The New Year is off to a strong start, and I am excited to share two recently closed sales that highlight the diversity and continued strength of the Big Island real estate market. From luxury resort living to a rare opportunity in a beloved beach community, these two properties each tell a unique story.

If you’ve ever gone with me to look at homes in Puako, you’ve probably heard me use the words “mauka” and “makai” without thinking about it. People who have lived on the island for a long time know these lines by heart. For people who are new to the area, they often make them stop and ask a question.

Recently, Hawaii Life released two market reports revealing subtle but significant shifts in the state’s luxury real estate landscape — including the Big Island. At first glance, it might seem that Hawaii’s high-end market is cooling. But look closer, and a more nuanced story emerges: this isn’t a downturn, it’s a recalibration.