Kent Mortgage Lender

As an independent mortgage broker licensed in Washington, Bayview Residential Brokerage helps Kent buyers and homeowners shop the whole market instead of a single bank's rate sheet. One of the more affordable cities in King County, Kent is a diverse, family-oriented community with a major industrial and logistics base. We match each borrower with the lender and program that fits, then handle the loan from pre-approval to closing.

Below is a plain-English guide to buying or refinancing in Kent in 2026: the market, King County loan limits, the programs available, down payment assistance, and the neighborhoods we serve.

The Kent housing market in 2026

Kent offers relative value within King County. As of 2026 the median Kent home price is around $650,000, essentially flat year over year, which keeps most homes well within the county's high-cost conforming limit of $1,063,750 and pairs well with FHA and down payment assistance. Its central south-county location and large employment base keep demand steady.

With a more attainable price point than north King County, Kent is a strong fit for FHA, VA and first-time buyer programs. The lender you are placed with drives your monthly cost, which is where shopping many lenders pays off.

Loan programs for Kent buyers

Conventional loans. The default for buyers with solid credit, with as little as 3% down for qualified first-time buyers.

FHA loans. A lower 3.5% down payment and flexible qualifying, popular with first-time and credit-building buyers. The 2026 FHA limit in King County is $1,063,750 for a single-family home.

VA loans. Eligible veterans and active-duty service members across the Puget Sound region can buy in Kent with a zero-down VA loan. Zero down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance for those who qualify.

USDA loans. Zero-down financing for eligible rural communities near the area, for buyers within the income limits.

Jumbo loans. Financing above the conforming limit for higher-priced homes. In Kent jumbo is uncommon, as most homes fall well within the conforming limit.

Reverse mortgages. For homeowners 62 and older who want to convert equity into cash without a monthly mortgage payment.

Down payment assistance for Kent buyers

Washington offers help with the down payment through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC). Its Home Advantage program pairs a competitive first mortgage with down payment assistance, and additional House Key programs offer help for eligible buyers, including targeted options for veterans and specific communities. Eligibility depends on income, credit and a homebuyer education seminar. We help Kent buyers find and coordinate the right program with the loan.

Taxes and the cost of owning in Washington

Washington has no state income tax, which is a meaningful draw for many buyers and can leave more room in the budget for a mortgage. Property taxes are moderate and budget-based, with statutory limits on how quickly local levies can grow, which keeps them relatively predictable. When we prepare your pre-approval, we include realistic tax and insurance estimates so your monthly number is the real one.

Buying across Kent

Kent East Hill offers established family neighborhoods and newer subdivisions, the Kent Valley and downtown mix affordable homes with convenient access to jobs and transit, and West Hill provides additional options. We match the loan to the neighborhood and property type.

How the process works with Bayview

1. Pre-approval. We review your income, credit and goals, then issue a pre-approval so you can shop with confidence and make strong offers.

2. Shop and compare. Once you are under contract, we shop your loan across our lender network and bring back the most competitive fit on rate and fees.

3. Underwriting. We manage document collection and work the file through underwriting, keeping you and your agent updated.

4. Closing. Most purchases close in about 30 days from contract. You sign, fund and get the keys.

Refinancing your Kent home

Already own in Kent? Refinancing can lower your rate or payment, shorten your term, or let you tap equity through a cash-out refinance for a remodel or to consolidate debt. With how much Washington home values have risen over the past several years, many local homeowners have significant usable equity. We run the numbers both ways and only recommend a refinance if it actually moves you forward.

Kent mortgage FAQs

What is the 2026 conforming loan limit in Kent?

Kent is in King County, a high-cost area, so the 2026 conforming limit is $1,063,750 for a single-family home. Most Kent homes fall well within it.

Is Kent good for first-time buyers?

Yes. With more attainable prices than north King County, Kent pairs well with FHA loans and Washington down payment assistance.

Do you offer FHA and VA loans in Kent?

Yes. FHA and VA loans (2026 King County limit $1,063,750) for eligible borrowers, along with conventional, jumbo and reverse mortgages.

What down payment assistance is available in Kent?

Washington's WSHFC Home Advantage and House Key programs can help qualified buyers.

Does Washington have a state income tax?

No. Washington has no state income tax, and property taxes are moderate and budget-based.

How long does it take to close in Kent?

Most purchase loans close in about 30 days once you are under contract.

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Nearby cities we serve

Renton  ·  Federal Way  ·  Tacoma  ·  Seattle
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Plan your numbers

Affordability calculator  ·  Mortgage calculator  ·  Refinance calculator