How does Helena compare with Montana?
The city's median is above the statewide median by $17,000. The higher price-to-income ratio makes the down payment and monthly debt budget particularly important. The median is 42.6% of the conforming limit. A median-valued purchase fits the FHA base-loan limit at 3.5% down.
How much down payment and PMI would a typical Helena home need?
| Down payment | Cash down | Estimated PMI / month | Estimated PITI + PMI | Income at 28% / 36% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3% | $10,653 | $144 | $2,846 | $122,000 / $95,000 |
| 5% | $17,755 | $141 | $2,795 | $120,000 / $94,000 |
| 10% | $35,510 | $133 | $2,667 | $115,000 / $89,000 |
| 20% | $71,020 | $0 | $2,294 | $99,000 / $77,000 |
3%-down conventional products have borrower/program restrictions. PMI uses a fixed 0.5% annual loan-balance estimate at less than 20% down; it is not a credit-specific quote or an assumed discount by down payment. Payments include state-average tax and insurance and assume zero other debts.
Rate assumption: 7.18% (Freddie Mac PMMS 30-year fixed average, week of November 5, 2026). Change it in the payment calculator.
Is there down payment assistance in Helena?
- Bond Advantage Down Payment Assistance — Up to 5% of sales price, maximum $15,000; second_mortgage; state-level. Montana Board of Housing · Verified October 23, 2026
- MBOH Plus 0% Deferred Down Payment Assistance — Up to 5% of sales price, maximum $15,000; deferred; state-level. Montana Board of Housing · Verified October 23, 2026
Conventional loans in the nearest eligible cities
Home loan options in Helena
Frequently asked questions
Sources
- U.S. Census Bureau — ACS 2019–2023 5-Year Estimates
- FHFA — 2026 Conforming Loan Limit Values
- HUD — 2026 FHA Forward Mortgage Limits (county file)
- Fannie Mae Selling Guide
- NAIC — Homeowners Insurance Report, Data for 2023 (HO-3 average premium)
- Freddie Mac PMMS
- Bond Advantage Down Payment Assistance
- MBOH Plus 0% Deferred Down Payment Assistance
Data last updated November 5, 2026.
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Get My MatchesFigures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.