Inside Maui: September Trends, Market shifts & buying strategies
After years of back-and-forth, the Honuaʻula plan in South Maui is moving from idea to action. Mayor Richard Bissen signed two bills in August that clear a path for 1,150 homes, with at least 288 reserved as workforce housing. The ordinances also cap market-unit construction at 100 homes per year and tie early infrastructure to a key upgrade: widening Piʻilani Highway from two to four lanes between Kilohana Drive and Wailea ʻIke Drive. The bills passed the Council on a close 5-4 vote.
The site sits just south of Maui Meadows, on land long discussed as Wailea 670. Earlier concepts were larger and even contemplated a golf-centric buildout. Over time, settlements and design changes shifted the program toward housing with guardrails at the edges: preserved cultural and environmental areas, a boundary buffer near Maui Meadows, and the removal of the golf course from current plans.
Next steps are procedural and matter for timing. The project must secure a Special Management Area permit for the highway work, and the highway design review process is underway. Once permits and land rights are in hand, construction of the widening is estimated at roughly 18 to 24 months. Expect staged releases given the annual cap on market units.
Condo Complex Spotlight - Kapalua Bay Villas
Kapalua Bay Villas in West MauiThis month I’m featuring Kapalua Bay Villas, a gated oceanfront condo complex located along the cliffs between Kapalua Bay and Oneloa Bay. Known for its open layouts, high ceilings, and direct access to West Maui’s coastal trails, this property attracts buyers looking for a quieter, more scenic experience. With a mix of short-term rentable units and second-home appeal, it’s a complex that stands out in Kapalua and one worth understanding fully as the STR conversation continues. To understand Kapalua Bay Villas better check out this 5-part video series has I've created:
This series offers valuable insights for current owners, potential investors, or anyone interested in understanding the nuances of Maui's evolving short-term rental landscape.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVTdVf4w-FujlbC-ly2ENSV2lz9kPCJkx Keep your eyes out for my future condo video series! | |
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Joshua’s September Buyer Tips
Buying a condo on Maui isn’t just about price and location, it’s about knowing what to look for beyond the listing. Here are four small details buyers often overlook, but that can make a real difference long-term.
View the source data directly from the MLS:
PDF DOWNLOAD: Regional Data Sheet August PDF DOWNLOAD: August Activity
Market Trends
Have questions about the market? Reply to this email or call me at 808-824-3801
Local Spotlight - Momona Bakery & Coffee Shop
This month’s spotlight is a great spot to grab a coffee and a bite for that early flight. Anytime we’re in town for breakfast, Momona Bakery & Coffee Shop is a must!
They’ve got some of the best baked goods on island along with excellent coffee and a relaxed, comfortable setting. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down.
If you haven’t been yet, go early, grab whatever just came out of the oven, and take your time. It’s an easy favorite.
My personal favorite? The lilikoi croissant. Every time.
Location: 7 E Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului, HI 96732
Hours:
6:00am – 3:00pm Weekdays
6:30am - 2:30pm Weekends
Have something you'd like featured next month?
Reply to this email or send me a DM. I’d love to hear from you. And if you’re curious about what’s happening in the market, feel free to reach out anytime. - Josh