Jason Wong (PB) MBA, Principal Broker: Residential & Commercial Excellence Since 2004

Oahu Real Estate: Ohana Units vs. ADUs Explained | Buying Property in Hawaii

Are you looking to buy a home with a “mother-in-law suite” in Hawaii? Before you factor in that extra rental income, you need to know exactly what you are buying.

In this video, I break down the crucial legal differences between a Mother-in-Law Suite, an Ohana Unit, and an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on Oahu. These terms are often used interchangeably in real estate listings, but legally, they are completely different assets that dictate who you can rent to and what you can build.

What You Will Learn:

  • Why “Mother-in-Law Suite” is just a marketing phrase with zero legal meaning.
  • The history of the Ohana Dwelling and its family-only rental restrictions.
  • How Honolulu’s 2015 ADU ordinance allows for long-term rental income to non-family members.
  • 2024 State Law updates and the upcoming 2026 deadlines that could impact your property’s value.
  • Crucial questions every buyer must ask before underwriting rental income on a second unit.

Whether you are a local family looking to maximize your residential lot for multi-generational living, or an out-of-state investor looking for a compliant rental property in Hawaii, knowing how to navigate the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) rules is essential.

Ready to navigate the Hawaii luxury real estate market with confidence? Let’s connect.

Contact Jason Wong, Principal Broker (MBA):
🌐 Personal Site: https://jasonwong.us
🏢 Brokerage: https://islanddragonfly.com

(Disclaimer: Permitting rules are dynamic and subject to change. Always verify current zoning, permits, and recorded covenants with the county before making a real estate decision.)

#OahuRealEstate #HawaiiRealEstate #ADUHawaii #OhanaUnit #HonoluluRealEstate #HawaiiHomes #HawaiiInvesting #OahuHomesForSale #HawaiiProperty #RealEstateInvesting #HawaiiRealtor #IslandDragonfly #JasonWongRealEstate #HonoluluRealtor #HawaiiLiving #OahuLife #LuxuryRealEstateHawaii #MovingToHawaii #HawaiiRelocation #InvestInHawaii #HawaiiBroker


Posted

in

by

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *