Buying a property in Hawaii, whether it’s your first or forever home, is often the biggest financial decision you’ll make in your lifetime.

Doing your homework and getting as much information about the property are critical to know what you’re buying and make a good, smart decision.

Real estate agents are no longer the gatekeeper of the MLS (multiple listing service), as they were in the past. The internet and popular real estate sites such as Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com and individual brokerage sites have empowered many to do their own research. Today, nine out of 10 homebuyers use the internet during their home search.

However, there’s a lot of important information that many popular real estate sites don’t tell you, including key facts that can turn that seemingly amazing, once-in-a-lifetime deal into a dud. Or add significant costs to consider.

Here are three things to look out for:

>> What are the fees? Many sites do not include the maintenance or homeowners association (HOA) fees. These fees can be a few hundred dollars to a few thousands of dollars depending on everything from the age of the building and utilities to the amenities and landscaping. Keep in mind, these HOA fees will only rise. There are also other possible expenses to consider: marina fees, sewer fees, assessments, etc. Your lender will need to factor these fees into your qualifications, which will affect your monthly payment.

>> Fee simple or leasehold? I often get inquiries from buyers who found an unbelievable deal online, like a spacious, beachfront Kahala condo for $125,000. I tell them that it’s leasehold and there’s a $2,200 monthly lease rent. Lease what? Many national real estate sites do not make a distinction between fee simple or leasehold properties. But the difference is huge. In a nutshell, fee simple is the broadest form of homeownership, where you own the land and improvements. With leasehold the buyer doesn’t get ownership of the land and would be subject to a land lease, which in most cases requires paying rent to the landowner.

>> Flood zone? We are surrounded by water from the mountains to the sea and so forth. It’s important to know what flood zone the property is in. Depending on the flood zone, you may be required to carry flood insurance, which can be costly, if you’re taking it out of mortgage on the property. Even areas not in direct proximity can be in a flood zone. Find out the flood zone and get an insurance quote.

The Internet is a great tool and source of information for homebuyers. But it’s best to consult with a real estate professional.

Jaymes Song is a top-producing agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty in Kahala. He can be reached at 228-3332 or JaymesS@BetterHawaii.com.