The project is being developed under DHHL's Undivided Interest Awards program, which provides a homestead lease without the need to financially qualify for a mortgage until the homes are ready for construction – usually in two to three years. That time is used by the lessees to financially qualify for a mortgage and by the department to build the infrastructure for the subdivision.

Families that could not qualify for an adequate loan are working through DHHL's Home Ownership Assistance Program to improve their credit, create savings, pay down debt or improve their earning capacity to qualify for a mortgage.

In addition, DHHL continues to "build green" as all homes will come equipped with solar water heating systems, low flow plumbing fixtures, energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs, energy star appliances and double E-rated windows and sliding doors for added insulation.

For more information, visit www.hawaii.gov/dhhl