How much down payment do I need to buy a house in Maryland?

You can buy a home in Maryland with as little as 0% down (VA/USDA), 3% down ($12,150 conventional), or 3.5% down ($14,175 FHA) on the median-priced home of $405,000.

What income do I need to buy a home in Maryland?

To afford the median-priced home in Maryland ($405,000) with a 30-year mortgage at 6.2%, you typically need a household income of approximately $100,423 per year (using the 28% rule). The median income in Maryland is $90,203.

What is the FHA loan limit in Maryland for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in Maryland for 2026 is $726,200. This means first-time buyers using FHA loans can finance up to this amount with just 3.5% down payment.

First-Time Home Buyer Maryland 2026

Q: What first-time home buyer programs are available in Maryland?

Maryland offers 2 major first-time buyer programs including Maryland SmartBuy 3.0, Maryland Mortgage Program. These programs provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates to help with down payment and closing costs.

Your complete guide to buying your first home in Maryland. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 6%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price

$405,000

Min Down (FHA)

$14,175

DPA Programs

Best Rate

Check My Maryland Eligibility

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Maryland?

Maryland offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include Maryland SmartBuy 3.0, Maryland Mortgage Program. Programs provide up to $30,000 student loans in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Maryland?

You can buy a home in Maryland with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$14,175), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$12,150) on the median price of $405,000.

Loan Type	Down Payment	$ Amount	Monthly P&I	Min Credit
VA Loan	0%	$0	$2,415	620
USDA Loan	0%	$0	$2,480	640
Conventional 3%	3%	$12,150	$2,406	620
FHA Loan	3.5%	$14,175	$2,343	580
Conventional 20%	20%	$81,000	$1,984	620

Maryland Down Payment Assistance Programs

Maryland SmartBuy 3.0

Student loan payoff + home purchase combo

Up to $30,000 student loansforgivable

Maryland Mortgage Program

Below-market rates with DPA

Up to $5,000deferred

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Maryland

To buy your first home in Maryland, start by checking your credit score, getting pre-approved, and researching DPA programs. The entire process typically takes 30-60 days from pre-approval to closing. Here's your step-by-step roadmap.

Check Your Credit & Finances

Review your credit score (aim for 620+), calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and save for closing costs. In Maryland, you may need as little as $14,175 for an FHA down payment.

Get Pre-Approved

Compare rates from at least 3 lenders. Current Maryland rates: 6.2% (30-year), 6% (FHA). Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and locks your rate.

Apply for Maryland DPA Programs

Maryland has 2+ DPA programs. The Maryland SmartBuy 3.0 offers up to $30,000 student loans. Apply early—funding can be limited.

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Maryland: Baltimore, Columbia, Germantown, Silver Spring, Waldorf. Median price is $405,000 (+5.9% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Maryland typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($12,150-$20,250). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Maryland Home Buying Journey

Get pre-approved in minutes and see what you qualify for.

Get Pre-Approved Now

Maryland First-Time Buyer FAQ

What first-time home buyer programs are available in Maryland?

Maryland offers 2 major programs: Maryland SmartBuy 3.0, Maryland Mortgage Program. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.