First-Time Buyer? Paying Rent on Time Could Help
You Buy a Home in Southern Oregon
If you've been renting anywhere in Southern Oregon and are wondering if homeownership is within reach, we have some exciting news — your rental history may now work in your favor when applying for a mortgage.
For years, one of the biggest frustrations we heard from first-time buyers was this: "I pay my rent on time every single month, but it doesn't help my credit score." That's changing. Fannie Mae now allows lenders to factor in your on-time rent payments as part of the mortgage approval process — even if your landlord never reported them to a credit bureau. It's a small but significant shift that is opening doors for a lot of first-time buyers across Southern Oregon who thought homeownership was still years away.
What Does This Mean for First-Time Buyers?
If you are a first-time homebuyer and you've been a responsible renter, you may now have a stronger mortgage application than you think. This program was specifically designed for first-time buyers who have a limited credit history but a solid track record of paying rent on time. Whether you're renting in Ashland, Medford, Jacksonville, Grants Pass, or anywhere else in Southern Oregon, anything that strengthens your application can make a real difference. Lenders want to see that you are financially responsible, and consistently paying your rent every month is a great way to demonstrate exactly that.
Southern Oregon Is a Great Place to Put Down Roots
From the charming streets of Ashland and the vibrant culture of Medford, to the historic charm of Jacksonville and the outdoor adventures of the Rogue Valley and beyond — Southern Oregon offers an incredible quality of life. Beautiful parks, local dining, tight-knit communities, and stunning natural landscapes make this one of the most desirable places to live in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're purchasing your very first home or finally making the leap from renting to owning, Southern Oregon is a wonderful place to start that next chapter. And with this new lending flexibility, more first-time buyers than ever may be in a position to make that dream a reality.
Ready to Find Out If You Qualify?
At Millen Property Group, we work with first-time buyers across all of Southern Oregon at every stage of the journey — including those who aren't sure if they're ready yet. We're here to answer your questions, connect you with trusted local lenders, and guide you through every step of the homebuying process. If you've been renting in Southern Oregon and dreaming of owning a home, let's have a conversation. You might be closer than you think.
Give us a call today and let's explore your options together. We'd love to help you turn your rental history into the keys to your new home.
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