Article updated: January 1, 2026

Quick Summary: Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship

The Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship Program was created to support veterans and their families pursuing higher education in Hawaii. During the 2022 cycle, the program awarded financial assistance to help offset education-related expenses not fully covered by the GI Bill® or other federal benefits. This page is maintained as a reference for past recipients and those interested in future scholarship opportunities or veteran-focused resources in Hawaii.

TL;DR: Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship

• The 2022 Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship awarded $2,000 total to four recipients
• Each recipient received $500 toward tuition or qualifying education expenses
• Eligible applicants included veterans or dependents attending a Hawaii college or university
• Applicants were required to submit a 400–600 word essay
• The 2022 scholarship cycle is closed, and this page is for reference only

Key Takeaways: What This Scholarship Represents

• The Veterans of Hawaii Scholarship was designed to bridge financial gaps left after GI Bill® and federal education benefits
• It reflects a commitment to supporting veterans and military families navigating higher education in Hawaii
• Programs like this recognize the unique challenges veterans face, including relocation, deployment transitions, and the cost of living
• While the 2022 cycle has ended, similar initiatives and veteran-focused resources continue to play an important role across the islands
• Veterans exploring future opportunities may also benefit from education planning and long-term financial guidance alongside scholarship programs

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.

Article updated: January 1, 2026
When searching for a home in paradise, one of the biggest questions buyers ask is: “Are mortgage rates in Hawaii different from the rest of the U.S.?” The short answer is yes and no. While Hawaii mortgage rates often move in step with national trends, several unique factors—like property type, loan program, and even non-warrantable condos—can influence what you’ll pay.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mortgage rates in Hawaii, how they compare to mainland rates, and what factors affect your approval. We’ll also share how to use a mortgage calculator that Hawaii buyers trust to estimate your monthly payment and find the right loan.

Quick Summary: Mortgage Rates in Hawaii

Mortgage rates in Hawaii generally follow national trends, but local factors often influence what buyers actually pay. Higher home prices can push borrowers into jumbo loans, while condos—especially non-warrantable properties common in resort areas—may carry higher interest rates and stricter requirements. Loan type, credit score, down payment, and property details all play a major role. Using a Hawaii mortgage calculator and understanding how VA, jumbo, and condo loans differ helps buyers make informed decisions before locking a rate.

Hawaii Mortgage Rates at a Glance

• Hawaii mortgage rates usually track mainland averages, but loan type and property type matter more than location alone
• VA loans often offer lower rates and no PMI compared to conventional or jumbo loans
• Jumbo loans are common in Hawaii due to high home prices and may come with slightly higher rates
• Condos—especially non-warrantable condos—often carry higher rates and stricter requirements
• Credit score, down payment, and debt-to-income ratio heavily affect your rate
• A Hawaii mortgage calculator is the best way to compare real monthly payments before you buy or refinance

Key Takeaways: What Buyers Should Know About Hawaii Mortgage Rates

• Hawaii mortgage rates aren’t automatically higher, but property type and loan structure can change your pricing
• VA-eligible buyers have a major advantage in Hawaii’s high-priced market
• Condos require extra scrutiny, especially in resort and high-investor buildings
• Jumbo vs. VA vs. conventional loans can result in very different payments—even with the same credit score
• Comparing lenders and running scenarios early can save thousands over the life of the loan
• Working with a local expert who understands Hawaii-specific lending rules helps avoid surprises and delays

Are Hawaii Mortgage Rates Different from Mainland Rates?

Mortgage rates in Hawaii are tied to the same national market forces as everywhere else in the U.S.—mainly the Federal Reserve’s policies, inflation, and the bond market. However, there are Hawaii-specific variables:

• Higher Property Prices
  Hawaii’s median home price is significantly higher than the national average. That means larger loan balances, which can push buyers into jumbo loan territory. Jumbo loans often come with slightly higher interest rates or stricter qualifications.
• Loan Types Unique to Hawaii
  Non-warrantable condos (common in resort areas like Waikīkī or Maui) may carry higher rates because they’re considered riskier to lenders.
• Local Lending Competition
  Some local credit unions and lenders in Hawaii may offer special loan programs, affecting how competitive Hawaii mortgage rates can be compared to big mainland banks.

In general, you’ll see Hawaii home loan rates very close to mainland averages, but property type and loan size often shift the numbers.

What Factors Affect Mortgage Rates in Hawaii?

When lenders set your Hawaii mortgage loan rate, they consider both personal and property-specific factors:

1. Credit Score
   Your credit score plays a major role. A borrower with a 760+ score could see significantly lower HI mortgage rates compared to someone in the mid-600s.
2. Loan Type
   • Conventional loans: Standard loans tied to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac limits.
   • Jumbo loans: Needed when the loan exceeds conforming limits (common in Hawaii). These may come with slightly higher rates.
   • VA loans: Available to veterans and service members, often with lower Hawaii home interest rates and no down payment.
   • FHA loans: Flexible qualification, but with added mortgage insurance.
3. Property Type
   • Single-family homes usually qualify for the lowest rates.
   • Condos can carry added risk depending on the building’s financial health.
   • Non-warrantable condos (where investor ownership is high, or the HOA has legal/financial red flags) often require specialized lenders and higher rates.
4. Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio
   The size of your down payment matters. A higher down payment (lower LTV) usually secures better rates.
5. Debt-to-Income Ratio
   Lenders want to see that your income can comfortably handle your mortgage and other debts.
6. Market Conditions
   Even if you’re the perfect borrower, Hawaii mortgage rates rise and fall with national economic shifts.

Average Hawaii Mortgage Rates vs. National Averages

While exact numbers change daily, historically:

• Conforming loan rates in Hawaii stay very close to national averages.
• Jumbo loans (common in Hawaii due to high home values) sometimes carry a small premium.
• Refinance mortgage rates Hawaii borrowers get typically align with purchase rates, but timing can make a big difference.

Tip: Always compare at least three lenders (local, regional, and national) to get the best offer.

Tools: Hawaii Mortgage Calculator

Before you shop for homes, use a Hawaii mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payment. Input:

• Home price
• Down payment
• Interest rate
• Loan term
• Property taxes & insurance

This gives you a realistic idea of what you can afford. Many calculators also include VA loan options for Hawaii buyers.

Refinance Mortgage Rates in Hawaii

Refinancing can make sense if:

• Rates have dropped since your original loan.
• You want to shorten your loan term.
• You’re consolidating debt or removing PMI.

Because Hawaii homes hold strong equity, refinancing often unlocks financial flexibility. Keep in mind that refinance mortgage rates Hawaii homeowners qualify for will still depend on credit score, loan type, and current market trends.

Spotlight: Non-Warrantable Condo Loans in Hawaii

Condos make up a huge share of Hawaii housing. However, many are classified as non-warrantable, meaning they don’t meet Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac requirements.

Common reasons:

• More than 50% investor ownership.
• HOA facing litigation.
• Incomplete new developments.

If you’re eyeing a condo in Honolulu, Maui, or Kona, you may need a non-warrantable condo loan. These usually:

• Require higher down payments.
• Carry higher Hawaii mortgage loan rates.
• They are only offered by select lenders with portfolio products.

Tip: Work with a Hawaii-based loan officer familiar with local condo rules to avoid surprises.

Real-World Hawaii Mortgage Scenarios

To illustrate how rates and loan types differ, let’s look at three borrower examples:

Scenario 1: VA Loan for a Service Member in O‘ahu

• Home Price: $850,000
• Loan Type: VA loan, $0 down
• Rate Range: Often lower than conventional, no PMI required
• Result: Lowest payment option for qualified military buyers

Scenario 2: Jumbo Loan in Maui

• Home Price: $1.4M
• Loan Type: Jumbo conventional loan
• Rate Range: Slightly higher than conforming loans
• Result: Larger reserve requirements and stricter credit standards

Scenario 3: Non-Warrantable Condo in Waikīkī

• Home Price: $600,000
• Loan Type: Non-warrantable condo loan
• Rate Range: 0.5%–1% higher than a standard condo loan
• Result: Higher rate but still achievable with the right lender

These examples highlight why using a Hawaii mortgage calculator and comparing multiple loan programs is critical.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a Mortgage in Hawaii

1. Check Your Credit – Get a free report and correct errors.
2. Get Pre-Approved – Lenders will review your income, credit, and assets.
3. Compare Rates – Look at at least three lenders (local bank, credit union, national lender).
4. Run Scenarios in a Hawaii Mortgage Calculator – Test rates, terms, and down payments.
5. Choose Your Loan Type – Conventional, VA Home Loan, FHA, Jumbo, or non-warrantable condo loan.
6. Submit Full Application – Provide documents (W-2s, tax returns, bank statements).
7. Underwriting & Appraisal – Lender reviews risk, property value, and condo status if applicable.
8. Rate Lock – Once approved, lock your Hawaii home interest rate.
9. Closing – Sign documents and officially take ownership.

This process can take 30–45 days, depending on the loan type and property.

Hawaii Mortgage Market Outlook

Hawaii’s real estate market is historically resilient due to limited land, high demand, and global appeal. While interest rates rise and fall nationwide, Hawaii often sees sustained buyer demand.

If you’re considering buying or refinancing, now is the time to explore your options. With rates moving daily, waiting could cost you—or save you—thousands.

Final Thoughts: Hawaii Mortgage Rates

To recap:

• Hawaii mortgage rates usually track national averages but can vary due to jumbo loans, condos, and unique local lending conditions.
• Your personal financial profile (credit, income, down payment) plays a huge role.
• Use tools like a Hawaii mortgage calculator to plan wisely.
• For condos, be prepared to navigate non-warrantable condo loans if needed.
• Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or investing, working with a local expert ensures you get the best Hawaii home loan rates available.

FAQs About Hawaii Mortgage Rates

1. Are Hawaii mortgage rates higher than mainland rates?

Generally, they’re very close, but Hawaii’s higher home prices push more buyers into jumbo loans, which sometimes come with slightly higher rates.

2. What is a non-warrantable condo loan?

It’s a loan for condos that don’t meet Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac requirements—common in resort areas. They typically require higher down payments and carry higher interest rates.

3. Can I use a VA loan in Hawaii?

Yes! Hawaii has one of the highest concentrations of VA loan usage in the country. VA loans often offer the lowest mortgage loan rates available in Hawaii.

4. How do I calculate my mortgage payment in Hawaii?

Use a Hawaii mortgage calculator to input price, down payment, loan type, and interest rate. It’s the easiest way to compare scenarios.

5. Should I refinance my Hawaii home loan?

If rates are lower than when you bought, or if you want to remove PMI or shorten your loan term, refinancing can save you thousands. Always compare refinance mortgage rates that Hawaii lenders offer before deciding.

Looking to find your best rate? Whether you’re curious about mortgage calculator tools in Hawaii, exploring refinance mortgage rates in Hawaii, or considering a condo purchase, I can guide you through every step.

Contact Elias today to get personalized Hawaii mortgage loan rates and a free consultation.

Active vs Contingent vs Pending: How Each Affects VA Loan Buyers

If you’re using a VA loan, understanding the difference between active vs contingent vs pending VA loan listings can save you time, stress, and missed opportunities, especially in competitive markets like Hawaiʻi.

These listing statuses aren’t just labels. They determine whether you should act fast, wait, or move on.

Let’s break each one down and explain exactly how it affects VA loan buyers.

These listing statuses aren’t just labels. They determine whether you should act fast, wait, or move on.

Let’s break each one down and explain exactly how it affects VA loan buyers.

Quick Summary

Active, contingent, and pending are home listing statuses that show how far along a sale is. For VA loan buyers, these statuses directly affect offer strategy, timelines, and approval risk.

TL;DR

• Active = Home is available, best time for VA buyers
• Contingent = Offer accepted, but the deal can fall apart
• Pending = Deal almost closed, VA buyers are usually locked out
• Knowing the difference helps VA buyers avoid wasted offers and move faster

Key Takeaways for VA Buyers

• Active listings offer the best odds for VA loan success
• Contingent listings can still be opportunities
• Pending listings are usually off the table
• Understanding listing status helps VA buyers avoid wasted offers

What Does “Active” Mean in Real Estate?

An active listing means:

• The home is available
• No offer has been accepted yet
• The seller is actively showing the property

How Active Homes Affect VA Loan Buyers

• Best opportunity for VA buyers
• No existing buyer competition yet
• Full ability to negotiate VA-required repairs
• Clean timeline for appraisal and underwriting

VA Buyer Insight:
If a home is active, this is your strongest position—especially if you’re fully pre-approved and ready to move quickly with a VA loan.

What Does “Contingent” Mean?

A home becomes contingent when:

• The seller has accepted an offer
• The deal depends on specific conditions being met

Common Contingencies

• Financing approval
• VA appraisal
• Home inspection
• Buyer selling another home

How Contingent Homes Affect VA Loan Buyers

• Deal can still fall apart
• Seller may accept backup offers
• Timeline is uncertain

VA Buyer Insight:
Many contingent deals fail due to appraisal or financing. VA buyers who understand timing can step in when others fall out.

What Does “Pending” Mean?

A pending listing means:

• All contingencies have been removed
• The sale is moving toward closing
• Escrow and final loan steps are underway

How Pending Homes Affect VA Loan Buyers

• New offers usually not accepted
• Very unlikely deal will fall through
• VA buyers should typically move on

VA Buyer Insight:
Pending usually means the home is effectively off the market. Focus your time on listings where you can still compete.

Active vs Contingent vs Pending: Side-by-Side Comparison

Why Listing Status Matters More for VA Loans

VA loans have unique requirements, including:

• VA appraisal standards
• Safety and habitability rules
• No appraisal gap guarantees

Because of this:

• Some sellers hesitate on VA offers
• Some deals fall apart during appraisal
• VA buyers who understand when to act gain a real advantage

Knowing how listing status impacts VA loan timelines can be the difference between winning and missing out.

Smart VA Loan Strategy by Listing Status

If the home is Active:

• Move quickly
• Submit a clean, well-documented VA offer

If the home is Contingent:

• Ask what contingency is in place
• Consider submitting a strong backup offer

If the home is Pending:

• Monitor only if advised by your agent
• Focus on active inventory instead

Get Clear on Your VA Loan — Before You Make a Move

Before making an offer, many buyers choose to get VA loan guidance from someone who works exclusively with VA loans.

If you’re a Veteran or military family trying to figure out which homes are truly worth pursuing—and which listing statuses to avoid, you don’t have to guess.

You can request a free, no-obligation VA home buying review with Eli the VA Loan Guy, focused on helping you:

Understand how active vs contingent vs pending listings affect your VA loan

Know exactly when to submit an offer (and when to wait)

Avoid common VA appraisal, contract, and timing mistakes

Move forward confidently using the benefits you’ve earned

There’s no sales pressure—just clear, Veteran-focused guidance so you can make the smartest VA loan decision for your situation.

Request Your Free VA Loan Review
100% VA-focused • Veteran-owned • No pressure

Red Flags When Buying a Condo: What VA Buyers in Hawaii Must Know

Red flags when buying a condo often have nothing to do with the unit itself and everything to do with the HOA, building finances, and loan eligibility. For VA buyers in Hawaiʻi, missing these red flags can lead to loan denial, surprise costs, or resale problems—even when the price looks affordable.

This guide breaks down the most important condo red flags, with special focus on VA loan rules and Hawaiʻi-specific risks.

When buying a condo, the biggest risks are hidden in the HOA’s finances, insurance, maintenance, and rental makeup—not the unit’s appearance. VA buyers face additional hurdles because condo projects must meet VA eligibility standards, and high HOA fees can break VA residual income, especially in Hawaiʻi.

Condo buyers should watch for HOA financial problems, high fees, litigation, deferred maintenance, and rental-heavy buildings. VA loans add extra requirements, and in Hawaiʻi, high HOA dues often cause VA residual income failures even when price and credit look fine.

Key Takeaways

• Condo red flags are usually financial or legal, not cosmetic
• HOA health matters more than unit condition
• VA loans add project-level approval rules
• High HOA fees can kill VA residual income
• Many Hawaiʻi condos fail VA loans due to HOA issues
• A condo can look affordable and still be a bad buy

1. HOA Financial Instability

An HOA with weak finances can:

• Trigger special assessments
• Cause sudden HOA fee increases
• Make the condo unfinanceable
• Hurt resale value

Red flags include:

• Low reserve funding (often below ~70%)
• Operating deficits
• Reliance on special assessments
• No recent reserve study

For VA buyers, poor HOA finances often mean project ineligibility, regardless of borrower strength.

2. High or Rapidly Increasing HOA Fees

HOA fees aren’t just annoying—they directly affect affordability and loan approval.

Red flags:

• HOA fees above $600–$700/month
• Steep increases over the last 12–24 months
• No clear explanation for rising costs

Hawaiʻi Reality

Many Hawaiʻi condos exceed $1,000/month HOA, which:

• Shrinks buying power
• Breaks VA residual income
• Limits future resale demand

3. VA Loan–Specific Condo Red Flags

VA loans evaluate the entire condo project, not just the buyer or unit. These issues are among the most common causes of VA loan denial.

3a. Condo Project Is Not VA-Approved (or Approval Lapsed)

Why it matters:
Most condos must be VA project approved.

Red flags:

• HOA cannot confirm VA approval
• Approval expired and not renewed
• Prior approval revoked

Impact:

• VA loan denied
• Smaller future buyer pool
• Lower resale value

3b. Excessive HOA Dues

VA underwriting counts HOA fees dollar-for-dollar against VA residual income.

Common issue in Hawaiʻi:
Buyers pass DTI and credit checks—but fail VA residual income solely due to HOA.

3c. High Percentage of Rentals or Short-Term Rentals

VA loans limit investor concentration.

Red flags:

• Short-term rentals common
• HOA does not track owner occupancy
• Investor-heavy buildings

Once rental thresholds are exceeded, VA financing can be blocked entirely.

3d. Active or Pending HOA Litigation

Certain lawsuits make condos ineligible for VA loans, especially:

• Construction defect cases
• Structural or safety litigation
• Insurance disputes

Even strong borrowers cannot override this.

4. Deferred Maintenance & Structural Concerns

Cosmetic upgrades don’t matter if the building itself is deteriorating.

Red flags:

• Concrete spalling
• Rust stains (rebar corrosion)
• Cracks in slabs or walls
• Aging plumbing or electrical systems
• Failing elevators or fire systems

Hawaiʻi-Specific Risk

Salt air accelerates corrosion, making older high-rises especially risky for VA approval.

5. Inadequate HOA Insurance Coverage

VA guidelines require adequate hazard and liability insurance at the project level.

Red flags:

• Coverage below replacement cost
• High deductibles with no reserves
• Gaps between HOA and unit-owner policies

Insurance issues can cause last-minute loan denial.

6. Pending or Undisclosed Special Assessments

Special assessments are mandatory and can destroy affordability.

Red flags:

• “Proposed” assessments not documented
• Upcoming major repairs
• Vague answers from HOA

Example:
A $25,000 assessment over 36 months = ~$700/month extra out-of-pocket.

7. Unstable or Restrictive HOA Rules

Governance issues often predict future problems.

Red flags:

• Frequent rule changes
• Aggressive fines
• Poor transparency
• Inconsistent financial reporting

These issues often precede litigation or special assessments.

8. Poor Resale History

Watch for:

• Units sitting longer than market average
• Frequent price drops
• Heavy seller concessions

These often indicate hidden HOA or project issues.

VA + Hawaiʻi Condo Reality Check

With condos, VA approval depends more on the building than the buyer.

Many VA buyers in Hawaiʻi are told they “don’t qualify” when the real issue is:

• HOA fees
• Project eligibility
• Residual income math

The condo—not the veteran—is often the problem.

Authoritative Sources

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – VA Lenders Handbook (Pamphlet 26-7)
  https://www.benefits.va.gov/WARMS/pam26_7.asp
• Fannie Mae Condominium Project Eligibility Guidelines
  https://singlefamily.fanniemae.com
• HUD / FHA Condominium Approval Guide
  https://www.hud.gov
• Community Associations Institute (CAI) – HOA Financial Health Research
  https://www.caionline.org

Final Takeaway

The biggest red flags when buying a condo are financial, legal, and structural—not cosmetic.
For VA buyers in Hawaii, overlooking HOA health and project eligibility can turn a “good deal” into an expensive mistake.

Understanding condo red flags—especially VA loan–specific ones—helps veterans make confident decisions and avoid costly surprises, whether buying now or planning ahead.

2025 Hawaiʻi BAH Rates: What You Can Really Afford With a VA Loan

If you’re stationed in Hawaiʻi or planning to PCS here, you’ve probably asked yourself one big question:

“Can my BAH actually cover buying a home in Hawaiʻi?”

In 2025, the answer for many service members is yes—if you understand how BAH, VA loans, and Hawaiʻi home prices really work together.

This guide breaks down 2025 Hawaiʻi BAH rates, realistic home purchase prices, and how military families are using VA loans to stop renting and start building equity.

Why 2025 Is Different for Military Buyers in Hawaiʻi

Several things shifted in 2025:

• BAH rates increased to better reflect Hawaiʻi’s high housing costs
• Home price growth slowed and stabilized
• Sellers are more open to VA offers and concessions
• VA loans remain $0 down with no PMI

For many military families, renting now costs as much—or more—than owning.

2025 Hawaiʻi BAH Rates (Honolulu / Oʻahu)

Honolulu County (Oʻahu) has some of the highest BAH rates in the nation, covering bases like:

• Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam
• Schofield Barracks
• Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi

Here are typical 2025 monthly BAH amounts (with dependents):

• E-4: ~$3,204
• E-5: ~$3,513
• E-6: ~$3,738
• E-7: ~$3,915
• E-8: ~$4,104
• E-9: ~$4,308
• O-3: ~$4,362
• O-5: ~$4,743

The key question isn’t the BAH amount—it’s what purchase price that BAH can support.

What Home Price Your BAH Can Support in 2025

Realistic VA Loan Assumptions

To keep this practical (not salesy), these estimates assume:

• VA loan with $0 down
• 6.5% interest rate (planning-safe)
• 30-year fixed mortgage
• Principal & interest only
• HOA, taxes, and insurance are considered separately

Enlisted (With Dependents) – Oʻahu

Warrant & Officer (With Dependents) – Oʻahu

The Hawaiʻi Reality: HOA Fees Matter

This is where many online calculators get it wrong.

• Condos: $500–$1,200+/month HOA
• Townhomes: $300–$700/month HOA

High HOA fees reduce your purchase price ceiling, even with a strong BAH.

That’s why local VA loan guidance matters more in Hawaiʻi than almost anywhere else.

Why VA Loans Work So Well With BAH

VA loans are uniquely suited for military buyers in Hawaiʻi because they:

• Allow $0 down, even at higher prices
• Requires no PMI, saving hundreds per month
• Offer more flexible credit guidelines
• Fully count BAH as qualifying income

For many service members, VA loans turn BAH into buying power instead of rent money.

Renting vs Buying in Hawaiʻi (The Wake-Up Call)

In 2025, it’s common to see:

• 2-bedroom rentals: $3,500–$4,500/month
• VA mortgage payments: Similar or lower, with equity built

That’s why more military families are asking:

“Why am I paying someone else’s mortgage with my BAH?”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I really buy with $0 down in Hawaiʻi?

Yes. VA loans allow $0 down, even in high-cost areas.

Does BAH count as income for VA loans?

Yes. Lenders fully count BAH when qualifying you.

Is buying smarter than renting with PCS orders?

Often yes—especially if you plan to rent the home later or hold for multiple years.

Are VA offers still competitive in 2025?

Yes. With proper structure, VA offers are being accepted regularly.

Source for 2025 Hawaiʻi BAH Rates

The 2025 BAH figures shown above are based on official U.S. Department of Defense data for the Honolulu Military Housing Area (MHA HI408), which includes Oʻahu and major installations such as Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam and Schofield Barracks.

Primary Source (Official):

• Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) – 2025 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Rates
  https://www.travel.dod.mil/Allowances/Basic-Allowance-for-Housing/BAH-Rate-Lookup/

Supporting Reference (Publicly Indexed):

• BAHRates.info – Honolulu County, HI (HI408) 2025 BAH Tables
  https://www.bahrates.info/state/hawaii/honolulu-county-hi

BAH rates are determined annually by the Department of Defense based on local rental market data, housing costs, and dependency status. Individual rates vary by rank, ZIP code, and dependency status.

Final Takeaway: What Your BAH Can Do in 2025

In 2025, Hawaiʻi remains expensive—but BAH + VA loans give military buyers a real path to ownership.

• E-5 to E-6: Strong condo buying range
• E-7 to E-9: Better options and flexibility
• O-3+: Competitive buyers
• O-4+: Possible single-family homes with strategy

The biggest mistake military families make is assuming buying is impossible without running the numbers.
If you’re stationed in Hawaiʻi and wondering what your BAH could realistically support, learning your options early can help you avoid costly assumptions. Understanding how VA loans work in today’s market puts you in control—whether you buy now or later.

Get pre-approved to find out exactly what purchase price you can afford. Most importantly, there is no down payment requirement for VA buyers with full entitlement.

Contact Hawaii VA Loans at 808-517-6416 to talk with a VA Loan Specialist or fill out this secure online loan application to get prequalified today.