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Flex Lending

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) has developed a first-of-its-kind lending program to help fulfill OHCS’ mission of providing homeownership opportunities for Oregonians, which may be paired with down payment assistance (DPA). Flex Lending helps Oregonians buy homes in partnership with approved mortgage lenders statewide.

DPA funds may be used for up to 100% of the borrower’s cash requirement to close, including down payment, closing costs, pre-paid items, upfront borrower-paid mortgage insurance, and other related loan fees and expenses.

Flex Lending consists of two loan products, FirstHome and NextStep. Both of these are first mortgage loans that can be paired with the OHCS down payment assistance (DPA) program.

Flex Lending loan comparison

FirstHome NextStep
First-time homebuyer requirement
with exceptions
Homebuyer education course required
No minimum investment
Down payment assistance
Credit score 620
Income limits Max household income per county Max $125,000
Purchase price limits
Targeted areas (see FAQ)
Agency maximum loan to value allowed
Reduced MI for borrowers with less than 80% of area median income

In creating equitable pathways to homeownership, OHCS provides support for all Oregonians regardless of their first language. For support in a language other than English, email languageaccess@hcs.oregon.gov


Homebuyer education

All first-time homebuyers are required to take a homebuyer education class. Figuring out when and how to buy a home is a big decision, but the good news is there are resources available to help you.

To navigate through the process of what it takes to buy a home, there are knowledgeable, dedicated, and experienced housing counselors who are certified in the homebuying process and specialize in helping families plan for and buy homes. Learn more about housing counseling and how find one closest to you.

Find a Housing Counselor

Approved lenders

Locating the right loan officer can make all the difference when buying your first home. We want to help connect you to a lender who specializes in first-time homebuyer programs.

Below is a list of loan officers who are ready to help you along the path to homeownership.

Enter a county or lender into the search box to find contact information.