What Are The Costs of Selling a Home or Property on Maui?

Your step-by-step guide from Maui broker/agent Kimberly Dreschel of Living-Maui.com.

Selling a home on Maui involves more than just listing and signing a contract. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or maximizing an investment, understanding all the costs associated with shelling your property helps you plan—and ultimately net more from your sale. As a licensed broker and agent, Living Maui Real Estate brings Maui-specific expertise to help you anticipate and manage these expenses smoothly.

What are the Average Real Estate Agent & Broker Commissions on Maui?

On Maui, the real estate commission is the professional fee—typically 5–6% of the sale price—paid by the seller and shared between the listing and buyer’s agents. It covers marketing, pricing strategy, negotiation, and full transaction management to ensure a smooth and profitable sale. With Kimberly Dreschel of Living Maui Real Estate you gain both agent and broker-level expertise, providing higher accountability, stronger marketing, and peace of mind throughout your Maui home sale.

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Which Closing Costs are Specific to Maui and Hawaii when Selling Your Property?

When selling a home on Maui, closing costs typically range from 1.5% to 3% of the sale price and include fees like conveyance tax, title insurance, escrow services, and prorated property taxes. Hawaiʻi’s tiered conveyance tax and Maui’s local escrow procedures make these costs slightly different from mainland transactions. Sellers may also encounter optional expenses such as termite inspections or surveys

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What are My Pre-Sale Preparation & Marketing Costs When Selling?

Are There Other Payoff and Seller Obligations to Consider?

What is HARTA & FIRPA? and How Does It Affect Selling a Home on Maui?

Real Estate Agent & Broker Commission - What It Really Means

If you’re selling a home for the first time—or even if you’ve sold before but it’s been a few years—it helps to truly understand how real estate commissions work.

When selling a home on Maui, real estate commission is the professional fee paid to the agents and brokers who handle your transaction. It’s usually calculated as a percentage of the final sale price, most commonly around 5%, though that can vary.

Here’s how it typically breaks down:

The seller pays the total commission at closing, deducted from the sale proceeds.
That commission is split between the listing agent/broker (the professional who markets your home) and the buyer’s agent/broker (the professional representing the buyer).
Each side then shares their portion with their respective brokerage.

So, when you work with Kimberly Dreschel and Living-Maui.com, you’re not just hiring an agent — you’re partnering with a licensed broker who oversees the entire transaction, ensuring your listing is handled with full accountability, compliance, and professional oversight.

Why the Commission Matters

It’s not simply a “fee for selling your home.” Your commission covers:

Professional marketing: photography, listing syndication, print & digital advertising, open houses, and exposure across top property networks.
Strategic pricing: analyzing current Maui market trends and comparable sales to position your home competitively.
Negotiation expertise: defending your price and terms during offers and inspections.
Transaction management: coordinating lenders, inspectors, escrow, and title to keep everything on schedule.
Broker-level protection: because Kimberly is both agent and broker, you get a higher standard of fiduciary care and fewer middle layers—meaning more clarity, fewer surprises, and faster decision-making.

A Note for Return Sellers

If you’ve sold property before on the mainland, you may notice differences in how commissions are structured here in Maui. The islands smaller market and resort-driven economy mean your agent must reach a mix of local and off-island buyers—so high-quality marketing and broker-level experience make a real difference.

Think of commission as an investment in exposure, representation, and peace of mind. The right broker doesn’t just sell your home—they protect its value and ensure your closing goes smoothly from start to finish.

Sellers Estimate at Lahaina Shores with HARPTA and FIRPTA included

Closing Costs Specific to Maui

When selling a home on Maui, it’s important to understand that closing costs are the fees and taxes required to legally transfer ownership from seller to buyer. These expenses are separate from the real estate commission and typically amount to about 1.5% to 3% of your home’s sale price—though the exact number can vary depending on your property type, sale price, and contract terms.

Here’s what Maui home sellers can expect to pay:

1.) Conveyance (Transfer) Tax

The State of Hawaiʻi requires sellers to pay a conveyance tax when property ownership changes hands. The rate is tiered based on the sale price—generally around $0.10 to $1.25 per $100 of property value. This tax is automatically calculated and paid at closing through escrow.

Conveyance Tax Hawaii Breakdown for Sellers

2.) Title Insurance & Escrow Fees

Maui sellers typically pay about 60% of the title insurance premium, which protects the buyer and lender from any disputes over property ownership. Title and escrow fees usually range between $1,000 and $2,000, depending on the home’s price.

Escrow services are handled locally on Maui, ensuring that all funds, documents, and signatures are safely managed and compliant with Hawaiʻi law.

3.) Recording Fees & Documentation Costs

The state also charges recording fees to officially record the sale and deed transfer with the Bureau of Conveyances. While relatively small (usually under $100), these fees are essential for finalizing ownership.

4.) Prorated Property Taxes & HOA Dues

At closing, you’ll pay your portion of property taxes and homeowners’ association (HOA) fees up to the transfer date. Maui County’s property tax rates vary by classification (owner-occupied, non-owner, short-term rental), so it’s important to check your current rate or ask your escrow officer for a precise prorated amount.

5.) Optional Costs to Consider

Termite Inspection: In Maui, termite inspections are often part of the sale process due to the climate; this typically costs $150–$200.
Survey or Staking Fees: Some buyers request a new boundary survey; sellers often agree to share or cover this cost.
Notary & Courier Fees: For out-of-state sellers, there may be notary or document courier charges during escrow.

What Makes Maui’s Closing Costs Unique

Maui’s market combines both residential and resort-style real estate, which means closing costs can vary more than on the mainland. Vacation-rental properties, for example, may include additional documentation or licensing considerations, while owner-occupied homes tend to have a simpler process.

Working with a local broker like Kimberly Dreschel ensures that you understand these island-specific costs upfront. At Living Maui Real Estate, we provide every seller with a custom net proceeds estimate that clearly outlines each expense—so there are no last-minute surprises when you close.

Pre-Sale Preparations & Marketing Costs

Selling a home on Maui isn’t just about putting a sign in the yard—it’s about presenting your property in the best possible light to attract serious buyers and achieve top dollar. Pre-sale preparation and marketing expenses are an investment in your home’s appeal and can make a significant difference in your net proceeds.

Common Pre-Sale Expenses

Repairs and Upgrades
Maui’s tropical climate can accelerate wear and tear, particularly from salt air and humidity. Sellers often address minor repairs such as roof maintenance, termite remediation, plumbing fixes, or repainting to make the home move-in ready. Investing in these improvements helps your property compete in a market where buyers expect pristine conditions.
Staging & Professional Photography
Homes that are professionally staged and photographed tend to sell faster and at higher prices. Staging highlights your home’s best features and allows potential buyers—especially those visiting from off-island—to envision themselves living there. High-quality photography and drone shots are essential for online listings, which attract most Maui buyers today.
Landscaping & Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. Well-maintained lawns, trimmed foliage, and appealing outdoor spaces can significantly increase perceived value. On Maui, lush landscaping and views are selling points, so small investments in plantings, pressure washing, or outdoor lighting can pay off.
Vacant-Home Maintenance
If your home is vacant during the listing period, you may need to budget for ongoing maintenance: watering plants, cleaning, pest control, and security. Maintaining the property ensures it looks cared for during showings.
Marketing & Advertising
Beyond listing on MLS, effective Maui marketing includes digital campaigns, social media exposure, email marketing, and sometimes print or magazine features targeting local or out-of-state buyers. Working with a broker/agent like Kimberly Dreschel ensures your home gets professional exposure designed for the Maui market.

Why Pre-Sale Investments Matter

Even modest spending on repairs, staging, or photography can yield a higher sale price, shorter market time, and smoother closing. In a competitive Maui market, buyers are discerning, and a home that is show-ready and professionally marketed will stand out from the rest.

With Living Maui Real Estate we guide every seller on what investments are worthwhile, provide trusted vendor recommendations, and create a custom marketing plan that maximizes visibility and appeal—so you can sell confidently and for the best possible price.

Payoff & Other Seller Obligations

When selling a home on Maui, it’s important to understand that your financial responsibilities don’t end with the listing or even after accepting an offer. Payoff and other seller obligations are the final steps that ensure a clean transfer of ownership and protect both you and the buyer during closing.

Outstanding Mortgage Balance

Most sellers need to pay off their remaining mortgage balance at closing. This is subtracted from your sale proceeds so that the lender receives the final payment. If your mortgage has a prepayment penalty, it’s important to factor that into your net proceeds estimate.

Homeowners’ Association (HOA) Fees

If your Maui property is part of a community with an HOA, you’ll be responsible for any dues up to the closing date. Some associations may also charge transfer fees or require compliance with specific community rules before the sale can finalize.

Taxes

Capital Gains Tax: Depending on how long you’ve owned the property and whether it was used as a primary residence or rental, you may owe federal and state capital gains taxes. Consult a tax professional for guidance.
Prorated Property Taxes: Sellers are responsible for their share of property taxes through the closing date, which is calculated by your escrow officer.

Vacation Rental or Other Permits

Many Maui homes have been used as vacation rentals, which may require permits or license transfers. Ensuring these are in order before closing is critical to avoid delays or penalties.

Other Potential Obligations

Utilities: Ensure final bills are paid and accounts closed or transferred.
Inspection or Repair Credits: Sometimes buyers negotiate credits after inspections; your agent/broker will guide you in handling these efficiently.
Document Preparation Fees: Notary, courier, or attorney fees may apply, particularly for out-of-state sellers.

HARPTA & FIRPTA

, HARPTA: Hawai‘i Real Property Tax Act

HARPTA is the Hawai‘i state equivalent of FIRPTA. It applies to non-resident sellers, including both U.S. residents living outside Hawai‘i and foreign sellers, who sell real estate located in Hawai‘i.

Who it applies to: Any seller not a Hawai‘i resident, even if they are a U.S. citizen.
Withholding rate: Typically 7.25% of the sales price for non-resident sellers.
Purpose: HARPTA ensures Hawai‘i collects state taxes owed on the sale of property by non-residents.

HARPTA must be filed immediately after closing.

Sellers are exempt from HARPTA if performing a 1031 Exchange

FIRPTA: Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act

FIRPTA is a federal law that requires buyers to withhold a portion of the sale price when a foreign person (non-U.S. citizen) sells real estate in the United States. The goal is to ensure the IRS can collect taxes on gains from U.S. property.

Who it applies to: Non-U.S. citizens or foreign entities selling property in the U.S., including Maui.
Typical withholding: Generally 15% of the gross sales price, though it may be adjusted if the seller obtains a withholding certificate from the IRS.
Purpose: FIRPTA ensures that capital gains tax obligations are met before the foreign seller leaves the country.

FIRPTA refunds must be filed in the following tax year

Key Takeaways: Seller’s Closing Costs in Maui

Expect 6–8% in Total Costs
Most Maui sellers spend between 6% and 8% of the final sale price on total closing costs, including commissions, taxes, and escrow fees.
Commissions are the Seller's Expense
Real estate commissions typically range 5–6%, split between the listing and buyer’s agents. This covers marketing, professional photography, negotiations, and transaction management. Regardless of the DOJ and new law that passed in 2024, we are still seeing the Sellers pay for representation on both sides.
Conveyance Tax Is a Seller Responsibility
Hawaii charges a conveyance tax of $0.10–$1.25 per $1,000 of value, depending on occupancy status. It’s automatically paid through escrow.
Non-Resident Sellers Face Withholdings
HARPTA (7.25%) and FIRPTA (15%) apply to non-residents and foreign sellers, though refunds can be claimed later based on actual gains.
Association & Transfer Fees Add Up
Condo and HOA sellers typically pay ownership transfer fees, prorated dues, or outstanding fees through escrow.
Escrow & Title Fees Are Shared
These are generally split between buyer and seller and range, depending on sale price.
Additional Costs Can Include:
- Termite inspection (often required for financed sales)
- Staking or boundary survey (if requested)
- Recording & notary fees
- Payoff and wire fees for existing mortgages
Preparation Pays Off
Reviewing all costs before listing helps sellers price strategically and avoid surprises at closing.
Partner with a Trusted Broker
An experienced Maui broker— Kimberly Drechsel of Living Maui Real Estate (RB-22959)—ensures every item is reviewed, documented, and clearly explained from start to finish.

Work with a Local Expert

Selling on Maui requires both market knowledge and careful preparation. At Living Maui Real Estate, we take a proactive approach—ensuring that every disclosure, fee, and timeline is clearly communicated to avoid surprises.

From Lahaina Shores and Whaler on Kaanapali Beach condos to Kaanapali homes and Kapalua Golf Villas, our expertise and hands-on service help sellers navigate each step confidently and maximize their net proceeds.