Ho‘okele
Home Program
The Ho‘okele Home Program was created to help Native Hawaiian families buy or build homes on Hawaiian Home Lands. “Ho‘okele” means to to navigate or steer, and we serve as your personal guide throughout this process, ensuring you have the support, resources, and confidence you need to reach your homestead goals.
Navigating ‘ohana home
We know that navigating the homebuying or building process can be confusing and overwhelming. That’s why we’re here: to walk with you, every step of the way.
Who is this program for?
The Ho‘okele Home Program is for Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries who:
– Have been awarded (or are in the process of being awarded) a residential, agricultural, or pastoral lease
– Are looking to build a home on a vacant lot
– Are looking to build a Supplemental Dwelling Unit (SDU) or Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU)
– Want to purchase an existing home on Hawaiian Home Lands
– Need help understanding the steps to financing, designing, permitting, and moving in
– Feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed by the process
Personalized technical assistance
Build a Home
– Explore house plan options
– Create a realistic construction budget
– Connect with trusted contractors and lenders
– Complete DHHL and county permitting paperwork
– Stay on track from groundbreaking to move-in
Buy a Home
– Understand available homes for sale on Hawaiian Home Lands
– Get pre-approved for a home loan
– Work with realtors and lenders who understand the process
– Navigate title transfer, escrow, and closing
– Access financial education and down payment assistance
Why choose Ho‘okele?
– We Understand the Process: We’ve helped dozens of beneficiaries move forward with buying or building
– Simplifying the Journey: We simplify paperwork, explain complex steps, and help you build your team
– Community Focused: Our mission is to see more Native Hawaiian families living successfully on the land
Ready to Get Started?
Let Ho‘okele be your guide to home. Whether you’re ready to build, buy, or just need help figuring out where to start—we’re here for you.
Contact Us to meet with a Navigation Specialist
Attend a Pre-Orientation Workshop to learn more about building or buying on Hawaiian Home Lands