Purchase · Down Payment Assistance
Down payment assistance: up to $30,000 toward your home
The down payment is the biggest hurdle for most buyers. Assistance programs can cover a large part of it — often with no monthly payment — so you can buy sooner.
Overview
What is down payment assistance?
Down payment assistance (DPA) is a second loan or grant that helps cover your down payment and closing costs. It pairs with a primary mortgage — like an FHA or MassHousing loan — so you bring far less cash to the table. Many programs are aimed at first-time and income-eligible buyers, and several offer deferred repayment, meaning you don't make monthly payments on the assistance.
Up to $30,000
Cover a meaningful share of your down payment and closing costs.
Deferred repayment
Many programs require no monthly payment — repay later when you sell or refinance.
Stacks with your loan
Pairs with FHA and MassHousing first mortgages for maximum help.
Buy sooner
Less cash up front means you don't have to wait years to save.
Eligibility
Do you qualify?
Each program has its own rules, but most share these common requirements.
Borrower requirements
- Often first-time buyers (generally, you haven't owned a home in the last three years)
- Income within program limits, which vary by program and location
- Homebuyer education course completion is commonly required
- Qualify for the first mortgage the assistance pairs with
How it works
- Primary residence — the assistance is for the home you'll live in
- Applied at closing toward down payment and closing costs
- Deferred or low-interest repayment depending on the program
- Repaid on sale, refinance, or payoff for most deferred programs
Program Details
The numbers at a glance
Assistance amounts, income limits, and repayment terms vary by program and can change. Your credit and down-payment requirements generally follow the first mortgage you pair with. A loan officer can match you with the program that gives you the most help for your situation.
FAQ
Common questions
Do I have to pay the assistance back?
It depends on the program. Many offer deferred repayment, meaning there's no monthly payment and you repay the assistance when you sell, refinance, or pay off the home. Some programs are forgivable over time. We'll explain the terms before you commit.
Can I combine it with an FHA or MassHousing loan?
Yes — that's the most common setup. Down payment assistance is designed to stack on top of a first mortgage like an FHA or MassHousing loan, lowering the cash you need at closing.
Do I need to be a first-time buyer?
Many programs are aimed at first-time buyers (typically defined as not having owned a home in the past three years), but not all. Some programs serve repeat buyers in targeted areas or under certain income limits.
How much can I actually get?
Assistance can run up to $30,000 depending on the program, your income, and the home's price. A quick conversation with a loan officer is the fastest way to find the maximum you're eligible for.
Get Started
Find your down payment assistance
Tell us a little about yourself and a loan officer will reach out — usually the same day.