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Get Matched Free →Kulshan Community Land Trust Homeownership
Funding status: Active
How much assistance
Homes sold below market through a community land trust model; long-term affordability maintained via 99-year ground lease.
No forgiveness in the traditional sense. Buyers own the home while Kulshan retains ownership of the underlying land via a long-term ground lease. At resale, homes are sold at a formula-restricted price to preserve affordability for the next buyer.
Eligibility
- Income limits: Total household income must be at or below 80% of Whatcom County area median income, adjusted for household size.
- First-time buyer required: Yes — Buyer cannot currently own a home and must not have owned a home for at least three years (limited exceptions in Kulshan's Homebuyer Eligibility Policy).
- Credit score minimum: 620
- Geographic restrictions: Homes available in Bellingham and throughout Whatcom County. Buyer must occupy the home as a primary residence for at least nine months each year.
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
How to Apply for Kulshan Community Land Trust Homeownership
Complete Kulshan's homebuyer education, then apply via kulshanclt.org/start-here. Must secure a pre-approval letter for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage from one of Kulshan's lending partners. Debt-to-income ratio capped at 45% (total) and housing payment capped at 35% of gross monthly income.
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