Maryland homebuyers can access up to $25,000 in down payment assistance through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). On the state's $434,230 median home price, that covers roughly 29% of a standard 20% down payment. Maryland has 3 state DPA programs total.
Primary Program: Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) DPA
maximum assistance
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
- Administering Agency
- Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
- Income Limit
- 80% of Area Median Income
- Purchase Price Cap
- $726,200
Additional Maryland DPA Programs
Baltimore City DPA
Deferred Loan$10,000
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Apply / Learn MorePartner Match Program
Grant$2,500
True grant — no repayment ever. This money does not need to be paid back under any circumstances.
Apply / Learn MoreHow Down Payment Assistance Works
Most state DPA programs are layered on top of a first mortgage — you apply through an approved lender who originates both the primary loan and the DPA second lien at the same closing. The DPA funds reduce the cash you need upfront.
Grants
Free money — no repayment ever. Typically the smallest amounts but highest value.
Forgivable Loans
Balance forgiven after a set period (usually 3–15 years) if you stay in the home. Selling early triggers repayment.
Deferred Loans
No monthly payments. Balance due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Down Payment Calculator
Down Payment Planner
Maryland median pre-loaded
Your Savings Plan
Timeline
14.5 yrs
saving $500/mo
No PMI at 20% down
20% or more avoids private mortgage insurance entirely.
Estimate only — does not include investment returns on savings.
Full Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
What down payment assistance is available in Maryland?
Maryland's primary DPA program is the Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) DPA, administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). It provides up to $25,000 as a deferred loan. 0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. Additional programs include Baltimore City DPA and Partner Match Program.
How much down payment do I need in Maryland after using DPA?
On a $434,230 home (Maryland median), a 20% down payment is $86,846. With the Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) DPA covering $25,000, your remaining gap would be $61,846. Many buyers combine DPA with a 3–5% conventional or FHA loan to reduce their cash needed further.
Do I have to repay Maryland down payment assistance?
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Can I combine Maryland DPA with other assistance programs?
Yes — Maryland's DPA programs can generally be combined ("stacked") with local city and county assistance programs, employer homebuyer benefits, and federal programs. Check with an approved lender or HUD-approved counselor to identify all programs you qualify for.
What are the income limits for Maryland down payment assistance?
The Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) DPA requires income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. AMI limits vary by location and household size. Your lender or the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) can confirm the exact limit for your area.
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