FAQs

First Story is a nonprofit lender who works exclusively with builders Hayden Homes and Simplicity by Hayden Homes to offer loans on pre-selected homes in communities throughout OR, WA, and ID. First Story does not offer loans outside its loan program.

Monthly payments, which include mortgage, insurance, taxes and HOA, vary based on the home’s location. 

Home locations and application status is available on our Own a Home page.

Loan eligibility & qualification criteria may vary based on the home’s location. In general, you will need to meet the following requirements before submitting an application: 

• You currently have no negative credit accounts or items in collections.
• You currently live or work in the County where the home is located.
• You are a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident alien status (required for borrower on title only). 
• You are a first-time home buyer. 
• Your gross annual income is at or below the 80% AMI limit for your household size in the County where the home is located.

You can view the Median Family Income limits for First Story home locations here.
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The first step in the First Story homeownership process is completing Homebuyer Education. Education providers are listed on our Own a Home pages. After you complete the course, we’ll guide you through the next steps in the application process.