Down Payment Assistance Programs in Massachusetts (2026 Guide)

# Down Payment Assistance Programs in Massachusetts (2026 Guide) Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for first-time home buyers. Fortunately, Massachusetts offers 3 assistance programs that can help you achieve homeownership sooner than you thought possible. ## Massachusetts Housing Agency All state DPA programs are administered by Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency (MassHousing). **Contact Information:** - Website: [https://www.masshousing.com](https://www.masshousing.com) - Phone: 617-854-1000 ## Available Programs Massachusetts offers 3 major down payment assistance programs: ### MassHousing Down Payment Assistance | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to $50,000 | | Program Type | Second Mortgage | | Description | 0% interest, deferred loan. Higher amounts in high-cost areas. | ### ONE Mortgage Program | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to $30,000 | | Program Type | Second Mortgage | | Description | Combined first and second mortgage with competitive rates. | ### Operation Welcome Home | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to $50,000 for veterans | | Program Type | Forgivable Loan | | Description | For veterans and active military. Forgivable over time. | ## How to Apply ### Step 1: Check Your Eligibility Most programs require: - First-time homebuyer status (no home ownership in past 3 years) - Income at or below program limits - Minimum credit score (usually 620-640) - Home price within program limits ### Step 2: Complete Homebuyer Education All MassHousing programs require completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. This prepares you for the responsibilities of homeownership. ### Step 3: Work with an Approved Lender MassHousing maintains a list of approved lenders trained in their programs. These lenders can help you combine DPA with your mortgage. ### Step 4: Find Your Home Once pre-approved, work with a real estate agent to find a home within program price limits. ## Combining with Your Mortgage Down payment assistance can be layered with various loan types: | Loan Type | Min Down | With MassHousing DPA | |-----------|----------|--------------------------| | FHA | 3.5% | DPA covers most or all | | Conventional | 3-5% | DPA covers most or all | | VA | 0% | DPA for closing costs | | USDA | 0% | DPA for closing costs | ## Real Cost Savings With Massachusetts's median home price of $635,252: | Scenario | Down Payment Needed | With Max DPA | |----------|--------------------|--------------| | FHA (3.5%) | $22,234 | Potentially $0 | | Conventional (5%) | $31,763 | Significantly reduced | | Conventional (20%) | $127,050 | Reduced by DPA amount | ## Conclusion Don't let down payment concerns keep you from homeownership. Massachusetts's DPA programs have helped thousands of first-time buyers achieve their dream. Contact MassHousing today to learn which programs you qualify for. Use our [Massachusetts Mortgage Calculator](/mortgage-calculator/massachusetts) to see how DPA affects your monthly payment. --- *Source: Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency. Program details subject to change. Contact MassHousing for current requirements.*