Quick Answer
MassHousing (Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency) offers 2 down payment assistance programs with up to $30,000 in assistance (via MassHousing Down Payment Assistance Prog...). 1 program is a grant requiring no repayment. Minimum credit score: 640. All MassHousing programs are available statewide to Massachusetts homebuyers.
MassHousing (Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency) is one of the most widely used sources of down payment assistance in Massachusetts, offering 2 programs with up to $30,000 in assistance. Massachusetts's quasi-public housing finance agency offering down payment assistance up to $30,000 alongside its proprietary MassHousing Mortgage first loan.
This guide covers every MassHousing program currently available, including eligibility requirements, assistance amounts, repayment terms, and how MassHousing compares to alternatives like MHP ONE Mortgage and Boston Home Center DPA.
MassHousing Program Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of all MassHousing down payment assistance programs currently available in Massachusetts.
| Program | Type | Max Amount | Min Credit | First-Time Buyer | Repayment | Income Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MassHousing Down Payment Assistance Program | Deferred Loan | $30,000 | 640 | Yes | Option 1: 0% deferred second mortgage, repaid on s... | Up to $205,335 per year |
| MassDREAMS (Grant Program) | Grant | Varies | Varies | Yes | See program details | Varies |
MassHousing Programs in Detail
MassHousing Down Payment Assistance Program
MassHousing
Assistance Amount
Up to $30,000 (Option 1 deferred) or up to $25,000 (Options 2-3 amortizing)
MassDREAMS (Grant Program)
MassHousing
Assistance Amount
Varies
Who Is MassHousing Best For?
MassHousing is ideal for:
- First-time homebuyers in Massachusetts with credit scores of 640+
- Buyers using a MassHousing Mortgage as their first loan
- Households earning up to $205,335 looking for the largest available statewide DPA
- Boston, Springfield, Worcester, and other MA-metro buyers stacking DPA with city programs
How to Apply for MassHousing Down Payment Assistance
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1
Check Your Eligibility
Use our free eligibility tool to see which MassHousing programs match your situation. Enter your county, income, and target home price.
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2
Find a MassHousing-Approved Lender
Not every lender participates in MassHousing programs. Work with a lender who is specifically approved by MassHousing to originate their DPA products.
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3
Complete Homebuyer Education (If Required)
Many MassHousing programs require an 8-hour HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Online options through eHome America and Framework are accepted by most programs.
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4
Get Pre-Approved & Find a Home
Your lender will structure the MassHousing DPA into your loan package. Some programs have purchase price limits and property type restrictions, so confirm eligibility before making offers.
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5
Close & Move In
The MassHousing DPA funds are disbursed at closing alongside your first mortgage. No separate application process — your lender handles everything.
MassHousing vs Alternatives
How does MassHousing compare to other major DPA providers in Massachusetts?
MassHousing vs MHP ONE Mortgage
MassHousing pairs DPA with its own first mortgage and allows higher income limits. MHP ONE Mortgage offers below-market fixed rates and no PMI but provides no down payment assistance — it reduces monthly payment instead of upfront cash.
MassHousing vs Boston Home Center DPA
Boston Home Center provides up to $50,000 in grant assistance but only inside Boston city limits. MassHousing covers all 351 MA cities and towns with up to $30,000 — the right pick if you're buying outside Boston or want a statewide option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MassHousing down payment assistance?
MassHousing (Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency) offers 2 down payment assistance programs for Massachusetts homebuyers. Massachusetts's quasi-public housing finance agency offering down payment assistance up to $30,000 alongside its proprietary MassHousing Mortgage first loan. Programs range from grants to forgivable loans, deferred loans, and more.
How much assistance can I get from MassHousing?
Up to $30,000 through MassHousing programs. Top programs by amount: MassHousing Down Payment Assistance Program ($30,000). Actual amounts depend on the specific program, your income, and purchase price.
What credit score do I need for MassHousing?
As low as 640 (MassHousing Down Payment Assistance Program). Credit requirements vary by program — some require 660+, others accept lower scores.
What are the MassHousing income limits?
Income limits for MassHousing programs vary by program and county. Most use Area Median Income (AMI) thresholds — commonly 80%, 120%, or 150% AMI. Use our free eligibility tool to check specific limits for your county.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer for MassHousing?
Most MassHousing programs require first-time buyer status (not owned in past 3 years).
Do I have to repay MassHousing assistance?
It depends on the program type. Grants require no repayment. Deferred loans are repaid when you sell or move out, with no monthly payments. MassHousing offers multiple assistance types to fit different situations.
How is MassHousing different from MHP ONE Mortgage?
MassHousing pairs DPA with its own first mortgage and allows higher income limits. MHP ONE Mortgage offers below-market fixed rates and no PMI but provides no down payment assistance — it reduces monthly payment instead of upfront cash.
How do I apply for MassHousing down payment assistance?
Apply through a MassHousing-approved lender — not directly with MassHousing. Step 1: Check eligibility using our free tool. Step 2: Get pre-approved with an approved lender. Step 3: Complete homebuyer education if required. Step 4: Find a home and close. The DPA is built into your mortgage.
| Program Name | Type | Max Assistance | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| MassHousing Down Payment Assistance Program | Deferred Loan | $30,000 | Open |
| MassDREAMS (Grant Program) | Grant | Varies | Verify |
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