First-time buyer seminar
Get informed
Want to know how to purchase a home with little to no money down?
Take a live, online homebuyer’s seminar to learn about the home buying process in Washington state.
This course is sponsored by the Washington State Housing & Finance Commission. Successful completion gives you access to some home buyer programs with Down Payment Assistance (DPA).
Seminar location: Online
Cost: $0
Duration: 5 hours (including Q&A)
Upcoming class
Get notified about the next class
We will contact you to let you know about the next buyer seminar.
Your first-time buyer seminar instructors:
Diane Davi, Realtor
JanusGroup at RE/MAX Integrity
Tucker Maxwell, Senior Loan Officer
Guild Mortgage, NMLS #1710674
FAQs: First-time buyer seminar
How does this all work?
First, it is best to talk with a certified lender who manages WSHFC Loans to determine whether you fit within the parameters to obtain downpayment assistance (DPA). Then we can get your registered to participate in a First Time Home Buyer seminar where you will receive an introduction to the home buyers process. There is no cost, no quizzes or tests, just education, and an opportunity for you to ask your burning questions to a licensed real estate agent and mortgage lender. You’ll receive a certificate of completion which qualifies you to purchase a home using one of several DPA programs offered through the WSHFC.
Do I have to buy a house right after I take the seminar?
Nope! Just keep in mind, the certificate of completion you receive expires after two years. If you feel you may be on a longer plan to purchase a home, reach out today and let’s talk timing. You are also welcome to participate no matter your purchase plans, and if your certificate expires afterall, you can always take a seminar again down the road.
When does the next class take place?
Diane and Tucker host seminars every month over Zoom, so you can take the class from wherever you are! However there are more in-person and virtual classes offered all over the state every week. Reach out here and we are happy to find a class that works with your schedule.
If I take a virtual class, do I have to be on camera?
The State requires you to be present for the entire seminar including being on camera the entire time for virtual classes.
Do both my spouse/partner and I need to sign up?
Anyone who will be on the (same) mortgage and using a DPA program must individually register, participate in a seminar, and obtain their own certificate of completion. However it’s possible one partner/spouse may NOT be on the future mortgage. Best to reach out to a lender to determine what will be required for both of you. You are both absolutely welcome to participate in the seminar for educational purposes, no matter what is determined for your mortgage plan.
Do my spouse/partner and I have to participate in the same class?
Nope. We get it, everyone has different work and life schedules! Talk to a lender to make sure this is the right plan for both of you, and register for whatever seminar works with your individual schedules. Just remember your certificates may have 2 different expiration dates. If you buy together on the same mortgage, the first/older certificate will determine your deadline to use the DPA program.
I’m already partnered with a real estate agent, can I still take a seminar?
ABSOLUTELY. Taking a WSHFC seminar does not obligate you to work with the agent and lender who are instructing you. However you must work with a lender who is certified by the WSHFC in order to obtain DPA for your mortgage. If you are already preapproved with a lender, talk to them about incorporating DPA into your mortgage and find out if they are able to service this loan for you.
Sign Up Form
Sign up for the next first-time buyer seminar
Learn about Seattle real estate.
We believe that everyone should be educated about the real estate market to make confident, informed decisions that align with their goals.
Market Update
Monthly video series about Seattle real estate.
Email Newsletter
One email per month to keep up with the latest news.
Videos
Advice and information for buyers and sellers.
