08/14/2026
MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM INFO
Hey friends, let’s talk about mortgage assistance programs in Seattle & King County right now.
With mortgage rates sitting at 6.69% (as of August 6), many first-time buyers wonder: “How can I make this work on my budget?” The short answer? You probably can — especially with the strong inventory we’re seeing (up 23.7% year-over-year). Washington State and local programs exist specifically to help more people become homeowners.
The best news? These programs often stack with each other. For example, a buyer in Seattle might combine:
• Statewide down-payment assistance (3–5% of the loan at 0% interest)
• City-specific help (up to $76,000)
• Or special programs for veterans, first-time buyers with family history in Washington, or those with disabilities
The #1 step for almost everyone? Complete a free homebuyer education class. It’s required for nearly every WSHFC program, takes about 5 hours (online or in person), and teaches you budgeting, loan options, and what to look for in a home. You can find them at heretohome.org.
Here are the biggest opportunities available right now (all updated for 2026):
1. Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) Programs
These are the foundation for most buyers statewide. Everything includes down-payment assistance as a second mortgage (0% interest, deferred for 30 years or repaid on sale/refinance).
• Home Advantage Program (no first-time buyer requirement): Income limit ~$215,000 statewide. Up to 5% down-payment assistance. Pairs with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans.
• House Key Opportunity (great for first-time buyers with lower incomes): Income limits start around $67k–$175k depending on county and household size. Below-market first mortgage rates + up to $15,000 in assistance.
• Veterans Down Payment Assistance: Up to $10,000 (3% simple interest) for eligible military members and veterans.
• Covenant Homeownership Program (special for buyers with family roots in Washington before 1968): Up to $150,000 at 0% interest + possible forgiveness after 5 years for lower-income households. Income limits up to ~$197k in King County.
2. Seattle City & Local Programs
• Seattle Office of Housing Down Payment Assistance: Up to $76,000 (sometimes layered higher) for buyers at or below 80% of area median income (roughly $109k for a family of 4). Must buy inside city limits and complete one-on-one counseling. Stacks with WSHFC programs.
• HomeSight and other nonprofits: Additional options through partnerships, including up to $70k+ in some cases.
3. Government-Backed Loan Options
These often pair perfectly with the above DPA:
• FHA Loans: Minimum 3.5% down (580+ credit score) or 10% with lower scores. No monthly mortgage insurance after 11 years if you put 10% down. King County loan limit: ~$977,500.
• VA Loans: Eligible veterans/active-duty get $0 down (subject to appraisal) + no monthly mortgage insurance. WSHFC’s Veterans DPA can still help with closing costs.
• USDA Rural Development Loans: $0 down in eligible rural/suburban areas (check rd.usda.gov eligibility map). Great for families who qualify on income.
How to get started today:
1. Take the free homebuyer education class (heretohome.org).
2. Call a WSHFC-trained lender early (we work with many!).
3. Reach out to the Washington State Homeownership Hotline at 1-877-894-4663 — they’ll connect you to the right resources and counselors.
Every program has income, loan-type, and location rules, but with current inventory and these tools, more buyers are making thoughtful offers instead of rushing.
What’s your situation? First-time buyer? Veteran? Planning a move? Drop a comment — I’d love to help you figure out the best path!
Cascade Properties & Investments
425-292-6067 | [email protected]
Market data: Northwest Multiple Listing Service, July 2026; Freddie Mac, August 6, 2026.
This post is general real estate education and is not financial, lending, tax, legal, or investment advice. Loan terms and assistance-program eligibility vary.
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