How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a Home: Workshop Replay

Homebuyer Workshop Rhonda Porter Mortgage SeattleHow Much Money Do You Need to Buy a Home?

Down payment, closing costs, and real-world ways to make homeownership possible

One of the biggest myths about buying a home is that you “need 20% down.” In reality, many buyers can purchase with far less—and sometimes with little to no out-of-pocket funds, depending on the loan program, down payment assistance options, and whether the seller contributes toward closing costs.

In this workshop replay, I break down the real costs of buying a home, when those costs show up during the transaction, and the most common (and acceptable) ways to source your funds—so you can plan with confidence. [Read more…]

2026 Conforming Loan Limits for Washington State

2026 Conforming Loan Limits for Washington HomesLow-Down-Payment Programs, Renovation Loans & Down Payment Assistance Options

The 2026 conforming loan limits are giving homebuyers and homeowners across Washington State more borrowing power and more flexibility. Higher limits mean more buyers can qualify for competitive conforming mortgage programs—often with lower down payments, reduced mortgage insurance, and expanded underwriting options. [Read more…]

Mortgage Rate Update for the Week of August 18, 2025

Mortgage rates seem to be pretty steady (right now). This week’s episode features a down payment assistance program that doesn’t require you to be a first time home buyer or have income limits. Check it out in my latest update or contact me with questions!

Down Payment Assistance Program

Down Payment Assistance ProgramsWe have added a new down payment assistance program where eligible home buyers can receive up to 100% financing.

This program is not limited to first time home buyers and there are no income limits with an FHA mortgage as the first lien.

Here’s more: [Read more…]

How to Save for a Down Payment on a Home in Washington State

saving for down payment tipsSaving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for Washington State homebuyers — especially in markets like Seattle, Bellevue, and Tacoma where home prices are high relative to income. Here are practical strategies that actually work, along with some advice you probably won’t find on a generic personal finance blog. [Read more…]