How to Buy Your First Home in Oregon When Moving From Out of State
Oregon's property tax system, earthquake risks, and assistance programs work differently than where you're coming from. Here's what transplants need to know.
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All articles about Oregon First-Time Home Buyer Guide.
Best Down Payment Assistance for Oregon Buyers Earning Under $100K
Oregon offers up to $160,000 in stackable DPA programs for buyers under $100K income. Here's which programs to combine and in what order.
How Oregon Property Tax Is Calculated: Rates by County Explained
Oregon property tax doesn't reset when you buy. Learn how the MAV/RMV dual-value system works, why Multnomah County rates vary widely, and how to find your actual bill.
Oregon Home Buying Guide vs Free Resources: Which Actually Prepares You?
Comparing a structured Oregon home buying guide against free OHCS websites, Reddit threads, and agent blogs — what each delivers and what it misses.
Alternatives to Hiring a Real Estate Attorney in Oregon
Oregon is an escrow state where attorneys aren't required at closing. Here are the real alternatives and when each makes sense for first-time buyers.
Best Home Buying Guide for Portland: Seismic Risk and DPA Stacking
Portland buyers face earthquake retrofit costs and overlapping DPA programs that generic guides ignore. Here's what actually covers both.
Oregon First Time Home Buyer Grants and Down Payment Assistance
Oregon grants and DPA programs for first-time buyers: OHCS DPA grant up to $60K, Portland DPAL up to $100K, Flex Lending, and how to stack multiple programs.
First Time Home Buyer Oregon: Programs, Steps, and What No One Tells You
Complete guide for first-time home buyers in Oregon: OHCS programs, FHA/USDA options, property tax quirks, seismic risks, and the 30-45 day closing process.
Oregon Bond Residential Loan Program: How It Works and Who Qualifies
The Oregon Bond Residential Loan Program offers below-market rates and a 3% closing cost grant through OHCS. Here are the eligibility rules, two program options, and how to apply.
Oregon Urban Growth Boundary: What It Means for Home Buyers
Oregon's Urban Growth Boundary constrains land supply inside Portland and Bend, raising prices but protecting farmland. Here's how it affects your buying options and long-term value.
Oregon Lead Paint Disclosure: What Buyers Must Know Before Buying an Older Home
Oregon homes built before 1978 require federal lead paint disclosures. Here's what sellers must provide, what buyers' inspection rights are, and how Oregon's disclosure law stacks on top.
Oregon FHA Loan Requirements: What First-Time Buyers Need to Know
FHA loans in Oregon require 3.5% down, a 580+ credit score, and FHA appraisal standards. Here's what's different in Oregon — condo approvals, MIP costs, and program stacking.
Average Closing Costs in Oregon and Who Pays Them
Oregon closing costs run 2–5% of the loan amount. Here's the itemized breakdown, what buyers vs. sellers pay by custom, and how to reduce out-of-pocket costs at closing.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Oregon: Rules, Costs, and What Buyers Need to Know
Oregon has some of the strongest ADU laws in the country. Here's how Portland's ADU rules work, what it costs to build one, and how ADU income affects mortgage qualifying.
Bend Oregon Housing Market: What First-Time Buyers Actually Face in 2026
Bend's housing market has median prices near $800K, cash-heavy competition, and tight inventory. Here's what first-time buyers need to know before making an offer.
USDA Loan Oregon: Eligibility, Income Limits, and How to Qualify in 2026
USDA loans in Oregon offer zero down payment across 99% of the state's land mass. Here are the 2026 income limits, eligible areas, and what the appraisal requires.
Portland Mortgage Broker vs. Direct Lender: How to Choose the Best Mortgage Lender in Oregon
How to evaluate Portland mortgage brokers vs. direct lenders for an Oregon home purchase. What matters for OHCS programs, jumbo loans, and first-time buyer scenarios.
Portland Earthquake Retrofit: Cost, Permits, and What Buyers Need to Know
Pre-1978 Portland homes need seismic retrofitting due to Cascadia Subduction Zone risk. Here's what bolt-and-brace costs, when it's triggered, and the free permit program.