How to Buy a House in Oregon
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$515,474
Closing Costs
$14,524
2.82% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.78%
$3,352/yr median
Days on Market
42
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Attorney Required
No
Foreclosure Type
Non-Judicial
Transfer Tax
0.1%
$1.00 per $1,000
Oregon's housing market is heavily influenced by Portland, which experienced rapid gentrification and price growth throughout the 2010s before moderating in recent years. The state attracts buyers with its natural beauty, progressive culture, and absence of a state sales tax, though it compensates with one of the highest state income tax rates in the country. Oregon's land use planning system, which established urban growth boundaries in the 1970s, has constrained housing supply and contributed to higher prices within metro areas while preserving farmland and open space. The state requires no attorney at closing and uses a deed of trust with non-judicial foreclosure. Southern Oregon (Medford, Ashland) and central Oregon (Bend) offer alternatives to Portland with distinct market dynamics.
By BuyAHomeIn Editorial | Updated 2026-03-02 | Sources: Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Key Facts About Buying in Oregon
- ✓No sales tax
- ✓Portland metro drives most market activity
- ✓Low transfer tax at 0.1%
- ✓Non-judicial foreclosure state
The Home Buying Process in Oregon
Buying a home in Oregon follows a 10-step process. Oregon does not require an attorney at closing, though you may choose to hire one.
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Find a Real Estate Agent
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
Get a Home Inspection
Secure Your Financing
First-Time Buyer Programs in Oregon
Oregon Bond Residential Loan Program
Below-market rate mortgages
Cost of Buying a Home in Oregon
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $18,042 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $103,095 |
| Average Closing Costs | $14,524 |
| Transfer Tax | $515 |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $4,021/yr |
Legal & Regulatory Details in Oregon
Homestead Exemption
Available
Up to $40,000
Licensing Authority
Oregon Real Estate Agency
Oregon Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | Warranty, special-warranty, bargain-and-sale and sometimes quitclaim deeds |
| Security Instrument | Deed of trust; mortgage sometimes used |
| Foreclosure Process | Non-Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | No |
| Deficiency Judgment | No |
| Redemption After Sale | No |
| Reinstatement Available | Yes |
| Seller Disclosures | A property disclosure statement asks sellers to answer questions about insulation, structural problems, systems/fixtures, water sources, title issues, easements and homeowners'-association dues; sellers must also disclose any other material defects. |
