About Washington State Housing Finance Commission
Washington State Housing Finance Commission: Increasing Housing Access and Affordability
The Washington State Housing Finance Commission is a publicly accountable, self-supporting team that is dedicated to increasing housing access and affordability for the people of Washington. The commission was established in 1983 by the state legislature to address the growing need for affordable housing in Washington. Since then, it has become one of the most successful housing finance agencies in the country.
The commission's mission is to provide affordable housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income families, seniors, and individuals with special needs. It achieves this by partnering with lenders, developers, and community organizations to create innovative financing solutions that make homeownership more accessible.
One of the commission's primary programs is its Home Advantage program. This program provides down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers who meet certain income requirements. The program also offers competitive interest rates on mortgages through participating lenders.
In addition to its Home Advantage program, the commission offers a variety of other programs designed to increase access to affordable housing. These include:
- Multifamily Tax Exemption Program: This program provides property tax exemptions for new multifamily developments that set aside a portion of their units for low-income residents.
- Veterans Downpayment Assistance Loan Program: This program provides down payment assistance loans to eligible veterans who are purchasing homes in Washington.
- EnergySpark Home Loan Program: This program offers reduced interest rates on mortgages for homes that meet certain energy efficiency standards.
The commission also works closely with local governments and community organizations throughout Washington to develop affordable housing projects. It provides technical assistance and financing options for these projects, which range from single-family homes to large-scale apartment complexes.
In addition to its focus on affordable housing, the commission is committed to expanding access to quality community services throughout Washington. It partners with local organizations and government agencies on projects related to healthcare, education, transportation, and economic development.
Overall, the Washington State Housing Finance Commission plays a critical role in addressing one of the most pressing issues facing our state – access to affordable housing. Its innovative programs have helped thousands of families achieve their dream of homeownership while also supporting economic growth across our communities.
If you're interested in learning more about how the commission can help you achieve your homeownership goals or support your community development project please visit their website at wshfc.org