What is down payment assistance?
Down payment assistance (DPA) is help — in Maryland usually a 0% deferred second loan or a forgivable loan — that covers part of the cash needed at closing. Maryland offers some of the most generous DPA in the country.
Who is DPA for?
Most Maryland DPA targets low and moderate-income buyers, but the definition of "moderate" is broader than people expect. Many households well into six figures may qualify depending on the program and area.
First-time vs. repeat buyer
Many programs define a first-time buyer as someone who hasn't owned a primary residence in the past three years. Repeat buyers may still qualify for some programs, especially in targeted areas.
Credit and income limits
Most layered programs look for 640+ credit. Income limits vary by household size, county, and program. Schedule a consultation to review your specific profile.
County differences
Programs and amounts vary by county. PG County has Pathway to Purchase, Montgomery has HOC and MPDU, Baltimore City has multiple stacked options. Buying in Washington, DC? DC programs are covered on dcdownpaymentassistance.com.
Prince George's County
Montgomery County
Charles County
Howard County
St Marys County
Calvert County
Anne Arundel County
Baltimore County
Baltimore City
Frederick County
Washington, DC
Student loan assistance
Maryland's SmartBuy 3.0 may pay off student loan debt at closing for eligible buyers using a Maryland Mortgage Program loan.
Closing cost assistance
Multiple Maryland and county programs may cover all or part of closing costs. Combined with seller and lender credits, the cash to close can shrink dramatically.
Common mistakes
- Assuming you don't qualify before checking
- Working with a lender who doesn't know Maryland DPA
- Skipping the homebuyer education course
- Letting credit issues sit instead of fixing the 2–3 items that matter
Next step
See which programs may fit you.
Run the 2-minute eligibility check, then book a free 15-minute Game Plan Call.