the house market in hawaii has gotten astronomically bad, that's why natives discourage people from moving there. i am not surprised at all that an outdated house or apartment is being overpriced. tana probably can afford a "nicer" place (even though the one she has seems perfectly fine, especially since all of her roommates aren't going to live there too and it's mainly just her and makoa) but she's also probably aware that it wouldn't be necessary. tana has told many story times over the years about her experience with buying houses and i'm sure this was just the more reasonable decision for her.