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Family playing with picture frame in new home.
Family playing with picture frame in new home.
Family playing with picture frame in new home.
Family playing with picture frame in new home.
Family playing with picture frame in new home.
Family playing with picture frame in new home.
Family playing with picture frame in new home.
There's no place like home.
You might be surprised how easy it is to make your move with a Smart Start home loan from WaFd Bank.

Owning a home is more than just hype; an affordable home is the gateway to long-term and short-term financial success.

Long-term, you'll build equity you can use in the future and short-term, you'll be able to enjoy potential tax deductions and pay yourself instead of paying rent. Plus, our friendly bankers are available for any questions you might have, big or small.

Ready for a Smart Start? Meet with a WaFd Mortgage Banker to find out how we can help you get into your first home.

Find a Local Loan Officer

As low as 1%
minimum contribution required*
Smart Start Boost available for down payment assistance**
No private mortgage insurance (PMI) required*
  • check-circleAs low as 1% minimum contribution required*
  • check-circleSmart Start Boost available for down payment assistance**
  • check-circleNo private mortgage insurance (PMI) required*

Use Smart Start Boost funds toward your down payment, closing costs, or to buy down your interest rate to lower your monthly payments.

Program/Eligibility Information:

  • Credit score 640 and above
  • Household income limits apply
  • Must be used for purchase of primary residence
  • Smart Start Boost down payment assistance is a secured second lien.
  • Gift funds, seller contributions and down payment assistance program funds allowed

All loans subject to credit approval, additional terms and conditions may apply.
*Borrowers are required to contribute a minimum of 1% of the purchase price from the borrower's own funds.
**Minimum down payment for the Smart Start Mortgage is 3% of the purchase price. Smart Start Boost is only available with the Smart Start Mortgage. Smart Start Boost funds may be used to reduce the 3% down payment to 1% of the purchase price, reduce your closing costs, or to buy down your interest rate. Restrictions apply. Ask your loan officer for additional details and qualifications.

Do you qualify for our Smart Start Mortgage?
Where is the property you wish to purchase located?
Real estate agent and clients looking at paperwork in new home

Understanding the Smart Start Boost - WaFd Bank's Home Loan Down Payment Assistant Program

Learn how our Smart Start Down Payment Assistance Program works for low-to-moderate income individuals and/or families.

Read Article

Glossary

info-circleStill can't find what you are looking for? Contact your local branch or call us 24/7 at 800-324-9375.