Buying a Home in Makena, Maui
Makena, Maui, is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful locations to own a home. Living in an oceanfront home in Makena would be like living in paradise; wait a minute; it is paradise. If you can only imagine waking up to gorgeous ocean views and warm, pristine waters. I find that the sunsets from Makena are some of the most brilliant sunsets you would find anywhere. I have spent time stand up- paddling with the whales off Makena Landing, which is a fantastic experience. Or try snorkeling with the turtles right out front of your oceanfront home; it’s unbelievable. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the benefits and process of buying a home in this beautiful area called Makena Beach.
Let’s look at Makena’s Lifestyle – Wake up, hot cup of coffee and a croissant, morning swim, life doesn’t get any better. Makena offers a secluded and private lifestyle, with many oceanfront homes in gated communities. This exclusivity is one of the primary attractions, providing homeowners a tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of more developed areas. You’re steps away from the shoreline for a morning swim. Some friends rent a house in Makena for a couple of months every winter. I always enjoy a stand-up paddle board session and BBQ watching the most awesome Hawaiian sunsets. I would love to live in Makena. VIEW CONDOS FOR SALE MAKENA SURF
Luxury Amenities: Homes in Makena are often equipped with high-end amenities such as private pools, gourmet kitchens, and expansive outdoor living areas. Proximity to luxury resorts like the Four Seasons and Fairmont Kea Lani also means access to world-class dining, spa services, and recreational facilities—shopping and dining at the Shops at Wailea.
Outdoor Activities: Makena is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With pristine beaches, clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving, and nearby hiking trails, the area offers numerous opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The Makena State Park, with its famous Big Beach and Little Beach, is a highlight. Wailea Tennis Club is nearby, and maybe a round of golf at Makena Golf Course.
Market Conditions: Understanding Makena’s current real estate market conditions is crucial. The market can be competitive, with high demand for oceanfront properties driving prices up. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands the local market dynamics is essential.
Property Types: Makena offers a variety of property types, including single-family homes, estates, and luxury condominiums like Makena Surf. Each property type has advantages, depending on your lifestyle preferences and investment goals. Other neighborhoods include One Palau’ea Bay a private gated community, Makena Place, ten oceanfront homes, condos such as Makena Surf oceanfront condos. Makena Golf and Beach Club is a private club for Makena residences. 18-hole golf course with incredible ocean views. Some private homes include Kula Villas, Steps away from Maluakia Beach, The Beach Club Residences, Molokini Residences, and 13 homestead lots at Makuaka Estates.
Financing: Financing a home in Makena might require a substantial down payment and the ability to secure a high-value mortgage. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is advisable before starting your property search to streamline the buying process. There is always cash.
Steps to Buying a Home in Makena
- First, determine your budget. Are you looking for a condo or residence? Consider essential features. Factors like proximity to the beach, views, and amenities will affect the price.
- Find a local real estate agent who knows the Makena market. Ask for a sales record, or CMA, for the last year to get a feel for value and pricing when searching for a home in Makena.
- Start your property search using listings online and through your real estate agent. Use my website on Nickensmaui.com; you will find up-to-date listing information, photos, and detailed property info. You should have proof of funds or a pre-approval letter from your lender before you request a private showing. You can schedule the showing once you have all your ducks lined up. Most real estate companies require a buyer’s agreement; my company at Hawaii Life requires us to use a buyer’s agreement with the change in commission structure.
- Okay, it’s time to make an offer. But first, you really should do a comparative market analysis. What recent homes in the area of the home you’re interested in sold for? Also, consider the lot size and square footage of the home, whether it’s dated and needs a makeover, and whether it’s directly oceanfront. Also, consider how long it’s been on the market, and maybe ask if any offers exist.
- Okay, you negotiated a price, signed a contract, opened escrow, and initial deposits are in escrow.
- It’s time to inspect the property. Hire a professional home inspector to check the house from the foundation to the roof. The property inspections include reviewing HOA documents, disclosure statements, title reports, permits, termite inspections, and legal documents. Have the property surveyed and zoning issues that could affect your enjoyment of the property. If it is in a shoreline management area, so if you are going to add additional structures, then make sure you check with Maui County on Permits and how they are affected by Shore Line Management laws. I would check with your insurance company if there are any problems getting insurance on oceanfront property or fire insurance with the recent fires in Lahaina. And remember to pay attention to the inspection timeline to complete all your home inspections on time.
- Stay in touch with your lender if you are financing your purchase so that you can close according to the contract’s timeline.
- Working with your escrow officer is essential to closing on time. The escrow officer will help you sign documents, ensure all funds have been deposited into escrow according to the timeline, and stay on point by completing surveys, document inspections, etc.
Advantages of Buying in Makena
- Makena’s real estate market is strong, with high demand for luxury properties ensuring long-term appreciation. The area’s exclusivity and desirability make it a solid investment. There are only so many oceanfront homes, making them in high demand. You can sign up to receive email updates on all new homes for sale in Makena Maui.
- Oceanfront properties in Makena can generate substantial rental income, mainly from vacation rentals. The area’s appeal to tourists ensures high occupancy rates and premium rental prices. But be aware that Maui County is questionable about continuing permits for vacation rentals. This is not their first rodeo trying to cut back on vacation rentals. By the end of June, it should be clearer what Maui County is up to. I can send you updated information if you have questions or want updates on the Maui vacation market. Just email me at nickensmaui@gmail.com.
- Owning a home in Makena would be a dream come true. You are waking up to the sound of the ocean lapping on the beach or living on some of the finest oceanfront real estate in the world. What’s not to like about Makena Beach?
So there you go—there are so many options if you purchase real estate in Makena Maui. Call me if you have questions about a particular property or up-and-coming projects in Wailea and Makena. I can provide recent sales figures, county records, and up-to-date property information on any property in Wailea and Makena Maui.
Conclusion
Buying a home in Makena, Maui, is more than just a real estate investment; it becomes a way of life, enjoying the beauty that Makena offers. You can keep up-to-date on current homes for sale in Makena and Wailea, Maui. If you are considering selling your home or condos in Makena, I work with Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers; we have a central office in The Shops at Wailea. Hawaii Life has over three million visitors to its website a year. Hawaii Life is privately owned and has offices throughout Hawaii. Sign up to receive my listing presentation and learn the benefits of listing with Hawaii Life and myself. I have been calling Maui Homes for 50 years and selling real estate on Maui for 30 years. Before working with Hawaii Life, I worked with Wailea Group for three years, representing luxury property sales on their team with properties like Wailea Beach Villas, Papali Wailea, and Hoolei.
So feel free to call me anytime, or if you’re on the island, I would love to meet up with you.
Aloha, Steve
Steven Nickens RS-54097 GRI ABR
Hawaii LIfe Real Estate Brokers
Office: Shops at Wailea
Cell: 808-280-2208
Email: nickensmaui@gmail.com
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