Every state has down payment or homeownership assistance programs; some states have both. The programs are designed to provide affordable housing opportunities to homebuyers who might not ordinarily be able to afford a house.
Each program can have their own income and eligibility requirements but primarily the programs are available for first-time homebuyers or low-income families.
Keep in mind if you had no ownership in a principal residence in the previous 3 years, you are also considered a first-time homebuyer even if you owned a home prior to that 3-year period.
The programs are not usually administered directly through the State. Instead, they are nonprofit based and handled through a third party agency. The list below will start you on your search but be sure to confirm the program is currently available.
(Source: HUD.gov)
Statewide and Regional Programs
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – homebuyer programs, including downpayment and closing cost assistance
Community contacts – find out if your community offers homeownership assistance
Maryland Affiliates of Habitat for Humanity – through volunteer labor, builds and rehabilitates houses for families in need
Programs by City/Town
City of Baltimore
Department of Housing and Community Development
Live Baltimore
St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center
Eastern Shore
Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Service, Inc.
Western Maryland
Interfaith Housing Alliance, Inc.
Cities
Frederick – Hagerstown
Howard County
Montgomery County
Prince George’s County