Maui Real Estate Q & A - What's an Ohana?

I get asked this question every now and then, so decided it was time to write a post about it, and start a new feature of Questions and Answers. So, here goes with the first Q & A.

What's an Ohana?

In Hawaii, the term ohana is used frequently in real estate listings. It refers to an apartment or cottage on the same property as the main home. An ohana can be a mother-in-law suite, or granny flat. Typically it would mean an apartment attached to the main house but with it's own entrance. It can also be a detached cottage, or an apartment over the garage. It can even be a non-conforming tool shed or barn.

Where does this term come from? Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family. Here in Hawaii, it's expensive to live and many times a household will be comprised of more than one generation. To make life easier, a separate ohana is built or created so the families can each have their own space, yet still be close.

Ohanas come in all sizes and shapes, and there are laws regarding which properties can have them or not. Sometimes the zoning will restrict the size. Sometimes CC&R's will prohibit them. When buying a home on Maui it's always good to ask your REALTOR® about the rules in each case.

Are you looking for a Maui home with an ohana? Please let me be your guide to all things Maui.

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Thanks for reading My Maui Blog!

Aloha from Maui ~ Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro

call or text me 808 283-0635 ~ EMAIL

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Maui Real Estate Q & A - What's Mauka and Makai?