Washington Down-Payment Help Made Easy (a plain-language guide for first-time buyers)
Why you should read this
Mortgage rates are close to seven percent. Saving the whole down payment on your own can feel impossible. Good news: Washington State and several local groups will give or lend you money to cover all—or most—of that up-front cash. You can qualify with a credit score as low as 580 and very little money in the bank.
The seven programs to know
| Program | How much help you can get | Do you have to pay it back? | Key points in simple words |
| Home Advantage (State program) | About 4 % of your loan amount | No payments, no interest; you pay it back only when you sell or refinance | Works with almost any mortgage type and credit score of 580+ |
| House Key Opportunity Second (State) | Up to $10,000 | Low one-percent interest; repay when you sell or refinance | It is a bit more paperwork, but it is excellent for buyers under the income limit |
| Byrd Barr Place (Seattle) | Up to $100,000 | Forgiven after 10 years if you stay in the home | For homes inside Seattle city limits |
| Tacoma TCRA | Up to $60,000 | No payments, no interest; repay when you sell or refinance | Covers both down payment and closing costs |
| Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle | Up to $50,000 | Grant—never repaid | Must meet income guidelines; pairs well with the state program |
| Chehalis Tribe Loan | Up to $40,000 | Forgiven after a set time | At least one household member must be a tribal member |
| Habitat for Humanity (Whatcom County) | Up to $20,000 | No payments; repay when you sell | Works only in Whatcom County (Bellingham area) |
How the math works
- Example home price: $425,000
- Standard 3.5 % down payment = $14,875
- Home Advantage gives you about $17,000 → Your required cash drops to $0 (and you still have some left to pay closing costs).
- Use any leftover assistance or a seller credit to “buy down” the interest rate and lower your monthly payment.
Step-by-step game plan
- Quick phone chat (15 minutes). We check your credit score (soft pull—no score drop) and household income.
- Pick a program. We’ll tell you which of the seven best fits you—or how to layer two together.
- Free online class. State law says you must take a home-buyer class. You can take this in person or from home at your convenience.
- Get a letter that shows you’re approved. Use it to shop with confidence.
- Find a place and make an offer. Your down payment money is already reserved, so sellers know you’re solid.
Ready to see how much help you can get?Click the link below, answer six easy questions, and I’ll email you a personal plan—usually the same day.
Feel free to start your loan application at LoginNo jargon. No pressure. Just clear numbers you can use.
