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A hub of stories, knowledge and resources that help shape financial futures and a better community.
You can own a home (for real!)
Owning a home is a dream most Michiganders share. But high prices, high rates, and an unforgiving economy can make getting an affordable mortgage—or even finding home loans for low income or first-time buyers—seem impossible. Fortunately, here at orsa credit union, we’re all about bringing Impossible Dreams to life. So instead of worrying it’ll never happen, have h-Ope®!
What is the h-Ope! Affordable Housing program?
The h-Ope! Affordable Housing program is how we’re busting down the barriers that keep Michiganders from their dream of homeownership. h-Ope! offers home loans that are tailored to your unique situation, designed to help you find a place to call your own—with realistic payments that work for you.
h-Ope! Affordable Housing
h-Ope! is here
Like homeownership, affordable housing financing isn’t just a dream—it’s already changing lives for neighbors and Michiganders across the state.
You Are Enuff™
Fixing up your credit score shouldn’t put a pause on your dreams of homeownership. You’re more than your financial situation: you’re our neighbor. You deserve to find a home you love without letting your other goals go! We don’t mind if your credit isn’t perfect—a timely rental history is what you’ll need to help get you into a home that you can call your own.
The power of h-Ope!™
- No minimum credit score requirements
- No minimum loan amount
- Low or no down payment options
- Unique solutions for home valuations
- Affordable closing costs
- A low rate you can count on
- No private mortgage insurance required
- Possible financing for loan costs
In just over 10 months, we originated 73 loans for a total of $9.25 million, helping 73 members get into new homes that may have been otherwise out of reach!
Home is where the Belonging is
Guide
HELOC for Home Improvement: What Michigan Homeowners Need to Know
The state’s harsh winters and older-than-average housing stock mean Michigan homeowners often need to renovate more often. The good news is that a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can make those renovations far easier to finance. Using smart financing and finding the right renovation projects can translate into serious long-term benefits. Here, we explain how to make that choice based on your unique needs.
Guide
HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan for Michigan Homeowners
Even after an interest rate cut in 2025, Michiganders are still getting squeezed between high borrowing costs and rises in the cost of living. That’s made paying for things like home improvements or even retirement more difficult than ever. Fortunately, in times like this, Michigan homeowners can turn to their own home equity to finance their needs and wants more conveniently and affordably.
News
Additional $220k secured for affordable housing in Michigan
In 2024, we committed $60,000 to purchase over 20 acres of land destined for affordable housing in northeastern Michigan. Thanks to their relentless pursuit of doing the right thing, it was only the beginning…
You are Enuff®
Looking to make your Impossible Dreams possible? Your membership can help make it happen!
More From orsa
Here for your future
First-time home buyers
Our First-Time Homebuyer Guide makes things simple with tips, advice, and good things to know ahead of time—no jargon, just help!
Financial Counseling
Homeownership starts with a strong financial foundation. Our counseling services and planning tools help you budget, save, and prepare—so you’re ready to buy with confidence!
Meet our mortgage team
Buying a home is a big deal, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our mortgage team is here to help with expert advice and real support every step of the way.
Other mortgage options
From first-time buyers to refinancing and beyond, we have affordable mortgage options to fit your life. Explore our full range of services and find the right fit for you!
Affordable Housing Lenders FAQ
Affordable home loan FAQ
At orsa, our unique h-Ope! Affordable Housing Michigan helps first-time and low-income home loan seekers find affordable housing mortgages.
h-Ope! works to make affordable home loans happen by addressing interest rate or down payment concerns, low credit, low-income housing financing problems, and appraisal and timeline issues.
It’s easy! Just email us at mortgages@orsacu.org or call our direct hotline at (734) 582-8500.
h-Ope! is built to provide affordable home loans for first-time and low-income home buyers who may not qualify for affordable home mortgages otherwise. Many factors influence qualifications.
Wondering if you qualify? Just email us at mortgages@orsacu.org or call our direct hotline at (734) 582-8500.
The h-Ope! program supports many types of homes, including single-family units, condos, townhouses, and more.
If you’re curious whether your home qualifies, send us an email at mortgages@orsacu.org or call our direct hotline at (734) 582-8500.
Just email us at mortgages@orsacu.org or call our direct hotline at (734) 582-8500 to connect with an orsa mortgage loan officer who can get you started.
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The h-Ope! Affordable Housing program is our way of breaking down the common barriers that keep people from homeownership. Whether you have rate or down payment concerns, low credit, or even timeline issues–helping you find a place to call your own is what we’re putting first.
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