import {fetch} from 'wix-fetch'; function parseRetsXml(xml) { const parser = new DOMParser(); const xmlDoc = parser.parseFromString(xml, "text/xml"); const retsNode = xmlDoc.getElementsByTagName("RETS")[0]; const replyCode = retsNode.getAttribute("ReplyCode"); const replyText = retsNode.getAttribute("ReplyText"); const loginUrl = retsNode.getAttribute("Login"); const searchUrl = retsNode.getAttribute("Search"); return { replyCode, replyText, loginUrl, searchUrl }; } async function searchMLS(xml, query) { const retsInfo = parseRetsXml(xml); const response = await fetch(retsInfo.searchUrl, { method: 'post', headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/x-www-form-urlencoded', }, body: `search=${encodeURIComponent(query)}` }); const results = await response.json(); return results; } const xml = ' Broker = MemberName = 79190-RETSIDX James T Morrison MetadataVersion = 8.09.00001 MinMetadataVersion = 8.09.00001 User = 547029,NULL,NULL,NULL Login = http://rets.hawaiiinformation.com:6103/rets/login Logout = http://rets.hawaiiinformation.com:6103/rets/logout Search = http://rets.hawaiiinformation.com:6103/rets/search GetMetadata = http://rets.hawaiiinformation.com:6103/rets/getMetadata GetObject = http://rets.hawaiiinformation.com:6103/rets/getObject Balance = 0.01 TimeoutSeconds = 1800 '; const query = 'property type:Residential'; searchMLS(xml, query).then(results => { console.log(results); });
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  • Writer's pictureJames T. Morrison R(S)

Hawaii Oceanfront

Hawaii's ocean front ownership laws are unique compared to other states in the United States. In Hawaii, all beach fronts are considered public property and cannot be privately owned. This means that even if you purchase oceanfront land, you will not have exclusive access to the beach in front of your property. Instead, the public has the right to access and use the beach for recreational activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

When buying oceanfront land on the big island of Hawaii, it is important to understand the specifics of these laws and what they mean for your property. One important aspect to consider is the concept of "makai" and "mauka." Makai refers to land that is towards the ocean, while mauka refers to land that is towards the mountain. Under Hawaii law, all land makai of the "shoreline" is considered public property and cannot be privately owned. The "shoreline" is defined as the line of vegetation that separates the land from the ocean.

This means that when you purchase oceanfront land, you will only own the land mauka of the shoreline. This can have implications for building on your property, as you will not be able to build structures or walls that impede public access to the beach. Additionally, you may not be able to block the view of the ocean from the beach for the public.

It is important to work with a knowledgeable realtor who can help you navigate these laws and understand the specific regulations for your property. They can also help you find oceanfront land that is compliant with these laws and will not have any issues with public access.

Another aspect to consider when buying oceanfront land on the big island of Hawaii is the potential for coastal erosion. The island's coastline is constantly changing due to natural forces such as waves and storms, and this can affect the land mauka of the shoreline. It is important to work with a realtor who can provide information on the history of coastal erosion for the specific property you are interested in and help you understand the potential risks.

In addition to these laws and regulations, it is also important to consider the general market conditions when buying oceanfront land on the big island of Hawaii. The real estate market can be highly competitive, and it is important to work with a realtor who has experience in this specific market and can help you find the best deals. They can also provide information on comparable sales in the area and help you understand the current market trends.

In conclusion, Hawaii's ocean front ownership laws can be complex and unique compared to other states. It is important to understand these laws and regulations when buying oceanfront land on the big island of Hawaii, and to work with a knowledgeable realtor who can help you navigate these laws and find the perfect property for you. Additionally, it is important to consider the potential for coastal erosion and the general market conditions when buying oceanfront land in Hawaii.



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