Oregon Down Payment Assistance Programs Guide

Three main layers: OHCS Flex Lending adds 4% or 5% of your loan amount toward down payment and closing costs; OHCS-funded community organizations award grants of up to $60,000 or 20% of the purchase price (whichever is less, funding-dependent); and Portland's city program lends up to $100,000. We match programs to your income, county, and price point.

It's being phased out. The Bond program — known for its RateAdvantage and CashAdvantage options — is being replaced by OHCS Flex Lending, whose FirstHome loan carries forward the core benefits, including down payment assistance worth 4% or 5% of your loan amount. Many websites still describe the Bond program as current; the live program is Flex Lending.

Oregon's current state program: an OHCS-backed first mortgage paired with down payment assistance equal to 4% or 5% of the loan amount, usable for up to 100% of your cash to close. At or below 80% of area median income, the assistance is a silent second — no payments, no interest, forgivable over time; above 80% AMI it's repaid monthly. Minimum credit score 620.

FirstHome serves first-time buyers (no primary residence owned in the past three years — Veterans and some prior owners also qualify) with county income and purchase-price limits. NextStep is open to income-eligible buyers even if they've owned before. Both can include the 4–5% assistance.

OHCS doesn't award these directly — it funds local and culturally specific community organizations, which grant up to $60,000 or 20% of the purchase price (whichever is less) to eligible first-time buyers. Each organization's funding runs out and replenishes on its own cycle, so we check current openings before you count on a specific amount.

The Portland Housing Bureau's Down Payment Assistance Loan runs $80,000 to $100,000 depending on funding source and location — a 0%-interest, 30-year deferred loan repaid when you sell, refinance, or move out. Income at or below 100% of area median, first-time buyer status, and application through a PHB community partner are required.

Yes — and unlike some states that ended theirs, Oregon's is alive: subtract contributions and earnings from Oregon taxable income, up to $6,285 for 2026 ($12,570 joint), for up to 10 years, capped at $50,000 lifetime ($100,000 joint). Funds must go toward your first Oregon home. Confirm details at oregon.gov/dor or with your tax professional.

Oregon's Individual Development Account initiative matches money you save toward a first home — commonly $3 to $5 for every $1 you save, up to around $10,000 in match depending on the provider. Savers typically complete the plan over one to two years, and IDA funds can stack with other assistance.

OHCS Flex Lending requires a 620 minimum, alongside county income and purchase-price limits. Local programs set their own standards — a score in the low 600s still leaves multiple doors open.