Being a first time home buyer, I really had no idea what to expect from the mortgage acquisition process, but I figured it wouldn't be easy. At first, I was confident that Smart Money would help me feel comfortable and well taken care of through the process, because why wouldn't I be? We were referred to Tallii by our realtor, obviously these guys are buddies trying to do each other favors. I noticed that Tallii is very young and probably hasn't been doing this too long. I figured I'd give him the benefit of the doubt because, hey I'm young too and I'm great at my job, so why can't he be great at his job? Boy was I mistaken... The first time I spoke with Tallii over the phone, he seemed very knowledgeable and showed me some stuff through a remote PC session, so I was feeling pretty good. He had me believing I could afford a $650,000 loan by myself! Before we put the offer in on our home, I called up Tallii and asked him to run the numbers for me and tell me what I could expect to pay each month. He got back to me super fast with some great looking numbers, so I put in the offer and it was accepted! The only problem is, Tallii called me later and told me that he messed up and we don't qualify for the loan he showed us because we make too much money. HELLO! I told you how much I make on DAY ONE! How could you not already know I wasn't going to qualify for that loan??? Why even present it as an option?? At this point, I was less than confident in Tallii's abilities, so I requested to work with his manager Will. Will seemed like an okay guy, but he basically spent his time to tell us that we were stuck working with Tallii and to make sure to write a good yelp review for him. So here's your yelp review, Will, sorry it's not so great. The whole process after there didn't get much better. I couldn't get a straight answer from these guys about the timeline we were on, when I would be expected to sign papers, pay money, get keys, etc. Finally, we approached our deadline and went down to Smart Money to sign all the final paperwork. During the signing session, I had questions that weren't fully answered, and I was just told not to worry about it and just sign. It is what it is, but damn you guys should really know what you're making people sign because we are trusting you to explain everything thoroughly! Before we went in to sign the papers, Tallii *guaranteed* me that I would have my keys in hand on the Monday after signing the papers. I put that in asterisks because I understand very well that there are a lot of moving parts here and it's hard to know exact dates on stuff, but he literally said those words. So, I took the day off work, scheduled the cable guy, and had arranged for some friends to help me move... Surprise! He screwed up again, we wouldn't actually get the keys until Tuesday! So, Tallii, next time, just stick with the canned "we cannot guarantee this date" line that you fed me earlier in the process. Finally, we got our keys and are all moved in now. I haven't heard a peep from anyone at Smart Money. No "congratulations," no "how's the move," nothing. To be fair, though, I probably wouldn't have replied even if they did reach out to me. I have to give these guys a star because Yelp requires it and I'll give them another one because I actually got a loan, but you can bet your ass I will never work with these guys again and I will tell everyone I know to steer clear of Smart Money Inc. read more

I wish I could give Daryn and his Smart Money Team 10 stars. If it wasn't for him, Daniel and Will I am certain we wouldn't be home owners right now. While in process of buying our 1st home, like many, I was a bit lost - Daryn took the time to not only explain everything to me but go a step further and to fully understand my financial situation to ensure we were able to get the loan we needed on terms we could handle. This was key, as had we proceeded with another service I am sure we would have encountered impassible roadblocks and been out of luck - as others seemed to just try to push us along without asking (what I now know) the right questions of us and our situation. At one point, all seemed lost as we had a unique situation arise - but it felt like the Smart Money team was right there in the trenches with me, trying to figure something out. And we did - we made it happen all thanks to the team and their professional diligence. Fast forward 6 months after our closing, Daryn and team again helped us refinance, savings hundreds (and thousands in the long run) and it was all extremely smooth. Being in the service industry myself, I am very critical of customer service and only review when things are exceptional - I cannot say enough good things about Smart Money. Mahalo Daryn, Daniel and Will! read more

This is the most EXCELLENT SERVICE IVE EXPERIENCED out of a company in YEARS!!! William Rodriguez, WOW, CLASS ACT! He's just so amazing there's no words to quite explain the situation I was in .... I had a complex situation that nobody wanted to deal with and I was here in the states well buying property over the phone via Skype in Hawaii. William and his team and I might note one person in particular that was assisting him through entire process Huyen, Took on my very complex case without hesitation and literally held my hand through the whole process and made me feel worry free even when I was freaking out and I mean freaking out. They did the unimaginable and helped us achieve our dream! By the end of the process it made you feel like more than just a mortgage company they definitely made you feel like a part of the family!!!! I was connected by William through my realtor and I have to say it was a blessing I never thought I could meet such a down to earth a true loving people who really cared about what was happening with my family and our situation but I did and we are forever grateful for William his team in the process it took to get us to where we needed to be. Thank you so much to William and his wonderful team. I fully recommend them to everyone and anyone who wants to get a great and successful loan!!! read more

Awesome insight from Daryn. Was looking at refinancing my mortgage. Daryn gave me an honest assessment of our options after reviewing our goals and priorities, and ultimately he helped bring us to the conclusion that refinancing was not the best option for us at this time. When many companies would just try to sell something (even if you don't need it), Smart Money is refreshingly customer oriented. I will definitely give them a call the next time I'm looking at a loan and I suggest you do the same. read more

Tami, our transaction manager, stayed in contact with us all the way through the long process and kept us informed and explained in detail the processes. This was very stress reliving and comforting. She answered all our question and concerns in detail. We owe her our humble thanks and gratitude. read more

Smart Money Inc. has provided impeccable assistance to me on multiple purchase and refinance transactions over the last few years. Needless to say that this Yelp review is long overdue...better late than never I suppose. I am grateful to have met William "Will" Rodriguez (VP) and his "LELO's" (League of Extraordinary Loan Officers) as I like to call them. Great customer service starts as soon as you walk through the door. Tami Hashimoto greets you as though you are one of her family members and attempts to make you as comfortable as possible with beverages/snacks. Eddie Akabane is the first loan officer that I had the pleasure of working with. He is very knowledgeable and patient. Both of these are very important characteristics to have because I like to ask a lot of questions. Will is the same way and neither of them has ever made me feel as though I am unintelligent or annoying. I have learned a LOT about loans, refinancing, pricing, points, etc. from them. My wife and I are now in the process of working with Tallii Monmaney, another great loan officer that exudes the same characteristics as Will and Eddie. My wife is like me and likes to ask a lot of questions as well. So, of course, Tallii's expertise and patience are greatly appreciated. We certainly plan to continue to use the LELO's at Smart Money Inc. for our future mortgage needs...THANKS!!!! read more

Worked with Devan K and he was very determined/motivated to help me acquire a loan for my house purchase. No matter how difficult my situation was, he never gave up on the end goal. Very patient and understanding. Definitely recommend working with Devan and Smart Money. read more

Totally stoked to see Eddie in a magazine recognized for his outstanding service. read more

Smart Money - Stoked to see Eddie recognized for his great work! - Mortgage Brokers Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This is the third time using Smart Money and it was just as easy and smooth as the first. Heck, maybe it got even easier?! Will is nothing short of amazing with helping me understand loan options, down payments and future refinancing. Talk about exceptional service. This go around, got introduced to Rachel and she was awesome...answering all my questions and always so quick to respond! I've had my parents work with Smart Money and I've told as many people about this company! Thanks to the entire team and I'll be back...for sure!! read more

I can't say enough about how much I appreciate the team at Smart Money. After being told by another mortgage company that my USDA loan would be denied, a friend referred me to these guys. I began working with Devan, who believed my file would be approved, and he walked with us every step of the way. Throughout the whole process, all of my emails and phone calls were returned promptly and he bent over backwards to make it happen for us. When we went to close the loan, their team was so, so kind and hospitable. The Vice President, Will, even took the time to congratulate us and express how genuinely happy he was for us. Incredible customer service. As someone who had no idea how mortgage loans worked, they helped me feel confident and helped me understand what was going on every step of the way. Can't recommend Smart Money enough. read more

I've had great success with the team at Smart Money for my clients. William is the most knowledgeable and reliable. He has successfully approved buyers of all types: business owners, Veterans, 1st time home buyers, etc. I've worked with William for a few years and he's still the best I've seen. read more

William Rodriguez - a vet who still upholds his military work ethic and honor. My husband and I are 2 vets that up until we met him had become frustrated with folks who really d/n know how to VA home loan process worked. Will and his team from start to "photo-finish " worked, counseled and guided us through the process for us to get the HOME the WE WANTED and represented US in all the "zig-zags" that go into a real estate deal - Benjamin & I THANK YOU!! and look forward to doing more business with you soon! read more

My husband and I purchased our home back in March and Eddie was there every step of the way. Even after we closed and all the papers were signed, he followed up with us months later and helped us refinance for a lower rate! He made everything so easy and stress free. Thank you Eddie for your outstanding service! read more

If you need a lender that "WILL" truly work hard for you and keep your best interest in mind then Robin Hood is the one to choose !!!!

Thank you to Noelani Yoshino!!!! The entire process of applying for a mortgage is crazy but Noe was there every step of the way to help us understand our options. Mother Nature did get in our way by sending Hurricane Lester and Madeline causing an insurance moratorium. We couldn't get insurance until the storms passed us. We started to worry because we had to be out of our old place by a set date and our closing date was pushed back to that date. I started to panic. But have no fear, as soon as the moratorium was lifted and our insurance policy was issued, Noe worked her magic and was able to help us close a few days before our move out date. Noe was professional but also treated us like family. She had helped my husband refi his mortgage years ago. So when we decided it was time to buy a home together, we knew to call Noe. She has also helped several of our family members with refi and mortgages. I would definitely recommend using Noelani Yoshino and Smart Money!! read more

My experience with Nicky at Smart Money was nothing short of exemplary! As a first time home buyer, she was patient enough to walk me through the application process step by step, and any questions I had were quickly answered via email or phone call. The team there showed me they had great communication with each other as when I had to drop off paperwork while she was out, the other officers knew exactly where I was at in the application process which made it a lot easier for me instead of having to explain my situation over and over. Nicky also was on the lookout for me and actually scored me an awesome rate which was over three points lower then what I was paying at the time! If I am in the market for a refi or new home loan I would definitely contact them again! read more

I just closed on a property through Smart Money with William Rodriguez, and couldn't be happier! I was recommended to Will through a friend (who also had a successful close on their property). As a first time home buyer, I was thankful that Will was extremely patient and he ended up being a very helpful resource throughout the entire process. He was able to get us an awesome deal, and then worked to make sure we had all of our ducks in a row to close. Would highly recommend Smart Money, loved the whole team. Thanks guys for helping me finance my first house! read more

We refinanced last year with Celeste at Smart Money. The process was way easier than when we first bought our home through another mortgage company. Celeste was always available any time of day for us when we had any questions or concerns. We will definitely go back to her when we buy our next Hawaii home. read more

This company is very unprofessional...They made many mistakes with lame excuses....their ethics are like a car sales company...They will say anything to get the sale/deal...They made a very simple VA refinance process very difficult with miscalculations and missing deadlines....They will nickle and dime you for everything...i do not recommend this company to anyone...you should use a company that knows what they are doing and honors their word... read more

From our first meeting to the funding of our loan, Everett at Smart Money has been very professional, accommodating and sincere. He was able to meet us at a location that was convenient for us, on our time. He made sure to communicate with us about every detail. He picked up the phone every time I called him to ask questions and was always so professional. I always felt that I was his only client, even though I know he was very busy, he always had time for us. We are now in our home and we have Everett and Smart Money to thank for that. I highly recommend Smart Money to anyone looking to finance or refinance a home. You will not be disappointed! read more

Thank you so much for EVERYTHING you have done for our daughter. She could not have done it without you. Thank you for your constant positive attitude and support throughout. even when at times, it seemed like wasted effort. You always took time to answer questions and followed up. And extra thanks for finding and pulling together that county down payment assistance!! i know it was complicated by our being out of the country and the handling of the funds. But you enabled it so that it happened without a hitch, Absolutle We are so thrilled to see her so happy and working so hard to transform that place into her own. Thank you so much. We are so grateful. read more

Our guy is Ev....short for Everett Arakawa. Ev always made us feel like we were his star customers with his constant updates on the progress of the process. Our questions and concerns were answered promptly whether by email or text. His positive "can do" attitude made the transaction easy and convenient. Even after we closed, he continues to keep in touch to offer his services. Mahalo, Ev. read more

A couple years ago Everett talked to me about refinancing. I thought after paying points and a value assessment it wouldnt be worth it (my original interest was at 5%.). Not to mention my loan was also tied up with other "special criterias." Everett and his team made it fast and a simple process to make me a VERY happy refinaced homeowner at 3.99% reducing my payments by $175! I would highly recommend this company and look forward to working with Everett and his team again when my next property purchase comes around. read more

Third time I have used Smart Money and agent, Noe Yoshino, and again I had an amazingly easy time. Noe stays in constant contact updaing progess! In addition I did everything except the final signing online. For the final signing the notary met me near my work! From rates to service an awesome company and agent to work with. Mahalo Noe! read more

Sean was very instrumental in executing our loan process. We were very pleased with his service and professionalism. We trusted that he kept our best interest in focus and he successfully executed our home purchase. His communication with us was consistent throughout the process. Overall, great experience with Sean and the Smart Money team! read more

Refinanced twice with Noelani and I can't tell her enough how much I appreciate her. I can call her 24/7 with any questions I have. Fantastic customer service read more

AT first we were phone tagging,then came reality,then came (Angie Joy).Yes everyone remember this name,Angie Joy from Smart Money Inc.She helped us refinance our home and debt consolidation.She was a professional from the beginning to the end.She kept us informed and updated us every minute of the time.If you had a question after hours she was there with the answer,She was always there when needed.she was a miss 24/7,People if you need help in home refinance,loan consolidate,etc.you need to give Smart Money Inc. a try,you won't regret it.This company will help you get what you want real fast,believe me it will be fast.Just ask them what you need and they will assist you all the way till its a done deal,I love this company so will you,..............................ALOHA!,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,MAHALO again Angie Joy. read more

Just closed on a home today and Eddie Akabane helped with my mortgage and I must say everything went as smooth as silk. Just gave him the info he needed and he did a swift job, we actually closed 2 weeks early. Professional yet sincere, awesome dude! Mahalo Eddie!!! read more

Smart Money lives up to it name!. This company is the best. Will went way beyond, saving us over $10,000.00 on our loan. Thank you so much, if you are doing a VA loan look no further. Be Smart with your Money!!!! read more

We've worked with Everett twice! He is so very knowledgeable, dedicated and determined to find us the best lender whether its a conventional loan or in our case, a VA loan. He took our extremely challenging situation and sucessfully guided us with his expertise with success on both occasions. To those who are planning to buy a home, we highly recommend Everett! read more

My experience with smart money was very positive. I was looking to refinance my loan and no other company was able to find a way for me to refinance. Nicky never gave up and found a way to refinance my mortgage. Had it not been for her persistence, I would be paying $400 a month more every month! I would definitely recommend smart money. Nicky was also extremely quick to respond to any questions that I had, couldn't have asked for more. read more

I've done a lot of refinance on my properties over the years and I can honestly say working with Robin at Smart Money was the best experience I've had. She constantly keep me up date through out the loan process and was always there for any questions. She gave me options that I wouldn't even have considered. I would highly recommend her and Smart Money to anyone in the market for a mortgage loan. I even recommended my own sister who recently made a purchase. Thank You. read more

Big Shout Out and Mahalo to Smart Money! Will, Rachel, and Tami are knowledgeable, patient, and persistent. They are down to earth and easy to work with. They convinced me that they could help me when two other brokers could not. I gave them a shot even with my crazy busy life, and I'm so glad I did. Definitely a "Go To" for your financing needs! read more

I have refinanced my home several times since buying new in 2006. Smart Money rep Tallii called me when rates dropped to let me know it was a good time to follow up. There were no pressure sales tactics, just information. I asked him to call me again when the rates and points dropped to an acceptable level for me. Tallii waited until this happened before calling again and we went ahead. This was one of the quickest and smoothest processes I've experienced. Tallii kept in touch when needed and returned phones calls and emails within a day if not the same day. Even after the loan funded, he called to ensure everything had gone through successfully and all of my overpayments (escrow) were returned in a timely manner. Excellent service! Thanx again Tallii! read more

Not all mortgage specialist are created equal and I've learned that the hard way. After my refinance took longer than 60 days with Homestreet Bank I decided to give Smart Money a try. Eddie Akabane was my mortgage specialist and I will definitely stick with him. He was never pushy. He prepared me on what to expect by educating me on what the lender may require and what steps would be next. He was easily accessible and always quick to follow up. Plus he was a whole point cheaper than what Homestreet had offered. I've turned my parents and friends on to him and they've all had the same experience. read more

We weren't sure if we should refinance, or not. Thanks to Everett at Smart Money for figuring out that we sure could reduce our interest rate, and even borrow a little extra to pay off some of our bills. The company that he found for us charged very low closing costs with a promotion that they had going on. We are now paying a little less than our old mortgage, and any extra we pay goes toward paying down our principal even faster! Thank you Everett and Smart Money for helping us out! read more

One of my friends who does appraisals recommended I contact Stephanie "Noe" Yoshino at Smart Money. My friend has been appraising houses for over 15 years on the big island and deals with many loan officers. She said in her experience Noe is the best because she really fights for her clients and does all she can to get the loan for them. I decided to contact Noelani for my home loan and I'm so glad I did!! I was hesitant at first to work with a loan officer on a different island than where I live, but it was so easy!! I strongly recommend her no matter where you live!!!! I knew absolutely nothing about the loan process since I was a first time home buyer. Noelani was so patient with me and was always available through a phone call, email, & text messages to answer my many questions all times of day and even on the weekend. It could not have been any easier. I faxed her the items she needed for the loan and she took care of the rest. It couldn't have gone any smoother. She is very personable and very helpful. I also recommend Noelani Yoshino because she is able to shop for the best rates available from all financial institutions and gives you different options for loans that work specifically for you. She was able to give me a better rate than any bank & credit union in town. If you need a loan of any kind definitely ask for Stephanie "Noe" Yoshino at smart money. She is the BEST & is AWESOME at what she does!!!!! read more

Aloha, Worked with Stephanie 'Noelani' Yoshino, let me tell you. She has been so great in helping us get approved for a USDA loan. We are first time home buyers and was scared at first to try for a home loan. Called Smart Money and William made it seem possible. We are a young family and definitely needed an affordable place on our own with our two young boys. Noe has been so convenient in helping us through a stressful process. She worked late and stayed back to make sure we had all the paper work needed. She was very responsive to us with any and all questions we had. She is AMAZING!!! Nothing short of professional, helpful and really motivated in her job. We got and secured our loan a week before christmas, this was awesome! we had our own home for the Holidays. I recommend using smart money, in fact we have a friend who is currently working with them as well. Thank you Smart Money & Noelani for helping us secure a home for our boys. I know they made a lot of noise in the office, you all were genuine and professional in dealing with our Ohana. Mahalo nui, Salazar Ohana read more

If you're planning on buying a house, and just not sure what to do. I says, you should give Smart Money a call. They can really help you find get the loan you need for your mortgage. They are all experienced and professional in helping me reach my goal, especially, in these days, when home price are on the rise, and getting a loan can be a bit hard. read more