Understanding HOA & Maintenance Fees on Maui: Where Your Money Goes & What to Know

So, you’re shopping for property on Maui—maybe a breezy condo near the beach or a tucked-away home Upcountry—and you notice the HOA fees vary widely, and some maintenance fees seem surprisingly high. What do they actually cover, and why is there such a range? Understanding these costs can help you make smarter buying decisions and avoid surprises down the road.

Let’s break down the difference between HOA dues and maintenance fees, and what they mean for you as a homeowner.

HOA (Homeowners Association) Dues are typically found in residential neighborhoods or master-planned communities. These fees help maintain shared spaces and ensure the overall appearance and function of the community.

Common uses:

• Road upkeep

• Entry gate maintenance

• Streetlights

• Mailbox clusters

• Common landscaping

• Association management

• Community rules enforcement

Maintenance Fees are more common in condominium properties. These are typically higher and cover the shared cost of running the building or property.

Common uses:

• Landscaping

• Pool and amenity upkeep

• Building insurance (from the exterior walls out)

• Exterior maintenance

• Common area utilities

• Staffing or resident services (security, concierge, etc.)

• Reserve contributions for big-ticket repairs (like roof or elevator replacement)

NOTE – Why it's higher at vacation-rental complexes: Short-term rental condos tend to have more wear and tear, higher turnover, and added staffing costs. They also often offer more amenities that require upkeep.

Why Are Reserve Funds Important?

A portion of your HOA or maintenance fees typically goes into a reserve account—essentially a savings account for future repairs and major upgrades. Healthy reserves prevent surprise "special assessments" (where every owner is charged a large fee) when something major needs fixing.

What to Ask When Buying

When you're considering a home or condo with HOA or maintenance fees, it’s wise to ask a few key questions:

• What are the current reserves, and are they considered adequately funded?

• Are there any upcoming special assessments—and if so, are they already covered by reserves?

• Have there been recent increases in dues, and why?

These questions can reveal how well the community is managed and help you avoid surprises after you move in.

Knowing what your monthly fees cover—and whether they’re justified—can help you choose a property that fits your lifestyle and budget. Whether you're eyeing a vacation condo or a permanent home, these numbers matter.

Have questions about a specific property or how fees compare across different areas? Reach out—I’m happy to help you navigate the details.