Washington homebuyers can access up to $15,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC). On the state's $611,301 median home price, that covers roughly 12% of a standard 20% down payment. Washington has 3 state DPA programs total.
Primary Program: House Key Opportunity Program DPA
maximum assistance
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
- Administering Agency
- Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC)
- Income Limit
- 80% of Area Median Income
- Purchase Price Cap
- $726,200
Additional Washington DPA Programs
HomeChoice DPA (disability)
Deferred Loan$15,000
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Apply / Learn MoreHome Advantage DPA
Deferred Loan$10,000
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Apply / Learn MoreHow Down Payment Assistance Works
Most state DPA programs are layered on top of a first mortgage — you apply through an approved lender who originates both the primary loan and the DPA second lien at the same closing. The DPA funds reduce the cash you need upfront.
Grants
Free money — no repayment ever. Typically the smallest amounts but highest value.
Forgivable Loans
Balance forgiven after a set period (usually 3–15 years) if you stay in the home. Selling early triggers repayment.
Deferred Loans
No monthly payments. Balance due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Down Payment Calculator
Down Payment Planner
Washington median pre-loaded
Your Savings Plan
Timeline
20.4 yrs
saving $500/mo
No PMI at 20% down
20% or more avoids private mortgage insurance entirely.
Estimate only — does not include investment returns on savings.
Full Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
What down payment assistance is available in Washington?
Washington's primary DPA program is the House Key Opportunity Program DPA, administered by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC). It provides up to $15,000 as a deferred loan. 0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. Additional programs include HomeChoice DPA (disability) and Home Advantage DPA.
How much down payment do I need in Washington after using DPA?
On a $611,301 home (Washington median), a 20% down payment is $122,260. With the House Key Opportunity Program DPA covering $15,000, your remaining gap would be $107,260. Many buyers combine DPA with a 3–5% conventional or FHA loan to reduce their cash needed further.
Do I have to repay Washington down payment assistance?
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Can I combine Washington DPA with other assistance programs?
Yes — Washington's DPA programs can generally be combined ("stacked") with local city and county assistance programs, employer homebuyer benefits, and federal programs. Check with an approved lender or HUD-approved counselor to identify all programs you qualify for.
What are the income limits for Washington down payment assistance?
The House Key Opportunity Program DPA requires income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. AMI limits vary by location and household size. Your lender or the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) can confirm the exact limit for your area.
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