What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. Depending on your preferences, you might want to find a place close to work, school, shop, medical facilities and most importantly an area that is secure and safe. The most important thing to take into account is the lifestyle that you and your family would like to have.
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What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

There are many popular areas and neighborhoods available on each Hawaiian island and each island offers a distinct personality, pace of life, cost of living, and job market. Where you choose to live depends on the lifestyle you're looking for.
OAHU
Oahu is home to the state capital, Honolulu, and the very popular tourist spot, Waikiki Beach. It's the most developed and populated of all the islands, with about 75 per cent of the state's 1.2 million residents calling the "Gathering Place" home. The major industries on Oahu are tourism, retail, construction and the federal and state government.
Many Oahu residents work in Honolulu. Housing is available near the downtown area, but if suburban living appeals to you (or if you work in an outlying area,) consider locating to one of the following districts: Hawaii Kai in southeast Honolulu; Kailua or Kane'ohe on the cooler, windward side of the island; Kapolei or Waikele on the leeward coast; or Mililani in central Oahu. These areas offer good parks, schools and community networks, good housing, and nearby shopping and hospitals. Mililani, where Crown's office is located, was one of the nation's first planned communities when it began construction in 1968.
MAUI
Maui is less populated and developed than Oahu, but is a popular visitor destination. The major employment sectors include government, retail and the tourism industry. Many people work in the adjoining cities of Kahului and Wailuku, or the resort area of Ka'anapali, and commute from outer areas such as Kihei.
BIG ISLAND of HAWAII
The "Big Island" of Hawaii is just that — Hawaii's biggest island. Its 4,028 square miles include rain forests, lava fields, world-famous beaches, and one of the planet's most active volcanoes. Major employment sectors include agriculture, retail, government and the visitor industry. Many people work in Kailua-Kona (on the leeward side of the island) or Hilo (windward side) and commute from outer areas.
KAUAI
Kauai is a relatively quiet island, though still a popular visitor destination and a frequent filming location for big-budget movie productions. Major employers include the state government, Wilcox Health Systems, Kaua'i Veterans Memorial Hospital, Kuhio Medical Center, Gay & Robinson's Olokele Sugar, and Guava Kai Plantation. Most people live and work in the districts of Hanalei, Lihu'e, Koloa, Wailua or Waimea.
MOLOKAI and LANAI
Molokai and Lanai are the smallest of the populated Hawaiian Islands that are open to the public (Ni'ihau, off the coast of Kaua'i, is populated but closed to visitors.) Moloka'i's "main street" is in Kaunakakai, and Lana'i's center of business is located in Lana'i City.
You won't find rush-hour traffic, crowds, or buildings taller than the swaying palm trees on either of these islands. The main employment sectors include government, agriculture and tourism.
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Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Most expats rent for the first year or two then, once they familiarize themselves with the different areas and the amenities, and once they have established a credit history, they consider buying a house. Some people, however, decide to continue renting because their stay in the country is temporary (two or three years.)
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Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

You will be required to pay the first month's rent, plus a deposit equal to one month's rent or more. Usually, the landlord will refund the deposit as long as your apartment is in the same condition as when you moved in.
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Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

It is important to check with your landlord, as this varies from building to building. You can expect to pay the following utilities if they are not included: water, gas, electricity, phone and cable. If you are renting a single family home, some utilities such as water, or services such as yard maintenance may be negotiable with your landlord.
While renting, it is a good idea to purchase renter's insurance. Renter's insurance covers your goods against theft and fire. Monthly premiums are typically inexpensive.
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Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

As in most larger cities, some areas are more desirable than others. Check with friends, colleagues, a real estate professional and Crown Hawaii prior to deciding on a certain neighborhood.
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I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

Standard U.S. electric current is 110/220 volts and the electrical Hertz (Hz) is 60. The U.S. television standard is NTSC and ATSC, with larger U.S. markets beginning to broadcast digital high-definition (HDTV) programs. Outlets require a two-prong or three-prong plug. See examples below:
Types of plugs used in the U.S.:
Type A - Flat blade attachment plug - two prong.
 
Type B - Flat blades with round grounding pin - three prong.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

If you have further questions with regards to accommodation, contact Crown Hawaii.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.