Startups

Foyer Raises $6.2M to Help First-Time Buyers Save for Their Dream Homes

By : Syed Owais Date:January 26, 2025

Turning a Dream Into a Mission

For many, the dream of owning a home remains just that—a dream. The steep hurdle of saving for a down payment often feels insurmountable, especially in a housing market that seems to edge further out of reach with every passing year.

Landy Liu knows this struggle well. As a former executive at Better.com, Liu spent years observing the challenges that first-time homebuyers faced. He realized the problem wasn’t just about finding the right mortgage—it was about getting to the starting line in the first place.

"I kept seeing the same story: people had the income, they had the desire, but they didn’t have the tools or support to save effectively," says Liu.

That realization planted the seed for Foyer, a platform designed to give first-time buyers the guidance and resources they need to achieve what often feels impossible—saving for their first home.

The Birth of Foyer

Foyer isn’t just another fintech app; it’s a lifeline for aspiring homeowners. Liu envisioned it as the “401(k) for homeownership,” a platform that simplifies saving while offering personalized advice and practical tools.

“Retirement accounts and college savings plans exist, but there’s no dedicated system for helping people save for a home. I wanted to change that,” Liu explains.

Launched with a clear mission, Foyer provides users with the ability to set savings goals tailored to their dream home, access expert guidance, and stay informed about mortgage rates and housing options. It’s not just a savings app—it’s a roadmap for first-time buyers.

A Major Milestone

Liu’s vision recently received a resounding endorsement. Foyer announced it had raised $6.2 million in seed funding, led by Alpaca VC and Hometeam Ventures, with contributions from Accion Venture Lab and Clocktower Ventures.

This funding marks a pivotal moment for the startup, enabling it to expand its platform, reach more users, and enhance its features. For Liu, the investment isn’t just about money—it’s a validation of Foyer’s mission to empower a new generation of homeowners.

David Goldberg, general partner at Alpaca VC, described Foyer as a much-needed solution to one of the biggest barriers to homeownership. “It’s not just about saving money; it’s about giving people a real shot at financial security,” he says.

A Pathway to Homeownership

So, how does Foyer work? It’s designed to address the biggest pain points of saving for a down payment:

  • Personalized Savings Plans: Users set realistic goals based on their desired home price and timeline, and Foyer helps them stay on track.
  • Expert Guidance: The platform offers tailored advice on budgeting and saving strategies, ensuring users make progress without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Trusted Connections: Foyer connects users with reputable real estate agents and firms, making the often-confusing home-buying process easier to navigate.

“Saving for a home isn’t just about cutting back on coffee or skipping vacations. It’s about having a plan and knowing what steps to take next. That’s what we’re here for,” says Liu.

Backed by Belief

Beyond the funding, what’s most remarkable about Foyer is the belief it has inspired in its investors.

Amee Parbhoo, managing partner at Accion Venture Lab, sees Foyer as a tool for building long-term financial stability, particularly for those in underserved communities. “Homeownership is one of the most powerful ways to build generational wealth. Foyer is helping people take that first, crucial step,” she says.

Looking Ahead

As the housing affordability crisis continues, Foyer’s mission feels more urgent than ever. The $6.2 million in funding will be used to scale the platform, but Liu’s vision extends far beyond numbers.

“We’re creating a future where homeownership doesn’t feel impossible,” he says. “It’s not just about helping people save money; it’s about giving them hope, a plan, and the tools to succeed.”

With a clear mission and growing support, Foyer is well on its way to making the dream of homeownership a reality for millions.

Syed Owais

Founder & Fractional CBO - Who loves to deliver value over hype. Aiming to build a no-BS community for founders (by founder), investors, venture capitalists, accelerators and journalists.