For many Hawaiʻi residents, the dream of homeownership can feel out of reach. Kuilei Place at 2599 Kapiolani Blvd in Moʻiliʻili is reported to address this challenge head-on with 603 affordable and workforce housing units — representing 60% of the building's total 1,005 residences. Approved under HHFDC's 201H affordable housing permit, this is not a traditional low-income housing project. According to publicly available information, it is designed as workforce housing for working professionals in high-demand careers. Here is what potential buyers need to know about eligibility, income limits, pricing, and the application process.

What Makes Kuilei Place Affordable Housing Different

The affordable housing component at Kuilei Place targets households earning between 80% and 140% of the Area Median Income (AMI). According to publicly available information, the targeted group includes first-time homebuyers in high-demand careers such as teachers, nurses, doctors, police officers, and professors. This is workforce housing designed for working professionals who earn too much for traditional subsidized housing but struggle to afford market-rate prices in Honolulu.

The 603 affordable units are reported to include 148 one-bedrooms, 382 two-bedrooms, and 73 three-bedrooms. These units are found in both the tower (floors 13 through 42) and mid-rise (floors 2 through 12) sections of the building.

Affordable unit pricing is reported as follows: one-bedrooms from $370,600 to $557,800, two-bedrooms from $521,800 to $732,300, and three-bedrooms from $695,900 to $813,300.

Income Limits and Eligibility Requirements

Affordable units at Kuilei Place are reported to target households at 80% to 140% of the Honolulu Area Median Income. Based on 2023 figures published by HHFDC, sample income limits for Honolulu include: at 80% AMI, a 1-person household limit of $73,200 and a 4-person household limit of $104,480. At 140% AMI, the limits are reported as $128,100 for a 1-person household and $182,840 for a 4-person household.

These income limits are subject to annual adjustments and buyers should always verify current figures directly with HHFDC or the developer. Eligibility requirements typically include income verification, household size documentation, and other criteria established by HHFDC.

It is critical that prospective buyers understand that affordable units come with income restrictions, occupancy requirements, and potential resale limitations that differ significantly from market-rate units. Always consult directly with HHFDC or a qualified real estate professional to understand these restrictions fully before purchasing.

The DEP Down Payment and Equity Program

According to publicly available information, the Hawaiʻi Legislature secured $10 million for a Down Payment and Equity Program (DEP), an HHFDC pilot program launched in 2024. This program is reported to target critical workers such as teachers, nurses, doctors, police officers, and professors who may need assistance with down payments. Prospective buyers should contact HHFDC directly to learn about current DEP program availability, eligibility, and application procedures.

Some affordable units may still be available as of this publication date. Buyers interested in the affordable component should act promptly, as demand for workforce housing in Honolulu remains strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many affordable units are at Kuilei Place?

According to developer materials, 603 of the 1,005 total units (60%) are designated as affordable or workforce housing.

What income level do I need to qualify?

Affordable units are reported to target households at 80% to 140% of Honolulu's Area Median Income. Income limits vary by household size and are subject to change.

Is this low-income housing?

No. According to publicly available information, this is workforce housing designed for working professionals in high-demand careers including teachers, nurses, doctors, police officers, and professors.

What is the DEP program?

The Down Payment and Equity Program is reported to be an HHFDC pilot with $10 million in legislative funding to assist critical workers with down payments.

Are affordable units still available?

Some affordable units may still be available. Contact HHFDC or the developer directly for the most current availability information.

Do affordable units have the same finishes as market units?

According to developer materials, both affordable and market units feature the same quality finishes including Bosch appliances, Kohler fixtures, and quartz countertops.

Explore Your Affordable Housing Options

Interested in Kuilei Place? Whether you're exploring affordable housing eligibility or the resale market, our team can help. As independent buyer's agents, we navigate the process with your best interest in mind. Contact Kristy & Austin Home Group for a confidential consultation.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute real estate advice, legal advice, or an offer to sell or buy property. All information is believed to be accurate as of the publication date but is subject to change. Pricing, timelines, income limits, floor plans, amenities, and features referenced are based on publicly available developer materials, HHFDC information, and MLS data and may change without notice. Kristy & Austin Home Group is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting as a sales representative for this development, Kobayashi Group, BlackSand Capital, or HHFDC. Always verify all details — especially affordable housing eligibility requirements and income limits — directly with the developer, HHFDC, or your licensed real estate professional before making any purchasing decisions.