What Goes into a Rental Analysis?
It can be tempting to pick a monthly rental rate that's close to the homes around your rental property and call it a day. However, you could end up with a price too low or too high for your specific property, and you'll lose money either way.
How Is the Neighborhood?

In a city the size of Kona, the neighborhood surrounding your rental property matters! Renters look for homes with easy access to the highway, beaches, and parks. They want restaurants and shopping within a comfortable walking distance. Close access to great coffee wouldn't hurt, either! Factor in your proximity to local attractions when you're considering the rental rate.
What's the Vacancy Rate?
The number of vacant rental homes compared to the number of occupied homes affects the rental price of your property.
Your rental analysis will help you keep up with rent adjustments by surrounding properties. You can also get free insight into the top amenities renters enjoy in your area. This converts to considerable savings if you decide if you need to adjust what you offer or want to make upgrades.
If you're considering a new rental property, perform a rental analysis before you buy it. Evaluate the neighborhood, nearby properties, and compare the analysis to your financial goals. The rental analysis helps you decide if a property is a good fit for your long-term wealth and retirement—or if you should keep looking for a better property.
- How many rental homes are in the area?
- How many of those homes have tenants?
How Does Your Property Compare?
If the home next door charges double what you charge for rent, be sure your property compares closely to that home before raising your rate! Your rental price depends on the condition of your rental property and what it offers to tenants. When comparing rental prices to other nearby properties, choose homes with similar features. Consider:- The number of rooms; including bathrooms.
- If there's a garage (or none).
- Does your competition have a fenced yard—or no yard?
- The total number of square footage.
- The amenities your Kona property offers relative to its neighbors.
- The condition of the investment home.

What Is Your Property's Value?
Your property value should also factor in your rental price.- How much did you pay for it?
- What's the current market value?
- What are the annual property taxes and other fees?
How Do You Use a Rental Analysis to Improve Your Income?
The rental analysis is a valuable tool if you already have a property. It's also a beneficial process when you have your eye on a new property to add to your portfolio. Ultimately, the rental analysis of your investment home in Kona helps you regain your peace of mind: when you're charging the right rental rate, vacancy decreases. Performing a regular rental analysis for your Kona home helps you stay competitive! You don't need to do it every year, but it's a good "gut-check" to make sure you're on track toward your financial goals—and your own Hawaiian dream.