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Downpayment Assistance

The Community Development Division (CDD) works with approved lenders to offer the Clackamas Homebuyer Assistance Program (CHAP). The CHAP program can loan up to $14,000 to help qualified first-time homebuyers pay for downpayment and reasonable closing costs. CHAP loans are zero-percent interest deferred-payment loans.
The CHAP program is funded through the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Prior to obtaining a CHAP loan the first-time homebuyer must:

  1. Complete an approved homebuyer training class.
    Click here for a list of homebuyer training class.
  2. Be approved for primary financing through an FHA-approved lender.

To be an "Eligible Applicant", the homebuyer must:

  • Meet the HUD definition of a “first-time homebuyer” which means the buyer has not owned a home during the past 3 years, or is a displaced homemaker, or is a single parent.
  • Be low-income.  (See income Limits.)
    CHAP Income Limits
    as of March 2009
    Number in Household 80% of Median
    1
    39,200
    2
    44,800
    3
    50,400
    4
    56,000
    5
    60,500
    6
    64,950
    7
    69,450
    8
    73,900
  • Demonstrate a financial need for CHAP assistance.
  • Complete a homebuyer education program approved by the County.

To be a "Qualified Borrower", the homebuyer must:

  • Have sufficient income to qualify for and support the primary debt.
  • Be pre-qualified by a primary lender.  (Contract sales are not allowed.)
  • Have good credit.
  • Contribute $1,000 in cash toward the purchase from the buyer’s own funds.

To be an "Eligible Property", the house must: 

  • Be located in Clackamas County.
  • Have a purchase price less than $304,950.
  • Meet the definition of affordable, standard single family housing (a single unit).
  • Meet property standards and pass HQS inspection.
  • Be free of chipped or peeling paint if the house was built before 1978.
  • Not be occupied by a tenant unless the buyer is the tenant.

Contacts:  Gloria Lewton or Lori Stomps, 503-655-8591.

Homes purchased through the CHAP program must be the primary residence of the homebuyer.
Other program requirements apply. The CHAP Program is subject to funding availability.