Why is DHHL acquiring the Courtyards at Waipouli?

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) is acquiring the property to convert it into a rent-to-own housing opportunity for eligible Native Hawaiian beneficiaries, addressing the urgent need for affordable housing on Kaua‘i.

Will I be forced to move immediately?

No. No household will be required to move without proper notice. Every eligible household will receive:

• A Notice of Eligibility (NOE)

• At least 90 days’ written notice to vacate

• Individual interviews to assess your needs and preferences

• Personalized relocation assistance and referrals to replacement housing

Who is eligible for relocation assistance?

You may qualify for relocation assistance if you:

• Were lawfully residing on the property at least 90 days before relocation negotiations began

• Are lawfully present in the U.S.

• Have not been evicted for cause

Note: Tenants who moved in after August 2024 are not eligible for relocation assistance.

What kind of help will I receive to move?

Depending on eligibility, you may receive:

• Rental assistance (up to 42 months of rental gap support)

• Moving assistance (either a self-move payment or a paid professional move)

• Down payment assistance if you choose to buy a home instead of renting

• Assistance with utilities, furniture, or deposits (as applicable)

How much rent help can I get?

Rental assistance depends on:

• Your current rent

• Your income (if you qualify as low-income)

• The cost of comparable housing in the area

If no comparable affordable units are available within the standard relocation cap, you may qualify for Last Resort Housing.

What is “Last Resort Housing”?

Last Resort Housing is a program for households who can’t secure comparable affordable housing within the federal relocation cap. It allows DHHL to provide additional financial assistance beyond the standard cap ($9,570) to help you secure suitable housing.

Can I use my relocation benefit to buy a home?

Yes. If eligible, you may choose to apply your rental assistance benefit as a down payment toward purchasing a home instead of using it for rent.

Will I have help finding a new place?

Yes. The relocation team will:

• Provide referrals to safe, comparable housing

• Offer counseling and support throughout your search

• Work with local realtors and community networks to identify available units

What if I have a pet? Will you help me find pet-friendly housing?

Yes. Pet-friendly housing can be more limited, but the relocation team is committed to assisting you by:

• Identifying pet-friendly listings

• Advocating with landlords to secure accommodations for your pet

What if I disagree with a relocation decision?

You have the right to appeal. If you disagree with a decision about your eligibility, benefits, or relocation process, you may:

• Appeal directly to DHHL

• Request further review by HUD or a local agency

• Pursue judicial review if necessary

Will someone guide me through this process?

Yes. Every household will be assigned a relocation agent who will be your main point of contact for questions and assistance:

Melissa Mann
Senior Project Manager – Interwest
📧 mmann@interwestgrp.com
📞 (951) 543-1924

Where can I read the full Relocation Plan?

👉 Click here to download the full 61-page Courtyards at Waipouli Relocation Plan (PDF)