Statewide assistance
Understand Maryland Mortgage Program options, including assistance that may be structured as a second mortgage.
Official Maryland DPA information ↗ A smarter start to Maryland homeownership
Home might be closer than you think.
Down payment assistance could help make buying a home in Maryland more achievable. Explore programs, understand the requirements, and take your next step with confidence.
✓ Free educational resource✓ Maryland-focused guidance✓ No obligation to apply
YOUR PATH TO HOMEOWNERSHIP
✦
More possibilities.Less guesswork.
MARYLAND • HOMEOWNERSHIP • OPPORTUNITY
Find information you can use.Real programs. Clear explanations. Practical next steps.
See how it works THE RESOURCE LIBRARY
Start with the right information.
Maryland has statewide and local assistance options. Availability and eligibility vary by program, location, and lender.
County & city programs
Local governments may offer additional assistance. Your property location can make a difference.
Explore Maryland resources ↗Homebuyer fundamentals
Learn about credit, income, closing costs, loan types, and the true cash needed to buy a home.
Visit the learning center →Good to know: Down payment assistance is not always a grant or free money. Some programs require repayment, and certain options may be deferred or forgivable subject to conditions. Always confirm current terms with the official program administrator.
MARYLAND PROGRAM DIRECTORY
Explore assistance across Maryland.
Start with statewide programs, then check your county or city for additional opportunities. Local programs may have different residency, income, property, lender, and funding requirements. County links below open a tailored research checklist—not a verified list of currently funded grants.
Statewide starting points
| Resource | What to check | Official website |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland Mortgage Program | State-backed mortgage options and down payment assistance; program requirements, lender participation, and current availability. | Explore MMP ↗ |
| Maryland DHCD | Housing initiatives, homeownership information, and links to state-administered resources. | Explore DHCD ↗ |
| HUD-approved housing counseling | Homebuyer education and counseling; ask about approved programs and eligibility. | Find a counselor ↗ |
| CFPB homebuying guide | Mortgage comparisons, closing costs, loan estimates, and consumer protections. | Read CFPB guide ↗ |
Choose a county or Baltimore City
AlleganyAnne ArundelBaltimoreBaltimore CityCalvertCarolineCarrollCecilCharlesDorchesterFrederickGarrettHarfordHowardKentMontgomeryPrince George’sQueen Anne’sSt. Mary’sSomersetTalbotWashingtonWicomicoWorcester
Program descriptions are educational starting points, not a live funding database. Always confirm current eligibility, funding, terms, and lender requirements directly with the administering agency.
A GOOD PLACE TO START
Which assistance options might be worth exploring?
Answer a few basic questions to get a suggested research starting point. This is not an eligibility determination, mortgage preapproval, or application.
🔒 No Social Security number, documents, or credit pull required.
PRELIMINARY PROGRAM EXPLORERAbout 1 minute
THE SIMPLE ROADMAP
Three steps. A clearer picture.
1
Explore
Learn what state and local programs exist where you want to buy.
2
Understand
Review eligibility, assistance types, and potential costs before making decisions.
3
Take action
Use the official program resources or choose to speak with a licensed mortgage professional.
FIRST-TIME BUYER LEARNING CENTER
Buying a home comes with questions. Start here.
Short, practical explanations without the jargon.
Is down payment assistance always a grant?
No. Assistance can take several forms, including grants and loans. Some loans may be deferred or forgivable only when program conditions are met. Review the terms before relying on assistance.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer?
Not necessarily. Requirements differ by program. Some programs define first-time buyer based on whether you owned a principal residence during the prior three years; exceptions and other eligibility conditions may apply.
What other costs should I plan for?
In addition to a down payment, plan for closing costs, prepaid taxes and insurance, inspections, moving expenses, and an emergency reserve. Some assistance may cover certain eligible costs.
Does my credit score matter?
Yes. Mortgage and assistance programs can have credit and underwriting requirements. The applicable minimum depends on the program and lender; verify current criteria before making assumptions.
FREE HOMEBUYER EDUCATION
Want a guided introduction to buying your first home?
We're gauging interest in a free Maryland first-time homebuyer workshop covering down payment assistance, qualifying basics, and the buying process.
Interested in the workshop?
We're planning future sessions. You can request information once registration opens.
Express interest by email →Workshop registration and scheduling are not yet active.TRUSTED SOURCES
Go straight to the source.
Program terms, funding, and eligibility can change. These official websites are the best places to confirm current details.