Down payment assistance in Oregon

Oregon's primary statewide down payment assistance program, run by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). Numbers and eligibility reflect the program's published 2025 guidelines.

Oregon Bond Residential Loan with DPA

Deferred loan
Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
Maximum assistance
Up to 5% of loan amount as a 0% deferred second
Income limit
Up to $158,800 (varies by county)
Home price limit
Up to $611,000 in Portland metro
First-time buyer
Preferred (some products)
Eligible loan types
FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
  • 0% deferred second - repaid on sale/refi/payoff.
  • Cash Advantage option provides up to 3% as a non-repayable rate-baked-in benefit.

How Oregon DPA fits into your purchase

Down payment assistance reduces the cash you need at the closing table. Oregon's Oregon Bond Residential Loan with DPA pairs with the standard FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional first mortgage from a participating lender; the DPA flows through the same closing.

Two things to budget for: most state DPA requires a homebuyer-education course (typically online, 6-8 hours, ~$75) and you usually have to use a lender on the agency's approved list. The agency keeps the list public on its website.

Common questions

What down payment assistance is available in Oregon?

Oregon's primary statewide DPA is Oregon Bond Residential Loan with DPA from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). Up to 5% of loan amount as a 0% deferred second. Many Oregon cities and counties also run additional DPA layered on top.

Do I have to be a first-time buyer?

Some product variants are first-time-buyer only; others are open to repeat buyers. Check the agency page for the current matrix.

Can I combine state DPA with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional?

Yes. Oregon Bond Residential Loan with DPA works with these loan types: FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional. The DPA is layered behind your first mortgage as a separate lien (or grant), and both close together.

Does the DPA show up as debt that hurts my approval?

Usually no. Deferred and forgivable loans typically have no monthly payment, so most lenders do not include them in your DTI calculation.

What if I sell or refinance soon after closing?

Deferred and second-mortgage DPAs are generally repaid in full when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.

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