Who this is for
Who this is for
Lessees buying or building
Native Hawaiian beneficiaries who hold or are receiving a homestead lease.
Lessees refinancing
Lower a rate or pull equity for repairs.
Successors
Family members taking over a lease who need to refinance.
Families adding space
Renovations and additions on existing homesteads.
Program highlights
Programs used on homestead leases
FHA Section 247
FHA-insured financing designed for Hawaiian Home Lands.
HUD Section 184A
The Native Hawaiian Housing Loan Guarantee program.
VA Native American Direct Loan
For eligible Native Hawaiian veterans, made directly by VA.
DHHL and USDA direct programs
Agency-run options for some applicants.
Qualification guidelines
What lenders look at
Typical guidelines across my lender network. Every file is different, and I will tell you exactly where you stand after a quick review.
| Factor | Typical requirement | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| DHHL lease | Valid homestead lease | ✓ YES |
| DHHL consent | Required for the mortgage | ✓ YES |
| Primary residence | Yes | ✓ YES |
| Credit and income | Per program | ✓ YES |
| Fee simple land | Not applicable | ✗ NOT REQUIRED |
In Hawaii
Things to know
- Not every lender does DHHL loans. The lender list is short, and it changes. Some programs, like VA's direct loan, are made by the agency itself rather than a broker's lenders.
- Timelines include DHHL. Consent and lease paperwork add steps, so we start early.
- I'll be straight with you. If an agency program is your best fit, I'll point you there.
How it works
From first call to closing
- CallLease status, goal and timeline.
- Program matchWhich programs fit your lease and situation.
- Consent and approvalLender approval plus DHHL consent.
- CloseClose and record with DHHL.
Common questions
Hawaiian Home Lands FAQ
Can I get a conventional loan on DHHL land?
Options are limited. FHA 247 and HUD 184A are the most common insured programs; I'll tell you what's available for your file.
Who qualifies for a homestead lease?
Eligibility is set by the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act and DHHL, not by the lender. Contact DHHL for lease eligibility.
Can I refinance my homestead?
Yes, with an eligible program and DHHL consent.
Do veterans have special options?
VA's Native American Direct Loan can be used by eligible Native Hawaiian veterans on trust land.
Sources: Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, 1920; 12 U.S.C. 1715z-13b (Section 184A); 12 U.S.C. 1715z-12 (FHA Section 247); DHHL.
