How to Maximize Every Inch of Your Home

The trick is finding hardly-used space and making it functional — all while adding value.

The tiny home movement has inspired some mainland homeowners to consider living more simply by paring down to the bare essentials — it’s extreme downsizing. But, in Hawaii, our homes are plenty small enough, and, in fact, we could probably use a little more room.

Having a limited number of square feet to work with, interior designers have to economize every square inch. The trick is finding hardly-used space and making it functional — all while adding value.

Derek Wong, vice president of Credit Products at First Hawaiian Bank, says many of the most common home improvement projects deal with this type of renovation.

“Homeowners often make improvements to their homes out of need, such as the need for more space,” says Wong. “A home equity line of credit, such as our Home Equity FirstLine, is a convenient way to finance these projects.

“Aside from the typical kitchen or bath upgrades, we’re seeing more homeowners expanding their home’s living areas, often to accommodate other family members moving in,” he says.

If you don’t have a yard to expand into, or can’t add a second story, you may be able to re-purpose your existing footprint by enclosing a lanai or converting it for outdoor dining. Other ways to economize space include custom built-ins — closet organizers or Murphy beds to transform a home office into a dual-use guest room.

Before you get started, visit any First Hawaiian Bank branch and ask about their new Home Equity FirstLine with rates and terms designed to fit projects of all shapes and sizes.

The trick is finding hardly-used space and making it functional — all while adding value.

“Homeowners often make improvements to their homes out of need, such as the need for more space. A home equity line of credit, such as our Home Equity FirstLine, is a convenient way to finance these projects.”

Derek Wong, FHB Senior Vice President

For more information, visit any First Hawaiian Bank branch or go to FHB.com.
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