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First-Time Buyer loans in Hawaii

Quick answer

First-time buyers in Hawaii can use FHA (3.5% down), conventional 97 (3% down), VA or USDA loans, plus programs from Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC). On a $808,200 home, 3% down is about $24,246.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

First-Time Buyer loan snapshot for Hawaii

ItemEstimate
Minimum down payment0%–3.5%
Minimum credit score580–620
Typical HI home value$808,200
3.5% down on typical home$28,287
20% down on typical home$161,640
Avg. effective property tax0.27%/yr (~$182/mo)
Income for typical home (31% rule)$237,000

Rate assumption: 7.18% (Freddie Mac PMMS 30-year fixed average, week of November 5, 2026). Change it in the payment calculator.

Which Hawaii programs pair with First-Time Buyer loans?

  • Hula Mae Single Family: Below-market-rate loans for eligible first-time buyers within income and price limits.
  • Mortgage Credit Certificate: When available, a federal tax credit for a portion of mortgage interest paid.

Details and current limits: Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC).

Compare first-time buyer loan options

LoanMin. downMin. creditMortgage insurance
FHA3.5%5801.75% upfront + annual MIP
Conventional 97 / HomeReady / Home Possible3%620PMI, removable
VA0%Lender-set (~580–620)None (funding fee)
USDA0%~6401% upfront + 0.35% annual

Who counts as a first-time home buyer?

Under HUD and most agency definitions, you're a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a principal residence in the last three years. Single parents and displaced homemakers who only owned with a former spouse may also qualify.

First-Time Buyer loans in Hawaii cities

First-Time Buyer in HonoluluFirst-Time Buyer in East HonoluluFirst-Time Buyer in HiloFirst-Time Buyer in Pearl CityFirst-Time Buyer in WaipahuFirst-Time Buyer in KailuaFirst-Time Buyer in KaneoheFirst-Time Buyer in Mililani TownFirst-Time Buyer in KahuluiFirst-Time Buyer in Ewa GentryFirst-Time Buyer in KapoleiFirst-Time Buyer in KiheiFirst-Time Buyer in Mililani MaukaFirst-Time Buyer in KailuaFirst-Time Buyer in MakakiloFirst-Time Buyer in WahiawaFirst-Time Buyer in Ocean PointeFirst-Time Buyer in WailukuFirst-Time Buyer in Ewa BeachFirst-Time Buyer in WaimaluFirst-Time Buyer in HalawaFirst-Time Buyer in Royal KuniaFirst-Time Buyer in Hawaiian Paradise ParkFirst-Time Buyer in WaianaeFirst-Time Buyer in NanakuliFirst-Time Buyer in MailiFirst-Time Buyer in KaiminaniFirst-Time Buyer in LahainaFirst-Time Buyer in Waihee-WaiehuFirst-Time Buyer in WaipioFirst-Time Buyer in Kaneohe BaseFirst-Time Buyer in KapaaFirst-Time Buyer in Waimea

Frequently asked questions

Yes. First-Time Buyer loans are available statewide in Hawaii through approved lenders, subject to county loan limits where they apply.

Often yes. Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) and local programs frequently pair assistance with FHA, conventional, VA or USDA first mortgages. Eligibility depends on income, price and program rules.

Answer a few questions on Purchase Mortgage Loan and we'll match you with lenders and loan officers in our network who serve Hawaii.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.