Denni Keyes

Lifetime Hawai'i resident, experienced in various aspects of Real-Estate, and currently a full-time Realtor with Hawaii Life. Specializing in residential, investment, condominium and vacant land property sales on the Island of Hawai'i. Recognized for strong communication, organizational expertise, and relationship building, I strive to foster and build lasting relationships with clients and encourage community engagement to strengthen businesses and individuals.

Transaction Manager, Hawaii Life  - HI

Jan 2017 - November 2019

• Assist Hawaii Life Agents with opening, maintaining, processing and closing real estate transactions from contract acceptance to closing.
• Review and verify all contractual documents, amendments, addenda and related transactional documents for accuracy and Brokerage compliance.
• Track contractual and escrow deadlines and contingencies ensuring all parties adhere to the timelines.
• Collect, organize, save and maintain transaction documentation in Brokerage system.
• Assist agents with necessary disclosures, contracts, and compliance-related paperwork.
• Ensure proper licensing and required brokerage approvals are in place in order to close all transactions and fulfill full disbursement of commission to agent upon closing.

Office Manager, North Kohala Community Resource Center - Hawi, HI

March 2017 - Jan 2020

• Oversee daily operations of the physical office of the organization including scheduling, multiple volunteers, correspondence, record-keeping, and financial operations.
• Maintain and organize filing systems for the organization, all 60+ sponsored projects, funders and community partners.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit governance and reporting requirements.
• Manage office supplies, equipment and vendor relationships.
• Assist sponsored projects with administrative and financial processes.
• Track and process incoming and outgoing funds for sponsored projects, ensuring transparency and accountability.
• Foster relationships with local organizations, community leaders, and funders to support the nonprofit’s mission.

Escrow Officer, Title Guaranty of Hawaii - Kamuela, HI

June 2007 - Dec 2016

• Open, process, and manage escrow files for residential, commercial, and vacant land transactions.
• Act as a neutral third party to ensure all contractual terms and conditions are met before closing.
• Prepare escrow instructions, settlement statements, and closing document.
• Communicate with buyers, sellers, real estate agents, lenders, and attorneys to facilitate smooth transactions.
• Monitor transaction timelines and ensure all contingencies are satisfied before closing.
• Work closely with title officers to review title reports, address title defects, and clear any encumbrances.
• Verify ownership records, liens, easements, and other title-related matters.
• Ensure all necessary legal documents are properly executed and recorded with the appropriate State and County offices.
• Receive and disburse escrow funds in accordance with contract terms and applicable regulations.
• Balance and reconcile escrow accounts to maintain financial accuracy and compliance.
• Work with lenders to ensure timely funding and distribution of loan proceeds.

Kohala Community Land Trust - 2024 to current

A registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created to provide affordable property solutions for the North Kohala Community. 

• Current, active and founding Board Member and Treasurer.

Na Kao O Kohala Volleyball Club - 2024 to current

An organized volleyball club registered under USA Volleyball and the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) for the benefit of the North Kohala Community. 

• Club Director, Coach & Player

Kohala High School, Girls Varsity Volleyball Assistant Coach - 2023 to current

• Assistant Coach for the Kohala High School Girls Volleyball Program

Project Grad Coordinator - 2022 to current

Provide a safe, drug and alcohol free event for the graduates of Kohala High School.

Kohala High School, Academy of Sustainability - 2021 to current

The Academy Program of Kohala High School dedicated to preparing students for successful transitions to postsecondary education employment through 4 academic paths.

• Current, active Board Member.
• Resource provider and mentor.

Habitat for Humanity - Hawaii Island - 2019 to current

• Volunteered and helped to build 9 affordable homes on Hawaii Island to date with more to come in the future!

North Kohala Community Resource Center - 2020 - current

A registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering the small community of North Kohala by providing fiscal sponsorship for over 60 community based projects. 

• Current, active Board Member.
• Served as the Treasurer on the Executive Board for 4 years.

• Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI)

• National Association of REALTORS (NAR)
• Hawaii Association of Realtors (HAR)
• Hawaii Island Realtors (HIR)