HHFDC for Homeowners: Staying Compliant
Posted on Jun 29, 2026 in MainHHFDC Services for Residents
Staying Compliant: Your Responsibilities as an HHFDC Homeowner
Purchasing a home through an HHFDC-sponsored development is a significant milestone, and we are honored to support you in maintaining the long-term affordability and stability of your residence. As part of our commitment to keeping these homes available for local families, your property is subject to specific program obligations—such as the Buyback and Shared Appreciation Equity (SAE) programs—that were outlined in your original sales contract.
Staying compliant is about more than just fulfilling these requirements; it is about protecting your investment and ensuring you remain in good standing with the State of Hawaiʻi. Whether you are planning to refinance, make changes to your title, or simply want to understand your ongoing commitments, this resource is designed to help you navigate your responsibilities with confidence.
Key reminders for all program participants:
- Owner-Occupancy is Mandatory: Your home must remain your primary, principal residence for as long as your program restrictions are in effect.
- Prior Consent is Required: Many actions—including refinancing, placing your property into a trust, or adding/removing names from your title—require HHFDC’s written approval before you proceed.
- Stay Informed: Restrictions like the 10-year Buyback period and the permanent SAE obligation serve distinct purposes. Understanding how they affect your property today will help you avoid complications when you eventually decide to sell or transfer your home.
We encourage you to review the guidance below to manage your obligations proactively. If you are ever unsure about whether an action requires HHFDC consent, please reach out to us before taking the next step.
How to Stay HHFDC Compliant
For properties subject to Buyback and Shared Appreciation Equity (SAE) programs.
Actions Requiring HHFDC Prior Written Consent
- Refinancing or HELOC: HHFDC recommends that the lender submits the request along with the borrower’s signed authorization.
- Placing Property in a Trust: Properties placed into a trust without prior consent will require correction by taking the property out of the trust.
- Adding/Removing from Title: Adding someone to the title requires approval to ensure they meet HHFDC qualifications.
- Selling the Property: Sales may be subject to HHFDC requirements. Send a written request for confirmation before proceeding.
- SAE Payoff: Owners, agents, or escrow agents may submit a request for information with signed authorization or a purchase contract.
If you need to request information regarding your property or require official HHFDC administrative action—such as requesting mortgage refinance consent, adding or removing a name from your title, placing your property in a trust, or initiating an SAE payoff—please download and complete the appropriate form below.
SAE / Buyback Information
This form is used to formally request HHFDC review of your program status regarding buyback options or equity calculations. It ensures that all administrative processing for your home’s affordability restrictions is documented and compliant with state requirements.
Lease Information Guidelines
Use this document to initiate a review of your leasehold property terms and confirm your current standing with HHFDC. It provides the necessary framework for requesting administrative actions like title updates or clarifying your long-term leasehold obligations.
How to Submit a Request
Send the above completed documents with any required attachments to HHFDC.
Mail: HHFDC – ATTN: RES, 677 Queen St #300, Honolulu HI 96813
or
Fax: (808) 587-0600
or
Email: [email protected]
