First-Time Homebuyer Programs in District of Columbia (2026)

District of Columbia First-Time Buyer Programs at a Glance

2 state-administered programs currently available

Down Payment Scenarios at District of Columbia's Median Price

Based on $601,400 median home price

FHA vs. Conventional Payment Calculator

Pre-loaded with District of Columbia's median price of $601,400 and current rate of 6.4%

District of Columbia Conforming Loan Limits (2026)

Loans above these limits require jumbo financing with stricter credit and reserve requirements

Source: FHFA Conforming Loan Limit Values

How Much Home Can You Afford in District of Columbia?

Most programs require a debt-to-income ratio under 45%. Enter your income to see what you qualify for at 6.4%.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) in District of Columbia

Required on conventional loans with less than 20% down — typically 0.5%–1.5% of the loan per year until you reach 20% equity

How to Apply for District of Columbia First-Time Buyer Programs

1. 1

   Check your credit and DTI

   Most District of Columbia programs require a minimum 620 credit score and DTI under 45%. Pull your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and calculate your debt-to-income ratio before shopping lenders.

2. 2

   Find an approved lender

   District of Columbia's state programs are only available through lenders approved by DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA). Visit the program website for the lender directory — not all mortgage lenders participate.

3. 3

   Complete homebuyer education

   Many District of Columbia programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing. These take 6-8 hours and can be completed online for $25-$75. Complete this early to avoid closing delays.

4. 4

   Get pre-approved

   Pre-approval locks in your rate and confirms program eligibility. For District of Columbia programs, bring 2 years of tax returns, 2 months of bank statements, recent pay stubs, and photo ID. The lender handles the state program paperwork.

5. 5

   Apply for down payment assistance (if using DPA)

   Apply for the DC Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) at the same time as your mortgage — they must be coordinated. The DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) processes DPA separately from the primary lender. Deferred — due on sale, refinance, or when property is no longer primary residence; 0% interest for first 5 years then simple interest thereafter.

6. 6

   Close and record

   At closing, your DPA funds are applied directly to your down payment and closing costs. Budget 45-60 days from application to keys. Closings in District of Columbia do not require an attorney.

FHA Loan Payment Calculator — District of Columbia

Pre-loaded with District of Columbia median price and current rate at 3.5% FHA minimum down.

Down Payment Savings Calculator

How long to save for a District of Columbia home at $601,400

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer in District of Columbia?

Most District of Columbia programs define first-time buyers as those who have not owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. Must not have owned a primary residence in the past 3 years; minimum 640 credit score. This means you can qualify even if you previously owned a home.

What is the minimum down payment for first-time buyers in District of Columbia?

District of Columbia's state mortgage programs allow down payments as low as 3% — that's $18,042 on a $601,400 home. FHA loans also allow 3.5% down ($21,049). Conventional loans with PMI typically start at 3-5%.

How much down payment assistance is available in District of Columbia?

District of Columbia's DC Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) offers up to $202,000 in down payment assistance. Repayment terms: Deferred — due on sale, refinance, or when property is no longer primary residence; 0% interest for first 5 years then simple interest thereafter. Income limits apply: Up to 110% of area median income; approximately $130,000–$165,000.

Can I use District of Columbia programs with an FHA loan?

Many District of Columbia first-time buyer programs are compatible with FHA loans. FHA allows 3.5% down with credit scores as low as 580, making them attractive for buyers with limited savings. At the current District of Columbia median price of $601,400, FHA's 3.5% down is $21,049. Confirm compatibility with your specific state program administrator.

What credit score do I need for District of Columbia first-time buyer programs?

Most state mortgage programs require a minimum credit score of 620–640. FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 for 3.5% down, or 500–579 for 10% down. Higher credit scores (680+) typically unlock the best rates under District of Columbia's program. Your DTI ratio (total monthly debt ÷ gross income) generally must be below 45-50%.

How long does the District of Columbia homebuyer program process take?

State-backed programs add 2-4 weeks to a standard 30-day closing because they require income verification and approval from the state agency, not just the lender. Plan for 45-60 days from application to close. Working with a lender approved by DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) speeds this process significantly.

Are District of Columbia first-time buyer programs available statewide?

Available through DCHFA-approved lenders; homebuyer education required Income and purchase price limits vary by county, so buyers in high-cost areas may face tighter eligibility. Some programs may have waitlists — apply early.