1975 Three Bedroom Hawaii Home Under $188K

15-3027 Kekauonohi St, Pahoa, HI 96778     $187,500

• Contact Realtor: Keith T. Iwamoto
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• Niche

Pros

1. Remarkable Natural Setting & Lifestyle

• Pāhoa is surrounded by tropical rainforest, volcanic landscapes and black lava rock fields — nature is all around.

• The lifestyle leans toward laid‑back, alternative and community‑oriented. Locals describe Pāhoa as “old Hawaii” in feel.

• Outdoor recreation is abundant — hiking, beach time, lava‑tree monuments, and proximity to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

2. More Affordable (for Hawaiʻi) Housing & Entry into Island Living

• Compared with many parts of Hawaiʻi, Pāhoa offers more moderate housing prices and land prices.

• Some reports indicate a median home value in the ~$300K range here, which in Hawaiʻi is relatively modest.

3. Strong Sense of Community & Local Character

• Small‑town feel, eclectic mix of residents with strong local identity.

• Unique downtown features—raised wooden sidewalks, old “Wild‑West” style storefronts, a slower pace.

Cons

1. Natural Hazard Risk & Volcanic Zone Issues

• Pāhoa lies in a region affected by lava flows from Kīlauea; this risk lowers property values and complicates insurance.

• Infrastructure and access can be impacted by volcanic activity, earthquakes, heavy rain, etc.

2. Infrastructure, Amenities & Remoteness Tradeoffs

• Though there are local shops and grocery options, major amenities (large hospitals, major retail chains) can be further away.

• Some public infrastructure (sidewalks, pedestrian connectivity) is lacking.

• Commute times and transport connections may not be ideal — one route out of town can get congested. > “The highway is only 2 lanes & there is only one way in & out. Needless to say traffic … can get gnarly.”

3. Job Market, Economy, & Practical Considerations

• Employment options are limited compared with large metropolitan areas; economic growth is slower.

• Cost of living (goods, groceries, utilities) remains high compared to many mainland locations.

• Some homes have unpermitted construction or DIY aspects — due diligence is vital.

4. Crime, Schooling & Community Challenges

• Crime metrics are concerning: property crime in particular is higher than U.S. averages in the area.

• Schools receive middling ratings (for example, local schools rated “C” by some sources) and attendance/behavior metrics indicate challenges.

5. Insurance & Resale / Real‑Estate Complications

• Because of volcanic risk zones, insurance (homeowners, property) can be expensive or hard to obtain.

• Resale can be tricky: buyers may factor in risk, access, infrastructure, and the “off‑the‑grid” or DIY nature of some homes.