Buying a home in Hawaii: the help you may qualify for.
Down payment assistance, property tax exemptions and veteran benefits in Hawaii, gathered from official state sources and explained in plain English. Every program has its own rules, so check with the agency before you count on it.
Down payment and closing cost help
From the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation.
Hale Kamaaina Mortgage Program
A below-market rate plus 4% down payment help
The former Hula Mae program, relaunched in late 2025. The down payment loan is 4% of the mortgage at 1% simple interest with no monthly payments, for first-time buyers.
Who qualifies: Federal income and price limits, through a participating lender.
Property tax exemptions and credits
Exemptions lower your home’s taxable value or your bill. Most aren’t automatic: you apply with your county real property office. Hawaii’s official exemptions information.
For homeowners who live in the home
Home exemption (Honolulu figures)
$120,000 off ($160,000 at 65 or older)
Each county sets its own amounts; these are the City and County of Honolulu's, rising to $140,000 and $180,000 on July 1, 2027.
How to apply: With your county real property office, by September 30 before the tax year. (City and County of Honolulu)
For veterans
Totally disabled veteran exemption
Exempt from property tax (a small minimum tax applies)
For veterans with a 100% (or permanent and total) VA rating from service. In Honolulu a $300 minimum tax still applies.
How to apply: Form E-8-10.5 with your county. (City and County of Honolulu)
Want to see which ones fit you? Answer a few questions in the property tax exemptions checker.
If you serve or served
- VA home loan: available in every state, often with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility. See VA home loans.
- Property tax: veterans in Hawaii may qualify for Totally disabled veteran exemption. See the details above.
Your next steps
- Work out a monthly cost you’re comfortable with in the home cost calculator. It also lists Hawaii’s programs with the loans you may qualify for.
- Talk with a free or low-cost HUD-approved housing counselor. Find one near you.
- Ask each lender which of these programs they work with, and compare Loan Estimates from at least three.
- Follow the step-by-step home buyer’s guide from budget to keys.
Common questions
Does Hawaii have down payment help for home buyers?
Yes. Programs from the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation include Hale Kamaaina Mortgage Program. Federal income and price limits, through a participating lender. Funding and rules change often, so check with the agency or a participating lender.
Does Hawaii have a homestead or property tax exemption for homeowners?
Yes. Homeowners who live in the home may qualify for: Home exemption (Honolulu figures). Apply with your county real property office; most exemptions aren't automatic.
Is there help for veterans buying a home in Hawaii?
VA home loans are available in every state, often with no down payment. Veterans may also qualify for property tax benefits such as Totally disabled veteran exemption.
Sources: Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation and Hawaii’s property tax office, linked above. Last checked November 11, 2026. Programs, amounts, income limits and funding change often, sometimes every year. Know Before You Own doesn’t recommend lenders or take referral fees. This page is general education, not legal, tax or lending advice. See other states.