First-time homebuyers lined up today in Kapolei to accept applications for a chance to be part of Makali'i — a new development of 32 fee-simple, single-family, affordable homes expected to be completed in the fall 2009.

The three- and four-bedroom homes start out in the low $400,000 range. The median price for single-family homes on O'ahu in October was $625,000, according to the Honolulu Board of Realtors.

Working through a private-public partnership, Castle & Cooke Homes Hawaii and the Hawai'i Housing Finance and Development Corporation, said the joint strategy provides a unique opportunity for beginning homebuyers to own a single-family home that they might otherwise not be able to afford.

The application process will continue through Dec. 15. Application packets can be picked up between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Castle & Cooke sales office at 91-1169 Kaiau Ave. in Kapolei.

Applicants must meet HHFDC eligibility and household income requirements for affordable housing. The homes will be awarded through a lottery of qualified applicants in January.