Homeownership Support for Native Hawaiians in Washington State

For Native Hawaiians looking to purchase a home in Washington State, there are several programs, grants, and financial assistance options available to help navigate the homebuying process. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seeking down payment assistance, or looking for community-based resources, this guide will provide an overview of the best services and programs designed to support Native Hawaiian homebuyers.

1. Native Hawaiian-Specific Homeownership Assistance

Office of Native Hawaiian Relations (ONHR) & Section 184 Loan Program

📌 Best for: Low down payment mortgage options
The Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program is available to eligible Native Hawaiians, providing:
✔️ Low down payments (as low as 2.25%)
✔️ Flexible underwriting and credit requirements
✔️ Competitive interest rates
✔️ No mortgage insurance required

📝 How to Apply: Section 184 loans must be obtained through HUD-approved lenders. Find a lender here: HUDSection 184 Lender List

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) Support

📌 Best for: Native Hawaiians with ties to DHHL programs
If you are a Native Hawaiian with DHHL land lease eligibility, you may qualify for down payment assistance or other financial support when buying a home in Washington. While DHHL primarily serves residents of Hawai‘i, they sometimes collaborate with mainland housing programs to support relocation assistance.

🔗 Learn more: DHHL Website

2. Washington State Homebuyer Programs

Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) Home Loan & Down Payment Assistance

📌 Best for: First-time homebuyers & those needing down payment help
The WSHFC offers several programs that Native Hawaiians may qualify for, including:
✔️ Home Advantage Loan Program – Low-interest, 30-year fixed-rate mortgages
✔️ Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Programs – Help with down payments and closing costs
✔️ Homebuyer Education Classes – Required to access many WSHFC programs

🔗 Find a participating lender: WSHFC Official Site

Washington Homeownership Resource Center (WHRC)

📌 Best for: Personalized homebuyer counseling
WHRC connects homebuyers with:
✔️ First-time homebuyer resources
✔️ Credit counseling & mortgage education
✔️ Local down payment assistance programs

🔗 Get started: Washington Homeownership Resource Center

3. Local Community & Nonprofit Support

United Indians of All Tribes Foundation

📌 Best for: Culturally specific homebuyer support
This Seattle-based organization provides housing and financial literacy services tailored to Indigenous communities, including Native Hawaiians. They offer:
✔️ Homebuyer workshops
✔️ Financial counseling
✔️ Rental & mortgage assistance programs

🔗 Learn more: United Indians of All Tribes Foundation

Habitat for Humanity – King County

📌 Best for: Affordable homeownership opportunities
Habitat for Humanity helps eligible families purchase homes at reduced costs through sweat equity and low-interest financing. If you qualify, this can be a great path to homeownership in Washington.

🔗 Apply for a home: Habitat for Humanity Seattle-King County

4. Financial & Credit Assistance for Native Hawaiian Buyers

HUD Housing Counseling Services

📌 Best for: Credit repair & mortgage readiness
HUD-certified housing counselors in Washington State provide free or low-cost assistance with:
✔️ Credit improvement strategies
✔️ Budgeting for homeownership
✔️ Mortgage application support

🔗 Find a HUD-certified counselor: HUD Housing Counseling

Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) Homeownership Grants

📌 Best for: First-time buyers in need of grants
FHLB offers down payment and closing cost assistance grants through partner lenders. Some programs prioritize Native American and Pacific Islander applicants, making them a valuable resource for Native Hawaiian buyers.

🔗 Check eligibility: FHLB Down Payment Programs

Final Thoughts

Purchasing a home in Washington State as a Native Hawaiian can feel overwhelming, but there are numerous programs and services available to help with financing, education, and cultural-specific assistance.

Next Steps:

✅ Check eligibility for Section 184 Loans or WSHFC programs
✅ Attend a first-time homebuyer class (WSHFC, WHRC, or United Indians)
✅ Explore community-based resources for financial assistance
✅ Connect with a HUD-certified housing counselor

Are you a Native Hawaiian looking for a home in Washington? Reach out to a local lender or housing agency today to start your journey! 🏡🌺