Oregon is a state of distinct regions, from the Portland area to the Willamette Valley, central Oregon, and the Rogue Valley. If you are planning a purchase in 2027, this guide covers Portland, Salem, Eugene, Bend, and Medford, the loan types we can help you compare, and the state housing agency that may be worth a look. Shay Yates and the True North Yates Group team are a small, Springfield, Missouri based team licensed to lend in Oregon, and we answer the phone. You can also read our Oregon page for a quick overview.
Where buyers are looking in Oregon
Here is a quick tour of places we hear about often. This is not a ranking and not advice about where anyone should live. It is simply a starting point for your own search.
Portland
The state's largest metro and a market with a wide range of neighborhoods and price points, from in-city homes to suburbs in Washington and Clackamas counties.
Salem
The capital, in the Willamette Valley, with price points that tend to be more approachable than Portland.
Eugene
A university city in the southern Willamette Valley, with an established resale market.
Bend
A high desert city in central Oregon with price points that tend to run higher than most of the state and a busy market.
Medford
The main city in southern Oregon's Rogue Valley, with a steady local market.
Loan programs to know in Oregon
Most Oregon buyers end up choosing among a handful of loan types. We compare them side by side for your situation, with no pressure.
- Conventional loans. A flexible choice for buyers with solid credit, and often a good fit for larger purchases or second homes.
- FHA loans. Government insured loans designed with flexible credit and smaller down payments in mind, a common route for first-time buyers.
- VA loans. A benefit for eligible Veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Oregon has a National Guard and Veteran community, and VA loans are a common topic in the state.
- USDA loans. Many Oregon towns and rural areas outside the Portland and Eugene areas may be USDA eligible, so check an address on the USDA map.
- First-time buyer programs. Help from OHCS, covered below.
First-time buyer help from OHCS
Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is the state agency behind homebuyer programs in Oregon. OHCS runs homeownership lending programs and down payment help for eligible buyers through participating lenders. Program names and rules have been updated recently, so ask us what is currently available and whether you may qualify.
Program details, limits, and which lenders take part are set by the agency and can change, so please check the agency's own site, OHCS, for the latest. We do not want to promise anything the agency has not. What we can do is look at your situation and tell you honestly what to ask about.
A local thing worth asking about
Wildfire exposure can affect insurance availability in parts of Oregon, so ask about it early. Price limits on state programs may also matter in higher cost areas like Bend.
How we work with Oregon buyers
The path is the same wherever you are buying. First comes a no pressure conversation about your goals and your budget. Next we look at loan options and, if it makes sense, get you pre-approved so your offer stands out. Once you are under contract, we keep you posted at every step, from the appraisal to the closing table, and we explain each document in plain English. If a question comes up at 9 at night, send a text.
Next steps
Not sure where to start? Start with a simple conversation. We will listen first, then map out a plan that fits your timeline. You can see where we lend on our states we serve page, read the Oregon page, send us a note on the contact page, or start your application. Shay and the team are just a text away.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shay licensed to help with a home loan in Oregon?
Yes. Shay Yates (NMLS 2172921) is licensed through Southwest Funding to originate loans in Oregon. Licensing details are on our Oregon page, and you can verify any loan officer at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Does Oregon have first-time buyer help?
Yes. Oregon Housing and Community Services offers homeownership programs through participating lenders. Program names and rules change, so ask us what is currently available.
Do state program price limits matter in Bend or Portland?
They can. State programs have purchase price and income limits, so tell us where you are looking and we will talk through how they apply.
Do I need to live in Missouri to work with you?
No. Our team works with buyers in Oregon and other states by phone, text, and secure online tools, so you can apply and move through the process from home. Reach us any time on the contact page.
This post is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. Programs and eligibility vary and are subject to credit and property approval. Talk with a loan officer about your situation.