Is Now a Good Time to Buy Real Estate on Maui?
Maui has always been one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Beyond being a paradise for surfers, golfers, beach lovers, and those who dream of island living, it also offers some of the most desirable real estate in Hawaii. If you’re wondering, “Is this a good time to buy a home or condo on Maui?” the short answer is yes—but with some important insights to consider.
Whether you’re exploring Wailea luxury condos for sale, Makena oceanfront homes, Kihei beachfront condos, or Upcountry Kula homes with acreage, the Maui real estate market offers unique opportunities right now. Yes the market has slowed down, and there is more inventory. The last few years there has been low inventory, and market price was holding at top dollar. The motivation has changes, and it’s a buyers market now.
How’s the Maui Real Estate Market?
The Maui real estate market has experienced cycles of growth, stabilization, and adjustment. In recent years, inventory has remained limited, but buyers are seeing more opportunities compared to the peak pandemic market. Mortgage interest rates may feel higher than they did a few years ago, but history shows Hawaii real estate has consistently appreciated over the long term.
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Homes for sale on Maui, with a larger housing inventory and longer days on the market. It’s now a more competitive market. We are no longer seeing those incredible low interest rates, even know they are hinting of lower rates. So we are seeing a lot of price reductions and market correction. If you are a seller pricing correctly is really important.
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Condos for sale in Kihei, Wailea, and Lahaina attract both full-time residents and investors looking for vacation rental income. Our Mayor introduced Bill 9, which is looking at changing 7000 condos from vacation rentals to long term residences. This has caused the market for condos to go upside down. Everyone is in watch and wait mode to see what Maui County will do. So far they keep kicking the can down the road, being they created a mess. Just my option, but the county is going to lose a lot of revenue, and legal problems if they move ahead with their plan. So this has affected condo values to drop. Hopefully they will come up with a good compromise. So saying that, it’s not a bad time to buy a condo, My guest-a-mation, is most of the condos will not lose their vacation rental zoning, but you never know.
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Upcountry properties in Haiku, Kula, and Makawao are popular with buyers seeking privacy, cooler temperatures, and acreage for farming or gardening.
While the market has slowed slightly compared to recent years, that slowdown actually creates more negotiating room for buyers—something that was rare during the competitive bidding wars of the past few years.
Why Buy a Home or Condo on Maui?
There are many reasons why now may be the right time to purchase property on the Valley Isle.
1. Long-Term Value
Unlike many mainland markets, Maui is a limited-supply island market. With demand from both local and international buyers, property values tend to hold steady and appreciate long-term. We are seeing housing prices adjusting with the slow down in the housing market. But you know what they say what comes up will go down. So where’s the bottom, I don’t know. But we are seeing some great deals. Is this a great opportunity to buy a home on Maui. I believe it is.
2. Lifestyle and Natural Beauty
Owning a home on Maui means waking up near world-class beaches like Keawakapu, Wailea Beach, or Baldwin Beach, surfing legendary breaks at Ho‘okipa or Honolua Bay, and enjoying spectacular sunsets every evening. So for the last 50 years or so that has been my life. Once a year I like to take a break and travel the world. I have visited some amazing countries. But I always return to Maui knowing that I live on one of the most amazing places in the world, just my opinion. 50 years of island living, loving it.
3. Vacation Rental Opportunities
Many buyers choose to purchase a condo in Kihei, Wailea, or Kapalua that is zoned for vacation rentals. This allows them to generate income when they aren’t on island. Also perfect for 2nd home.
4. Retirement and Relocation
For those looking ahead, owning a home in Kula, Haiku, or Wailea provides the perfect retirement destination. The sense of community, access to outdoor activities, and mild climate make Maui ideal for long-term living.
5. Investment Diversification
Real estate on Maui, particularly oceanfront properties and luxury condos in Wailea or Makena, offers a tangible and historically stable investment compared to volatile markets. There is just so much land available on an island.
Homes for Sale on Maui
If you’re considering a single-family home, Maui offers a variety of lifestyles:
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South Maui (Wailea, Kihei, Makena): Luxury resort communities, beachfront properties, and gated neighborhoods.
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West Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua): Oceanview estates, golf course homes, and vacation rental condos.
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Upcountry Maui (Kula, Haiku, Makawao): Larger acreage, farming estates, cooler elevations, and panoramic views.
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Central Maui (Wailuku, Kahului): Convenient location, shopping, schools, and local neighborhoods.
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Condos for Sale on Maui
Condos remain one of the most popular property types for both investors and second-home buyers.
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Wailea Condos for Sale: Wailea Beach Villas, Ho‘olei, Wailea Ekahi, Wailea Ekolu—luxury living with world-class amenities.
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Kihei Condos for Sale: Kamaole Sands, Maui Kamaole, Kai Makani—great for vacation rentals and just steps from the beach.
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Makena Condos for Sale: Makena Surf and other oceanfront communities with unmatched exclusivity.
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West Maui Condos: Honua Kai, Kaanapali Alii, Kapalua Bay Villas—perfect for golf and resort living.
Is It Really the Right Time to Buy?
Yes—if you think long term.
Maui real estate is less about timing the market and more about time in the market. Buyers who invest now in homes or condos on Maui will benefit from limited inventory, lifestyle advantages, and appreciation over the years.
Rates and prices may fluctuate, but the value of owning a piece of paradise remains consistent. If you’ve dreamed about living in Wailea, owning a vacation rental in Kihei, or buying a private Haiku estate with acreage, waiting could mean paying more in the future as supply continues to tighten. View all New Listings For Sale on Maui
If you’re asking yourself “Should I buy real estate on Maui right now?” consider your long-term goals. Whether you’re drawn to the beaches of South Maui, the relaxed lifestyle of Haiku, or the luxury resort feel of Wailea and Makena, there are opportunities available.
With 30+ years of experience as a Maui Realtor and 50 years living on island, I’ve helped countless clients find their perfect home, condo, or investment property. I understand the unique neighborhoods, the market trends, and the lifestyle each part of Maui offers. Search all Maui Real Estate For Sale
Questions? Call Steve Nickens, Maui Realtor with Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, at 808-280-2208.
Whether you’re buying your first condo or selling in Kihei or searching for a luxury oceanfront home in Wailea, I’m here to help.
Steven Nickens RS-5409 GRI ABR
Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers
Offices: The Shops at Wailea, Kihei, Kahana, Makawao
Cell: 808-280-2208
Email: nickensmaui@gmail.com
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