The average home value in Hawaii is $858,569. Before buying a house in Hawaii, save for a down payment, choose the best financing option and get a home inspection.
New Home Purchase Mortgage Applications Surge 22.2% YoY
Oahu Coastline
Demand for new homes remains robust, as reflected in the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) Builder Application Survey – showing 22% year-over-year increase in mortgage applications for new home purchases, marking the 11th consecutive annual rise. As some experts note, the ongoing shortage of existing homes for sale continues to drive prospective buyers toward newly built homes.
December Home Sales Conclude Worst Year Since 1995
Full-year sales for 2023 totaled 4.09 million units, the lowest since 1995. Despite the decline, Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, believes the latest month’s sales could be the bottom before a rebound in the new year, citing lower mortgage rates and the expectation of increased inventory.
Americans Rush to Refinance Mortgages Amid Falling Rates
Leeward homes on Oahu
The MBA reported an 11% increase in the Refinance Index for the week ending January 12 compared to the previous week, marking a 10% rise from last year. Overall, mortgage applications surged by more than 10% during the week. The drop in rates, now at 6.75%, the lowest in three weeks, has revitalized housing market activity, with potential buyers actively attending open houses and tours.
Although purchase activity is trailing year-ago levels, refinance applications have improved, showing year-over-year gains. The MBA is cautiously optimistic that home purchases will increase in the coming months if rates continue to ease—however, the housing market’s full rebound hinges on elevated home prices, driven by low supply. Existing homeowners, reluctant to give up their secured low rates, contribute to the scarcity. Nearly 89% of American homeowners have mortgages below 6%, discouraging them from selling their homes, and the median monthly payment, when today’s rates are higher.
Next week’s potential market-moving reports are:
- Tuesday, Jan. 30: Job Openings, S&P Case-Shiller home price index (20 cities)
- Wednesday, Jan. 31: ADP Employment, Employment Cost Index, Fed Interest-Rate Decision
- Thursday, Feb. 1: Initial Jobless Claims, U.S. Productivity
- Friday, Feb. 2: U.S. Non Farm Payrolls, Unemployment Rate, Hourly Wages
As your mortgage and real estate professional, I am happy to assist you with any information you may need regarding mortgage or real estate trends. I welcome the opportunity to serve you in any way I possibly can. Please feel free to reach me at (808) 517-6416.
Elias Halvorson’s continued goal is to help members, veterans, and their families find stability and success in higher education. Although 2022 was an extremely difficult year in the mortgage industry, Elias has actually increased the scholarship amount. This year we are pleased to announce we will be helping six members of the Hawaii military Ohana through $500 scholarships.
How Hawaii Veterans can Apply for this Tuition Assistance?
Application link: https://bold.org/scholarships/veterans-of-hawaii-scholarship/
The Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship is open to veterans and their dependents that are currently or will be attending a college or university in Hawaii during the 2023–24 school year. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must write an essay of at least 250 words describing how military service has impacted them or their families. Submissions must be received by July 29, 2023, with recipients of the scholarship being announced on August 29, 2023.
For years, those who have bravely served our country have been able to leverage a unique benefit that helps them and their families get a foothold in the housing market. VA Home Loans, one of the best VA loan benefits for military members, such as National Guard, provide incredible opportunities, especially here in Hawaii, where a 10–20 percent down payment can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This blog post delves into the extensive VA home loan benefits these loans offer, including eligibility requirements, and how to maximize these advantages, even if you have an existing VA loan. Let’s get started.
Benefits of VA Home Loans Specifically For Military Families
VA Home Loans were established to help eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and their families achieve the dream of homeownership. They offer several significant benefits over conventional loans, making them the preferred option for most military families. Here’s why they are considered the best home loans for the military.
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No Down Payment Required
One of the most significant hurdles in buying a home is saving up for a hefty down payment. However, with VA Home Loans, you can finance 100% of the home’s value—no upfront cash required. These rates and no down payment advantages are especially valuable in high-cost areas like Hawaii, where veteran or service member buyers PCSing in are often shocked by home prices.
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No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Unlike conventional and FHA loans, VA loans don’t require PMI—an insurance that protects lenders if a buyer defaults. This usually results in thousands of dollars in savings annually for eligible veterans and their families.
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Competitive Interest Rates
VA Home Loans often come with rates and no down payment options, paired with lower interest rates compared to conventional loans, thanks to the federal government’s guarantee. A veteran or service member’s dedication earns them this advantage on their Hawaii VA loan.
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Flexible Qualification Guidelines
VA Home Loans are more lenient when it comes to credit scores and debt-to-income ratios. This means qualifying may be easier for those who meet eligibility requirements, even with past financial challenges. This flexibility is crucial in Hawaii’s high-priced housing market.
But to unlock the full potential of these benefits, you need to understand how to leverage them effectively. Let’s talk about that next.
How To Maximize These Benefits?
While VA Home Loans are advantageous, understanding how to use them to your utmost advantage is crucial, especially when you’re eligible for VA benefits. Here are a few strategies:
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Utilize the “no down payment” benefit.
Since you’re not required to make a down payment, you can use the money saved for home improvements, creating an emergency fund, or investing in your future. This is one of the most valuable va loan benefits available.
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Leverage the savings from no PMI.
The savings from not paying PMI can be redirected toward loan principal, investments, or other financial goals, enhancing your long-term wealth-building strategy.
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Take advantage of low-interest rates.
Lower rates and no down payment terms mean smaller monthly payments and long-term savings. While recent rates may seem high compared to 2020, they remain historically low. Remember, you can always do a streamline refinance (IRRRL) later.
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Consider the VA loan if you’ve had past credit issues.
Even with a lower credit score, the VA Loan program, thanks to flexible eligibility requirements, may be available to you. Many lenders accept scores as low as 550.
Understanding VA Loan Entitlement
A vital part of understanding your VA home loan benefit is learning about VA loan entitlement. This refers to the amount the VA guarantees on your behalf. Whether you’re a first-time user or looking to restore entitlement with an existing VA loan, knowing how entitlement works can help you access more of your benefit.
Surviving Spouses and VA Loans
Surviving spouses of veterans may also qualify for VA loan benefits, offering a path to homeownership even in the wake of loss. It’s essential to explore these options to see if you are eligible for VA assistance as a surviving family member. In many cases, those who receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a tax-free benefit provided to eligible survivors of service members who died in the line of duty or from service-related conditions may also be exempt from the VA funding fee, making homeownership even more attainable.
Impact on Military Families
The financial relief from funding fee exemptions helps military families stretch their purchasing power further. Additionally, veterans with service connected disabilities often receive monthly compensation payments, which can strengthen their debt-to-income ratios and improve loan qualification prospects.
Remember, every military family’s situation is unique, and it’s essential to seek professional advice to maximize these benefits. Elias is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.
Contact us today to start your journey towards homeownership with VA Home Loans.
The Role of VA Home Loans in Improving the Quality of Life for Military Families
VA Home Loans are not just about buying property, they’re about improving the quality of life for our veterans, service members, and surviving spouses. Owning a home means stability, financial security, and personal freedom. It allows families to build equity, enjoy tax advantages, and create a lasting legacy.
For families frequently moving due to military service, these loans provide an invaluable opportunity to set down roots and find a true sense of belonging.
But beyond these, VA Home Loans give military families a tangible reward for their service—a place they can call their own. The loan’s flexible terms and affordability make homeownership more accessible, offering an avenue to build a secure future and lasting roots, which is invaluable for families who’ve had to move frequently due to military assignments.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, VA Home Loans are among the best options available for eligible veterans, veteran or service member families, and even surviving spouses. They offer unmatched VA loan benefits, including rates and no down payment, no PMI, competitive interest rates, and forgiving eligibility requirements. Whether you’re exploring your first home, refinancing an existing VA loan, or curious about your VA loan entitlement, this program is designed to support your journey.
But like any financial decision, getting expert advice tailored to your situation is essential. Elias has the experience, knowledge, and dedication to guide you through your VA Home Loan journey.
Reach out to us to discover how you can start reaping the benefits of a VA loan today. Together, we can unlock the door to your dream home.
As a dedicated service member or veteran, you’ve served our nation with pride and honor. One way the United States of America acknowledges your commitment is through the VA home loan – a generous benefit that can help you secure your dream home with lower rates, no down payment, and no need for private mortgage insurance. However, as many have learned, applying for a VA home loan can be a complex process. As a seasoned home loan officer, I’ve seen many applicants fall victim to common mistakes that hinder their loan approval process.
To ensure you navigate this journey with minimal hiccups, I’ll guide you through the top 5 mistakes to avoid when applying for a VA home loan. We will also explore how to sidestep these pitfalls and highlight the role of a knowledgeable VA Home Loan officer.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
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Eligibility Misunderstanding
Many veterans assume that they are automatically eligible for a VA home loan because they have served. However, eligibility depends on factors like length of service and discharge conditions.
The first step in the VA home loan process is to secure your Certificate of Eligibility. This certificate proves to lenders that you are eligible for a VA loan. Skipping this step or leaving it for later can cause delays or even derail your home-buying process.
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Ignoring Credit Score and Financial Readiness
Although VA loans are more forgiving when it comes to credit scores, borrowers are not exempt from financial scrutiny. Ignoring your credit score, outstanding debts, and overall financial readiness can lead to a more challenging loan process. Although the VA does not have a minimum credit score, many lenders do. The min credit score from most lenders on VA loans typically range from 550-620.
Having a low credit score also can result in the maximum debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of 43%, where members and veterans with good credit scores can usually get pre-approved for up to a 65% DTI ratio. In laymen’s terms, better credit can enable one to qualify for a bigger VA loan. Most VA purchases in Hawaii are High Balance VA loans so the more lenient DTI is crucial.
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Underestimating Closing Costs
VA home loans may not require a down payment, but there are still closing costs. Some veterans mistakenly believe that VA loans cover these costs, but this is not the case. Closing costs can range from 1% to 5% of the home’s value. Contact me to discuss strategies for reducing closing costs.
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Choosing Any Loan Officer
Not all lenders are equal regarding VA loans. Some are unfamiliar with the VA loan process’s specifics and unique requirements, which can lead to delays and miscommunications.
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Skipping the Home Inspection
The VA does not require a home inspection for VA loans, but having one is still a good idea. Skipping the home inspection could leave you with a home requiring costly repairs. A home inspection will potentially identify issues before you are the owner dealing with them.
How to Avoid These Pitfalls?
Now that we’ve highlighted the common mistakes let’s discuss how to avoid these pitfalls.
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Secure Your COE Early
Don’t wait until you’re deep into the home-buying process. You can pull your COE by visiting the Department of Veterans Affairs website to apply for your COE online, by mail, or or you can reach out and we will pull your COE for you
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Prepare Your Finances
Ensure your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and overall finances are in good shape. Work with a financial advisor or a credit counseling agency to create a plan if necessary.
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Plan for Closing Costs
Save enough money to cover the closing costs. Some sellers may be willing to pay these costs, but it’s not a guarantee. Having your savings ready keeps you prepared for any eventuality.
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Choose a VA-experienced Loan Officer
Opt for a loan officer with extensive experience and a strong track record with VA loans. They’ll be more familiar with the unique requirements and process, making your loan application smoother.
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Invest in a Home Inspection
Hiring a professional home inspector can help you identify any potential issues with the property before buying. This can save you from expensive repairs in the future.
The Role of a Knowledgeable VA Home Loan Officer
A knowledgeable VA Home Loan officer can guide you through the intricate VA loan process, helping you avoid common mistakes and misconceptions. They’re familiar with VA loans’ unique requirements and challenges, helping you navigate the home-buying journey with ease.
Your home loan officer will:
- Help you secure your Certificate of Eligibility
- Guide you through understanding your financial readiness
- Recommend a professional home inspector
- Prepare you for closing costs
- Be familiar with unique VA requirements
Having a loan officer by your side who is a VA loan specialist can make your home-buying process a breeze, allowing you to focus on the excitement of securing your dream home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying for a VA home loan doesn’t need to be an overwhelming process. By avoiding these common mistakes and working with a professional home loan officer, you can confidently navigate this journey.
Get in touch with us today to start your home-buying journey!
Remember, the key to a successful VA home loan application is preparation, understanding, and the right help. Don’t let common mistakes hinder your path to your dream home. Let’s avoid these pitfalls together.
Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how we can assist you!
Welcome to the Weekly Mortgage Market Update! This is your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights on the ever-evolving world of mortgages. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, staying informed about the mortgage market is crucial to making wise financial decisions. Every week, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the most critical developments in the mortgage industry, including changes in interest rates, mortgage products, and housing market conditions.
September Home Prices Fall at a Slower Pace than July/August
Black Night said home prices fell at half the rate in July and August. Black Night is a leading provider of data and analytic solutions in the mortgage industry. FHFA’s report will be released at the end of the month, hopefully providing some confirmation on home price decreases leveling off.
Consumer Prices Rose 0.4% in October, Less Than Expected, as Inflation Eases
Although inflation remains a threat to the U.S. economy, the consumer price index (CPI) climbed less than predicted in October, suggesting that pressures may be beginning to ease. This also led to a massive bond rally and brought interest rates down by .62%! It was the biggest rally in over a decade. For those of you currently in the market for a home, it is a good time to lock in an interest rate.
Next week’s potential market-moving reports are:
- Monday, November 14th – NY Fed 1-year Inflation Expectations
- Tuesday, November 15th – Real Household Debt, Real Mortgage Debt
- Wednesday, November 16th – NAHB Home Builders’ Index, Business Inventories
- Thursday, November 17th – Initial Jobless Claims, Building Permits, and Housing Starts
- Friday, November 18th – Existing Home Sales, Leading Economic Indicators
As your Oahu mortgage professional, I am happy to assist you with any information you may need regarding Hawaii mortgage or real estate trends or to provide you with a second opinion. Contact Elias Halvorson today!
We have seen a continuation of the downward trend in mortgage applications, with this being the 6th straight week of decline. This is a concerning development for the real estate industry, as fewer applications could signal a slowdown in the housing market. Despite a slight decline in mortgage rates, applications decreased for a sixth consecutive week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association’s Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey for the week ending Oct. 28.
CoreLogic Report: Affordable Areas Thrive Amid Home Price Growth
Even though home sales and the number of mortgages continued their months-long declines in September, annual home price increases remained in the double digits. Compared to the same month in 2021, the CoreLogic Home Price Index (HPI), the first look each month at prices from the previous two months, increased by 11.4% this year. Even if mortgage rates are rising, the appreciation of the prior year is still substantial. However, preference is slowing, and month-to-month variations have become negative. The growth rate dropped from August to September by 0.5%.Home prices fuel homebuyer enthusiasm for properties in relatively cheaper places in more expensive states on the West Coast and Northeast. According to CoreLogic, the conditions in the Southeast may benefit from this out-migration. Florida has led the country in home price growth for eight straight months.
Next week’s potential market-moving reports are:
- Monday, November 7th – Consumer Credit
- Tuesday, November 8th – NFIB Small Business Index
- Wednesday, Nov. 9 – N/A
- Thursday, Nov. 10 – Initial Jobless Claims, Continuing Jobless Claims, Federal Budget
- Friday, November 11th – Consumer Sentiment
As your Hawaii mortgage professional, I am happy to assist you with any information you may need regarding Oahu home mortgage or real estate trends. I welcome the opportunity to serve you in any way I can. Please reach me at (808) 517-6416 or elias@C2Hawaii.
Aloha!
We warmly welcome you to the 2022 Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship Program—an initiative honoring the brave men and women who have served our nation and call the islands of Hawaii home.
This page summarizes the 2022 scholarship cycle and is kept for reference. For future opportunities—or to learn about financing—see our Hawaii VA home loans guide.
About the Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship
Created to assist veterans and their dependents with the cost of higher education, the Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship awarded $2,000 total to four recipients ($500 each) for tuition at a college or university in Hawaii. While the GI Bill® and other federal programs cover much of the cost, financial gaps often remain—books, fees, and other expenses. This scholarship helps close that gap.
Who Was Eligible (2022)
- Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, or a dependent of a service member
- Attending or planning to attend a university or college in Hawaii during the 2022–2023 school year
Why This Scholarship Matters in Hawaii
Veterans and military families in Hawaii often navigate higher costs of living, frequent relocations, and the transition to civilian life. Even with federal benefits, uncovered expenses can persist. This scholarship helped students stay on track toward degrees and certificates that open doors across the islands.
Empowering Veterans through the Hawaii Scholarship Initiative and Beyond
Initiative programs such as the Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship aim to close the remaining gaps by offering veterans opportunities to access additional funding for tuition expenses not covered by the GI Bill or other federal tuition assistance programs. Moreover, aside from financial assistance programs and scholarships, veterans and their family members may also benefit from tuition discounts offered by educational institutions.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
To begin with, eligible applicants for the scholarship must submit a 400 to 600-word essay describing how military service affected them or their families. Furthermore, to qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be a veteran of the armed forces or a dependent of a service member. They should be attending or planning to attend a university or college in Hawaii during the 2022-2023 school year.
Deadline and Announcement Details
Firstly, submit your qualifying essay by October 1st, 2022. Next, mark your calendars for the announcement of the four chosen recipients for this year’s Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship on October 31st, 2022. Lastly, apply for the 2022 scholarship by visiting the Veterans of Hawaii page here.
About the Scholarship Sponsor
Elias Halvorson created the Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship to help military veterans and their families succeed in pursuing higher education. He understands many families’ challenges, such as deployments, relocating to new duty stations, and re-adjusting to civilian life after the military. Adjusting to civilian life presents its own set of issues like unemployment or homelessness. This transition to civilian life can frequently be alleviated by pursuing higher education. In addition, Elias understands that higher education costs can create barriers for veterans and their families. He believes in increasing college accessibility and is excited to give back through the scholarship. Elias hopes it will grow over time as a token of gratitude for their service.
FAQs (2022)
Who could apply?
Veterans or dependents attending a Hawaii college or university in 2022–2023.
Essay length?
400–600 words.
Disbursement?
Awards were typically paid directly to the institution to offset qualified educational expenses.
Can I apply now?
The 2022 cycle is closed. Please check our latest announcements for future opportunities.
Welcome to our Guide on How to Secure Hawaii VA Loans with low-interest rates! In this comprehensive resource, we will explore the essential steps and strategies for obtaining VA loans in the beautiful islands of Hawaii while taking advantage of competitive interest rates.
Hawaii VA Loans: An Effective Way to Secure a Mortgage in a Rising Interest Rate Market
If you’re a veteran or active-duty military member looking to buy a home in Hawaii, now is the time to act. The current interest rate market is shifting, and it’s becoming more challenging to qualify for a mortgage as interest rates rise. For this reason, understanding the ins and outs of getting a mortgage through the VA Loan Program is more important than ever if you qualify. This blog post will discuss how to get a VA loan in Hawaii and what to expect in today’s market.
100% Financing is Achievable
As a homebuyer in Hawaii, you must understand the facts about these government-backed mortgages. For example, did you know that a VA loan is not necessarily monetary? Instead, the federal government guarantees a portion of your loan (usually around 25%), making it easier for lenders to provide financing for up to 100% of the home’s value. In addition, VA loans come with some of the lowest interest rates available, which means that you can save a significant amount of money over the life of your loan. VA loans come with fees and closing costs, which will incorporate into the loan and finance.
Your Top VA Loan Questions, Answered.
Despite their many benefits, VA loans are one of the most misunderstood mortgage products on the market. It is because so many different types of VA loans are available. For example, there are VA purchase loans, which can finance the purchase of a home. There are also VA refinance loans, which can lower your monthly payments or get cash out of your home equity. And finally, there are VA rehab loans, which can finance the repair or renovation of a home.
Top 5 Myths About Hawaii VA loans
We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 myths about Hawaii VA loans so that you can be well-equipped with the knowledge you need to make the most informed decision when you’re ready to purchase a home in Hawaii.
Myth #01: You need perfect credit to qualify
While it’s true that your credit score plays an important role in the loan approval process, you don’t need perfect credit to qualify for a VA loan. Even with bad credit, you may still be eligible for a VA loan if you have a strong enough income and a good history of making on-time payments. Your lender will then make the final decision on whether or not to approve your loan. If you’re considering borrowing from a conventional lender, you’ll need a reasonably good credit score, but a VA lender may be more lenient. Some lenders approve VA loans for veterans with credit scores as low as 550.
Myth #02: You need a huge down payment
Conventional loans typically need a 5-20% down payment, but VA loans may not. With an unencumbered VA entitlement, you can get a VA loan with no money down. If your entitlement is insufficient, a small down payment might be necessary. A qualified VA mortgage broker can help calculate your loan limit and down payment requirements. A VA funding fee is required for most VA mortgages, with exceptions for disability ratings above 10%. The fee sustains the program and includes in the loan amount.
Myth #03: VA loans are only for first-time homebuyers
While VA loans are an excellent option for first-time homebuyers, they’re also perfect for anyone looking to buy a new home at any stage. If you’re a veteran or active-duty military member, you may be eligible for a VA loan regardless of whether you’ve bought a home. Even if you’ve already used your VA loan entitlement, you may still be eligible to use it again if you meet specific requirements, including selling your previous home or paying off your loan in full.
Myth #04: You can only use a VA loan to buy a single-family home
VA loans can finance the purchase of various properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and even condominiums. However, there are a few restrictions. For example, you may not be able to use a VA loan to purchase an investment property or a vacation home. But you should be eligible as long as the property you’re looking to purchase will be your primary residence. Consulting with a mortgage broker is the best way to determine whether a parcel is eligible for VA financing.
Myth #05: The interest rate on a VA loan is always higher than a conventional mortgage
We touched on this briefly, but it’s worth repeating: the interest rate on a VA loan is not always higher than a conventional mortgage. VA loans often come with some of the lowest interest rates available, especially when you compare them to other types of loans like FHA or subprime mortgages. It is because VA loans back by the government, which gives lenders the confidence to offer lower interest rates. Low interest rates are making VA loans desirable for home buyers in the current climate.
Our Final Thoughts
If you’re considering using a VA loan to purchase a home in Hawaii, now is the time to start working with a Hawaii VA mortgage broker who can help you navigate the process. With interest rates rising, getting pre-approved for a loan and locking in a low rate is more important than ever. A veteran loan officer can help you compare rates from different lenders and find the best loan for your needs.The first step in getting a VA loan is to obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE verifies to the lender that you are eligible for a VA-backed loan. You can receive your COE through an online service offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, through your lender, or by mail through the Veterans Benefits Administration. A mortgage broker, however, will be able to help you obtain your COE with little to no hassle and will also be able to negotiate the best interest rate on your behalf.Get in touch with me to learn more about VA loans and how I can help you finance the purchase of your new home in Hawaii.Elias Halvorson has over a decade of experience in the financial industry and is one of the top brokers in this specialist field.
It’s national volunteer week in the US, and there’s no better time to explore Hawaii volunteer ops for giving back to our communities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time volunteer, it’s an excellent chance to help people, especially groups like veterans. As a Hawaii mortgage broker specializing in Oahu VA loans, we assist veterans by securing low-interest rates on Honolulu VA mortgages. Additionally, we connect people to volunteer programs for aiding veterans in Hawaii. Let’s dive into some of the top volunteer initiatives for supporting veterans across Aloha State.
Top 5 Hawaii Volunteer Programs: Empower Veterans & Strengthen Communities
Introducing our Top 5 Hawaii Volunteer Ops that empower veterans and create positive change in communities across Aloha State. These organizations offer opportunities for people from all backgrounds to come together and make a real difference in the lives of veterans.
AMVETS
The American Veterans (AMVETS) is a national veteran service designed to support veterans nationwide. In Hawaii, the group runs numerous programs and special events. They accept everyone as volunteers, ranging from veterans and serving military personnel to civilians. You’ll find an email address on the above page if you want to join.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is a famous voluntary service that provides everything from employment opportunities to housing for underserved communities. Its Honolulu branch runs fundraising efforts and accepts volunteers from all walks of life. It also runs corporate partnerships if you’re a company that wishes to cooperate.
American Red Cross
Despite mainly being known as a disaster relief charity, the American Red Cross provides help to veterans and military service personnel across the country. In Hawaii, it aids and supports veterans in numerous ways. Volunteers do up to 90% of the charity’s work. It also has a more in-depth registration process, and you’ll often select based on your skills. However, you can still fill out a profile and see what happens.
CORE Studios
CORE Studios is a veteran-owned production company that provides education and employment to ex-service personnel. The organization is always looking for new partners and instructors to help expand its offering, so get in touch with them to see how you can help.
Volunteers of America
Volunteers of America is a self-explanatory organization. It helps all people, from the vulnerable to older people and veterans. Its services include support and reintegration, affordable housing, employment resources, and more. If you’d like to get involved in your community, the easiest way is to locate your closest local office. Call them directly or email them to see what kind of programs they’re currently running. As one of the biggest support services in the country, it’s best to deal locally.
Final Thoughts
National volunteer week is a great time to push yourself into changing lives for the better. Hopefully, when you join now will motivate you to volunteer for the rest of the year, too. If you know any veterans that need help or advice related to housing, get in touch. We help arrange VA loans with low-interest rates, and, as a mortgage broker, we make it our mission to get the best deals. Reach out at elias@c2hawaii, or 808-517-6416 to see how we can help.
