First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance) (MA): Amount, Requirements & How to Apply

First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance)

Quick answer

First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance) is a Massachusetts down payment assistance program from City of Boston Mayor's Office of Housing - Boston Home Center. It provides 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) as a grant (no repayment). It is aimed at first-time buyers. Eligibility, income limits and funding are set by the agency, so confirm current terms on its official page.

Eligibility notes

Grant for Boston residents; 0% interest deferred loan for non-Boston residents (secured by mortgage effective Sept 15, 2026); no ownership in past 3 years; household assets under $100,000; deed-restricted properties up to 2%; page updated 10/16/26.

Where does First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance) apply?

This city-level program is available to buyers in Boston. Cities on our site where it applies:

Down payment assistance in Boston

Detail	Program terms
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)
Type	Grant (no repayment)
Minimum credit	Not published on the program page
First-time buyer	Required
Income limits	Less than 135% AMI

How does First-Time Homebuyer Program (Boston Home Center Financial Assistance) work with an FHA loan?

Massachusetts's 2026 FHA one-unit limits start at $541,287, which supports a price of about $560,000 with 3.5% down.

Where do I confirm current terms?

On the official page: https://boston.gov/first-time-homebuyer-program. Programs can pause when funds run out, so confirm availability with a participating lender.

← All Massachusetts down payment assistance programs

Frequently asked questions

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), according to City of Boston Mayor's Office of Housing - Boston Home Center.

No — it's a grant.

Less than 135% AMI

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.