The five most-read Hawaiʻi industrial real estate articles of 2026
Explore five of 2026’s most-read articles on Hawaiʻi’s industrial real estate market, featuring insights for investors, property owners, and tenants.
5 min read
From understanding Hawaiʻi’s shifting investment market to finding the right industrial space, 2026 has brought plenty of questions for property owners, investors, and tenants.
This year, our most-viewed blog posts have explored the trends shaping the market, the decisions businesses face when choosing a property, and the strategies that can make a difference in commercial real estate, such as a deep dive on SWOT analysis.
In case you missed them, here are the five articles people read most in 2026 — along with a key takeaway from each.
1. Hawaiʻi investment market: Resetting, not roaring
What it's about
Hawaiʻi’s investment market picked up in 2025, but the headline numbers tell only part of the story. This article examines the $2.96 billion in transaction volume, the significant role of land sales, and why investors are approaching opportunities with greater selectivity.
As financing conditions stabilize and buyers and sellers move closer on pricing, the market is creating opportunities for those who understand where value is actually being established.
Key takeaway: A busier market doesn't automatically mean a stronger one. Understanding what drives transaction volume — and focusing on realistic pricing — matters more than following the headlines.
One number to remember: Nearly 60% of Hawaiʻi’s $2.96 billion in 2025 investment transaction volume came from land transactions.
2. 2026 will test resilience in a push-pull economy
What it's about
Hawaiʻi’s industrial market is balancing two competing forces: limited inventory that supports rents and growing economic pressures that encourage tenants to manage costs more carefully.
This market outlook explores vacancy trends, rising operating expenses, new development in West Oʻahu, and the changing priorities of landlords, tenants, and investors. It also highlights why property quality, location, and total occupancy costs are becoming increasingly important.
Key takeaway: Limited supply continues to support the market, but landlords and tenants still need to adapt. Owners should focus on tenant retention and property competitiveness, while occupiers can benefit from planning early and comparing their options.
One number to remember: Average asking base rent reached $1.61 per square foot per month at the end of 2025, up 5.2% year over year.
Oʻahu’s industrial market remains tight, but rising operating expenses and changing tenant needs are influencing leasing decisions. This quarterly update examines vacancy, rental rates, new construction, employment trends, and the external pressures affecting businesses across the island.
With new industrial developments planned for Kapolei and James Campbell Industrial Park, the report also considers how additional inventory could influence tenant choices and rental pricing.
Key takeaway: A tight market doesn't eliminate the need for careful planning. Tenants should evaluate the full cost of occupancy, while property owners should understand how operating expenses and replacement costs influence their leasing strategy.
One number to remember: Oʻahu’s industrial vacancy rate reached 1.40% in Q1 2026, while average asking rent held at $1.60 per square foot per month.
4. Top 10 things tenants need to think about when moving to a new building
What it's about
Finding a new commercial or industrial space involves much more than comparing rental rates. This practical guide walks tenants through 10 important considerations, from relocation timing and truck access to parking, operating expenses, building conditions, and lease negotiation opportunities.
It also highlights the hidden costs of moving, including buildout, equipment installation, employee commutes, and potential operational downtime.
Key takeaway: The cheapest space isn't always the most cost-effective. Tenants should evaluate how a property supports their operations, workforce, and long-term business plans before committing to a lease.
One thing to remember: Start your search early. More time allows you to compare properties, investigate potential problems, and negotiate terms that better fit your business.
5. Key differences between a typical landlord rep and a high-performing rep
What it's about
A landlord representative does more than advertise a vacancy and find a tenant. This article explores what distinguishes a strategic brokerage partner from one focused primarily on filling space.
From identifying property improvements and interpreting market data to positioning an asset, evaluating tenants, and maintaining deal momentum, it explains how thoughtful representation can support an owner's broader investment objectives.
Key takeaway: Effective landlord representation starts with understanding the owner's goals. A strong leasing strategy considers not just the next tenant, but also the property's long-term performance, positioning, and value.
One insight to remember: The best leasing strategy is built around the owner's objectives — whether that's stabilizing occupancy, attracting stronger tenants, preparing for a sale, or protecting long-term asset value.
These five articles reflect some of the questions shaping Hawaiʻi’s industrial real estate market in 2026: Where is the investment market heading? How can owners stay competitive? And what should businesses consider before making their next move?
Whether you're managing an industrial property, evaluating an investment, or searching for space for your business, staying informed can help you make decisions with greater confidence.
Want more insights into Hawaiʻi’s industrial real estate market? Explore more articles and market updates from our blog.
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