Why is DHHL acquiring the Courtyards at Waipouli?

DHHL is purchasing the property to convert it into a rent-to-own housing opportunity for eligible Native Hawaiian beneficiaries, helping to address the urgent need for affordable housing on Kaua‘i.

Will I be forced to move immediately?

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

• A Notice of Eligibility (NOE)

• At least 90 days' written notice to vacate

• Personalized relocation assistance and referrals to replacement housing
  
  Who is eligible for relocation assistance?

Who is eligible for relocation assistance?

Households who:

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

• Are lawfully present in the U.S.

• Have not been evicted for cause New tenants who moved in after August 2024 are not eligible for relocation assistance.

What kind of help will I receive to move?

You may qualify for:

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

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

• Down payment assistance if you choose to buy a home

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

How much rent help can I get?

It depends on:

• Your current rent

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

• The cost of comparable housing in the area
  If rent is too high and exceeds the federal cap, Last Resort Housing assistance may be available.

What is “Last Resort Housing”?

It’s a special program for households who can’t find affordable, comparable housing. This allows DHHL to offer more than the usual relocation cap ($9,570) to help you find a new place.

Can I use my relocation benefit to buy a home?

Yes. If you qualify, you can use your full rental assistance benefit as a down payment on a new home instead of renting.

Will I have help finding a new place?

Yes. The relocation team will:

• Give you referrals to safe and comparable housing

• Offer counseling and support during your search

• Work with local realtors and community contacts to find available units

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

Pet-friendly units are harder to find, but yes — the relocation team is actively searching for listings that accept pets and will help advocate on your behalf with landlords.

What if I disagree with a relocation decision?

You have the right to appeal. If you disagree with your eligibility, benefit amount, or relocation process, you can:

• Appeal directly to DHHL

• Elevate the appeal to HUD or a local agency

• Seek judicial review if necessary

How will I know who to talk to?

A relocation agent will be assigned to each household. Your point of contact is:

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)