WHEDA Loan Programs

WHEDA Loan Programs make homeownership possible for first-time home buyers throughout Wisconsin.

Wisconsin First Time Home Buyer

If you're a first-time home buyer, the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) offers specialized loan programs to make homeownership more attainable. These programs provide favorable mortgage options, down payment assistance, and educational resources tailored to your needs.


We proudly serve the following cities and offer WHEDA loans anywhere in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Low Income Buyer Opportunities

Wisconsin's housing market offers notable advantages for first-time buyers, combining affordability with a community-focused lifestyle and steady economic growth.

Around 30-50% of households in key markets are renter-occupied, indicating a sizable population that could benefit from the stability of homeownership.

​ With a balanced housing market and competitive prices statewide, WHEDA programs help more Wisconsin residents transition from renting to owning their first home.

Take the First Step Toward Homeownership

Stop letting another year of rent payments slip away while you wonder if homeownership will ever be possible. WHEDA programs exist specifically to help people in your situation, and expert guidance makes all the difference in successfully accessing these benefits.

Contact A Loan Expert



Steps to Get Started with a First Time Home Buyer Program

Embarking on the journey to homeownership in Wisconsin is a significant milestone. With WHEDA's tailored programs and support, you can navigate this process with confidence and ease.

Get Pre-Approved

Contact us, a WHEDA-approved lender, to assess your financial eligibility and receive a pre-approval letter. This ensures you're ready to make an offer on the right home without falling in love with something you can't afford.

Find Your Qualifying Home

Work with a real estate professional to search for and select a property that meets WHEDA guidelines.

Complete Home Buyer Education

Finish the required pre-purchase course, which equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions throughout the process.

Count On Yourself To:

  • Get a pre-approval letter before looking so you're ready to make an offer when you find the right home and won’t fall in love with a house you can’t afford.
  • Keep your real estate agent and Educated Mortgage Services informed of any questions or concerns as they arise—honesty prevents hold-ups.
  • Provide any additional required documentation in a timely manner. Many details are handled early so you can focus on last-minute items that require your attention.
  • Enjoy purchasing your home, but remain objective throughout to make the business decisions that are best for you.

WHEDA Loan Options

WHEDA provides two primary mortgage options:

WHEDA Advantage Conventional Loan:
A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage available for single-family homes, condominiums, and 2-4 unit properties.
Minimum credit score: 640.

WHEDA Advantage FHA Loan:
A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage backed by the Federal Housing Administration, suitable for single-family homes, 2-unit properties, and HUD-approved condominiums.
Minimum credit score: 640.

Questions about Down Payment Assistance?
Call us at 608-834-5000 for more information.

Are WHEDA Home Loans Right for Your Situation?

First-time homebuyers in Wisconsin often don't realize that they can qualify for programs because of the assumptions that the requirements are too strict or the process is too complicated. The truth is that WHEDA helps thousands of Wisconsin families each year, and you might be surprised at how accessible these benefits really are.
Our free mortgage analysis will show you exactly what WHEDA programs you qualify for and how much you could save compared to conventional financing options.


Take the First Step Toward Homeownership

Imagine keeping an extra $15,000 in your savings account instead of draining it for a down payment. Picture monthly payments that are $150-$200 lower than conventional loans, giving your budget breathing room for the things that matter. These aren't theoretical benefits—they're real advantages that WHEDA borrowers experience every single day.

The team at Educated Mortgage knows every detail of WHEDA's current programs, income limits, and qualifying criteria for your specific county. We'll help you understand exactly what assistance you're eligible for and guide you through each step of the application process.

Down Payment Assistance

Down Payment Assistance (Easy Close)

We offer WHEDA's Easy Close down payment assistance. Easy Close provides loans from $1,000 up to 6% of the home's purchase price. It's a 10-year fixed-rate second mortgage with an interest rate that matches your first mortgage rate.

CALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION

608-834-5000


Eligibility Criteria

Income Limits: Household income must fall within limits varying by size and county. Each country determines the income limit for non-target areas based on the size of the household. Find information for your country by talking with our experts.

Purchase Price Limits: The maximum purchase price for a single-family home in a non-target area is $544,232.

Home Buyer Education: Completion of a pre-purchase education course is required. For 2-4 unit properties, landlord education is also mandatory.

Owner Occupancy: The property must be your primary residence throughout the WHEDA loan term.

Cash Advantage Program for First-Time Buyers

The Cash Advantage Program is perfect for first-time home buyers who lack large down payments but want to compete like cash buyers in today's fast-paced Wisconsin market. It empowers renters and new entrants to skip sale contingencies—since you don't own a home yet—and secure properties without traditional financing hurdles up front.


Benefits of the Cash Advantage Program

  • Come with a competitive advantage you need to get the home you want

  • No financing, appraisal, or sale contingencies; funds are fully guaranteed.

  • No hidden costs or fees apply, keeping it accessible for first-timers transitioning from renting.

Helping First-Time Home Buyers and Homeowners Across Wisconsin

At Educated Mortgage Services, we provide expert mortgage solutions for first-time home buyers and all home purchasers across Wisconsin. Whether you're looking for a low down payment option through WHEDA's first-time home buyer programs or a conventional loan, we offer tailored financing solutions to meet your needs. WHEDA loans provide affordable pathways to homeownership with down payment assistance and competitive rates, making it easier for first-time buyers to transition from renting to owning. Additionally, we offer Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, Jumbo, and Home Equity Loan options for those looking to refinance or purchase a new home.


Your Wisconsin Dream Home Awaits

First-time homeownership doesn't have to feel impossible when you have the right program and the right guidance. Our experts at Educated Mortgage specialize in helping Wisconsin first-time buyers navigate WHEDA programs and unlock benefits that make homeownership affordable and achievable.


Get in Touch Today