Courtyards of Wai-pouli offers new program for Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries on Kaua‘i

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is set to host beneficiary workshops today (Nov. 15) to provide information about an upcoming first-of-its-kind affordable rental housing initiative on Kaua‘i.

Courtyards of Wai-pouli — situated on nearly 6 acres in Kapa‘a — represents the first apartment acquisition of Hawaiian Home Lands and is aimed at department beneficiaries interested in a rent-to-own program.

The complex features 82 units — ranging in size from 1 to 3 bedrooms — distributed throughout 10 two-story buildings.

Participants in the new rent-to-own program are allowed to move into a renovated apartment at an affordable rent with the opportunity to build credit and personal savings.

Renters can then choose to exercise a purchase option after about 11 years of renting the unit.

All program participants will receive a homestead lease from Day 1 and have the chance to name a successor.

Prospective rent-to-own program participants must meet the following criteria:

• Department of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiary on the Kaua‘i residential waitlist.
• At least 50% Native Hawaiian blood quantum or qualified successor.
• Meet income restrictions for their assigned unit (30% to 120% area median income).

Two informational sessions are planned today for those interested: one at 9:30 a.m. and another at 1:30 p.m. Both will be in the Makai Ballroom of the Sheraton Coconut Beach Resort Hotel.

All Department of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries on the Kaua‘i residential waitlist are encouraged to attend.

A portion of the available units will also be reserved for individuals and families eligible under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act, which is managed by Hawaiian Home Lands and provides financial assistance to those whose total household income is at or below 80% of the area median income in their county.

Hawaiian Homes Commission in January 2024 approved the acquisition of Courtyards of Wai-pouli and finalized the project’s purchase in September of last year, allocating $25 million in Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act funding.

Visit the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands website for more information about the rent-to-own program at Courtyards of Wai-pouli and other Hawaiian Home Lands offers and awards.