Real Estate Agent Lists Property '30 Minutes From Active Volcano' as a Feature, Not a Warning

A real estate listing for a three-bedroom home near Pahoa, Hawaii, has drawn criticism from geologists after describing the property's proximity to Kilauea — one of the world's most active volcanoes — as a lifestyle amenity rather than a hazard disclosure. The listing, posted by ReMax agent Brenda Escrow, describes the home as offering 'breathtaking volcanic views,' 'natural geothermal heating,' and 'the unique experience of living alongside one of Earth's most dynamic geological forces.' The sulfur dioxide emissions detectable at the property are characterized as 'a distinctive mineral terroir.' 'Every property has a unique selling proposition,' Escrow told reporters. 'Some homes have ocean views. Some have mountain views. This one has an active lava flow visible from the master bedroom. That's not a warning — that's a feature you can't get anywhere else.' The listing's amenities section includes: 'Natural ambient lighting from volcanic glow (evening hours),' 'Free geothermal underfloor heating,' and 'Zero percent chance of snow.' It does not mention that the property sits in Lava Zone 1, the highest-risk volcanic hazard zone in Hawaii. 'Lava Zone 1 means the property has been covered by lava at least once in recorded history,' said USGS volcanologist Dr. Maya Flow. 'Listing volcanic proximity as an amenity is like listing proximity to a highway as free white noise.' The Hawaii Real Estate Commission has opened a review of the listing to determine whether the description constitutes adequate hazard disclosure. Escrow maintains it does. 'I disclosed the volcano,' she said. 'It's in the listing. Multiple times. I just disclosed it positively.' The home has received four offers, all from buyers Escrow describes as 'adventurous.' Geological surveys are pending.