The Best First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Maryland for 2025

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Buying your first home feels like a dream, but the upfront cost is a real hurdle. Discover how Maryland's programs can give you the keys to your future.

The Biggest Hurdle? Upfront Costs.

The down payment and closing costs are often the main barrier for first-time buyers. These programs are designed to solve that exact problem.

Typical split of initial home buying expenses.

Maryland's Helping Hand: The Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP)

The MMP is your central resource, offering a suite of powerful tools through approved lenders to make homeownership affordable. Let's see how they can help you.

Down Payment Assistance

MMP can provide a loan of up to 5% of your home's price to cover your down payment and closing costs. On a $350,000 home, that's $17,500 in your pocket on day one!

Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC)

The HomeCredit program gives you a special tax credit of up to $2,000 every single year. This chart shows how those savings can add up significantly over a decade.

Comparing Your Options

Each program offers unique benefits. The "1st Time Advantage" loan focuses on a great interest rate, while others provide direct financial help. This shows how they stack up.

Do You Qualify?

While rules vary, here are the common requirements for MMP programs.

  • First-Time Home Buyer

    You haven't owned a home in the last three years.

  • Meet Income Limits

    Based on your household size and the county you're buying in.

  • Minimum Credit Score

    Most lenders require a score of at least 640.

  • Homebuyer Education

    A simple, required course about the buying process.

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It Must Be Your Primary Home

These programs are designed to help you buy a home to live in, not for investment or rental properties.

Your 3-Step Path to a New Home

1. Find an MMP-Approved Lender
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Loan
3. Apply for the Best Program

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Connect with us to refer you to our approved MMP lenders and see which programs you qualify for!

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