What Are the Down Payment Assistance or Homebuyer Programs Available in Baltimore City or DC?

Buying a home in Baltimore City or Washington, D.C. can feel out of reach for many first-time buyers, but there are several programs designed to make homeownership more affordable. From grants to interest-free loans, these resources can reduce the cash needed upfront and help lower monthly payments. Here’s an overview of the key programs available today.

Baltimore City Programs

Baltimore City offers several incentives for homebuyers. The First-Time Homebuyers Incentive Program provides eligible buyers with up to $10,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. The popular Live Near Your Work (LNYW) program offers grants of $2,000 to $7,500 when buyers purchase near participating employers. Additionally, the Vacants to Value Booster Program can provide $10,000 in assistance for those buying rehabilitated or formerly vacant homes. These programs can often be combined with Maryland state assistance for even greater savings.

Washington, D.C. Programs

D.C.’s flagship Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) is one of the most generous in the country. Eligible buyers can receive up to $202,000 in down payment assistance (structured as an interest-free loan) and up to $4,000 in closing cost assistance. Another option, DC Open Doors, provides a down payment assistance loan of up to 3% of the purchase price, paired with competitive mortgage products, helping those with steady income but limited savings.

Maryland Statewide Assistance

In addition to local incentives, Maryland buyers can tap into the Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP). MMP provides up to $7,500 in down payment assistance through its Flex program, or up to $10,000 for certain targeted buyers such as educators, veterans, and first responders. These funds can often be layered with Baltimore City or D.C. programs, giving buyers multiple ways to reduce their upfront costs.

Why This Matters

With the median sales price in Maryland around $445,000 (June 2025, Bright MLS), these programs can make the difference between renting and owning. For example, a first-time buyer in Baltimore City could combine MMP assistance with city programs to cover most, if not all, of their down payment and closing costs.

Next Steps

Each program has unique eligibility rules, income limits, and application requirements. That’s why it’s critical to work with a Realtor and lender who understand these options. If you’re considering buying in Baltimore or D.C., reach out today—I’d be happy to connect you with trusted local lenders and walk you through your best options for maximizing assistance.