Global wealth research from REALM and Altrata paints a consistent picture of who is buying second homes in Hawaii and why. UHNW second-homers in Hawaii are overwhelmingly self-made, overwhelmingly from the United States and Canada, attracted by the combination of exotic appeal and domestic legal infrastructure. A third have a keen interest in the outdoors and direct natural environments. A growing proportion come from the technology sector, where remote work and liquid wealth have accelerated the decision to hold a Hawaii property as part of a broader multi-residence portfolio.
The average ultra high net worth individual owns an average of three known luxury residences. For this group, a Hawaii property is typically a considered addition to that portfolio, not an impulse, and the criteria are specific: privacy, direct connection to the natural environment, quality of the physical setting, and flexibility in how the property is used.
How Kinohi at Heeia Maps to That Buyer Profile
Direct ocean position: Kinohi sits on a bluff above He’eia Bay with unobstructed water views and a lawn that ends at the Pacific. For Buyers who want the ocean to be the defining condition of the property rather than a view from a distance, this is the physical setting they are describing.
Privacy at scale: The compound format, five bedrooms plus a permitted guest house accommodating up to 14 guests, offers hosting capacity without sacrificing the privacy of a private estate. This is a combination that UHNW Buyers consistently seek and rarely find in a true oceanfront setting.
Natural environment: Humpback whales in season, spinner dolphins year-round, tropical fruit trees, a protected bay, and an outdoor living environment framed by Samoan coconut palms and lilikoi. These are not manufactured amenities. They are the natural conditions of this specific location.
Income flexibility: The active, transferable short-term vacation rental registration means a Buyer who uses the property seasonally can continue to generate rental income during non-use periods, a meaningful consideration for UHNW Buyers who hold multiple properties and want each to perform.
The REALM Network and Global Buyer Access
Marco A. Silva is a member of REALM Global, the invitation-only network for the top 1% of luxury real estate professionals worldwide. REALM’s platform provides access to 6.8 million profiles of the world’s most affluent individuals and over $20 billion in active listing inventory globally. For Sellers of a property like Kinohi at Heeia, that network reach means the listing is positioned not just for the local Kona market but for the broader pool of qualified global UHNW Buyers for whom Hawaii is a considered destination. Learn more about Marco’s background and approach at the Marco In Kona about page.
To discuss how Kinohi at Heeia fits within your broader property portfolio goals, connect with Marco A. Silva directly.
Frequently Asked Questions: Global Buyers and Kinohi at Heeia
What types of global Buyers are typically drawn to Hawaii oceanfront properties?
Global research from REALM and Altrata identifies Hawaii’s UHNW second-home Buyers as overwhelmingly self-made, primarily from the US and Canada, with strong representation from the technology sector. They are attracted by the combination of exotic natural appeal, domestic legal infrastructure, privacy, and direct connection to the natural environment.
How does Kinohi at Heeia serve a Buyer who is building a multi-property portfolio?
Kinohi delivers direct oceanfront position, a 14-guest compound format, and an active vacation rental permit with a multi-year income track record. For a Buyer holding multiple properties, this combination allows the estate to function as a premier personal retreat and an income-producing asset during periods of non-use.
What is REALM Global and why does it matter for Buyers and Sellers of this property?
REALM Global is an invitation-only network for the top 1% of luxury real estate professionals, with access to 6.8 million affluent individual profiles and over $20 billion in active listing inventory. Marco A. Silva’s REALM membership means his Sellers benefit from global exposure and intelligence that extends well beyond the local Kona market.
Can international Buyers purchase this property?
Yes. International Buyers can purchase real estate in Hawaii. However, foreign nationals should be aware of FIRPTA withholding requirements that apply at sale and should consult a qualified Hawaii real estate attorney and tax advisor regarding purchase structure, title, and withholding obligations. Marco A. Silva can facilitate these advisory connections.