New York
Startups
By : Syed Owais Date:January 26, 2025
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.
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.
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.
So, how does Foyer work? It’s designed to address the biggest pain points of saving for a down payment:
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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