Down Payment Assistance

You may qualify for thousands in help — even if you've heard "no" before.

Virginia and Maryland run generous state programs that can cover down payment, closing costs, or both. We'll help you see what you may qualify for and stack it with the right loan.

Match Me With Programs Talk to an Advisor

Virginia

Virginia Housing programs

DPA Grant

Down Payment Assistance Grant

A percentage of the purchase price to help with down payment. Funds do not need to be repaid.

Best for: Eligible income and credit buyers purchasing a primary residence.

Closing Costs

Closing Cost Assistance Grant

A grant that reduces out-of-pocket closing costs for eligible Virginia buyers.

Best for: Buyers with limited cash for closing.

2nd Mortgage

Plus Second Mortgage

A secondary mortgage layered onto a Virginia Housing first loan to cover down payment and closing.

Best for: Buyers who want low money down and qualify for a Virginia Housing first loan.

MCC

Mortgage Credit Certificate

A federal tax credit for a portion of your annual mortgage interest — real savings every April.

Best for: Income-eligible first-time buyers who will itemize or benefit from the credit.

Maryland

Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) options

1st Time Advantage

MMP's flagship program — competitive rates with optional DPA as a 0% deferred loan.

Best for: First-time buyers meeting income and purchase price limits.

Flex

For repeat buyers or buyers in targeted areas — flexibility beyond 1st Time Advantage.

Best for: Repeat buyers, targeted-area purchases.

SmartBuy 3.0

Helps pay off eligible student loan debt at closing when you buy a home in Maryland.

Best for: Buyers carrying $1,000+ of eligible student loan debt.

Partner Match

Matches employer or community partner DPA to multiply your assistance power.

Best for: Buyers whose employers or unions offer housing benefits.

Program availability and guidelines change. Income limits, purchase price limits, occupancy requirements, and funding availability vary by program and change periodically. A TMES advisor will confirm current guidelines before you apply. Not a commitment to lend.

How it works

Stacking a first loan with DPA

In almost every case, your down payment assistance pairs with a primary mortgage — often FHA, Conventional, VA, or a state housing first loan. Here's how we approach it:

Run the DPA Matcher to see programs you may qualify for.
Model the first mortgage (FHA 3.5%, Conventional 3%, etc.) with and without DPA.
Compare total cash to close and monthly payment across options.
Apply with TMES — we handle the coordination with Virginia Housing or MMP.

What the Matcher checks

Household income vs. state program limits
First-time buyer status & residency
Target county & home price range
Student loan status (for MD SmartBuy)
Veteran / military connection
Education & counseling requirements

Start the DPA Matcher

Your info is never sold. A TMES advisor follows up within one business day.

Next Step

Find out what you qualify for

Match Me With Programs Talk to an Advisor

No credit pull on any tool. NMLS ID# 205178. Equal Housing Opportunity.