Homes For Sale in Wahiawa, Oahu
Wahiawa is a census designated place located in the heart of Oahu, Hawaii. Situated on the 1,000 foot high Leilehua Plateau, or “central valley”, it is set between two volcanic mountains, the Koolaus to the east and the Waianes to the west.
A unique feature of the Wahiawa is Lake Wilson, also known as Wahiawa Reservoir, which surrounds the area on three sides. Wahiawa must be accessed by one of two bridges off of Kamehameha Highway (State Route 80).
Originally surrounded by agricultural lands and military bases, residential developments are now spreading outwards. The area is still home to a number of military facilities such as Schofield Barracks, Wheeler Army Airfield and East range, which is an Army trailing area. Wahiawa is also home to the U.S. Navy’s Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific.
With a population of approximately 18,000 residents, Wahiawa offers views of Oahu's highest peak, Ka’ala, which overlooks Schofield Barracks 5 miles to the west.
Wahiawa is located just 4 miles north of Mililani and 20 miles from the large city of Honolulu making it an ideal commuter community.
Residents of Wahiawa enjoy easy access to larger cities on the Island as well as a quick trip to Oahu’s North shore. Stunning beaches and surfing are just a stone's throw away from Wahiawa.
About Wahiawa Homes for Sale
Steeped in Hawaii’s agricultural history, the area of Wahiawa is full of vintage plantation homes that give residents and interested buyers a flash back to old time Hawaii.
For reference, there were more than 4 times the number of homes built in 1950 than there were since the year 2000.
During the 50’s there were approximately 1,232 homes built. The 60’s saw another building surge with roughly 1,018 homes.
For many residents of Oahu, Wahiawa is a town that is often passed while en route to other destinations such as the North shore. For some this may be considered a deterrent, whereas for many this means a slower paced life with less congestion and tourist impact.
For buyers, this shows up in the pricing of houses in Wahiawa. Even in the current real estate market on the island, the average home price in Wahiawa hovers around $400,000, which compared to other areas is vastly different.
Wahiawa’s real estate market is unique to the rest of Oahu. Like the rest of the island, property values are increasing, however here they are rising at a slower rate. This translates into savings for buyers in the short term. For resale, homes in Wahiawa likely won’t see the same drastic increases as neighboring areas. For buyers looking to set down roots this is one of the great advantages of buying in Wahiawa.
Though the majority of real estate available in Wahiawa are homes that act as a time capsule to mid century, there are still a handful of condos, townhomes and apartment style units available. Communities and highrises are dotted throughout Wahiawa and make ideal living situations for young professionals, singles and small families alike.
First time buyers can take advantage of the lower home prices in Wahiawa as affordability is evident in many units throughout town. A 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit lists as low as $130,000 becoming an ideal option in an otherwise pricey market.
Due to the age of the majority of houses in Wahiawa, those looking for additional savings can purchase one of the many “fixer-uppers” that have hit the market. Homes that may otherwise be priced considerably higher are falling on the low side of the scale.
The local economy of Wahiawa focuses heavily on the military presence in the area and as such has provided stability to the economy. This stability is reflected in the large number of longtime homeowners and even multigenerational owners. Wahiawa features a handful of multigenerational homes for sale, a majority of which see two completely separate living spaces on one section of land.
Regardless of your real estate needs, Wahiawa provides buyers with plenty of affordable options. From comfortable and cozy condo units to multi family detached homes, Wahiawa is a place where all buyers can find their perfect home.
Living in Wahiawa, Oahu
Wahiawa is a town that boasts old time Hawiian charm while providing amenities and services required for ease of living.
Shops, restaurants and services are available to residents within Wahiawa, while larger locations and amenities are a short distance when necessary.
The Wahiawa Shopping Center and Town Center offer residents quick access to daily needs such as Foodland and Longs grocery chains.
Though not historically thought of as a tourist destination, Wahiawa does feature sites worth visiting.
The Dole Plantation, originally operated as a fruit stand in the 1950’s, is now a major attraction to those visiting the Island of Oahu. Dubbed Hawaii’s “Pineapple Experience” the plantation offers a pineapple express train ride, family friendly activites and a chance to make your way out of the world’s largest maze.
Kukaniloko Birthing Stones, an ancient Hawaiian site, is said to be a location where royal mothers have given birth since the early 14th century. Considered one of the most historical cultural sites on the Island of Oahu, these stones and surrounded 5 acres became a national park in 1992.
The Wahiawa Botanial Gardens, nicknamed the tropical jewel, is a 27 acre oasis full of native plants and vegetation.
There are a large number of schools within and surrounding the Wahiawa area. All operated by the Hawaiian Department of Education, schools include Iliani Elementary, Kaala Elementary, Samuel K. Solomon Elementary, and Wahiawa Elementary. Middle schools in Wahiawa are Major Sheldon Wheeler Middle School and Wahiawa Middle School, which is technically just outside of the census designated area.
The Highschool servicing students of Wahiawa is Leilehua High.
There are also a handful of private school options for interested parents to consider. Trinity Lutheran Church and School, First Baptist Church and School, Ho’ala School, Maranatha Christian Academy and Hawaii Matsuriakio are all private schools within Wahiawa.
Could your next home be located in Wahiawa, Oahu?