COLDWELL BANKER A TRUSTED NAME IN REAL ESTATE
A TRUSTED NAM IN REAL ESTATE COLDWELL BANKER AT A GLANCE COLDWELL BANKER WHAT: A n island success story backed by a global real estate giant WHERE: Hawaii, USA 1 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
ME E BUILDING A LEGACY OF GROWTH AND RESILIENCE Coldwell Banker has long been a trusted name in real estate, with a global reputation for professionalism and innovation. In Hawaii, that reputation has only deepened through steady growth, strategic acquisitions, and an expanding presence across the islands. 2 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
Under the leadership of Managing Director Brian Yano, the company is carving out an ambitious future—particularly in the commercial property management space—while staying true to its roots in residential real estate. A HISTORY OF EXPANSION The story of Coldwell Banker in Hawaii is one of vision and persistence. The company’s residential foundation was strengthened when entrepreneur Steve Hall acquired Coldwell Banker Island Properties. From there, Hall pursued a strategy of acquisitions, bringing Century 21 All Islands into the fold and expanding with offices in Kona, Hilo, and Kauai. This approach transformed Coldwell Banker into a statewide leader. Today, the company operates 25 offices, supported by 1,300 residential agents and 10 commercial agents. The numbers speak for themselves: in 2024, Coldwell Banker closed 37,677 transactions and achieved an extraordinary $3.9 billion in sales. Two years ago, the company launched Coldwell Banker Commercial, marking a major milestone. The commercial division was born in challenging times—just as Hawaii was facing the devastation of the Lahaina fires in August 2022—but quickly established itself as a vital player in the state’s real estate landscape. OPERATIONS AND SERVICES Coldwell Banker’s structure reflects the unique blend of business sectors it serves. Residential real estate is driven primarily by independent contractors, while vacation rentals are managed by a dedicated employee team.The company also operates My Akai Mortgage, offering lending services that complement its real estate transactions. On the commercial side, Coldwell Banker manages 13 properties, with plans to add five more before the end of this year.This portfolio ranges from office complexes to retail centers, with an emphasis on property management services that balance tenant needs, owner priorities, and operational efficiency. Technology plays a key role. Coldwell Banker 3 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 COLDWELL BANKER
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At First Onsite, we are deeply honored to stand alongside our client as a trusted restoration partner, and we extend our sincere gratitude to both them and the readership of Business View Magazine for taking the time to learn about their story. Our clients’ commitment to excellence, resilience, and care for the communities they serve inspire us every day, and it is a privilege to play a role in helping them protect their people, property, and business continuity. Trust is the foundation of every strong partnership, and we do not take that responsibility lightly. When emergencies arise, we know that every second matters. That is why our team in Hawaii — and all the First Onsite team across the North American Continent— is committed to being ready 24/7, bringing not only technical expertise but also compassion, clear communication, and a proactive mindset. To the readers of Business View Magazine: thank you for recognizing organizations that invest in resilience and long-term success. And to our client: mahalo for the opportunity to serve as your restoration partner. We look forward to continuing to stand by your side, helping safeguard what matters most so that you can focus on serving your own clients and community. Build Your Future With First Onsite PROPERTY DAMAGE RESTORATION SERVICES We are FIRST ONSITE, a leading property restoration and reconstruction provider serving all of North America & Hawaii. We specialize in emergency mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction to repair property damage and minimize downtime. Our dedicated team is available 24/7, 365 days a year, to provide unmatched restoration services. It’s our goal to be the only property restoration partner you’ll ever need. Marketing@firstonsite.com 808.484.4095 | 800.622.6433 24/7 EMERGENCY COLDWELL BANKER
uses Yardi, a sophisticated accounting and tenant management platform, which includes a tenantfacing portal for maintenance requests and financial statements. For listings, the company relies on CoStar, LoopNet, Craigslist, and other digital platforms, while maintaining a strong presence on social media to reach audiences both locally and abroad. CULTURE AND PEOPLE While acquisitions and technology provide the framework, Jano emphasizes that Coldwell Banker’s culture is the true driver of success. Training and mentorship are at the heart of the company’s philosophy. “Everyone has strengths and weaknesses,” Yano explains. “Our job as leaders is to help fill in the gaps, to make sure our people have the resources and support they need to deliver consistently for clients.” This approach has fostered a workplace where employees feel valued and empowered. An open door policy and honest communication create an environment where feedback flows freely. Beyond day-to-day operations, Coldwell Banker’s involvement in major projects and disaster response efforts adds a deeper sense of purpose for employees, reinforcing a culture of service to both clients and community. MARKETING THROUGH REPUTATION Coldwell Banker’s marketing strategy blends modern digital tools with the timeless power of reputation. For commercial real estate, platforms like LoopNet, CoStar, and Crixy are essential, while social media drives awareness for residential listings and vacation rentals. Interestingly, the company does not heavily advertise its property management services. Instead, it relies on reputation and word-of-mouth referrals. Relationships with owners and investors often speak louder than traditional campaigns, positioning Coldwell Banker as a trusted partner rather than just another service provider. 6 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
At the same time, the company actively helps property owners market their assets. Whether through tenant promotions, digital campaigns, or curated listings, Coldwell Banker ensures each property is presented to its fullest potential. Looking ahead, Jano is watching the rapid rise of artificial intelligence with great interest. “AI has grown so quickly, and its impact on real estate is only beginning to be understood,” he notes. “It’s something we need to keep a close eye on as we plan for the future.” INVESTING IN GROWTH Expansion has always been part of Coldwell Banker’s DNA, and recent years have been no exception. The company’s focus has increasingly shifted to Oahu, home to the highest population density in Hawaii. In less than a year, Coldwell Banker opened three new offices on Oahu and hired more than 150 agents. These investments have not come without 7 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 COLDWELL BANKER
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challenges. The tragic Lahaina fires disrupted communities and the real estate market in Maui, while rising tariffs have increased construction and renovation costs across the islands. Yet Coldwell Banker has continued to pursue opportunities with resilience and determination. “Our goal is to be one of the top commercial property managers in Hawaii within the next few years,”Yano says. “That means growing square footage under management, expanding into new markets, and continuing to strengthen our team.” PARTNERSHIPS AND SERVICE PARTNERS Coldwell Banker’s success also rests on the strength of its partnerships. Rather than simply referring to outside contractors as vendors, the company calls them service partners—a reflection of the collaborative relationships they strive to build. Depending on the project, Coldwell Banker works with both long-standing partners and new providers, carefully evaluating capabilities and availability to ensure the right fit. From general contractors to landscaping companies, these partnerships are essential for maintaining properties and delivering consistent quality. “We couldn’t do what we do without the support of our service partners,” Yano explains. “They’re an extension of our team, and we value those relationships deeply.” LOOKING AHEAD The future for Coldwell Banker Hawaii is both ambitious and grounded in a clear strategy. On the residential side, the company will continue to support its vast network of agents and vacation rental clients. On the commercial side, Jano is laser-focused on expanding property management services on Oahu and the Big Island, with the goal of building one of the largest and most trusted portfolios in the state. With a proven record of growth, a culture of mentorship and collaboration, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, Coldwell Banker is wellpositioned to meet that goal. “Real estate is about more than transactions,” Yano 9 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 COLDWELL BANKER
reflects. “It’s about relationships, trust, and creating value for our clients. As we grow, that will always remain at the core of who we are.” PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n First OnSite www.firstonsite.com First Onsite is Hawaii’s trusted and Building Management Hawaii’s award winning property restoration partner, specializing in water, fire, mold, and disaster recovery. From healthcare to commercial facilities, our team provides 24/7 expertise, proactive education, and compassionate service—helping businesses protect people, property, and operations with confidence and resilience. n Intergrated Facilities Services www.ifshi.com Integrated Facility Services Hawaii (IFSH) delivers top-tier janitorial, landscaping, maintenance, and site management services on Oahu. Rooted in in our core values; integrity always, objective empathy, passion driven and continuous learner, we partner with clients to maintain clean, safe, and beautiful spaces — always with aloha. 10 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
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