Pioneer Title Launches Down Payment Assistance Fund
April 8, 2025
Washington-based Pioneer Title Co. in collaboration with the Community Foundation of NCW (CFNCW) launched an initiative designed to support working-class families in the Greater Wenatchee Valley region achieve homeownership.
Called the Chelan Douglas Down Payment Assistance Fund (CDDPAF), the program addresses a critical gap in existing down payment assistance programs. While current assistance programs typically support home purchases up to $300,000, the CDDPAF extends crucial financial support to families looking to purchase homes in the $400,000-$600,000 price range. Pioneer Title will donate $50 for every home sale closed in the Valley. The title company will add another $50 if any other participants in the transaction—including buyers, sellers, lenders or real estate agents—make a donation.
Brian Fair, owner of Pioneer Title, highlighted how the Wenatchee Valley has fallen behind in ownership rates compared to the rest of the country.
"65% of housing units are owner occupied nationwide,” he said. “The Wenatchee Valley has fallen behind in that category, as only 58% of housing units are owner occupied in East Wenatchee, and 52% in Wenatchee. Studies show that over a 10-year period homeowner’s wealth will increase 40 times greater than that of someone that rents.
Fair added that 40% of entry level spec homes in the Wenatchee Valley are sold to investors.
“This trend must stop,” Fair said. “Inflation has been no help to those wanting to enter the housing market. Our goal is to provide a meaningful pathway to home ownership and wealth creation for middle class families. This program allows residents to buy a quality home without risking financial strain from unexpected home repairs."
Once the fund reaches a significant amount, local housing and non-profit organizations serving affordable homeownership will be able to apply for grant funds. This collaborative approach ensures that the resources directly benefit those most in need in the Chelan and Douglas county areas.
The Chelan Douglas Down Payment Assistance Fund represents a unique private partnership aimed at addressing housing affordability challenges. According to Fair, the fund will help a larger percentage of the area’s citizens to gain wealth, therefore all businesses are encouraged to contribute, not just those in the real estate industry.
Contact ALTA at 202-296-3671 or [email protected].