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Your homebuying roadmap
- 1
Review your budget and credit
Know what you earn, what you owe and what you can comfortably pay each month. Get your free credit reports and fix any errors.
- 2
Take a HUD-approved homebuyer course
Many assistance programs require a homebuyer education certificate. Classes also explain the process step by step.
- 3
Talk with lenders and compare loans
Speak with at least two or three lenders. Compare interest rates, fees and loan types like conventional, FHA, VA and USDA.
- 4
Check eligibility for assistance
State, county and nonprofit programs may help with down payments or financing. Each has its own rules and funding.
- 5
Search for homes and affordable projects
Look at the open market and at affordable projects. Some require joining a list or waitlist early.
- 6
Make an offer and do your due diligence
After your offer is accepted, inspect the home and review all documents before deadlines pass.
- 7
Finalize your loan and close
Your lender finishes underwriting. Review your Closing Disclosure carefully, then sign and get your keys.
- 8
Plan for the costs of owning
Budget for property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, utilities and regular maintenance after you move in.
Hawaiʻi due diligence links
For property-specific questions, always check the official source directly.
- Condo & HOA documents — Hawaiʻi Real Estate Branch
- Homeowners insurance — Hawaiʻi Insurance Division
- Flood zones — Hawaiʻi Flood Hazard Assessment Tool
- Tsunami evacuation areas — Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency
- Lava hazard zones — USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
- Property taxes — Honolulu Real Property Assessment