Portland Mortgage Lender

As an independent mortgage broker licensed in Oregon, Bayview Residential Brokerage helps Portland buyers and homeowners shop the whole market instead of a single bank's rate sheet. From first condos in the Pearl District to family homes on the east side, we match each borrower with the lender and program that fits, then handle the loan from pre-approval to closing.

Below is a plain-English guide to buying or refinancing in Portland in 2026: the market, Multnomah County loan limits, the programs available, down payment assistance, and the neighborhoods we serve.

The Portland housing market in 2026

Portland has become friendlier to buyers. As of 2026 the median Portland home price is around $524,000, essentially flat year over year, with more inventory and longer time on market than during the frenzy. That gives buyers more negotiating room, and at this price point most homes fall well within conventional and FHA limits.

Portland's neighborhoods vary widely in price and character, so the right loan looks different from the close-in west side to the outer east side. Being matched with the right lender keeps your payment competitive, which is where a broker helps.

Loan programs for Portland buyers

Conventional loans. The default for buyers with solid credit, with as little as 3% down for qualified first-time buyers.

FHA loans. A lower 3.5% down payment and flexible qualifying, popular with first-time and credit-building buyers. The 2026 FHA limit in Multnomah County is $701,500 for a single-family home.

VA loans. Eligible veterans and active-duty service members can buy in Portland with a zero-down VA loan. Zero down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance for those who qualify.

USDA loans. Zero-down financing for eligible rural communities near the area, for buyers within the income limits.

Jumbo loans. Financing above the $832,750 conforming limit for higher-priced homes. In Portland this applies mainly to higher-priced homes in the west hills and close-in neighborhoods.

Reverse mortgages. For homeowners 62 and older who want to convert equity into cash without a monthly mortgage payment.

Down payment assistance for Portland buyers

Oregon offers help with the down payment through Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). The Oregon Bond Residential Loan Program pairs a competitive first mortgage with a Cash Advantage down payment assistance option, and other state and local programs can help qualified buyers with the down payment and closing costs. Eligibility depends on income, credit and homebuyer education. We help Portland buyers find and coordinate the right program with the loan.

Property taxes in Oregon

Oregon property taxes are relatively moderate and, thanks to Measure 50, fairly predictable. Your bill is based on a capped assessed value that generally rises no more than 3% per year, rather than tracking the full market value of your home, which helps with long-term budgeting. When we prepare your pre-approval, we include realistic tax and insurance estimates so your monthly number is the real one.

Buying across Portland

The Pearl District and downtown anchor the condo market, Southeast neighborhoods like Sellwood, Hawthorne and Woodstock draw families and character-home buyers, and the west hills hold higher-end properties that can approach jumbo territory. The outer east side offers more affordable entry points well suited to FHA and down payment assistance. We match the loan to the neighborhood and property type.

How the process works with Bayview

1. Pre-approval. We review your income, credit and goals, then issue a pre-approval so you can shop with confidence and make strong offers.

2. Shop and compare. Once you are under contract, we shop your loan across our lender network and bring back the most competitive fit on rate and fees.

3. Underwriting. We manage document collection and work the file through underwriting, keeping you and your agent updated.

4. Closing. Most purchases close in about 30 days from contract. You sign, fund and get the keys.

Refinancing your Portland home

Already own in Portland? Refinancing can lower your rate or payment, shorten your term, or let you tap equity through a cash-out refinance for a remodel or to consolidate debt. With how much Oregon home values have risen over the past several years, many local homeowners have more usable equity than they realize. We run the numbers both ways and only recommend a refinance if it actually moves you forward.

Portland mortgage FAQs

What is the 2026 conforming loan limit in Portland?

Portland is in Multnomah County, which uses the baseline conforming limit of $832,750 for a single-family home in 2026. Loans above that are jumbo loans.

What is the FHA loan limit in Portland?

The 2026 FHA limit in Multnomah County is $701,500 for a single-family home.

How much do I need for a down payment in Portland?

Conventional loans can start at 3% down, FHA at 3.5%, and VA and USDA can allow zero down for eligible buyers. Down payment assistance may lower your costs further.

What down payment assistance is available in Portland?

Oregon's OHCS Oregon Bond program and other state and local programs can help qualified buyers with down payment and closing costs.

Are property taxes high in Portland?

Oregon property taxes are moderate and, thanks to Measure 50, fairly predictable, based on a capped assessed value that generally rises no more than 3% per year.

How long does it take to close in Portland?

Most purchase loans close in about 30 days once you are under contract.

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Nearby cities we serve

Gresham  ·  Beaverton  ·  Hillsboro  ·  Salem
All Oregon locations ›

Plan your numbers

Affordability calculator  ·  Mortgage calculator  ·  Refinance calculator