Maryland Down Payment Assistance + FHA Loan
An FHA loan needs 3.5% down. The Maryland Mortgage Program can cover it, and more, with a down payment amount you choose. Here is how the two fit together.
Why FHA pairs with the Maryland Mortgage Program
FHA is a common first-time-buyer loan because it allows a 3.5% down payment and is flexible on credit. The Maryland Mortgage Program pairs with it, and because you choose your DPA amount, you can cover FHA’s 3.5% down payment with a 4% or 5% option and still have help left for closing costs, or take the flat $6,000 if that fits. Every option is a zero-percent deferred second, and a 640 credit score qualifies. Repeat buyers use the Flex line.
How it stacks
Two loans work together. The FHA first mortgage is your primary loan, with its usual mortgage insurance. The Maryland Mortgage Program DPA sits on top as a zero-percent deferred second, funding the down payment and closing costs with no monthly payment. You repay it only when you sell, refinance, transfer, or pay off the first. If you also have approved outside down payment help, Partner Match can layer it on. The FHA loan behaves like any FHA loan.
Who this fits
The FHA pairing fits many Maryland buyers, and the DPA menu lets you size the help to your purchase. Repeat buyers should use the Flex line. Veterans should compare the VA pairing, which needs no down payment and lets the DPA cover closing costs. And if you have outside help, ask about Partner Match.
Program facts verified August 2026 against Maryland Mortgage Program and HUD FHA guidance. This is not a commitment to lend. Related: DPA + VA · Eligibility.
Common questions
Can Maryland down payment assistance cover an FHA down payment?
Yes. FHA requires a 3.5% minimum down payment, and your chosen Maryland Mortgage Program DPA (3%, 4%, or 5% of the loan, or a flat $6,000) can cover it plus closing costs. The DPA is a 0% deferred second with no monthly payment.
What credit score do I need for an FHA loan with the Maryland Mortgage Program?
A 640 minimum credit score. The DPA pairs with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional first mortgages, and repeat buyers qualify through the Flex line.
Do I make a payment on the Maryland DPA with an FHA loan?
No monthly payment. The Maryland Mortgage Program DPA is a 0% deferred second, repaid when you sell, refinance, transfer, or pay off the FHA first mortgage.
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