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the monthly hale AUGUST 2025
Local Favorites for National Mountain Climbing Day View From the Top
There’s a national day for just about everything, but National Mountain Climbing Day, celebrated every August, might just be one of the coolest. It’s a celebration of adventure, challenge, and the amazing
“The hike itself to Ka‘ena is so beautiful and peaceful. You really feel a connection to the land and the culture. You usually get lucky and see monk seals, nesting albatross, and humpback whales. When you’re out at the point and look back toward the west side of the island, you feel like you’re the only person there. Time slows down, and you can appreciate the real beauty of Oahu.” TANTALUS / ROUND TOP DRIVE Ashley Otwell, an educator with over a decade of experience, shared her love for another local gem:
rewards that come with pushing yourself to greater heights, literally.
In honor of National Mountain Climbing Day, I want to spotlight four of our favorite hikes and the amazing people who hike them. CROUCHING LION
“Tantalus is my favorite because you can hike for miles and miles and see different areas of the island. I love being surrounded by bamboo, cliff views, and basically seeing no one as I hike!” KAHEKILI TRAIL Meet Larisa Majors: • Mom to Zach and Gabe • Wife to Isom Kahekili is her go-to hike when she’s looking for a big adventure with even bigger views. “I love Kahekili because it’s both challenging and breathtaking. It’s the perfect sunrise hike, with sweeping ocean and mountain views, and it’s never too crowded.
My favorite hike on Oahu is Crouching
Lion. The hike gets its name because from certain vantage points, the rock resembles a crouching lion. The rock is part of the Pu‘u Manamana ridge and is known by its
Hawaiian name, “Kauhi‘īmakaokalani,” It’s associated with a Hawaiian legend about a demigod who was transformed into stone while trying to escape the roots of a kukui tree. It’s steep and can get a little dicey in places, but it’s relatively short and the payoff is massive. From the summit, you’re treated to panoramic 360-degree views of Kahana Bay, with both Mauka (mountain) and Makai (ocean) beauty that never gets old. I’ve done this hike more times than I can count, and each time, it’s just as magical. KA‘ENA POINT I’m also excited to share a favorite from one of our awesome community members, Melissa
Plus, there’s something special about the historic pillboxes along the way — and if you’re lucky, you might catch a waterfall at the top!” This month’s reminder: Find your mountain. Chase that view. And don’t forget to pause and breathe it all in.
Shontofski, whose passion for Hawaii’s natural beauty is contagious.
-Sachi Mitchell
Meet Melissa: • Biological scientist
• Mom to Noelani and Kaia • Wife to Dan Shontofski
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HOW TO USE PLANTS AND SCENTS TO REPEL INSECTS Nature vs. Nature
WHAT OUR C
“Working with Jason Mitchell was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. He made the entire process of selling my property incredibly smooth and stress-free. What really impressed me was his strategic approach — he knew exactly how to position the property, price it right, and generate strong interest immediately. “Thanks to his expertise and proactive marketing, we had multiple showings right away and received a great offer within days. Jason’s communication was clear, timely, and always professional. He guided me through every step with confidence and ease, making sure everything moved along quickly and efficiently. If you’re looking for a results-driven Realtor who truly knows how to get things done, I highly recommend Jason. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience!” —Nick Sowers, Mililani, H 5.0 We have a 5.0 rating on Google*
There’s nothing quite like summer. Backyard barbecues, evening hikes, and late-night stargazing. All of it is magical — until bugs crash the party. Mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks don’t need an invite, and before you know it, you’re scratching your ankles and swatting at the air. But you don’t have to douse yourself in strong sprays and chemicals to keep them away. Here are five natural ways to repel bugs this summer — no chemicals required. Choose Loose Clothing Believe it or not, your outfit can make a big difference. Light- colored, loose-fitting clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes and
helps prevent them from biting through fabric. Covering up exposed skin is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself. It’s specifically helpful to wear long sleeves and pants at dusk and dawn, when bugs are most active. Use Natural Aromas Many bugs have super-sensitive noses, and certain scents repel them. Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and lemongrass are natural bug repellents. You can make your own spray by mixing a few drops of any of these scents with water and a carrier oil (like witch hazel or coconut oil), then spritzing it on your skin or clothes. Just make sure you’re cautious with essential oils around pets and kids. Smoke Them Out Burning herbs like sage or rosemary in your campfire or fire pit not only smells amazing but also helps keep mosquitoes and gnats at bay. Bugs hate the smoke from these plants, and it’s an easy, low-effort way to keep them off your picnic table. Watch Your Scents Surprisingly, it’s not just about what repels bugs — it’s also about avoiding what attracts them. Fragranced lotions, perfumes, and even certain soaps can lure bugs to you. In summer, it’s smart to go unscented when heading outdoors. Keep Your Space Clean If you have standing water on your property, it’s a mosquito’s favorite breeding ground. Make sure you dump water from flower pots, birdbaths, or kiddie
OAHU HOME SALES TICKED UP IN JU
MORE HOMES TO CHOOSE FROM Inventory continues to grow, especially for single-family homes. There are now more options for buyers at a broader range of prices: We’re seeing signs of life in the Oahu housing market. According to the latest report from the Honolulu Board of REALTORS®, single- family home sales jumped 12% in June compared to the same time last year. Condo sales held steady, with just a slight 0.8% increase.
Single-family active listings: 861 (up 31.9% from last year)
Condo active listings: 2,542 (up 47.0% from last year)
PRICES & MARKET SPEED Median price for single-family homes: $1,125,000 — up 0.4% from last year
Median price for condos: $510,000 — down 3.8% from last year
Median days on market: 24 for homes, 40 for condos
We’re still slightly behind last year’s pace overall, but these numbers suggest buyers are beginning to reenter the market.
We’re starting to see positive momentum, especially in the single- family home market. Inventory is building, and that’s giving buyers more breathing room and choice. While condo activity is still a bit cautious, it’s a good time for both buyers and sellers to lean on a knowledgeable REALTOR® to help interpret the numbers and create the best strategy.
pools regularly. And if you’re entertaining outside, clean up food scraps and trash — flies and ants will sniff those out fast. 2
-Jason Mitchell, REALTOR ®*
THEMITCHELLGROUPHAWAII.COM
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CLIENTS ARE SAYING
Beer Family Leo Lunchbox
We sold Nick’s condo in Mililani, generating multiple offers at above asking price. We’re thrilled for Nick!
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Text your answers to Sachi at 808.286.7633. A winner will be randomly selected to receive a $5 Starbucks gift card.
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The referral of your friends and family is the greatest compliment you can give us. Mahalo for your trust!
VEGAN POBLANOS RELLENOS Inspired by DorasTable.com
UNE — MORE OPTIONS FOR BUYERS
INGREDIENTS • 4 poblano peppers, roasted and peeled • 10 oz vegan cheese • 3 large tomatoes • 2 garlic cloves, chopped • 1/2 onion, peeled and chopped
SINGLE-FAMILY MARKET
• 2–3 cups vegetable oil • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour • 1/4 cup chickpea flour • 1/2 cup cornstarch • 1/2 tsp kosher salt • 3/4 cup cold soda water
$1,125,000
MEDIAN SINGLE-FAMILY PRICE
DIRECTIONS 1. Using a knife, slice poblanos from stem to tip. 2. Fill peppers with vegan cheese, close, secure with toothpicks, then set aside. 3. Place tomatoes, garlic, and onion in a blender and blend until smooth. 4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add tomato sauce. Let simmer for 7–10 minutes, then set aside. 5. Combine flour, chickpea flour, cornstarch, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually pour in soda water. Whisk until it resembles thin pancake batter. 6. In a frying pan, heat 3 inches of vegetable oil, topping oil as needed. 7. Dip each chile in batter, then fry until golden, about 5 minutes each side. 8. Place chiles on a plate lined with paper towels to cool. Serve over tomato sauce!
289 CLOSED SALES
12.0%
CONDO/ TOWNHOUSE MARKET
MEDIAN CONDO PRICE $510,000
358 CLOSED SALES
0.8%
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Hawaii Hikers Share Their Favorite Trails 2 The Natural Way to Fight Off Summer Bugs (No Harsh Sprays Needed!) What Our Clients Are Saying Oahu Home Sales Ticked Up in June — More Options for Buyers 3 Vegan Poblanos Rellenos 4 DIY Storage Hacks to Make Your Small Bathroom Shine
TINY BATHROOM? MIGHTY STORAGE!
MAKE EVERY INCH COUNT IN YOUR BATHROOM
Even your closet-size bathroom can feel open and organized with the right tricks up your sleeve. If you’re battling limited space, you don’t need a full renovation; a little creativity and a few clever additions can make a difference. Hooks Work Wonders Simple stick-on hooks are your bathroom’s new best friend. They come in stylish finishes like brushed silver, shiny gold, or classic bronze to match your aesthetic, and installation is a breeze. Use them for towels, robes, or even loofahs and swimsuits. Over- the-door hooks use the space most often ignored — right behind the door. Compartmentalize With Containers Nothing beats a tidy drawer or medicine cabinet, and the secret lies in compartmental organizers. These small containers store everything from Q-tips to toothpaste, so your
essentials stay where you need them. Take it further with stackable bins or below-the-sink drawers that maximize the awkward space around plumbing. The more compartments you have, the more clutter you can keep organized and out of sight! Shelf Your Worries Floating shelves aren’t just chic — they’re lifesavers! Mounted above the toilet or beside the mirror, these sleek platforms hold rolled towels, candles, or your go-to products in style. If you need more hidden storage, look for small cabinets or racks with doors to conceal the clutter and cut down on dust. Think Outside (or Under) the Box Do you have a sink with exposed plumbing under it? A pair of triangular shelves can hide unsightly pipes while storing supplies in an aesthetically pleasing way. You could also try a compact rolling cart with tiers —
it’s mobile, versatile, and perfect for storing everything from bath bombs to spare TP.
With just a few simple upgrades, your small bathroom can be beautiful and functional. Don’t let limited square footage hold you back! Get creative and organized, and love your little space even more.
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