First-Time Home Buyer Oregon 2026

Your complete guide to buying your first home in Oregon. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 6.02%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price
$485,000
Min Down (FHA)
$16,975
DPA Programs
2+
Best Rate
6.02%

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Oregon?

Oregon offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include Oregon Bond Residential Loan, Oregon Cash Advantage. Programs provide up to $15,000 in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Oregon?

You can buy a home in Oregon with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$16,975), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$14,550) on the median price of $485,000.

Loan TypeDown Payment$ AmountMonthly P&IMin Credit
VA Loan0%$0$2,898620
USDA Loan0%$0$2,977640
Conventional 3%3%$14,550$2,887620
FHA Loan3.5%$16,975$2,812580
Conventional 20%20%$97,000$2,381620

Oregon Down Payment Assistance Programs

1

Oregon Bond Residential Loan

Below-market rates with DPA

Up to $15,000deferred
2

Oregon Cash Advantage

Cash grant for closing costs

Up to 3% of loangrant

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Oregon

To buy your first home in Oregon, start by checking your credit score, getting pre-approved, and researching DPA programs. The entire process typically takes 30-60 days from pre-approval to closing. Here's your step-by-step roadmap.

1

Check Your Credit & Finances

Review your credit score (aim for 620+), calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and save for closing costs. In Oregon, you may need as little as $16,975 for an FHA down payment.

2

Get Pre-Approved

Compare rates from at least 3 lenders. Current Oregon rates: 6.22% (30-year), 6.02% (FHA). Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and locks your rate.

3

Apply for Oregon DPA Programs

Oregon has 2+ DPA programs. The Oregon Bond Residential Loan offers up to $15,000. Apply earlyβ€”funding can be limited.

4

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Oregon: Portland, Salem, Eugene, Gresham, Hillsboro. Median price is $485,000 (+3.2% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

5

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Oregon typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($14,550-$24,250). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Oregon Home Buying Journey

Get pre-approved in minutes and see what you qualify for.

Get Pre-Approved Now

Oregon First-Time Buyer FAQ

What first-time home buyer programs are available in Oregon?

Oregon offers 2 major programs: Oregon Bond Residential Loan, Oregon Cash Advantage. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.

How much down payment do I need in Oregon?

As little as $0 (VA/USDA), $$14,550 (3% conventional), or $$16,975 (3.5% FHA) on the median price of $485,000.

What income do I need to buy in Oregon?

Using the 28% rule, you'd need approximately $$120,517/year. The median household income in Oregon is $70,084.

What is the FHA loan limit in Oregon?

The 2026 FHA loan limit in Oregon is $517,500. The conforming loan limit is $766,550.

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