MassHousing Down Payment Assistance
How much assistance
Up to $30,000 (below 60% AMI at 0% deferred); up to $25,000 (60-80% AMI at 2%); up to $25,000 (80-135% AMI at 3%) (Deferred Loan)
The 0% tier is deferred with no monthly payments — repayment is due when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. The 2% and 3% tiers are fully amortizing second mortgages.
Eligibility
- Income limits: Below 60% AMI for top tier; up to 80% AMI for mid tier; up to 135% AMI in Boston and Gateway Cities, up to 100% AMI elsewhere
- First-time buyer required: Yes — Must not have owned a home in the past 3 years.
- Geographic restrictions: Available statewide in all Massachusetts cities and towns. Purchase price limit is approximately $838,717 in most areas, higher in Boston/Cambridge.
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
How to Apply for MassHousing Down Payment Assistance
Step 1: Complete a homebuyer education course, then work with a MassHousing-approved lender to apply for a MassHousing first mortgage paired with DPA. You must have a signed purchase and sale agreement before applying.
Notes
MassHousing DPA must be paired with a MassHousing first mortgage loan. The MI Plus benefit provides up to 6 months of mortgage payment assistance if the borrower loses their job. Purchase price limit is approximately $838,717 in most areas.