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Peter Irungu · Mortgage Loan Originator · MLO NMLS #2751063NEXA Lending · Company NMLS #1660690
NEXA Lending
WA state & Pierce County grant programs, may never need repayment

Down Payment Assistance

Down payment assistance (DPA) programs provide grants, forgivable loans, or low-interest second mortgages to help Washington homebuyers cover down payment and closing costs. Many programs serve first-time buyers and may never require repayment if you meet the terms.

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What Are Down Payment Assistance?

Down payment assistance (DPA) programs provide grants, forgivable loans, or low-interest second mortgages to help Washington homebuyers cover down payment and closing costs. Many programs serve first-time buyers and may never require repayment if you meet the terms.

Peter Irungu (Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #2751063) helps homebuyers across Pierce & King County understand whether DPA is the right fit and guides you through every step — from pre-qualification to closing.

Key Benefits

Grant Funds

Some programs offer grants that never require repayment.

Forgivable Loans

Second mortgages that forgive over time if you stay in the home.

Lower Upfront Cost

Reduce or eliminate your out-of-pocket down payment.

Local Programs

Washington State and Pierce County specific options.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility requirements vary by program and lender. Here's a general overview:

  • Income limits vary by program and area
  • Often requires completion of homebuyer education
  • Property must be your primary residence
  • Some programs limited to first-time homebuyers
  • Minimum credit score requirements apply

How It Works

1

Apply

Share your goals in a quick, no-obligation pre-qualification.

2

Get Approved

Peter shops multiple lenders to find competitive rate options for you.

3

Close

Sign final documents and get your keys.

Rates & Terms

Rates shown are sample scenarios for illustrative purposes only. Actual rate and APR will vary based on credit profile, loan amount, property type, and market conditions. Contact Peter Irungu for a personalized quote.

Down Payment Assistance

WA state & Pierce County grant programs, may never need repayment

6.250%Interest Rate
6.950%APR*

*Sample scenario for illustration only — not an advertised or live rate. Based on a loan amount of $385,000 with a 3.5% down payment ($399,000 purchase price) on a primary single-family residence. 360 monthly payments of $2,365 (Principal & Interest). Monthly payment does not include taxes, property insurance, or HOA fees; actual payment obligation will be higher. Rate and APR subject to credit approval and market fluctuation; actual terms vary based on credit profile, loan amount, property type, and current market conditions. Last reviewed 2026-10-07.

NEXA Lending, LLC is a private mortgage lender/broker and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, or any government agency.

Get Your Personalized Quote

Sample rates are just a starting point. Your actual rate depends on your unique profile. Peter will review your situation and find competitive options from our network of lenders.

Start My Pre-Qualification

NEXA Lending, LLC is a private mortgage lender/broker and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, or any government agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What down payment assistance programs are available to Washington State homebuyers?

The Washington State Housing Finance Commission offers programs including Home Advantage, Home Advantage down payment assistance, House Key Opportunity, and specialized assistance options for qualifying households. Eligibility varies by program, income, property, and participating lender requirements. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with the Commission or any government agency.

How does the Washington Home Advantage down payment assistance program work?

Home Advantage down payment assistance may provide eligible borrowers with assistance equal to 3%, 4%, or 5% of the first-mortgage loan amount through a qualifying second mortgage. The standard Home Advantage assistance loan carries 0% interest and deferred repayment, with repayment triggered by specified events such as sale, refinance, or payoff. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with the Washington State Housing Finance Commission.

What are the income limits for Washington State Home Advantage loans?

Effective September 15, 2025, the statewide Home Advantage borrower income limit increased from $180,000 to $215,000. The $215,000 limit remains published in the Commission's 2026 Home Advantage information, although other assistance programs may use different income rules. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with the Commission or any government agency.

Are there down payment assistance grants for first-time homebuyers in Pierce County?

Some Washington homebuyer assistance programs offer grants or potentially forgivable loans, but many commonly advertised assistance options are repayable second mortgages. Buyers should check current availability through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission and relevant local housing agencies. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with any government agency.

Can I combine down payment assistance with an FHA loan in Washington?

Certain Washington down payment assistance programs can be paired with qualifying FHA first mortgages. Borrowers must satisfy the requirements of both programs, including income limits, credit standards, occupancy restrictions, and any required education. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with FHA, HUD, or the Washington State Housing Finance Commission.

Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify for Home Advantage in Washington?

Not necessarily. Washington's Home Advantage program may be available to eligible repeat buyers as well as first-time buyers, subject to program and occupancy requirements. Other assistance options may specifically require first-time buyer status or additional eligibility criteria. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with the Commission or any government agency.

Is Washington down payment assistance free money, or do I have to repay it?

Many Washington down payment assistance programs provide loans rather than unrestricted grants. Standard Home Advantage assistance is generally a deferred-payment second mortgage, meaning repayment becomes due after specified events such as selling, refinancing, or paying off the first mortgage. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with the Commission or any government agency.

What is the Washington Covenant Homeownership Program, and who may qualify?

The Covenant Homeownership Program provides specialized down payment and closing-cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers who meet the program's income, residency, and documented eligibility requirements connected to historical housing discrimination in Washington. Certain qualifying borrowers may be eligible for loan forgiveness under amended program rules. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with the Washington State Housing Finance Commission or any government agency.

Talk to Peter About DPA

Have questions about down payment assistance? Share a few details and Peter will reach out within one business day.

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