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First-Time Buyer loans in Maryland

Quick answer

First-time buyers in Maryland can use FHA (3.5% down), conventional 97 (3% down), VA or USDA loans, plus programs from Maryland Mortgage Program (DHCD). On a $397,700 home, 3% down is about $11,931.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

First-Time Buyer loan snapshot for Maryland

ItemEstimate
Minimum down payment0%–3.5%
Minimum credit score580–620
Typical MD home value$397,700
3.5% down on typical home$13,920
20% down on typical home$79,540
Avg. effective property tax1.00%/yr (~$332/mo)
Income for typical home (31% rule)$126,000

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

Which Maryland programs pair with First-Time Buyer loans?

  • 1st Time Advantage: Fixed-rate loans for first-time buyers with down payment assistance options.
  • Partner Match: Matching assistance funds from participating employers, counties and builders.

Details and current limits: Maryland Mortgage Program (DHCD).

Compare first-time buyer loan options

LoanMin. downMin. creditMortgage insurance
FHA3.5%5801.75% upfront + annual MIP
Conventional 97 / HomeReady / Home Possible3%620PMI, removable
VA0%Lender-set (~580–620)None (funding fee)
USDA0%~6401% 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 Maryland cities

First-Time Buyer in BaltimoreFirst-Time Buyer in ColumbiaFirst-Time Buyer in GermantownFirst-Time Buyer in WaldorfFirst-Time Buyer in Silver SpringFirst-Time Buyer in FrederickFirst-Time Buyer in Ellicott CityFirst-Time Buyer in Glen BurnieFirst-Time Buyer in GaithersburgFirst-Time Buyer in BethesdaFirst-Time Buyer in RockvilleFirst-Time Buyer in DundalkFirst-Time Buyer in SevernFirst-Time Buyer in BowieFirst-Time Buyer in Bel Air SouthFirst-Time Buyer in TowsonFirst-Time Buyer in Aspen HillFirst-Time Buyer in WheatonFirst-Time Buyer in North BethesdaFirst-Time Buyer in PotomacFirst-Time Buyer in OdentonFirst-Time Buyer in HagerstownFirst-Time Buyer in CatonsvilleFirst-Time Buyer in AnnapolisFirst-Time Buyer in EssexFirst-Time Buyer in WoodlawnFirst-Time Buyer in Severna ParkFirst-Time Buyer in ClintonFirst-Time Buyer in OlneyFirst-Time Buyer in RandallstownFirst-Time Buyer in Owings MillsFirst-Time Buyer in ChillumFirst-Time Buyer in College ParkFirst-Time Buyer in PikesvilleFirst-Time Buyer in Montgomery VillageFirst-Time Buyer in SalisburyFirst-Time Buyer in PasadenaFirst-Time Buyer in Milford MillFirst-Time Buyer in Middle RiverFirst-Time Buyer in Bel Air NorthFirst-Time Buyer in EldersburgFirst-Time Buyer in ParkvilleFirst-Time Buyer in CroftonFirst-Time Buyer in LaurelFirst-Time Buyer in ClarksburgFirst-Time Buyer in Perry HallFirst-Time Buyer in CarneyFirst-Time Buyer in ReisterstownFirst-Time Buyer in South LaurelFirst-Time Buyer in LochearnFirst-Time Buyer in IlchesterFirst-Time Buyer in ElkridgeFirst-Time Buyer in FairlandFirst-Time Buyer in Ballenger CreekFirst-Time Buyer in Fort WashingtonFirst-Time Buyer in North LaurelFirst-Time Buyer in EdgewoodFirst-Time Buyer in SuitlandFirst-Time Buyer in GreenbeltFirst-Time Buyer in Landover

Frequently asked questions

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

Often yes. Maryland Mortgage Program (DHCD) 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 Maryland.

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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.