Down payment assistance

Down payment assistance in Massachusetts

1 program can help buyers in Massachusetts with a down payment and closing costs. Most are for first-time buyers with moderate incomes and are used with a participating lender.

Check which programs fit your situationDown payment assistance finder

MassHousing down payment assistance

Open · Deferred or low-interest loan

Up to $30,000: $30,000 at 0% deferred for lower incomes, or $25,000 at 2% or 3% for higher incomes up to 135% of area median

A second mortgage for down payment and closing costs with a MassHousing mortgage, in every Massachusetts city and town. The $30,000 option has no payments until you sell, refinance or pay off the first mortgage; the $25,000 options are repaid over time.

Who qualifies: First-time homebuyers with income up to 135% of area median; a MassHousing first mortgage through an approved lender.

MassHousing · Agency website → · Checked 2026-09-30

How assistance usually works

Most programs are a second loan with no monthly payment that is forgiven over time or repaid when you sell or refinance, and some are grants. You usually need a program first mortgage from a participating lender, a homebuyer education course and income under the program’s limit. Apply before you make offers, so your pre-approval reflects the help.

More for Massachusetts

Massachusetts closing costs Massachusetts property taxes Where can I afford to buy in Massachusetts?Down payment timeline

Programs change often; confirm the details with the agency.