More Hawaii residents are moving out of the state than into it, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hawaii’s chief state economist Eugene Tian attributes this ongoing trend to Hawaii’s high cost of living — which should come as no surprise. A quick internet search shows that even our toilet paper has gained notoriety as having the highest price tag in the world!

Local economists agree that housing is the largest contributor to the state’s high cost of living. Graham Builders, a locally owned and operated residential design+build contractor of nearly three decades, understands that most locals do not want to move away from the place they proudly call home. Given an affordable option, many prefer to remain in paradise.

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“With the average price for a single-family home surging beyond $760,000, families are searching for ways they can either renovate or rebuild their existing homes,” said Ryan Graham, vice president of Graham Builders. “Families who were not originally planning to live in a multigenerational household are having honest, open discussions with aging parents about their future plans. It seems like economic realities have forced families to consider all options.”

Graham Builder s has helped hundreds of families to design functional, beautiful new homes and large renovations since 1990. Its staff has the experience and knowledge to help families deal with the state’s housing shortage by sharing resources such as property ownership, earning capacity and other contributions. Many of Graham Builders’ clients have decided to tear down small single-wall homes to make way for larger homes that can accommodate up to three families.

“This year we see many shared-family projects on our design boards,” said Graham. “We’ve been working on projects ranging from an ADU (accessory dwelling units) for Papa to a new home that will house three elders, four adults, three children, and their pet chickens and dogs.”

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Graham Builders has dedicated much of its efforts to helping families work out methods that will allow everyone to pool their resources so the entire ohana can live comfortably under one roof here in Hawaii.

“With the cost of housing so high, multigenerational and extended-family living just makes sense,” said Graham.

Homeowners interested in learning more about the ins-and-outs of home construction and multigenerational home design can attend Graham Builders’ upcoming “Building Your Home for Life” seminar on Saturday, July 14, 9-11 a.m. at Honolulu Country Club. Seminars are free and reservations are required. To register, visit grahambuilders. com or call 593-2808.

GRAHAM BUILDERS
CONTACT 593-2808
EMAIL clientcare@grahambuilders.com

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