Calling All Veterans: Hawaii’s First VA Housing Summit

By Melissa Chang - August 19, 2014

Hawaii is tops for quality of life, but near the bottom of the entire United States when it comes to the number of veterans taking advantage of VA programs, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. This is a shocking statistic, considering we have one of the largest military populations in the country, with about 185,000 veterans and active-duty military personnel.

Most veterans and active-duty military members here have no idea that there are many financial assistance programs that can help them buy a home for much less than they are paying for rent. Even if they do know about it, they often don’t know where or how to apply.

Well, this Saturday, our military members and veterans can learn about all of the government programs available to help them buy a home at the first VA Housing Summit at the Oahu Veterans Center.Admission is free, sponsored by the nonprofit Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP). Pre-registration is preferred, but not required. Free lunch is also provided.

Veterans and active service members will be able to apply on the spot for VA housing assistance and will leave with a “Certificate of Eligibility,” which is the first step in qualifying for government-assisted VA home loans.

For more information and registration, visit VeteransHousingSummit.com.VA Housing Summit
Saturday, Aug. 23, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Oahu Veterans Center (Foster Village), 1298 Kukila St.
VeteransHousingSummit.com.