Housing Resources

Buying or renting a home in Hawaii is one of the most significant financial decisions a family can make. Honolulu has some of the highest housing costs in the country, but there are programs available to help District 9 residents rent more affordably, access emergency assistance, and work toward homeownership. Here's what's available.

For Renters

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: The federal Section 8 program helps low-income families afford rent in the private market by covering a portion of the monthly cost. The program is administered by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA).

• Phone: (808) 832-4200

• Website: hpha.hawaii.gov

• Note: The waiting list opens and closes periodically. Contact HPHA directly to check current status.

Emergency Rental Assistance: If you're at risk of eviction or falling behind on rent due to a financial hardship, short-term emergency rental assistance may be available through local nonprofit partners.

• Catholic Charities Hawaii: (808) 527-4820

• Aloha United Way 211: Dial 2-1-1 to connect with social services statewide

Hawaii Public Housing: The Hawaii Public Housing Authority manages affordable public housing units statewide for income-eligible families.

• Phone: (808) 832-4200

• Website: hpha.hawaii.gov

For First-Time Homebuyers

Hale Kamaʻāina Mortgage Program (State — Launched December 2025): HHFDC's newest program offers first-time homebuyers competitive fixed-rate 30-year mortgages with lower fees than most lenders, plus optional down payment assistance. Current rates as of 2026: 4.65% for government-backed loans, 4.95% for conventional.

• Must be a first-time homebuyer and Hawaii resident

• Must complete a HUD-approved homeownership counseling program

• Website: dbedt.hawaii.gov/hhfdc

Honolulu Down Payment Loan Program (City): The City and County of Honolulu offers a zero-fee, zero-interest loan of up to $40,000 to help income-eligible first-time homebuyers with their down payment. The loan has a 20-year amortization term and requires the borrower to remain an owner-occupant.

• Loans are granted on a first-come, first-served basis depending on fund availability

• Contact: Department of Community Services at (808) 768-7762

Affordable Housing Lottery (HHFDC): Developers on Oahu are required to sell a portion of new homes at below-market prices. HHFDC oversees these lottery programs, which are open to Hawaii residents who meet income limits and do not currently own property.

• 2025 Area Median Income (AMI) for a family of 4: $129,300

• Most programs target buyers at 80–140% AMI

• Website: dbedt.hawaii.gov/hhfdc

Hawaii Homeownership Center (HHOC): HHOC provides free homebuyer education courses, one-on-one counseling, and access to additional down payment and closing cost assistance programs.

• Website: hhoc.org

Hawaiian Community Assets: Offers culturally grounded homebuyer education and financial counseling to help families prepare for homeownership.

• Phone: (808) 587-7886

• Website: hawaiianassets.org

Key Resources

Need Help Figuring Out Where to Start?

Housing programs can be complex, and eligibility rules change. Contact our office and we'll help connect you with the right program for your situation.

• Phone: (808) 768-5009

• Email: atulba@honolulu.gov