Understanding Lava Zones Before Buying Property on Hawaii’s Big Island

Are you considering the thrill of buying property on the Big Island of Hawaii? Well, you’re in for a unique experience! Living on an active volcanic island is nothing short of extraordinary, but there’s something you need to grasp first: the lava zones. Hi there, I’m Amber Haley, your local real estate expert, and I’m excited to guide you through the essential knowledge of lava zones and what they mean for you as a property buyer.

A Quick Disclaimer

Before we jump in, a heads-up! While I’m a real estate professional, I am not a volcanologist. However, most of the insights in this post are sourced from the US Geological Survey (USGS) and the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. I’ll also sprinkle in a dash of my personal experience as a Big Island resident, a real estate agent, and a homeowner who lived through the significant 2018 eruption.

The Majestic Volcanoes of the Big Island

Hawaii’s Big Island is home to five major volcanoes: Kilauea, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, Hualalai, and Kohala. Mauna Loa holds the title of the largest active volcano on Earth, while Kilauea is celebrated for its frequent eruptions. Though there are no active lava flows at the moment, it’s important to know this can change at any time. Your timing when considering a purchase is crucial!

Decoding the Lava Hazard Zones

According to the USGS, our understanding of past volcanic eruptions is based on written documentation dating back to the early 1800s, oral traditions, and detailed geological mapping. This invaluable data led to the creation of the Lava Hazard Zone map in 1974, which has seen updates over the years. The island is now divided into 9 lava zones, with zone 1 reflecting the highest risk and zone 9, the lowest.

Let’s break these down:

1. Zones 1 and 2: These areas hug the volcanic vents of Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Challenges here include difficulty in obtaining homeowner’s insurance and financing; often, properties are sold for cash.
2. Zones 3 through 6: Relatively lower risk, yet they do have a history of eruptions.
3. Zones 7 through 9: Here lies safety, with minimal volcanic activity—take, for example, Kohala, dormant for around 60,000 years.

Many buyers fall in love with places like the lush Lower Puna District in Hawaii Island, which includes the riskier zones 1 and 2. The lush landscape can be deceiving, providing a false sense of security. Importantly, there’s no law requiring the use of lava zone maps for constructing homes or neighborhoods, so a buyer’s awareness is crucial.

The Choice to Live on the Edge

Some choose to live in these high-risk zones due to their alluring beauty and tranquility, alongside advantages like lower property prices. Despite the risks, zones 1 and 2 boast active real estate markets.

As a local real estate guide, I’m here to help you navigate these waters. A riskier lava zone can make your property harder to finance and insure, and let’s not forget the potential threat of future lava flows. Generally, properties in Lava Zones 3 and up avoid these issues.

A Real-Life Decision

Take a story from one of my own clients. They fell head over heels for a home in Zone 2 but chose a property in Zone 6 after weighing the risks and costs. Now, they savor their stunning views and peace of mind, without the looming worry of volcanic activity.

If you’ve found a home on the Big Island and you’re unsure about its lava zone, reach out. I’m here to help you understand the implications. Grasping the concept of lava zones is a crucial first step in making an informed, confident decision when pursuing a Big Island home. Start your Big Island property search today.

Email me at Amber@amberhaleyhawaii.com with questions or to find your dream Big Island, Hawaii property.