First-Time Buyer Loans in District of Columbia (2026): Requirements & Lenders

First-Time Buyer loans in District of Columbia

Quick answer

First-time buyers in District of Columbia can use FHA (3.5% down), conventional 97 (3% down), VA or USDA loans, plus programs from DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA). On a $724,600 home, 3% down is about $21,738.

First-Time Buyer loan snapshot for District of Columbia

Item	Estimate
Minimum down payment	0%–3.5%
Minimum credit score	580–620
Typical DC home value	$724,600
3.5% down on typical home	$25,361
20% down on typical home	$144,920
Avg. effective property tax	0.58%/yr (~$348/mo)
Income for typical home (31% rule)	$220,000

Rate assumption: 7.18% (Freddie Mac PMMS 30-year fixed average, week of November 5, 2026). Change it in the payment calculator.

Which District of Columbia programs pair with First-Time Buyer loans?

DC Open Doors: Competitive-rate loans with optional down payment assistance for buyers within income limits; first-time status not required.
Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP): Interest-free deferred loans from DC's Department of Housing and Community Development for eligible first-time buyers.

Details and current limits: DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA).

Compare first-time buyer loan options

Loan	Min. down	Min. credit	Mortgage insurance
FHA	3.5%	580	1.75% upfront + annual MIP
Conventional 97 / HomeReady / Home Possible	3%	620	PMI, removable
VA	0%	Lender-set (~580–620)	None (funding fee)
USDA	0%	~640	1% upfront + 0.35% annual

Who counts as a first-time home buyer?

Under HUD and most agency definitions, you're a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a principal residence in the last three years. Single parents and displaced homemakers who only owned with a former spouse may also qualify.

First-Time Buyer loans in District of Columbia cities

First-Time Buyer in Washington

Frequently asked questions

Yes. First-Time Buyer loans are available statewide in District of Columbia through approved lenders, subject to county loan limits where they apply.

Often yes. DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) and local programs frequently pair assistance with FHA, conventional, VA or USDA first mortgages. Eligibility depends on income, price and program rules.

Answer a few questions on Purchase Mortgage Loan and we'll match you with lenders and loan officers in our network who serve District of Columbia.

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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.