Creative Ways Locals Are Affording Homes on Maui

Owning a Home on Maui: It Can Be Possible

If you've lived on Maui for a while, you know how the conversation usually goes: "Eh, the prices so high, how anybody can buy?" It's a real struggle — but not an impossible one.           

                                  
Many local families are getting creative, thinking outside the traditional "buy it alone" mindset, and making homeownership happen. Today, we’re breaking down real strategies locals are using right now to afford homes in our beautiful (but expensive) island community.

1. Multigenerational Living: More Common Than You Think

On Maui, ʻohana comes first — and that's turning into one of the strongest ways people are achieving homeownership.

How it works:

• Parents, adult kids, and even grandparents pool their resources to qualify for a mortgage together.

• Families buy a home with a flexible layout (think: attached or detached ʻohana units, or homes with two kitchens).

• Everyone shares in the mortgage, maintenance, and utilities, making it more affordable for all.

Real Talk:
In places like Kahului, Wailuku, and even parts of Kula, multigenerational homes are becoming more popular. It's not just practical — it's cultural.

2. House Hacking: Let Your Home Pay for Itself

"House hacking" sounds fancy, but it's really just smart use of your space to offset mortgage costs.

Examples for Maui buyers:

• Live in one unit, rent the other: Buy a property with a legal ʻohana (or potential to add one) and rent it out long-term.

• Rent rooms: If zoning allows, rent out individual rooms to help cover your mortgage.

• Short-term rentals: Some properties in resort-zoned areas allow legal vacation rentals — but make sure you understand Maui County's strict STR rules first.

Real Story:
A friend of mine bought a two-bedroom condo in Kihei, lived in one room, and rented out the other. That extra $1,200/month basically covered half the mortgage!

3. Co-Ownership Agreements: Friends and Family Buying Together

If solo homeownership feels out of reach, teaming up might be your answer.

How co-ownership works:

• Two or more parties buy a home together, splitting the mortgage, down payment, and ongoing expenses.

• Legal agreements outline responsibilities, exit strategies, and what happens if someone wants to sell.

Tip:
Always work with a knowledgeable Maui real estate agent and attorney to draft a strong co-ownership contract. Protecting your friendship or family relationship is just as important as protecting your investment.

4. Utilizing Local and State Assistance Programs

There are real, active programs helping Maui residents buy homes — you just have to know where to look.

A few examples:

• Hawaiian Community Assets (HCA)

   

  • What it is: Provides HUD-certified housing counseling, financial education, and assistance programs to help residents achieve homeownership.

  • Why it matters: Offers personalized support to improve financial readiness and access to affordable housing.

• County of Maui First-Time Home Buyer Down Payment Assistance Program: Grants or loans to help with your down payment.

• USDA Rural Development Loans

   

  • What it is: Offers 100% financing options for eligible rural areas, including parts of Maui like Haʻikū, Kula, and Hāna.

  • Who qualifies: Low- to moderate-income individuals or families purchasing homes in designated rural areas.

Heads up:
These programs are competitive — stay prepared with updated paperwork and pre-approvals!

5. Buying Fixer-Uppers and Building Sweat Equity

Perfect move-in ready homes come with a premium price. Some locals are embracing the idea of buying a fixer and putting in the work themselves.

Pros:

• Lower purchase price upfront

• Customize the home to your needs over time

• Build instant equity with improvements

Cons:

• Renovations cost money and time

• Need patience and flexibility (and maybe a good uncle who's handy with tools)

Still, for the right person or family, this strategy can open doors that would otherwise stay closed.

You Can Make It Happen — Maui Style

At the end of the day, buying a home on Maui isn’t easy — but it's far from impossible. With creativity, community, and a little extra hustle, you can find a way that works for you.

If you're ready to start exploring your options — or you just want someone local to brainstorm with — sign up for our Maui Real Estate Insider Newsletter below. You'll get tips, fresh listings, and straight-up honest advice to help you stay rooted on Maui.

Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay local.