At Arrive, we’re here to build stronger, more stable, and rooted communities by increasing access to homeownership.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, support families on their journey, or invest in stronger communities, we’re your partner to make it possible.

1990

The Oregonian publishes “Blueprint for a Slum” series.

Their investigation found that systemic practices by lenders like Dominion Capital Inc., combined with the absence of responsible financing from conventional banks, were creating conditions that destabilized neighborhoods.

Our History

1991

Portland Housing Center was founded.

Our non-profit was founded with support from the City of Portland, some local banks, and concerned citizens. Our goal was the same as it is now, to ensure all Portland residents have equal access to information and resources to achieve homeownership.

1994

We become a HUD-certified non-profit lender.

In 1994, we became a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-certified mortgage lender — expanding our work to offer direct lending. This milestone strengthened our ability to support homebuyers better and connect guidance with real financing options.

1998

Focus shifts from housing to homeownership.

As needs grew, our focus shifted from housing to homeownership. We expanded beyond education to help people navigate the full journey from preparation to purchase and beyond.

1999

We started offering IDAs.

After the Oregon IDA Initiative launched through the state legislature, we began offering Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) to help homebuyers grow their savings faster — with matched contributions making it easier to reach a down payment.

2001

Our CDFI / MAP Program begins.

We became a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and launched the Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP) in 2002. Designed to lower monthly costs, MAP offers low, fixed-interest financing that can cover up to 20% of a home’s purchase price—often eliminating the need for private mortgage insurance.

2015

Preference Policy Launches

Launched by the City of Portland, the Preference Policy prioritizes housing for current and former residents of North and Northeast Portland who were displaced by urban renewal starting in the 1950s. Managed by the Portland Housing Bureau, the program uses a point system based on generational ties to the area. We began managing the program in 2018, helping eligible participants with education, lending, and down payment assistance.

2026

Homeowner Success Program Launches

Our Homeowner Success Program launched to support homeowners beyond their purchase — offering guidance and classes on maintenance, finances, and long-term stability to help them thrive in their homeownership journey.

Renaming and rebrand

After 35 years of serving homebuyers, we rebranded and changed our name from Portland Housing Center to Arrive — an homage to the guided journey and experience of arrival we hope our past, present, and future clients experience from our doors to theirs.

Read our strategic plan

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Our Guiding Principles

Access for all.

We meet you where you are. Each client is treated with the same counsel and guidance, from first-time buyers, families upgrading, or someone rebuilding credit. Here, everyone deserves to start their journey to homeownership.
Transformation over transactions.

Before profit comes our people. Unlike most mortgage lenders, our loan officers are salaried instead of commission-based. Meaning we see every homeowner as valuable and prioritized, no matter their budget. We see homeownership as a journey that transforms individuals, families, and their futures. Our model pays it forward, helping others achieve the same — and for us, that’s worth more than any bottom line.
Support at every step.

Support is connection. It’s someone in your corner from the start to the end of the journey. From planning and financing, to maintaining your home, we provide guidance and tools to help you through every question, challenge, and milestone.
Rooted, stable communities.

We wouldn’t be here without the communities we serve. Since the beginning, our work has been about empowering homeowners and creating stability that lasts for generations.

Affiliations

Your partner for homeownership.