First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Hawaii

Hale Kama'aina Mortgage Program (HHFDC)

Administered by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, this program offers below-market financing for qualified first-time buyers.

• Government-backed mortgage rates as low as 5.4%
• Down payment assistance available, minimum 5% down via a low-interest loan
• Must be a first-time homebuyer and current Hawaii resident
• Homeownership counseling course required

Hula Mae Mortgage Loan Program

Another HHFDC offering designed to make homeownership more affordable for income-eligible residents.

• Down payment assistance up to 3% of the purchase price
• Available to income-eligible first-time buyers
• Can be paired with competitive fixed-rate mortgages

Honolulu (Oahu)

Up to $40,000 in down payment assistance. Zero fees, zero interest, 20-year term.

Maui County

Down payment assistance grants awarded through a lottery system. Check with the county housing division for upcoming rounds.

Hawaii County (Big Island)

Down payment and closing cost assistance programs available for qualifying first-time buyers.

FHA Loans

As little as 3.5% down with flexible credit requirements. One of the most popular options for first-time buyers.

VA Loans

$0 down payment for eligible active-duty military, veterans, and surviving spouses. No mortgage insurance.

Conventional Loans

Down payments as low as 3% with strong credit. Competitive rates and flexible terms.

USDA Loans

Zero down payment for homes in qualifying rural areas, including parts of the Big Island.

What qualifies as a first-time homebuyer in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, a first-time homebuyer is generally defined as someone who has not owned a primary residence in the past three years. This applies to most state and county assistance programs, including the Hale Kama'aina Mortgage Program and county down payment assistance. Some programs may have slightly different definitions, so it's important to check specific eligibility requirements.

How much down payment do I need to buy a house in Hawaii?

Down payment requirements vary by loan type. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down, conventional loans can go as low as 3%, VA loans offer zero down payment for eligible veterans, and USDA loans provide zero-down options in qualifying rural areas. Hawaii also offers down payment assistance programs that can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

What is the Hale Kama'aina program?

The Hale Kama'aina Mortgage Program is administered by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC). It offers government-backed mortgage rates as low as 5.4%, along with down payment assistance requiring a minimum of 5% down via a low-interest loan. Applicants must be first-time homebuyers, Hawaii residents, and must complete homeownership counseling.

Can I get down payment assistance in Hawaii?

Yes. Multiple programs offer down payment assistance in Hawaii. The Hawaii HomeOwnership Center provides second mortgages up to $125,000 through its DPAL program. The City & County of Honolulu offers up to $40,000 in zero-interest assistance. Maui County provides grants via lottery, and Hawaii County has its own assistance programs. The Hula Mae program also offers up to 3% of the purchase price.

What credit score do I need to buy a house in Hawaii?

Credit score requirements depend on the loan type. FHA loans typically require a minimum credit score of 580 for 3.5% down payment (or 500 with 10% down). Conventional loans generally require a 620 or higher score. VA loans have no official minimum, though most lenders prefer 620 or above. Higher credit scores can help you qualify for better interest rates.

Is it possible to buy a home in Hawaii with no money down?

Yes. VA loans offer zero-down-payment financing for eligible active-duty military, veterans, and surviving spouses. USDA loans also provide zero-down options for homes in qualifying rural areas, such as parts of the Big Island. Additionally, combining down payment assistance programs with low-down-payment loans can significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.

What is the median home price in Hawaii?

Median home prices in Hawaii vary significantly by island. As of recent data, the Big Island (Hawaii County) has a median around $585,000, while Oahu (Honolulu) exceeds $1.1 million. Maui and Kauai fall in between. These prices reflect single-family homes and can fluctuate based on market conditions and location within each island.