James Lear, Real Estate Agent

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About James

Having represented luxury and resort properties with worldwide reach, James Lear is an established real estate and marketing professional well-suited to the Hawaiian market. He brings over 25 years of marketing experience, over 125 regional and national marketing awards, a wealth of technology background to the Ellison Group. His extensive experience in luxury marketing gives him a competitive edge in West Hawaii properties, including real estate in Kailua Kona, Holualoa, Waikoloa Beach Resorts, Mauna Lani Beach Resorts, and the Kohala Coast.

As a founding member of the Ellison Group and Compass Hawaii, James is excited to be part of a team that leverages technology to elevate the buying experience for their clients. With his marketing, real estate, and technology expertise, James’ unique skillset provides clients with an advantage when positioning properties for sale and navigating rapidly changing markets.

Approachable and personable, James works collaboratively with clients to understand their needs and find the best path to achieve their goals. He has incredible intuition and prides himself on exceeding his client’s expectations while building long-lasting relationships. James works diligently to help find his clients the perfect home and realize their Hawaii dreams. His years as an industry leader mean that he consistently operates with the highest levels of professionalism and integrity.

James is from a fifth-generation ranch family in Montana. His deep roots contribute to his love of Hawaii with its emphasis on ohana and community. When he isn’t working, James enjoys adventuring and traveling with his wife, Nichole. They love sharing Hawaii’s lifestyle, culture, and beauty with visitors and even started bigislandguide.com, a travel website to help people learn more about the Big Island. Together, they enjoy paddle boarding, diving, hiking, camping, and relaxing with friends at the beach.

James also has a passion for the arts. He is a photographer specializing in landscape, location, and architecture. The natural world and Hawaii’s breathtaking scenery are some of his primary photographic inspirations. James is also a drummer. He started playing when he was ten years old and has played on various albums as a studio drummer. Today, he enjoys playing with friends and jamming at the local Jazz club in Kona.