Makawao is in the Upcountry of Maui and sits on the slopes of the dormant volcano Haleakala. The history of the town dates back to the 1800s after cattle was first delivered to Hawaii. Makawao is still known for herding cattle because of the fields of grass still in the area. Downtown gives someone the impression of being back in time with the mix of Maui plantation-style and old west architecture. The population sits at just over 7,000, and the close community hosts the Makawao Rodeo every Fourth of July.
This area is not only known for ranching, but also for its impressive arts community. Artists and followers from all over Maui come to the Hui Noean Visual Arts Center. It has showcase exhibitions, an art gallery, and is even home to art classes.
Olinda sits just above Makawao on the Haleakala Volcano. This area has a moister and cooler climate than Makawao, and is known for being an agricultural community. This little area became very well-known after Jimi Hendrix held his Rainbow Bridge Concert here in a cow field. Olinda is also home to the prominent prep school located in the western part of the country, Seabury Hall.
To the side of Makawao is the small community of Haliimaile. Many small, cottage-style homes are in this small village.
Single family homes are a considerate part of the real estate in Makawao available. Many of these homes sit on lots of one acre or more. Most people consider the size of the lots of real estate in these areas because of the agriculture environment. The average price for a single-family home in all three of these areas is $382,500.
Makawao has starting prices for homes around $250K. Many of these need remodeling or are located on excellent properties that would be better suited to knock the preexisting houses down and build a new home. Makawao Town is nearby, and most residents prefer to walk into town. Lots grow in size as individuals leave the center of town, and these homes also need far less work. Homes here will typically start around $450K. The neighborhood of Makawao Ranch Acres has homes starting between $300K and $550K. The wealthier neighborhoods of Pau Hana Estates and Maunalou Plantation Estates sit on several acres and are priced in the millions.
Acres available are also an important issue for most everyone who purchases real estate in Olinda. Prices here start in the $400 thousands and can go up to anywhere near $2 million.
Homes are not available very often in Haliimaile as most of the residents tend to stay. If an opportunity does arise for someone interested in property here, they should jump on it immediately.
The Upcountry area on this island is some of the most peaceful and relaxing available. Having only single-family homes are larger properties, gives residents a simple life. Residents here get to be away from the tourist industry that is prevalent in most of the other areas of Maui.
