Under the Homebuyer Opportunity Limited Tax Exemption (HOLTE) Program, single-unit homes receive a ten-year property tax exemption on structural improvements to the home as long as the property and owner remain eligible per program requirements.
Property owners are still responsible for payment of the taxes on the assessed value of the land during the exemption period. The property is reassessed when the exemption is either terminated for noncompliance or expires after the ten years, and owners begin paying full property taxes. The exemption period cannot be extended.
Administrative Rules Frequently Asked Questions
General Eligibility
The proposed home will be:
- New construction located within the City of Portland
- Single-family home, townhome, or condominium
- Must have at least three bedrooms
(Two-bedroom homes may be eligible if located within approved transit-oriented areas. See Two-Bedroom Eligibility Areas.)
Home builders, please see Property Eligibility for additional criteria that apply to this exemption.
Potential homebuyers can view a current list of HOLTE-approved properties under Eligible Properties, lower on this page.
Program Requirements
Applications cap has been met
The 2022-2023 HOLTE Builder Applications cap has been met. No more than 100 applications are approved per fiscal year. More about the annual cap.
Sale price cap: $430,000
Builder application fee: $850
Builder Application & Requirements Property Eligibility
Homebuyer processing fee: $900
Who pays this fee?
Homebuyer income limit: 100% MFI - Median family income is set at a family of 4, increasing for households larger than 4.
(Nonprofits, generally 80% MFI)
Homebuyer Verification Process Income Limits (MFI chart)
Eligible Properties
Properties with approved builder applications for HOLTE, as of November 2022.
HOLTE Forms
Helpful printing tips: If printing to 8.5x11 letter-sized paper, be sure your printout includes all sections of the form. Many of our forms are legal size (8.5x14), which is longer. If part of the form is getting cut off, adjust your print settings to "fit to page."
Please print forms one side per sheet.
Meet with a SDC and HOLTE Homeownership Program specialist
Dropping off a form in person? No appointment needed. Simply drop off in the grey mail bin in the building lobby on the first floor. If you have questions, please send us an email.
Meet virtually or through a phone appointment
To schedule, contact us by email or phone.
indirect@portlandoregon.gov
In-person appointments for this program available on Tuesdays only.
PHB is operating in hybrid. Staff are only in the building on certain days of the week.
Get directions to PHB
1900 SW 4th Ave, 7th floor