What is the mission of the Portland Housing Center?

Everyone deserves access to homeownership. Portland Housing Center makes it possible through quality education, counseling and financial services.

What are the PHC services?

PHC offers a series of classes (Financial Fitness and HomeBuying 101) to prepare for homeownership, one on one homebuying counseling, mortgage loans and a matched savings program to increase the purchasing power of income-qualified first-time home buyers. We also work with clients after they purchase their home to preserve homeownership.

How can I register for PHC services?

There is a registration process. It includes completion of a registration packet and payment of a materials fee. The materials fee is $65. Once all items are submitted completely, a home buyer assessment will be completed by a PHC staff member and the customer will be called to schedule the appropriate services. Click here to register online.

How can I find out about PHC services?

PHC holds free, drop-in orientations at our offices at 3233 NE Sandy Blvd. in Portland the 1st three Wednesday evenings of each month. No need to register. Click here for more information.

How can I order a new credit report?

When you register for PHC services we will pull a copy of your credit report as part of your initial home buyer assessment. If at any point during your participation in our program you would like us to pull a new credit report we can do so. We will have you complete a “Release for Credit Report” form and you will be charged the cost associated with pulling the new report.

How do I make a home buying counseling appointment?

The first step is to register for the PHC home buying program. You will be assigned a HomeBuying Specialist and you can call or email your HomeBuying Specialist to set up an appointment that is convenient for you. We offer day-time, and some Thursday evening and Saturday appointments.

How does PHC work with lenders and realtors?

PHC has a panel of “Participating Lenders and Realtors.” These are lending and real estate professionals who have been through an extensive screening process with PHC staff. All are experienced first-time home buyer experts who have demonstrated a passion for working with PHC buyers.

Where can I get a list of the PHC Participating Lenders & Realtors?

A list is available here.

How do I get a certificate that I have completed the Home Buying class?

We do not hand out certificates to customers after the class. We keep your information in our database and when you are in the loan process you can refer your loan officer to our Program Assistant at (503) 282-7744 x101. The Program Assistant will fax the certificate to your loan officer.

What is the IDA (Individual Development Account) or Matched Savings Program?

The IDA program is a matched savings program to help eligible buyers save for down payment and/or closing costs. To be eligible borrowers must be at or below 80% of the Portland area median income, complete the Financial Fitness class and schedule an appointment to discuss eligibility. Please call (503) 282-7744 for more information

Where can I find out about grants to buy a house?

Financial assistance to buy your first home can take several forms: grants, assistance in the form of low rate loans, and matched savings programs. The availability of these programs changes periodically. PHC is a great resource to learn about these programs.

How can a professional become a PHC Partner?

PHC partners with select lenders, real estate agents and home inspectors. We have the highest quality standards for our partners, and reserve our partner relationship for professionals who can demonstrate that they are committed first-time home buyer experts who will take the time to meet the needs of our buyers. Inquiries regarding partnership can be directed to the Deputy Director at (503) 282-7744 x116.