Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but saving for upfront costs can feel challenging, especially in the Washington, D.C. region. Between the down payment, closing costs, and other purchase expenses, many buyers wonder how much they need before taking the next step. For eligible homebuyers, down payment assistance programs may help make homeownership more manageable.
Across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, assistance programs are offered by state housing agencies, local governments, and approved program providers. These programs may help with down payment and/or closing costs and are typically subject to income limits, property requirements, homebuyer education, funding availability, and other eligibility guidelines. Since program details can change, review requirements with a mortgage professional.
Washington, D.C. Down Payment Assistance Programs
Washington, D.C., offers homebuyer assistance options through local housing agencies. These programs are designed to support qualified buyers purchasing a primary residence in the District.
The Home Purchase Assistance Program – Often called HPAP, this program is administered by the DC Department of Housing and Community Development. HPAP may provide financial assistance to eligible homebuyers purchasing a home. Assistance is based on income, household needs, and program requirements. Depending on the program structure, repayment may be deferred and may become due if certain events occur, such as selling the home, refinancing, or no longer using the property as a primary residence.
DC Open Doors – Offered through the DC Housing Finance Agency, DC Open Doors may provide eligible borrowers with mortgage financing options that include down payment assistance. Program requirements can vary and may include income limits, property guidelines, and other eligibility criteria. A participating lender can explain how the program works and whether it may fit a buyer’s goals.
Some buyers may also qualify for employer-assisted housing programs, depending on where they work. These programs vary, so eligible employees should review current guidelines with their employer or program administrator.
Maryland Down Payment Assistance Programs
Maryland offers statewide homebuyer assistance through the Maryland Mortgage Program, along with additional programs available through counties and local jurisdictions.
The Maryland Mortgage Program – The MMP offers mortgage options that may be paired with down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible homebuyers. Assistance may be structured in different ways depending on the program, including deferred loans or other forms of secondary financing. Eligibility requirements may include income limits, credit and underwriting guidelines, property location, purchase price limits, and homebuyer education.
In addition to statewide options, some Maryland counties and municipalities offer their own assistance programs. These programs may be available to buyers purchasing in a specific county or community and may have separate eligibility requirements. Because local program availability can change, buyers should confirm details before relying on a specific option.
Virginia Down Payment Assistance Programs
Virginia homebuyers may have access to assistance options through Virginia Housing, the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, and local government programs.
Virginia Housing offers mortgage programs that may include down payment assistance for eligible buyers. Depending on the program, assistance may be provided as a grant or as secondary financing. These programs often require the use of an approved mortgage product and may include income, purchase price, and property eligibility requirements.
The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development also administers assistance programs that may help eligible homebuyers with down payment and closing cost needs. These programs are generally subject to income limits, funding availability, and program-specific requirements.
Many localities in Virginia, including Northern Virginia jurisdictions, may offer additional homebuyer assistance. Program amounts, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria vary by locality. A mortgage loan officer or local housing agency can help buyers understand what programs may be available where they plan to purchase.
What Homebuyers Should Know
While every program is different, many down payment assistance options include similar requirements. Buyers may need to meet income limits based on household size and location, use the home as a primary residence, complete homebuyer education, purchase within certain price or property location limits, use an approved lender or mortgage product, and apply while program funds are available.
Down payment assistance can be helpful, but it is not one-size-fits-all. The right option depends on where you plan to buy, your income, your loan type, and program requirements. If you are thinking about buying a home in Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia, United Bank can help you review mortgage options and discuss whether down payment assistance may be available. A United Bank mortgage loan officer can walk you through the process, explain eligibility requirements, and help you understand the next steps.
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Advertising Notice. Not a Commitment to Lend. Subject to Program Availability. All loan applications subject to credit approval. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), programs, rates, fees, closing costs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice and may vary depending upon credit history and transaction specifics. Other closing costs may be necessary. Flood and/or property hazard insurance may be required. To be eligible, buyer must meet minimum down payment, underwriting, and program guidelines.
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