Direct Homeownership Assistance Program

At a Glance

$5,000 down payment and closing cost assistance

Who's Eligible?

Baltimore City homebuyers who are CDBG Homeownership Assistance Program recipients.

To Get Started

Complete homeownership counseling and a program application

The Direct Homeownership Assistance Program provides down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers who (a) purchase the house they have rented and occupied for at least six months, or (b) have a household member with a disability.

PROGRAM BENEFIT

This program reduces the amount of money you’ll need up-front to buy your home. This program can only be used in conjunction with the First-Time Homebuyers Incentive Program.

ELIGIBILITY & LIMITATIONS

  • You must earn a homeownership counseling certificate before making an offer on your home.
  • You must live in this home as your primary residence.
  • You must contribute at least $1,000 of your own money to your home purchase.
  • Your mortgage amount cannot exceed the current FHA mortgage limit of $667,000 for a single-family home.
  • You must apply and be approved prior to closing on your home. Program funds are not retroactive.
  • Household income cannot exceed 80% AMI
  • First-time homebuyers only
  • Requires a “Housing Quality Standard” (HQS) inspection
  • Fixed-rate mortgages only. Co-signers, cash sales, and owner-financing are not permitted.

PROGRAM CONTACT

Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development, Office of Homeownership
Brenda Winston
(443) 984-2264
Email
Website

We're here to help.

Have more questions about this or other Baltimore City homeownership incentives? We're here to help! Send us an email or give us a call at (410) 637-3750. A Live Baltimore team member can walk you through your options.
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