Maryland offers 77 down payment assistance programs to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. This includes 8 grant programs that never require repayment. Programs range from statewide options administered by the state housing finance agency to local city and county programs targeting specific communities.
Maximum assistance available reaches $50,000 through the most generous program. Credit score requirements start as low as 620 for some programs. Most programs require the home to be your primary residence, and many require homebuyer education.
Top Down Payment Assistance Programs in Maryland
Highlighted programs that combine high assistance amounts with statewide or major-metro availability. See the full list below.
Howard County Settlement Down Payment Loan Program (SDLP)
openHoward County Department of Housing and Community Development
UP TO $50,000
Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) Purchase Assistance
verifyHousing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County
3% of the purchase price (max 3% of sales price as 0% interest 5-year deferred second mortgage; additional options UP TO $50,000 via MHP)
Anne Arundel County Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP)
openArundel Community Development Services, Inc. (ACDS)
UP TO $50,000
Critical Workforce (CWF) Second Mortgage Financing Program
openQueen Anne’s County
33 (max $50,000)
Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) Second Mortgage Financing Program
openQueen Anne’s County
33 (max $50,000)
Grant Programs (8)
Grants are the gold standard of down payment assistance. You receive the money and never have to pay it back.
Closing Cost and Downpayment Grants
Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Down Payment Assistance
Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde - Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative (BRNI) Down Payment Assistance
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) via NHS Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply (verified through NH...
- Min Credit Score
- 660+
- Property Types
- Single-family (attached/detached), townhome, condo, PUD, co-op, land trust, manu...
- Max Price
- Per first mortgage agency guidelines
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA (203b, 203k), VA, USDA RD 502, Conventional (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac), HUD-184, CRA affordable programs. Fixed-rate only.
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Income limits apply (verified through NHS program guidelines)
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0% deferred, due-on-sale loan
Repayment Terms
Grant (not a loan); no repayment required
Additional Requirements
Program targets Sustainable Community Areas to increase homeownership competitiveness and private-sector investment. Administered through NHS Baltimore.
Notes
Check program requirements; focus is on geographic area eligibility (Sustainable Community Areas)
Mid-Sore Love Down Payment Grant Program
Central Baltimore Partnership
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Buy Back the Block
Live Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $667,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Mid-Sore Love Down Payment Grant Program
Mid-Shore Board of Realtors
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
LEDC Down Payment Assistance Program
Latino Economic Development Center
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
NHS Baltimore Project Reinvest Down Payment Assistance Grant
Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) of Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 660+
- Property Types
- Detached homes, townhouses, condominiums, 1-4 unit properties, PUDs in Baltimore...
- Max Price
- Per MMP limits for Baltimore City
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- MMP loan products (except SmartBuy or refinances)
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Grant (no repayment required)
Repayment Terms
Grant (not a loan); no repayment required
Additional Requirements
NHS selected by Maryland Community Investment Corporation (MCIC) as program operator for FY2026 Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative (BVRI). Program targets redeveloped properties in specific Baltimore City neighborhoods.
Notes
Check with NHS Baltimore; program targets homebuyers in BVRI/UPLIFT redevelopment neighborhoods
Forgivable Loans (5)
Forgivable loans are forgiven after a set period of living in the home. If you stay, you keep the money.
Prince George's County Pathway to Purchase
Prince George's County Redevelopment Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Residential properties in Prince George's County (resale, foreclosure, short sal...
- Max Price
- $448,000 (resale); $485,000 (new construction)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- MMP loan products (must use MMP-approved lender)
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest loan, forgivable over 10 years
Notes
Occupancy requirement: 10 years for full forgiveness
SmartBuy 3.0 (Student Loan Assistance Program)
Maryland DHCD
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by location and family size
- Min Credit Score
- 720+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP limits)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional (must use MMP loan)
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% on student debt assistance; forgiven after 5 years
Repayment Terms
Forgivable after five years if the buyer remains in the home
Additional Requirements
Must have existing student loan debt. Must use an MMP loan
Notes
Check program requirements. Occupancy requirement: 5 years for forgiveness
Baltimore City First-Time Homebuyer Programs
Baltimore Housing / DHCD
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Based on HUD guidelines
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-family homes (primary residence in Baltimore City)
- Max Price
- Per FHA mortgage limit for Baltimore City ($731,400)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Fixed-rate mortgages only (no cash sales, co-signers, or owner financing); max mortgage = FHA limit $731,400
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Forgivable (5-year forgivable loan)
Repayment Terms
Most sub-programs forgivable after 5 years
Additional Requirements
Sub-programs include: FTHIP ($10-20K), Buy Back the Block ($15-20K grants), Buying Into Baltimore ($5K lottery), City Employee ($5-10K), Live Near Your Work ($2-5K). Most sub-programs are 5-year forgivable
Notes
Varies by sub-program. Occupancy requirement: 5 years for most forgivable programs
Baltimore County Settlement Expense Loan Program (SELP)
Baltimore County Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Existing owner-occupied, buyer-occupied, or vacant dwellings in Baltimore County...
- Max Price
- Per CDA/MMP limits for Baltimore County
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, Conventional (must qualify with approved lender)
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Low- to moderate-income households (specific limits apply; income-eligible per program guidelines)
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan; forgiven after 7 years if borrower remains in home
Additional Requirements
Must apply through approved Baltimore County housing counseling agencies (Belair-Edison Neighborhoods, Harbel Housing Partnership, St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center, Diversified Housing Development)
Notes
Must not have owned a dwelling in last 3 years; cannot have already signed a purchase contract when applying
House Keys 4 Employees Program
Maryland DHCD
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Based on Maryland Mortgage Program guide...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP limits)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional (must use MMP 1st Time Advantage 6000 or Flex 6000)
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred loan
Repayment Terms
Forgivable loan after five years if the buyer remains in the home
Additional Requirements
Must work for a participating employer
Notes
Check program requirements. Occupancy requirement: 5 years for forgiveness
Deferred Payment Loans (49)
Deferred loans require no monthly payments while you live in the home. You repay when you sell, refinance, or move out.
Critical Workforce (CWF) Second Mortgage Financing Program
Queen Anne’s County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) Second Mortgage Financing Program
Queen Anne’s County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
City of Gaithersburg DPA
City of Gaithersburg
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 81-120% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Properties within Gaithersburg city corporate limits
- Max Price
- Not specified (standard: up to $12,000; Opportunity Zone: up to $25,000)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Must qualify with approved lender
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred loan with promissory note and second deed of trust
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan; terms per promissory note
SDLP - HomeStarter Loan
Howard County - Housing & Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $644,756
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Gaithersburg Homebuyer Assistance Loan Program (GHALP)
City of Gaithersburg
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
SDLP - HomeSteader Loan
Howard County - Housing & Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $644,756
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Montgomery Employee Down Payment Assistance Loan (MEDPAL)
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Montgomery Homeownership Program
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Pathway to Purchase First Time Homebuyer Assistance Program
Prince George's County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $485,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Harford County Settlement Expense Loan Program
Harford County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- 1-4 unit single-family (detached/attached), condo, townhome, PUD, manufactured; ...
- Max Price
- $342,000 (existing homes); $444,000 (new construction)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- 30-year fixed rate, fully amortizing first mortgage
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan via Deed of Trust; minimum 1% cash contribution required; must occupy as primary residence
City of Laurel DPA
City of Laurel
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Primary residence within City of Laurel limits
- Max Price
- Not published
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- No restriction (grant issued post-closing upon submission of settlement documents)
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
N/A (grant)
Repayment Terms
None (one-time post-closing grant, not a loan)
Notes
Post-closing grant of $5,000 issued after closing. $50,000 annual budget supports up to 10 homeowners. First-time buyer or no home purchase in prior 5 years. Contact: ECD@laurel.md.us or 301-725-5300.
Settlement Expense Loan Program Plus (SELP+)
Charles County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
New Neighbors Homeownership Grant Program
College Park - Planning and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Maryland SmartBuy 3.0
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD +4, USDA-RD +3, Fannie Mae +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayment at sale or refinance
First-Time Homebuyers Incentive Program
City of Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Fully Forgivable
College Park City-University Partnership Home Ownership Program
College Park - Planning and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
SDLP - DreamMaker Loan
Howard County - Housing & Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $644,756
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Closing Cost Loans
Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
FHLBank Atlanta First-Time Homebuyer Product
Live Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Frederick County DPA
Frederick County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses (detached/semi-detached), condominiums, modular/...
- Max Price
- Per lender approval and income limits (not specified by HAP)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Minimum 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (through approved lender)
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred loan
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan; due upon sale, refinance, or transfer of property
Homebuyer Assistance Program-HAP
Frederick County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured, Modular
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Baybrook Boost
Greater Baybrook Alliance
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD, HUD +2
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
City of Takoma Park DPA
City of Takoma Park
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Below program income limits
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-family homes (attached/detached), condominiums (within City of Takoma Par...
- Max Price
- Per Montgomery County AMI-based limits
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Fixed-rate Conventional, Portfolio, FHA, VA, or CDA mortgages (10-30 year terms); no balloon, ARMs, or owner financing
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred; forgiven at 20% per year after first year (fully forgiven after 5 years)
Repayment Terms
Forgivable: 20% per year starting after year 1; fully forgiven after 5 years; prorated repayment if sold early
Notes
Program currently paused until further notice. First-time buyer required (no property ownership in last 5 years).
Revolving Closing Cost Assistance Program (RCCAP)
Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $806,598
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Settlement Expense Loan Program (SELP)/Closing Cost Program
Baltimore County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayment at sales or finance
Central Baltimore Homebuying Incentive Program
Central Baltimore Partnership
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Project Reinvest Program
NHS of Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $266,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Partner Match Programs
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,255,921
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
City of Hagerstown DPA
City of Hagerstown
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-family homes (attached/detached), townhomes within Hagerstown city corpor...
- Max Price
- Not specified (per program guidelines)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Must qualify with approved lender
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Not published
Repayment Terms
Must occupy as primary residence for at least 5 years
Notes
Check program requirements
Hagerstown Homeownership Initiative
City of Hagerstown
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Single-Family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
First Time Home Buyers Settlement Expense Loan Program (SELP)
Charles County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
MMP Flex 6000
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4, USDA-RD, USDA-RD +1, Fannie Mae +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayment at sales or finance
City of Frederick Community Partners Incentive Program
City of Frederick
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income-eligible
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Homes within City of Frederick limits
- Max Price
- Per MMP purchase price limits
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- MMP loan products (CDA/MMP mortgage required)
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred loan
Repayment Terms
0% deferred; repayable on payoff, refinance, sale, or transfer; close within 120 days of approval
Notes
Check program requirements
Buying Into Baltimore Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance
City of Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Direct Homeownership Assistance Program
City of Baltimore
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
SDLP - Workforce Initiative Loan
Howard County - Housing & Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $644,756
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
City of Bowie Home Buyer Assistance Program
City of Bowie
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Primary residence within City of Bowie limits (requires home/termite inspection)
- Max Price
- Per MMP purchase price limits
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- MMP loan products (must use MMP-approved lender)
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Grant (permanent after 5 years; full repayment if sold within 5 years)
Repayment Terms
Grant: permanent after 5 years; full repayment required if sold within first 5 years
Notes
Restricted to teachers, persons with disabilities, City of Bowie government employees, or police officers. Minimum $1,000 personal contribution required. Allow 60+ days for processing.
Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance - Washington County
City of Hagerstown
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Maryland HomeCredit Program (Mortgage Credit Certificate)
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by county
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP limits)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional (must use MMP loan)
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
N/A (tax credit, not a loan)
Repayment Terms
N/A (tax credit; not a loan)
Additional Requirements
MCC can be re-issued upon refinancing. MCC automatically revoked if home ceases to be principal residence. Program is not a down payment grant but provides ongoing tax savings reducing effective housing cost.
Notes
Currently closed to new applications. Lenders can still assist with re-issuing MCCs for refinancing existing MCC loans.
Option 2 of the MPP
Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $806,598
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayment at sales or finance
1st Time Advantage 3% Loan
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
1st Time Advantage 4% Loan
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,255,921
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
1st Time Advantage 5% Loan
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4, Fannie Mae +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
1st Time Advantage 6000
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,255,921
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Homestart 6% DPA Loan
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4, USDA-RD +3, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD, Fannie Mae +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
MMP Flex 3% Loan
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Dev.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $1,535,015
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4, USDA-RD, Fannie Mae +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Baltimore Southwest Partnership Inc Down Payment Assistance Program
Southwest Partnership Inc
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Forgivable
CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $766,550
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Repayable
CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $766,550
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Note rate 1% above the first mortgage note rate
Repayment Terms
This loan does require a monthly payment on the second mortgage.
Second Mortgages (15)
These programs provide DPA as a second mortgage, sometimes with monthly payments, sometimes deferred.
Howard County Settlement Down Payment Loan Program (SDLP)
Howard County Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Primary residence in Howard County
- Max Price
- Per CDA purchase price limit for Howard County (~$683,977)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Fixed-rate primary mortgage loan (through approved lender)
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% to 3% depending on tier (Tier 1 at 0%, Tier 2 at 1%, Tier 3 up to 3%)
Repayment Terms
Deferred until sale or refinance; interest rates capped at 3%
Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) Purchase Assistance
Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply for buyers working o...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, condos, townhomes in Montgomery County (primary residence)
- Max Price
- $806,598 (max loan amount $726,200)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, Fannie Mae HFA Preferred, Freddie Mac HFA Advantage Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Income limits apply for buyers working or living in Montgomery County
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
6.125% to 7.125% depending on loan type and DPA option
Repayment Terms
Deferred loan for down payment/closing costs
Notes
Check program requirements
Anne Arundel County Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP)
Arundel Community Development Services, Inc. (ACDS)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 100% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- condo, townhome
- Max Price
- Up to $500,000 (subject to affordability assessment)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
100% of Area Median Income (AMI); 2025 updated limits: 1-person $91,188; 4-person $130,250
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest; no required monthly payments; repayable upon sale, transfer, property ceasing to be primary residence, or at end of 30 years (whichever first)
Additional Requirements
Property types: existing or newly constructed detached, semi-detached, attached townhomes, condominiums in Anne Arundel County. ACDS Construction Specialist inspects property. May be combined with FHA loans and MMP.
Notes
No minimum credit score requirement. 0% interest deferred 30 years, due upon sale/transfer. Can pair with FHA or MMP. Asset review if liquid assets exceed 3 months PITI + 1% contribution.
MMP HomeAbility (Down Payment Assistance for Buyers with Disabilities)
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- $45,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- VA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
80% AMI maximum for all borrowers on loan combined; also must meet standard MMP household income limits
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred second lien; due upon sale, refinance, full payoff of first mortgage, or transfer of ownership
Additional Requirements
Conventional loan product; 80% LTV first lien + up to 25% second lien; combined LTV cannot exceed 105%; no mortgage insurance required; second lien is 0% interest deferred for life of first lien
Notes
Must meet standard MMP first-time homebuyer definition; exception for targeted areas and veterans
Montgomery County DPA
Montgomery County DHCA
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only, must be i...
- Max Price
- Per MMP county limits for Montgomery County
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional (must use MMP loan)
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred loan
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan, repayable upon sale, refinance, or after 30 years
Montgomery County Employee Down Payment Assistance Loan (MEDPAL)
Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA) in partnership with Maryland DHCD
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Must meet MMP income limits AND Montgome...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only, must be i...
- Max Price
- Per MMP county limits for Montgomery County
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional (must use MMP loan)
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Must meet MMP income limits AND Montgomery County Workforce Housing Income Limits
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest; no monthly payments required during loan life; repaid in full if home is sold or refinanced with cash-out; forgiven after 30 years if homeowner remains in home
Additional Requirements
Must use an MMP first mortgage; funds reserved by lender; funds available until expended
Notes
Must not have owned home in past 3 years; exception for veterans and MMP Targeted Area purchases in Montgomery County
Frederick County House Keys 4 Employees (HK4E) Program
Frederick County Division of Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Must meet MMP income limits
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence in Frederick Co...
- Max Price
- Per MMP purchase price limits
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- MMP 1st Time Advantage 6000 or Flex 6000
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred loan; due upon sale or refinance; no monthly payments required
Additional Requirements
Separate from the City of Frederick's HK4E program. Frederick County matches the MMP $8,500 deferred loan with an additional $8,500 county loan. No monthly payments required.
Notes
Must meet MMP eligibility for 1st Time Advantage or Flex 6000 product (which typically requires first-time buyer status)
City of Annapolis MPDU Settlement Expense Assistance Program
City of Annapolis Planning and Zoning Department
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- 100% of Median Household Income (MHI); F...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- MPDU (Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit) properties in Annapolis
- Max Price
- Per MPDU pricing guidelines
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Must qualify with approved lender
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- teachers
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
100% of Median Household Income (MHI); FY2025 income limits apply
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan; repayable upon sale/transfer or at end of 10 years, whichever comes first
Additional Requirements
Applies only to purchase of MPDU (Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit) properties in City of Annapolis. MPDU staff determines loan amount in conjunction with lender. Lien placed via Deed of Trust.
Notes
Must not currently own a home; must purchase an MPDU (Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit) in Annapolis
MMP Partner Match Program
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) with participating employer/community partners
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Must meet MMP income limits; partner may...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP limits)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional (must use MMP 1st Time Advantage 6000 or Flex 6000)
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Must meet MMP income limits; partner may have additional criteria
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0% deferred loan
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan; due upon sale, transfer, or first mortgage payoff/refinance
Additional Requirements
Partner match funds can be layered with non-MMP programs or other jurisdiction funds. Partners establish their own eligibility criteria. SK4E (Smart Keys 4 Employees) adds $1,000 if property is within 10 miles of employer.
Notes
Depends on underlying MMP loan product used (1st Time Advantage requires FTHB; Flex allows repeat buyers)
City of Frederick House Keys for Employees Program (HK4E)
City of Frederick / Frederick Community Action Agency
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Must meet MMP income limits
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence in City of Fred...
- Max Price
- Per MMP purchase price limits
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- MMP 1st Time Advantage 6000 or Flex 6000
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred loan
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan terms; deferred until sale or refinance
Additional Requirements
Separate from the Frederick County HK4E program. City portion is $5,000; state DHCD portion is $3,500. Must be used to purchase a home within the City of Frederick.
Notes
Must meet MMP eligibility requirements for underlying loan product used
Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) Down Payment Assistance
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by county and household size
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP Directive 2025-05)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0% deferred second lien
Repayment Terms
0% deferred loan, repayable upon sale or refinance
Notes
First-time homebuyers and repeat buyers purchasing in targeted areas. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
MMP 1st Time Advantage (DPA Sub-Products)
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by county and household size; $13...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP Directive 2025-05)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Varies by county and household size; $131,700 to $229,460 depending on location and family size
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred loan; due in full upon sale, transfer, refinance, or payoff of first mortgage
Additional Requirements
Cannot be layered with Maryland HomeCredit/MCC program; DPA is deferred second mortgage at 0% interest with no payments due for life of first mortgage
Notes
Must not have owned principal residence in last 3 years; exception for veterans and purchases in MMP Targeted Areas
MMP Flex Loans (DPA Sub-Products for Repeat Buyers)
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Varies by county; $131,700 to $229,460 m...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP Directive 2025-05)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Varies by county; $131,700 to $229,460 maximum depending on location and family size
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred loan; due upon sale, transfer, refinance, or payoff of first mortgage
Additional Requirements
Flex 6000 eligible for Partner Match program (additional $2,500 match); Flex 5000 amount is fixed at exactly $5,000
Notes
Available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers; repeat buyers cannot own other real property at closing
Charles County Settlement Expense Loan Program (SELP)
Charles County Housing Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Single-family detached, semi-detached, townhouse, or condo (existing only, no ne...
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Must qualify with approved lender
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
5% interest accrues in year 1 only; 0% thereafter
Repayment Terms
Deferred loan; 5% interest accrues in year 1 only, 0% thereafter; due upon sale or transfer
Additional Requirements
Secured by second mortgage; may be layered with MMP and other programs. SELP+ (ARPA-funded) may provide additional $14,000 for eligible applicants (requires prior SELP approval, income at or below 100% AMI, lived or worked full-time in county for last 3 years; existing housing only, no new construction; SELP+ treated as grant if buyer remains in home 5 years).
Notes
First-time homebuyers required
MMP HomeStart (6% DPA for Low-Income Buyers)
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 50% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums (primary residence only)
- Max Price
- Varies by county (per MMP Directive 2025-05)
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred loan; due upon sale, transfer, refinance, or payoff of first mortgage
Additional Requirements
Specifically for borrowers at or below 50% AMI; 0% interest 30-year deferred second lien equal to 6% of MMP total loan amount
Notes
Must meet standard MMP first-time homebuyer eligibility; exception for veterans and targeted areas
How to Apply for Down Payment Assistance in Maryland
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1
Check Your Eligibility
Use our free eligibility tool to see which programs match your situation. Enter your state, city, income, and target home price.
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2
Contact the Program Administrator
Each program has its own application process. Visit the program website or call the administering agency to get started. Many programs work through approved lenders.
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3
Get Pre-Approved with a Participating Lender
Not every lender participates in every DPA program. Work with a lender who is approved for the programs you want. The program administrator can provide a list of approved lenders.
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4
Complete Homebuyer Education (If Required)
Many programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Online options through eHome America and Framework are accepted by most programs.
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5
Close & Move In
DPA funds are typically disbursed at closing alongside your first mortgage. Your lender coordinates the DPA program paperwork as part of the loan process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much down payment assistance can I get in Maryland?
Up to $50,000 through available programs in Maryland. Multiple programs can often be combined for even more assistance. The exact amount depends on your income, location, and the specific program requirements.
Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer?
Not always. 22 programs in Maryland are open to repeat buyers. "First-time buyer" is typically defined as not having owned a home in the past three years.
What credit score do I need?
As low as 620 for some programs. Most programs require 620-660. Higher credit scores may qualify you for more programs and better terms.
Can I combine multiple DPA programs?
In many cases, yes. Some programs are specifically designed to be layered with others. For example, you might combine a state grant with a local deferred loan. Check with each program administrator about stacking eligibility.
DPA Programs in Nearby States
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