Down Payment Assistance Programs in Maryland 2026: Complete Guide

One of the biggest barriers to homeownership in Maryland is saving for a down payment — especially in high-cost markets like Montgomery County, Howard County, and the DC suburbs. The good news is that Maryland offers several excellent down payment assistance programs that can provide thousands of dollars toward your purchase. Dan Freshley Home Loans has helped hundreds of Maryland buyers access these programs. NMLS #196245. Call (301) 332-9432 to find out which program you qualify for.

Top Down Payment Assistance Programs in Maryland for 2026

1. Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP)

The Maryland Mortgage Program is the state's flagship homebuyer assistance program, administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). It offers competitive 30-year fixed-rate mortgages paired with down payment assistance of up to $10,000 for eligible buyers. Income and purchase price limits apply and vary by county.

2. 1st Time Advantage Program

Part of the Maryland Mortgage Program, the 1st Time Advantage loan is specifically designed for first-time homebuyers. It offers a competitive interest rate plus optional down payment assistance. Available in several variants including 1st Time Advantage Direct (lowest rate) and 1st Time Advantage 6000 (provides $6,000 in assistance as a zero-interest loan).

3. Montgomery County Moderate Income Housing Program

Montgomery County offers its own down payment assistance for moderate-income buyers purchasing within county limits. This is particularly valuable given the high home prices in Gaithersburg, Rockville, Silver Spring, and Bethesda. Dan Freshley works directly with this program and can help determine your eligibility.

4. Flex Programs (MMP Flex 3% and Flex 5%)

The MMP Flex programs provide down payment and/or closing cost assistance equal to 3% or 5% of the loan amount as a zero-percent, deferred loan. This means no monthly payments on the assistance — it's only repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the mortgage.

5. VA Loans — Zero Down for Veterans

For eligible veterans and active-duty military, VA loans require zero down payment — no assistance program needed. This is the most powerful homebuying benefit available and Dan Freshley specializes in VA loans throughout Maryland, DC, and Virginia.

6. USDA Rural Development Loans

For buyers purchasing in eligible rural areas of Maryland — including parts of Frederick County, Carroll County, and Western Maryland — USDA loans offer 100% financing with no down payment required. Income limits apply.

Do I Qualify for Down Payment Assistance in Maryland?

Eligibility varies by program but generally depends on: household income (compared to area median income), purchase price of the home, credit score (typically 620+), and whether you're a first-time homebuyer. You don't always need to be a first-time buyer — some programs are available to repeat buyers in targeted areas.

Find Out What You Qualify For — Call Dan Freshley Today

Dan Freshley has helped hundreds of Maryland buyers access down payment assistance they didn't even know they qualified for — including Lindsay's buyer who received multiple grants in a single transaction. Don't leave money on the table. Call (301) 332-9432 or visit danfreshley.com to get started. Use our free mortgage calculator at danfreshley.com/mortgage-calculator to estimate your payment with assistance factored in. Dan Freshley Home Loans, 18310 Montgomery Village Avenue, Suite 300, Gaithersburg MD 20879. NMLS #196245.