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Massachusetts down payment assistance programs

Quick answer

Massachusetts buyers can get down payment help from City of Boston Mayor's Office of Housing - Boston Home Center. We verified 3 statewide programs, including First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance) (Up to 3% of purchase price plus eligible closing costs, capped at $50,000 (under 100% AMI); up to 2%, capped at $35,000 (101-135% AMI)). Most programs require using the agency's first mortgage, meeting income limits and completing homebuyer education. Details below come from the official agency site.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsPrograms last verified

What down payment assistance does Massachusetts offer?

ProgramAmountTypeMin. creditFirst-time only?
First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance)Up to 3% of purchase price plus eligible closing costs, capped at $50,000 (under 100% AMI); up to 2%, capped at $35,000 (101-135% AMI)Grant (no repayment)Not statedYes
MassHousing Down Payment Assistance (Option 1)Up to $30,000Deferred-payment loanNot statedYes
MassHousing Down Payment Assistance (Option 2)Up to $25,000 at a fixed 2% rate over 15 yearsRepayable second mortgageNot statedYes

How do I apply for Massachusetts down payment assistance?

  1. Find a participating lender approved by City of Boston Mayor's Office of Housing - Boston Home Center.
  2. Get pre-approved for the agency's first mortgage and confirm you meet income and price limits.
  3. Complete the required homebuyer education course.
  4. Your lender reserves the assistance when you go under contract.

Cities in Massachusetts

BostonWorcesterSpringfieldCambridgeLowellBrocktonQuincyLynnNew BedfordFall River

Other states with verified programs

AlabamaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict Of ColumbiaFloridaIdahoIllinois

Frequently asked questions

First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance): Up to 3% of purchase price plus eligible closing costs, capped at $50,000 (under 100% AMI); up to 2%, capped at $35,000 (101-135% AMI); MassHousing Down Payment Assistance (Option 1): Up to $30,000; MassHousing Down Payment Assistance (Option 2): Up to $25,000 at a fixed 2% rate over 15 years.

Most verified programs here target first-time buyers or have eligibility exceptions; check each program's official page.

The agency sets credit requirements with its participating lenders; most require at least a 620–640 score.

Sources

Data last updated October 25, 2026.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.