Whether you want to live in the hills of western Maryland or the historic neighborhoods of Baltimore, buying your first house can be intimidating. Knowing where to find the right loan and assistance programs makes the process easier, especially if you have less-than-perfect credit or need help with a down payment.

Learn more about the first-time home buyer programs available from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, or DHCD, as well as national loan programs that may benefit you.

National first-time home buyer programs

These loans, available in all 50 states, offer flexible underwriting requirements that come in handy when you're a first time home buyer. If you've had credit issues or struggled to save up a big down payment, be sure to explore these national mortgage options.

DHCD highlights and eligibility requirements

The Maryland DHCD offers mortgage and financial assistance programs to make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time home buyers.

If you haven’t owned residential property in the past three years, you're purchasing a home in a targeted area, or you're a veteran using your exemption for the first time, you’re considered a first-time home buyer in Maryland.

Even if you’re a repeat buyer, you may still be eligible for a DHCD mortgage if you meet income limits and use one of their Flex loans. A Maryland state-approved lender can help you explore your options and eligibility.

Highlights

  • 30-year mortgages with competitive interest rates.

  • Down payment and closing cost assistance, including non-repayable grants.

  • Rate discounts available to some borrowers.

  • Some programs can be combined for added savings.

Eligibility

  • Borrower must meet income guidelines, which vary by location and household size.

  • Borrower’s liquid assets, including gifts, can’t exceed 20% of the purchase price.

  • Property must be the borrower’s primary residence.

Summary: 2021 Maryland DHCD first-time home buyer programs

  • MMP 1st Time Advantage offers eligible first-time homebuyers low interest rates on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages.

  • MMP Flex Loans provide grants or no-interest, deferred loans for down payment and closing cost assistance.

  • The Maryland SmartBuy mortgage will help pay off your student debt.

  • Partner Match equals the financial contribution you receive, up to $2,500, from an employer or other organization.

For full details on any of the programs listed above, visit the Department of Housing and Community Development website.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your homebuying journey, contact a participating lender to discuss your options. Note that each lender may have rules about eligibility and how much you can borrow.