Yes, Hawaii offers several down payment assistance programs for homebuyers in 2026, including the HHFDC Hula Mae Mortgage Program, USDA Rural Development loans for eligible areas, and VA loan benefits with zero down payment for qualifying veterans. First-time buyers on Oahu may also qualify for county-level grants and below-market-rate housing programs that reduce upfront costs significantly.
We are Kristy and Austin Nakamura with Kristy and Austin Home Group. We help buyers on Oahu navigate every financing option available, including down payment assistance programs that many buyers don't know about. Here is a breakdown of the main programs available in Hawaii for 2026.
HHFDC Hula Mae Mortgage Program
The Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation administers the Hula Mae Mortgage Program, which provides below-market interest rates to first-time homebuyers. Eligible buyers must meet income limits based on area median income and purchase a primary residence in Hawaii. The program works with participating lenders statewide and can be combined with FHA, VA, or conventional loans. Income limits and loan amounts are updated annually, so check with your lender for current 2026 figures.
USDA Rural Development Loans in Hawaii
Some areas on Oahu and the neighbor islands qualify for USDA Rural Development loans, which offer zero down payment and reduced mortgage insurance costs. Eligible areas include parts of Waianae, North Shore, Windward Oahu, and most neighbor island communities. USDA loans have household income limits but can be an excellent option for buyers who qualify. Your lender can check USDA eligibility maps to determine if the property you are considering falls within a qualifying zone.
VA Loan Zero Down Payment Benefits
For eligible veterans and active-duty military, VA loans remain one of the best down payment assistance options in Hawaii. VA loans require zero down payment, have no private mortgage insurance, and offer competitive interest rates. Hawaii has one of the highest VA loan limits in the country due to high property values. Read our complete VA Loan Hawaii Home Buying Guide for details on how to use your VA benefit on Oahu.
Get Help Finding the Right Down Payment Program
Navigating down payment assistance programs can be confusing, but the right agent and lender team makes all the difference. We connect our buyers with lenders who specialize in Hawaii financing and know which programs offer the best terms for your situation. Read our First-Time Home Buyer Guide for Oahu or explore our Cost of Living in Hawaii guide to plan your budget. Contact Kristy and Austin Home Group to start exploring your options today.
