Ever wonder what kind of obstacles you might encounter when acquiring a piece of “Kuleana Land” on Kauai?  A Kuleana is a fee simple parcel, but it is land locked inside another larger parcel.  We do sell them, but it is good to know the details of what will be in store.

Kuleana lands were deeded to native Hawaiian families by the Hawaiian Kingdom in the mid to late 1800's and today these unique parcels of fee simple land are available for sale.  Most Kuleana lots lack conventional access.  Although it may not be landlocked, and on paper it appears to be accessible, the access may be by way of a foot trail only.  The asking price is usually substantially cheaper than other improved vacant lots because of the access and utility issues, however, the surrounding views are generally very natural and untouched, with the feeling of Old Hawaii Nei. 

Buyer Beware!  Paying cash or doing an Agreement of Sale is the easy part; one should do his or her due diligence to check on the availability of building permits. In additon you may have trouble financing new construction.  Be advised that the cost of a Title Search may be surprisingly higher than anticipated.  Title companies generally have  to do a "long search" with a Kuleana,  and the documents in the chain of title may still recorded in the Hawaiian language. 

I have sold Kuleanas in the past and can help you with your purchase or sale. Email me at teri@sleepinggiant.com or call me at 808-639-8909.