Looking to Hawaii for a winter residence (apartment, rentals)

[dglade]

I am in my mid 50s currently living outside Chicago. I am married. My wife's business requires her to stay in the area year round. Plus she is not entirely sold on wintering in Hawaii anyway.

I, however, would love to. I work from home and via the internet I can do my job from anywhere. After some research I have decided that the west side of the Big Island would be the best area for me.

I have been to Hawaii three times, but certainly not enough to know if I would enjoy wintering there. So I thought I would rent an apartment, condo or a house next winter. Perhaps November through February or March.

That would enable me to get a feel for living there and get to know the area well enough to know where I would like to purchase a home or condo.

My question is, does anyone have any suggestions for the best websites to look for a furnished residence?

Dennis

[dglade]

I re-posted this thread in the Big Island section. I think that is where it belongs. My apologies.

[KonaKat]

Yes, there are many vacation rentals here in the Kona area. And many folks like you spend some of the winter months here. If you can stay 6 months, you would probably find a long term furnished rental somewhat less expensive than a vacation rental (depending on your needs and tastes and desires for certain amenities).

it is a great idea, and one I often offer to newcomers, to rent for 6 - 12 months before deciding where to buy.

I am a realtor however this is not a solicitation for your business. I simply know the business of vacation rentals. (that would get me tos'd) but if you want to DM me, I can give you some well known internet sites that could help in your search.

[hotzcatz]

And it is the season of snowbirds as we type! I suppose you'd be able to get better rates to summer in Hawaii instead of wintering in Hawaii, but then you'd be in Chicago for the wintertime.