Hawaii Apartments

Finding an affordable quality rental apartment can prove difficulty. By taking the right steps you can save money and get the rental apartment that fits your needs.

Apartment rates and amenities can vary greatly even in the same building complex. Never lease an apartment sight unseen. Seemingly insigficant differences in district location, floor number and kitchen appliances can mean hundreds of dollars difference in monthly rental rates.

• Application Fee
  $50 application fee is standard. Both management companies & independent renters will charge an application fee. Do not fill out an application unless you are fully qualified for the rental. The fifty dollar fee usually covers a credit check and is non-refundable.
• Most renters will no do business over the phone
  If you are not present on the islands almost all management companies will be extremely reluctant to any business with you. It is best to retain a short-term, vacation or corporate rental apartment during you apartment search.
• Obtain a local phone number
  Either a voicemail box or mobile phone will suffice. Some renters will be hesitant to return mainland phone numbers. This can also be helpful for job searches. Securing a temporary mailing address or box can also be very useful.
• Come prepared with all necessary documents.
  Even if you are going to see a property for the first time bring everything you would need to make a deal that day. Lower cost rentals with any amenities will often disappear immediately from the market. Bring a list of references (preferably local) , employment information, check book, a copy of your credit report and even cash. Having these items ready will greatly increase the chances of you securing a property you might be interested in.
• Renters will usually take a standard deposit of one months rent.
  Leases are usually given anywhere in the 6 month to 1 year range.
• Electric Bill
  If your rent does not include your electric you will have to open an account with HECO (Hawaiian Electric Company) . HECO requires a $300 deposit from individuals with no previous account history. This fee is usually returned to you with 18 months via a credit to your bill or at the closure of your account. Once an account has been created you may transfer it to another property if you decide to move.

• Oahu
• Maui
• Kauai
• Big Island

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