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Get Matched Free →First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Hawaii (2026)
By Tyler Thompson · Licensed Real Estate Agent
Hawaii's state homebuyer help comes from the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) through the Hale Kamaaina Mortgage Program, launched in December 2025. First-time buyers get a fixed-rate 30-year first mortgage and can add a down payment loan of 4% of the mortgage at 1% simple interest with no monthly payments. Income limits for 1 to 2 people run from $123,000 in Hawaii County to $161,520 on Maui (non-targeted areas), and price limits from $593,364 to $1,153,299. Second mortgage terms are being updated under Act 214 (2026).
Compare Hawaii Down Payment Assistance Programs
| Program | Max help | Who it’s for | Income cap | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hale Kamaaina Mortgage Program Down Payment LoanDeferred Loan | Max help:Down payment second mortgage not currently offered: HHFDC says updated Second Mortgage Loan terms under Act 214 (2026) await administrative rule amendments. Prior terms were 4% of the first mortgage. | Who it’s for:First-time buyers | Income cap:As of June 13, 2026, non-targeted areas, 1-2 / 3+ people: Honolulu $154,805 / $178,025, Hawaii County $126,500 / $145,475, Maui $177,600 / $207,200, Kauai $163,080 / $190,260. Higher in targeted areas. | Credit:660 |
First-Time Home Buyer Programs by City in Hawaii
Compare Hawaii cities
| City | county | Local programs | Largest local award | Median home | Reviewed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City: Honolulu | County:Honolulu County | Local programs:1 | Largest local award:$40,000 | Median home:$843,400 | Reviewed:Oct 2026 |
Local programs are city, county and nonprofit help; every city also has the 1 statewide programs above. “Varies” means the local award depends on income or price.
All Hawaii City Guides by County
Local programs serve that city, county or metro. Statewide programs are open across Hawaii. Federal loans (FHA, VA, USDA) are not counted.