Direct Homeownership Assistance Program

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 from a City-approved counseling agency before making an offer on your home. This certificate is awarded only after you complete a homeownership workshop AND a counseling session. *Homeownership certificates are valid for 12 months from the date of completion.
• 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 $731,400 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