Ep 8. Home to Old Hawaii Charm

After a brief hiatus, Hawaii Life, the popular HGTV series that documents the house hunting and buying process of people from the mainland United States relocating to Hawaii, is back with a bang with its 13th season. In the eighth installment of the season, viewers get to see the story of a family that looks to settle in a home that embodies the charm and history of old Hawaii in the beautiful city of Hilo.

In this episode of Hawaii Life, we follow the journey of a family of four as they search for their dream home on the Big Island. The couple, with two young children, is looking to relocate from their current home in California to the lush and laid back town of Hilo, in search of a lifestyle that promises less hustle and bustle and more serenity, scenic beauty, and community. They are eager to start the next chapter in their lives on a positive note, surrounded by nature and a sense of history.

Hilo is known for its old-world charm with a mix of traditional and contemporary culture. The town is home to a diverse ethnic community, and features an array of historic sites, museums, parks, and restaurants. For those seeking an escape from the fast-paced and urban lifestyle, Hilo offers a peaceful retreat that breathes new life into their minds and bodies.

As the episode unfolds, we watch the family meet with their Hawaii Life real estate agent, who immediately takes them on a tour of some of the charming and historic homes in the area. The family is amazed by the variety of homes available and the history behind each one. They are particularly fascinated by the plantation-style homes that were built during the sugarcane boom in the early 20th century. These homes, standing strong for over a hundred years, not only have the old-world charm they are looking for but also boast of increased space, high ceilings, natural ventilation, and Hawaiian architectural features.

Throughout the episode, we see the family preview several homes, each with its unique character, size, location, and selling price. There are the “fixer-upper” houses with potential, which could cost less but require renovation work. Then, there are the luxury properties that are fully furnished, come with high-end amenities, and boast of stunning views. However, the family remains drawn to a historic home, reflecting the traditional style and the laid-back vibe of the town that they are so fond of.

As they walk around their potential future home, the family discovers the house’s unique features, from its elegant wraparound veranda to the hardwood flooring, the wood-framed windows, and the beautiful shoji doors that separate the rooms. The house has sizable rooms that offer ample space for their growing family, including separate areas for both the parents and the kids. The house is surrounded by lush greenery, making it feel like an oasis protected from the outside world.

As the family tours the house, they realize how they could preserve its history and help it regain its original charm while also accommodating their modern lifestyles. They start envisioning how they would arrange their furniture, hang their pictures, and fill their new house with love. In the end, the family weighs the pros and cons of each home they visited before making their final decision - the one that fits their desires and budget.

Overall, this episode offers viewers a unique insight into the variety of homes available on the Big Island, showcasing the different options for those who would like to embrace Hawaii's charm and history. It also highlights the importance of finding the right home that aligns with the family's lifestyle, aspirations, and budget. Hawaii Life continues to inspire viewers to explore the possibilities of house-hunting in Hawaii and to consider making their dream home in paradise a reality.