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🏛️ WHEDA Home Programs
Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority offers state-backed home loans with significant down payment assistance, competitive fixed rates, and comprehensive homebuyer education for first-time buyers throughout Wisconsin.
Quick Answer
WHEDA offers up to $12,000 in down payment assistance for Wisconsin homebuyers with 620+ credit scores. These state-backed programs provide fixed-rate mortgages, homebuyer education, and comprehensive support for first-time buyers throughout Wisconsin.
Understanding WHEDA Programs
For voice assistants: WHEDA stands for Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority. WHEDA programs offer down payment assistance up to $12,000, fixed-rate mortgages, credit scores 620+, and comprehensive homebuyer education for Wisconsin residents in Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, and statewide.
Wisconsin's Trusted Homeownership Partner
WHEDA has been helping Wisconsin families achieve homeownership for over four decades. As a state agency, they're focused on making homebuying accessible for working families throughout Wisconsin, not maximizing profits. Their programs combine competitive financing with education and support.
WHEDA Mortgages
Purpose: Provide competitive fixed-rate financing for Wisconsin homebuyers.
What You Get:
- 30-year fixed-rate mortgages
- Competitive interest rates
- No prepayment penalties
- Various down payment options
- Flexible credit requirements (620+)
Assistance Programs
Purpose: Help qualified buyers overcome the down payment barrier to homeownership.
Current Options:
- Easy Close Advantage DPA (available)
- Up to $12,000 assistance available
- Capital Access DPA (currently paused)
- Bundled with main WHEDA loan
- Required homebuyer education
WHEDA Down Payment Assistance Programs
DPA Summary: WHEDA currently offers Easy Close Advantage DPA providing up to $12,000 (or 6% of purchase price) with monthly payments. Capital Access DPA offering $7,500 with 0% interest is temporarily paused but may return in 2025 when funding becomes available.
Easy Close Advantage DPA
Amount: $1,000 or up to 6% of purchase price (whichever is greater)
Type: Second loan with monthly payments
Term: 10 years at same rate as main WHEDA loan
Repayment: Fixed monthly payments over 10 years
Example: $200,000 Home Purchase
6% of $200,000 = $12,000 assistance
Monthly payment on $12,000: ~$127/month
Combined with WHEDA mortgage payment
Capital Access DPA
Amount: $7,500 fixed amount
Type: Deferred loan with 0% interest
Repayment: Only when you sell, move, or refinance
Status: Paused due to high demand, may return later in 2025
When Will This Return?
Capital Access DPA was paused due to overwhelming demand exceeding available funding. WHEDA may reintroduce this popular program later in 2025 when additional state funding becomes available.
Program Updates & Availability
WHEDA programs change regularly based on state funding availability and demand. The Easy Close Advantage DPA is currently available statewide, while Capital Access DPA is temporarily paused. Always check with a WHEDA-approved lender for the most current program options and availability in your area.
Who Can Qualify for WHEDA Programs?
WHEDA Eligibility: To qualify for WHEDA programs in Wisconsin 2025, you need a credit score of 620+, income under county limits (varies by household size), first-time buyer status or qualify as one, Wisconsin primary residence, and complete required homebuyer education course.
Basic Requirements
- Credit score of 620 or higher
- Steady income and employment history
- Home will be your primary residence
- Property located in Wisconsin
- Income under WHEDA limits for your area
- Complete homebuyer education course
First-Time Buyer Status
- Haven't owned a home in last 3 years
- Single parents with dependents qualify
- Displaced homemakers qualify
- Divorced individuals may qualify
- Some repeat buyer programs available
- Military veterans may qualify regardless
WHEDA vs FHA: Key Differences
WHEDA Advantages:
• Up to $12,000 down payment assistance
• State-backed with local focus
• Comprehensive homebuyer education
• Fixed-rate mortgages
FHA Advantages:
• Lower credit score requirements (580+)
• Just 3.5% down payment
• More flexible qualification
• Higher loan limits available
WHEDA Program Benefits
Why Choose WHEDA Programs
Up to $12,000 assistance
Wisconsin government support
Comprehensive homebuyer training
Predictable monthly payments
Homes, condos, townhomes
Wisconsin-specific programs
Example: $250,000 Home Purchase with WHEDA
With Easy Close Advantage DPA:
Purchase Price: $250,000
Down Payment Assistance: $15,000 (6%)
Your Cash Down: $2,500 (1%)
WHEDA Mortgage: $232,500
DPA Loan: $15,000 (10-year term)
Combined Monthly Payment: ~$1,850
Compared to Conventional Loan:
20% Down Required: $50,000
WHEDA Saves You: $47,500 upfront!
Plus homebuyer education and ongoing support
How to Get Started with WHEDA
WHEDA Homebuyer Education Requirement
Required Course: HUD-approved homebuyer education (8+ hours)
Format Options: Online, in-person, or phone counseling
Cost: Usually $50-$100 (some free options available)
When: Must be completed before closing
What You'll Learn:
• Budgeting and financial planning
• Understanding mortgage types and terms
• Home shopping and negotiation
• Maintaining your home and avoiding foreclosure
Find WHEDA Lender
Contact a bank or credit union that offers WHEDA loans in Wisconsin
Check Qualification
Verify income limits, credit score (620+), and first-time buyer status
Get Pre-Approved
Submit application and documentation for WHEDA loan pre-approval
Take Education Class
Complete required homebuyer education course (available online)
Reserve Funds
Your lender will reserve WHEDA funds for your specific purchase
Close on Your Home
Complete your purchase with WHEDA loan and assistance!
WHEDA Income Limits (2025)
Wisconsin WHEDA-Approved Lenders
📧 Click Here for Current Directory
Get the most up-to-date WHEDA lender list for Wisconsin
Income Limits by County (2025 Estimates)
| County | 1 Person | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dane County (Madison) | $68,500 | $78,300 | $88,100 | $97,800 |
| Milwaukee County | $65,200 | $74,500 | $83,800 | $93,100 |
| Brown County (Green Bay) | $62,800 | $71,800 | $80,700 | $89,600 |
| Most Other Counties | $58,200 | $66,500 | $74,800 | $83,100 |
*Income limits are estimates and updated annually by WHEDA. Your lender will confirm exact current limits for your specific county.
Wisconsin County Coverage
High-Cost Counties: Dane, Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington, Ozaukee
Medium-Cost Counties: Brown, Winnebago, Rock, Racine, Kenosha
Standard Counties: All other Wisconsin counties
Income Calculation:
• Based on household gross annual income
• Includes all working adults in household
• Some deductions may apply for dependents
• Verified through tax returns and pay stubs
Important WHEDA Program Details
WHEDA Program Restrictions
- Primary residence only (no investment properties)
- Must complete homebuyer education
- Income limits apply by county and household size
- First-time buyer status required for most programs
- Property must be in Wisconsin
- Must work with WHEDA-approved lender
WHEDA Program Advantages
- Significant down payment assistance available
- Fixed-rate mortgages for payment stability
- Comprehensive homebuyer education included
- State government backing and oversight
- Ongoing support and resources
- No prepayment penalties on mortgages
WHEDA Loan Servicing
WHEDA loans are originated by approved lenders but may be serviced by different companies after closing. You'll receive information about your loan servicer at closing. WHEDA provides ongoing support and resources throughout your homeownership journey, including foreclosure prevention assistance if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much down payment assistance does WHEDA offer?
WHEDA currently offers up to $12,000 in down payment assistance through the Easy Close Advantage DPA program, which provides $1,000 or up to 6% of the purchase price, whichever is greater.
What credit score do I need for WHEDA programs?
WHEDA requires a minimum credit score of 620 for their home loan programs. This is higher than FHA requirements but comes with significant down payment assistance benefits.
What are WHEDA income limits in Wisconsin?
For 2025 in Dane County, WHEDA income limits are approximately $68,500 for 1 person, $78,300 for 2 people, $88,100 for 3 people, and $97,800 for 4 people. Limits vary by county and are updated annually.
Which Wisconsin cities participate in WHEDA programs?
WHEDA programs are available statewide in Wisconsin, including Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, Appleton, Kenosha, Racine, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Oshkosh, Waukesha, and all smaller communities.
Can I use WHEDA for condos or townhomes?
Yes! WHEDA loans can finance single-family homes, condominiums, and townhomes throughout Wisconsin, as long as they meet program requirements.
Is homebuyer education really required?
Yes! WHEDA requires completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing. This is typically 8+ hours and available online, in-person, or by phone.
Explore Other Wisconsin Loan Options
WHEDA programs are excellent for Wisconsin residents, but explore these additional loan options that might also fit your situation:
Not Sure Which Loan is Right for You?
Every Wisconsin homebuyer's situation is unique. Let our experts help you compare WHEDA programs with all available loan options and find the perfect financing solution for your home purchase.