....I would assume $850 - $1200/ month. YEAH.....I dont think I'd wanna climb up to stoies of stairs and no guard rails..but thanks for letting me know.

[tutusue]

[...]tutusue.....I would assume $850 - $1200/ month. YEAH.....I dont think I'd wanna climb up to stoies of stairs and no guard rails..but thanks for letting me know.
My example above was only a rental rate reference as an example of what a one bdrm. apt. in what I would consider an undesirable building rents for. Not sure what you mean about no guard rails. Stairs need to be to code. If you were responding to "no security measures at all"...that meant no common area, keyed entry and/or no security guards on site such as larger condo buildings might have...and no security bars covering the windows. Apts. like that are extremely vulnerable. All that vulnerability comes at a $1000./mo. price.

[alohacandy]

I would advise you to check www.craigslist.org for a good perspective on rentals. A one bedroom would likely be no less then $1250/mo. right in Kaneohe. Townhomes generally rent for at least $2000/mo. and most are 3 bedrooms...a few 2 bedrooms but I'm guessing they'd be around $1800.

[leelee2223]

Thank you for all your help...again.

So $1200 is about your median cost per month for a 1 bedroom anywhere you go on Oahu, no?

I think housing is my main concern, Im not much worried about much else really...not that it doesn't matter, but housing is just the main concern.

[Miulang]

Thank you for all your help...again.

So $1200 is about your median cost per month for a 1 bedroom anywhere you go on Oahu, no?

I think housing is my main concern, Im not much worried about much else really...not that it doesn't matter, but housing is just the main concern.
Also remember that many places collect a first month, last month and security deposit before you can move in.:eek:

Miulang

[Palolo Joe]

Also remember that many places collect a first month, last month and security deposit before you can move in.

Also remember, leelee2223, that the above advice comes from someone who lives in Washington. She doesn't know what she's talking about when it comes to renting an apartment on Oahu.

The TRUTH is, many rentals on Oahu require a security deposit and first month's rent when signing a lease.

[Keanu]

I think housing is my main concern, Im not much worried about much else really...not that it doesn't matter, but housing is just the main concern.

I find this statement to be rather naive. My advice to you would be to make sure you buy a round trip ticket.

[tutusue]

Also remember that many places collect a first month, last month and security deposit before you can move in.:eek:

Miulang
It's been over a decade since I was a landlord but, at that time, it was 1st month+a security deposit equal to one month's rent.

[alohacandy]

Thank you for all your help...again.


I think housing is my main concern, Im not much worried about much else really...not that it doesn't matter, but housing is just the main concern.

Housing is the main concern for many here....especially those that have ended up with their rents being jacked up and basically not being able to afford the average rent on sub-average pay. When you consider possible salaries, remember that we have a state income tax here where in Texas there is none. Gasoline here is higher and so is food...especially fresh fruits and vegetables. Fortunately we have Costco, Sam's Club and Farmer's Markets to help a little with food costs. So many people move here and find that they can't afford to stay, that they end up selling their furniture, cars, etc. before they leave so you can pick up great deals on these items on places like Craigslist, Salvation Army, Goodwill, and yard sales (in other words, unless you're particularly attached to your "stuff", travel lightly and buy it when you get here). Hope this helps!

[LikaNui]

Also remember that many places collect a first month, last month and security deposit before you can move in. That may be true there in Seattle, but it's ILLEGAL to do that in the state of Hawai`i.

What's your reason for giving wrong information this time?

:mad:

And lest anyone think my comment was wrong, please permit me to quote the applicable law (found at this link (http://www.hawaii.gov/dcca/areas/ocp/main/hrs/lt_code/part4.html)) (hawaii.gov/dcca/areas/ocp/main/hrs/lt_code/part4.html) from the state's Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs:

Hawaii Revised Statutes, Chapter 521-44 (b):

The landlord may require as a condition of a rental agreement a security deposit to be paid by or for the tenant for the items in subsection (a) and no others, in an amount not in excess of a sum equal to one month's rent. The landlord may not require or receive from or on behalf of a tenant at the beginning of a rental agreement any money other than the money for the first month's rent and a security deposit as provided in this section.

So the law says first month's rent plus a security deposit not to exceed a sum equal to one month's rent. NOT first, last, and a security deposit, as a previous poster from Seattle would wrongly have you believe.
:mad:

I wonder if an apology and/or correction from that person will be forthcoming shortly.
:rolleyes:

[pzarquon]

If you don't have jobs or a place lined up before you get on that plane, my advice is to have at least $5,000 in the bank per person and return tickets. You need an exit strategy. Too many people toss caution into the wind and arrive on a wing and a prayer, and end up stuck... ultimately contributing to the multitude of problems facing people here.

The job market is pretty good now, compared to ten years ago. You have an industry specialty and know your likely professional prospects. You're doing research and getting input from real people here who know day-to-day life (well, mostly). All good things. Be optimistic but realistic, is all.

[tutusue]

If you don't have jobs or a place lined up before you get on that plane, my advice is to have at least $5,000 in the bank per person and return tickets.[...]
This is good advice. Attempting to rent an apt. without a job in place could be problematic. The OP may need to sweeten a deal by offering 6 months (or more) of rent in advance. Hmmm...maybe up that amount to $10K per person?

[Leo Lakio]

The OP may need to sweeten a deal by offering 6 months (or more) of rent in advance. Hmmm...maybe up that amount to $10K per person?According to the law LikaNui cited, the landlord can't accept such an offer:The landlord may not require or receive from or on behalf of a tenant at the beginning of a rental agreement any money other than the money for the first month's rent and a security deposit

[1stwahine]

State Public Housing in Hawaii
5,363 Federal Public Housing Units
864 State Rental Housing Units
_____
6,227 Total Units

Wait List is as much as 18,00 people (includes duplicate applications).

* Only Security Deposit and first month rent is needed at time of move in. Rent is based on 30% of gross

* Rent Assistance Programs

* Section 8 Housing Vouchers

* 1,820 families assisted; 3,058 vouchers possible
* $15.5 million maximum rental assistance allowed; increased to $17.4 million for calender year

* State Rent Supplement Program
* 359 families assisted, 146 average per month
* $632,454 utilized in FY2006-07 (66.9%)

Homeless Programs

* 15,000 individuals and families served; 8,000 on any given day
* 17,000 million in State Operating Funds!

Information obtained from report of State Public Housing Overview at State Capital by Chad Taniguchi, Executive Director, Hawaii Public Housing Authority on July 16, 2007.

Auntie Lynn

[tutusue]

According to the law LikaNui cited, the landlord can't accept such an offer:
Aha! That's right...my bad. :o

[leelee2223]

I find this statement to be rather naive. My advice to you would be to make sure you buy a round trip ticket.

That is your opinion based on not knowing the person you are saying this to. I've been through alot of hard times and have ALWAYS been able to secure my rent and utilities and even my phone.

No one said I was going there thinking I was going to paradise no worries and no cares in the world....Everything will be just hunky dory!

I HAVE and AM doing my research and know that the cost of living is so much higher than the mainlands, especially Texas *you would have known this if you read the rest of the thread*

I would never move to another place (any city or state) without having secured a job and having extra saving for a "just in case it doesn't pan out" situation. So even if I have a job, but no place to stay.... would you suggest I sleep on the street.....or maybe you would be willing to put a stranger up in your house eh?

Be careful and think first before you post your thoughts and make assumptions about people;)

[Keanu]

That is your opinion based on not knowing the person you are saying this to. I've been through alot of hard times and have ALWAYS been able to secure my rent and utilities and even my phone.

No one said I was going there thinking I was going to paradise no worries and no cares in the world....Everything will be just hunky dory!

I HAVE and AM doing my research and know that the cost of living is so much higher than the mainlands, especially Texas *you would have known this if you read the rest of the thread*

My opinion is based on my first hand knowledge of life on Oahu in particular. People with aspirations of moving to Hawai'i are a dime a dozen. I've seen them come, and go. Excuse me if you think I'm not giving you a fair shake but after reading through the thread, It is my educated opinion that you are not ready for such a move.


Be careful and think first before you post your thoughts and make assumptions about people;)

I thought before I posted, that is usually my M.O. :D

[leelee2223]

Well, of course I will have a job lined up, or at least many interviews. Once a date is set I can start applying for positions, and lining up jobs. I would not move anywhere without jobs lined up, not even here in houston where I live! I wouldn't even quit a job before I have another lined up!

It would always be wisest to bring alot of extra money with you when one is moving to another place. Agreed!

Thank you!

Keanu....that's all great, just don't generalize and stereotype, you don't know the people, and maybe based on the thread you have GENERAL knowledge of the person and that would be all.

Your reply of myself being naive does not help anything! it's just an insult. If you really wanted to help me or tell me hey Hawaii is just not for you or you're not ready for a move tell me so, or better yet if you feel that the person is dedicated to the idea, well give them advice. Dont Judge or insult!

But Thanks for your opinions...I respect it either way

[alohacandy]

Leelee: I am like you, I had a job lined up before I even moved here. I visited my sister in Feb. 2002, went on 3 interviews, got 2 job offers and moved here the end of May. Hubby, on the other hand, stayed behind to sell our homes, have garage sales, etc. He had a job lined up for him as well...did his interviews via videoteleconference. Fortunately, I had a place to stay (with my sis) until I found a place to rent. I had attended U.H. for grad school when I lived here before so I pretty much knew my way around the island and reconnected with some friends.
Best of luck to you!

[Palolo Joe]

I wonder if an apology and/or correction from that person will be forthcoming shortly.

You expect her to even admit being wrong? Apologize? Ha!

Takes class to do something like that. Come on now.

If you really wanted to help me or tell me hey Hawaii is just not for you or you're not ready for a move tell me so, or better yet if you feel that the person is dedicated to the idea, well give them advice.
I didn't read it as if he were judging you. There are countless people who come on HT and post about their wishes to move here and start a new life.

I kinda agree with Keanu, though. You getting all hot and bothered by his comments make me wonder how well you will do when it comes to interacting with local folks face to face.

Whatever you do, DON'T try to come out here and tell people "how it's done" where you come from. Trust me on this.

[leelee2223]

Leelee: I am like you, I had a job lined up before I even moved here. I visited my sister in Feb. 2002, went on 3 interviews, got 2 job offers and moved here the end of May. Hubby, on the other hand, stayed behind to sell our homes, have garage sales, etc. He had a job lined up for him as well...did his interviews via videoteleconference. Fortunately, I had a place to stay (with my sis) until I found a place to rent.
Best of luck to you!

Thank You Thank YOu Thank YOu!!!!

I believe we do have a place to stay until we find a permanent place to live...but yes this is always the best way to start off, rather than just leaving on a whim and being left stranded!

I didn't read it as if he were judging you. There are countless people who come on HT and post about their wishes to move here and start a new life.

I kinda agree with Keanu, though. You getting all hot and bothered by his comments make me wonder how well you will do when it comes to interacting with local folks face to face.

Whatever you do, DON'T try to come out here and tell people "how it's done" where you come from. Trust me on this.

I'll be fine, thanks for your concern. I guess we would just misunderstand each other. I may not convey exactly the message that I want to convey, but I guess we say what we say and since it's in writing it's hard to gather how it was meant and I do apologize if I may have taken the wrong way.

When I go into any place I do not know I don't react first and think later, I always sit and watch and observe before anything

[GeckoGeek]

The OP may need to sweeten a deal by offering 6 months (or more) of rent in advance.

Due to the Hotel Room Tax (http://www.hawaii.gov/tax/taxfacts/tf96-02.htm), you'll probably find you'll have to sign at least a 6 month lease. Otherwise there's an additional tax.