Down Payment Assistance

The Down Payment Assistance (DPA) program awards funds on a competitive basis to organizations throughout the state to create, continue, and expand their existing down payment assistance programs.

The program is funded by Document Recording Fees—assessed by state and local government agencies when legally recording deeds, mortgages, and documents related to home loans—and certain jurisdictions’ Construction Excise Taxes, which are assessed on building or updating residential real property.

A portion of these funds is distributed to OHCS to expand the state's supply of affordable homeownership for low to moderate-income families and individuals, particularly communities of color, with a percentage of funds reserved specifically for Oregon veterans.

Benefits

The program provides closing costs and down payment assistance to eligible first-time and first-generation homebuyers who are at or below 100% of area median income (AMI).

The maximum amount of DPA funds available to each eligible homebuyer is up to $60,000 or 20% of the purchase price, whichever is less, depending on the specific program and eligibility requirements. In some instances, DPA funds are provided in the form of a grant or forgivable second lien.

Eligibility

Homebuyers must be first-time and/or first-generation homebuyers at or below 100% of area median income. They must also complete First-Time Homebuyer Education and meet with a certified housing counselor to be eligible for down payment and/or closing cost assistance.

Organizations offering down payment assistance

Please contact the awarded organization serving your area for their program availability and requirements.

*These organizations can provide the required Homebuyer Education in addition to our partnering Homeownership Centers

OHCS lending programs paired with down payment assistance

OHCS’ Flex Lending Down Payment Assistance (DPA) program, offered in collaboration with approved mortgage lenders, supports Oregonians in purchasing homes.

This assistance pairs a fixed-rate first mortgage with a second mortgage, which can be either a silent, due on sale second lien, or an amortizing, repayable second lien.

These DPA funds can cover up to 100% of the borrower’s cash requirements at closing, including the down payment, closing costs, pre-paid items, upfront mortgage insurance, and other related loan expenses.