DPA by county: what's available in the Portland–Vancouver metro.

Down payment assistance isn't one-size-fits-all — it varies by state, county, and sometimes even city. The Portland–Vancouver metro spans two states and several counties, each with its own programs and limits. Here's a county-by-county overview of what to know.

Multnomah County (Portland, OR)

As Oregon's largest county, Multnomah has both state-level programs (Oregon Bond) and local programs layered on top. Portland Housing Bureau has historically offered homebuyer assistance for lower-income buyers in specific targeted areas of the city. State program income limits for Multnomah are higher than many buyers expect, reflecting Portland's cost of living.

Washington County (Beaverton, Hillsboro, OR)

Washington County buyers have full access to Oregon Bond's below-market rate and DPA, with income and purchase price limits set for the county specifically. Washington County Community Action has also historically administered local housing assistance programs. The county's tech-corridor economy means income limits here are set to reflect local wages.

Clackamas County (Lake Oswego, Oregon City, OR)

Clackamas County buyers are Oregon Bond–eligible and have access to the same statewide programs. Clackamas County's Community Development division has offered local homebuyer assistance as funding has been available. This is one of the more affordable entry points into the Oregon side of the metro, making DPA particularly impactful here.

Clark County (Vancouver, Camas, WA)

Clark County is served by Washington's WSHFC programs — Home Advantage and the House Key programs — giving buyers access to below-market rates and a deferred down payment loan. Clark County's lower home prices relative to Multnomah County mean your DPA dollar goes further. There are also local housing agencies in Vancouver that have occasionally offered deeper assistance for lower-income buyers.

Why county matters

Program income limits, purchase price caps, and specific assistance amounts are all set at the county level. A buyer in Hillsboro and a buyer in Portland may have different qualifying income limits even for the same statewide program. This is why running your specific county is the only reliable way to know what you qualify for.

The zip code you're buying in determines which programs are available — not just your state, but your county.

Tell me the county — or even the city — you're targeting and I'll pull the current program details. Every buyer's situation is different, and the programs are designed to reflect that.