Bargain hunters were out in force Saturday at the former site of Hawaii Medical Center West.

"I think it's about 1,500 people that are coming to buy items," said St. Francis Healthcare System President and CEO Gerry Correa. "We're cleaning out what does not need to be here."

St. Francis held the "garage sale" as it prepares for the possible transfer of the hospital to the parent company of the Queen's Medical Center.

The "fire sale" of office supplies, furniture, and appliances was a necessary step before a deal to purchase the West Oahu hospital can be inked with Queen's Health Systems.

Correa told KITV4 the sale of the hospital remains on track, but it would likely be months, not weeks, before a deal could be finalized.

"Both St. Francis and Queen's are working very, very hard to move as quickly as (they) can, but it's a process and it needs to be right," said Correa.

Before the sale began at 11 a.m., a long line stretched out the door of the former hospital.

Sander Magsino, of Waipahu, a former worker at HMC West, purchased two large refrigerators for only $190. Although he was happy about the bargain, what Magsino really wants is for the hospital to reopen.

"I will apply again because I love this place," he said. "It's close to my house...only five minutes away."

Kimberlynne Wood drove from Oahu's North Shore to rummage through five floors worth of merchandise.