93 Massachusetts First-Time Home Buyer Grants & Programs (2026)

Saving enough cash for a down payment and closing costs while keeping up with Massachusetts home prices and rent is the hardest part of buying a first home.

This guide covers all 93 verified Massachusetts first-time home buyer grants and programs—including statewide mortgages, down payment assistance, federal loans, deed-restricted lotteries, and local city and town programs—with 2026 rules from official sources.

Check Your Massachusetts Home Purchase Eligibility

You will see how much each program offers, who qualifies, which programs are open, paused, waitlisted, lottery-based, or closed, and how to check your eligibility before you make an offer.

Quick Comparison: All 93 Massachusetts Programs at a Glance

Use the comparison table below to review all 93 verified statewide and local programs in our 2026 Massachusetts directory. Click any program name in the table to jump straight to its full eligibility rules and application details.

Check Your Massachusetts Home Purchase Eligibility

Requirements for Massachusetts First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Each program has its own rulebook, but most statewide and municipal programs in Massachusetts check the same core qualifications before approving funds.

• First-time buyer definition: Most programs define a first-time buyer as someone who has not owned a principal residence in the past three years.
• Homebuyer education: Most programs in this guide require a first-time homebuyer class. Courses certified by CHAPA (Citizens' Housing and Planning Association) are the statewide standard, and multi-family purchases usually also require a landlord class or counseling.
• Credit score minimums: Both MassHousing's paired DPA loans and MHP's ONE Mortgage set a 640 minimum credit score for single-family homes and condos (660 for two- and three-family homes on ONE Mortgage).
• Asset limits: Many programs cap household assets, such as under $100,000 for ONE Mortgage, ONE+, and Boston's First-Time Homebuyer Program.
• Primary residence and occupancy: Every program requires you to live in the home as your primary residence, and local grants or forgivable loans attach residency periods ranging from 3 to 10 years (or an affordable housing covenant on programs like Cambridge HomeBridge).
• Loan and price caps: Some programs cap the loan or price. Boston, for example, requires the first mortgage to stay within Fannie Mae general loan limits; the 2026 FHFA baseline conforming limit for a one-unit home is $832,750, with a high-cost ceiling of $1,249,125.

2026 MassHousing DPA Income Limits by County

MassHousing updates its income limits annually, so buyers should confirm the current figures with a MassHousing-approved lender. According to MassHousing's lender announcement effective for loans locked on or after June 15, 2026, here are the published county income caps for standard DPA (80% AMI and 135% AMI tiers) alongside selected Workforce Advantage ($30,000 deferred) household-size limits:

2026 ONE Mortgage Income Limits (100% AMI, Selected Areas)

ONE Mortgage caps total household income at 100% AMI by community and household size (while the MHP interest subsidy requires income at or below 80% AMI—such as $137,100 for a 4-person household in the Boston area, $105,350 in Worcester, and $104,800 in Springfield). According to MHP's 2026 income limits table (updated May 2026), here are the current published 100% AMI figures for 1- to 8-person households:

Massachusetts Statewide Programs

Statewide programs include MassHousing first mortgages, $25,000 amortizing and $30,000 0% deferred down payment assistance, a $2,500 veteran closing cost credit, and MI Plus job-loss protection, alongside MHP's ONE Mortgage and ONE+ (up to $50,000 in 29 communities). Buyers can also look at FHLBank Boston grants up to $32,099, USDA 502 Direct and Guaranteed rural loans, HUD Good Neighbor Next Door 50% price discounts, CommonWealth Builder, Massachusetts Homeownership Tax Credit Homes, Chapter 40B lotteries, and the paused STASH First-Gen Home grant, while MassDREAMS and MassHousing's temporary 0% expanded offer are closed.

MassHousing Workforce Advantage 4.0 Mortgage with $30,000 Down Payment Assistance

• Sponsor: MassHousing (Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency), through MassHousing-approved lenders
• Amount & Type: Workforce Advantage 4.0 pairs a 30-year fixed first mortgage (conventional Fannie Mae HFA Preferred or Freddie Mac HFA Advantage up to 97% LTV, or FHA WFA 4.0 up to 96.5% LTV, max 105% CLTV) with a required $30,000 MassHousing DPA second mortgage at 0% interest with no monthly payments. The DPA balance is due in full on sale, refinance, or payoff of the first mortgage, and MassHousing will not subordinate it. On the conventional WFA loan, MassHousing pays the single mortgage insurance premium and charges no LLPAs (FHA monthly and upfront MIP still apply on FHA WFA), and MassHousing charges $300 processing, $85 tax service, and $89 hazard insurance tracking fees; eligible veterans and service members can add a $2,500 closing cost credit.
• Who Qualifies: Every borrower must be a first-time homebuyer with no ownership interest in a principal residence in the 3 years before closing. Total household income of all occupants must fall within WFA limits effective June 15, 2026 (for 1 to 4 persons: $72,000 to $102,840 in the Boston and Lynn-Salem areas; $60,060 to $85,800 in the Lowell area; $57,720 to $82,380 in the Haverhill-Lawrence area; $56,580 to $80,820 in the Brockton area; $55,320 to $79,020 in the Worcester area; $55,200 to $78,900 in Springfield/Hampden County; $47,100 to $67,260 in the Fall River-Attleboro area). Borrowers need at least a 640 credit score, a maximum 45% DTI, and homebuyer education from a MassHousing-approved counseling agency (plus landlord counseling for 2- to 4-unit homes).
• Key Rules: For purchase of an owner-occupied 1- to 4-unit home, condo, or PUD as a primary residence for the life of the loan; conventional 1-unit purchases require no borrower contribution, while 2- to 4-unit conventional purchases require a 3% borrower contribution and cap at 95% LTV. Borrowers cannot own other real property at closing, non-occupant co-borrowers or co-signers are not allowed, and the renovation feature is not available on WFA. The loan can be combined with FHLBank Boston Equity Builder and many local programs; check MassHousing's online Eligibility Quick Check and apply through a MassHousing-approved lender.
• Status: Open — Available as of October 28, 2026; WFA was excluded from the July 2026 DPA change. See our MassHousing down payment assistance guide.

MassHousing Down Payment Assistance (15-year amortizing, $25,000)

• Sponsor: MassHousing, through MassHousing-approved lenders
• Amount & Type: Provides a fixed $25,000 second mortgage that fully amortizes over 15 years at 2% interest for buyers up to 80% AMI (180 monthly payments of $160.88) or 3% for buyers above 80% up to 135% AMI (180 monthly payments of $172.62). The balance is due on sale, refinance, or first-mortgage payoff, and MassHousing will not subordinate it. It must be paired with a MassHousing first mortgage (HFA Preferred or HFA Advantage conventional, or FTHB FHA) up to 105% maximum CLTV.
• Who Qualifies: Open to income-eligible first-time homebuyers with no ownership interest in a principal residence in the 3 years before closing. County income limits at 80% AMI / 135% AMI (effective June 15, 2026) are: Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, and Suffolk $124,000 / $209,250; Worcester $101,760 / $171,720; Hampshire $99,520 / $167,940; Barnstable $98,880 / $166,860; Berkshire $94,080 / $158,760; Bristol $90,720 / $153,090; Hampden $77,360 / $130,545; Franklin $105,360 / $177,795; Dukes $130,480 / $220,185; and Nantucket $130,560 / $220,320. Requires a minimum 640 credit score, a maximum 45% DTI on the paired first mortgage, and homebuyer education.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes, condos, or 2-, 3-, or 4-family primary residences (landlord counseling is required for 2 to 4 units), and borrowers cannot own other real property at closing. The lender determines which DPA option and amount a borrower receives, and the loan can be combined with FHLBank Boston Equity Builder and local programs. Buyers apply through a MassHousing-approved lender.
• Status: Open — Reinstated for locks from July 6, 2026 after the 0% expanded offer ended; current as of October 2026. Read our MassHousing down payment assistance guide.

MassHousing Mortgage (HFA Preferred / HFA Advantage and FTHB FHA)

• Sponsor: MassHousing, through MassHousing-approved lenders
• Amount & Type: Provides 30-year fixed-rate first mortgages with up to 97% financing (95% for 2 to 4 units) on conventional Fannie Mae HFA Preferred or Freddie Mac HFA Advantage loans, with charter-level MI up to 80% AMI or standard-level MI above 80% up to 135% AMI, no LLPAs, and no acquisition cost limits; or FTHB FHA loans up to 96.5% LTV for incomes up to 135% AMI. Conventional loans insured by MassHousing include MI Plus job-loss protection and offer a renovation feature. Pairs with MassHousing DPA for first-time buyers.
• Who Qualifies: Conventional HFA products do not require first-time homebuyer status unless paired with DPA, while FTHB FHA is for first-time buyers only. Income limits are 80% AMI or 135% AMI by product and county (for example, $124,000 at 80% AMI and $209,250 at 135% AMI in Suffolk, Middlesex, Norfolk, Essex, and Plymouth counties as of June 15, 2026). Borrowers need at least a 640 credit score, a maximum 45% DTI, and homebuyer education if they are first-time buyers.
• Key Rules: Valid for 1- to 4-unit homes, condos, and PUDs occupied as a primary residence for the life of the loan, subject to conventional loan limits (or the lesser of FHA and conventional limits for FHA). Conventional 1-unit purchases require no borrower contribution (3% for 2 to 4 units), borrowers may not own other real property at closing, and non-occupant co-borrowers are not allowed. MassHousing charges $300 processing, $85 tax service, and $89 hazard insurance tracking fees; apply through a MassHousing-approved lender.
• Status: Open — Offered as of October 28, 2026 under the June 15, 2026 product matrix. See our MassHousing Mortgage guide.

MassHousing $2,500 Closing Cost Credit for Veterans and Service Members

• Sponsor: MassHousing
• Amount & Type: Provides a $2,500 credit toward closing costs on a MassHousing Mortgage, replacing the credit tied to the former Operation Welcome Home loan. MassHousing's June 15, 2026 product matrix lists the credit on WFA 4.0, FHA WFA 4.0, FTHB FHA, and HFA Preferred or HFA Advantage products.
• Who Qualifies: Members of the National Guard or Reserves, active-duty military, veterans, or Gold Star Families who qualify for a MassHousing Mortgage may be eligible. On the conventional HFA Preferred and HFA Advantage products, the matrix specifies eligible first-time homebuyers who are service members or veterans.
• Key Rules: Must be used with a MassHousing Mortgage through a MassHousing-approved lender and can stack with MassHousing DPA. MassHousing does not publish a dedicated page with full eligibility and discharge-status documentation rules, so confirm requirements with a MassHousing-approved lender.
• Status: Open — Listed on MassHousing's programs page and June 15, 2026 product matrix. See our Massachusetts veterans homebuyer benefits guide.

MassHousing Mortgage Insurance with MI Plus

• Sponsor: MassHousing Mortgage Insurance Fund
• Amount & Type: Pays principal and interest up to $4,000 per month for up to six months if the borrower loses their job (up to $2,000 per month for loans approved for mortgage insurance before July 1, 2024). It is included at no additional cost on all loans insured by MassHousing, including conventional MassHousing loans and partner community bank portfolio loans insured through the MassHousing Mortgage Insurance Fund.
• Who Qualifies: Borrowers whose mortgage is insured by MassHousing (conventional MassHousing loans, not FHA) who experience a job loss.
• Key Rules: This is a feature of MassHousing mortgage insurance rather than a separate loan. Borrowers apply for benefits through MassHousing's MI Plus Benefits Application after a job loss; ask a MassHousing-approved lender whether a loan carries MassHousing MI.
• Status: Open — Included at no extra cost on MassHousing-insured loans as of October 2026. Learn more in our MassHousing Mortgage guide.

ONE Mortgage Program

• Sponsor: Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP), through participating banks and credit unions
• Amount & Type: Offers a 30-year fixed-rate portfolio first mortgage with 3% down and no PMI (5% down for a three-family), priced at a 0.3% interest-rate discount with no points, using a public loan loss reserve instead of private mortgage insurance. Buyers at or below 80% AMI purchasing a 1- to 2-family home or condo may also receive a state-funded interest subsidy (buy-down) that lowers early payments and phases out, with a portion of net gains recaptured at sale or refinance to repay the subsidy (exact subsidy dollar amounts are set by the lender and not published). Can be combined with down payment assistance and gifts.
• Who Qualifies: For first-time homebuyers (no home owned in the prior 3 years, with limited exceptions) with household income at or below 100% AMI for the purchase community as updated May 2026 (1-person / 4-person limits: Boston-Cambridge-Somerville-Quincy area $120,000 / $171,400, up to $226,250 for 8 persons and $137,100 for 4 persons at the 80% AMI subsidy threshold; Lowell area $100,100 / $143,000; Worcester area $92,200 / $131,700; Springfield/Hampden $91,700 / $131,000). Program guidelines cap household assets under $100,000 excluding retirement, college savings, and qualifying DPA (though MHP's calculator page still cites $75,000; confirm with a lender). Minimum credit score is 640 for a single-family or condo and 660 for a 2- or 3-family, with nontraditional credit allowed.
• Key Rules: Covers single-family homes, condos, and 2- or 3-family homes (no 4-family) occupied as a primary residence for the life of the loan; borrowers must contribute at least 1.5% from their own funds on a 1- to 2-family or condo and 3% on a 3-family. Pre-purchase homebuyer education and a post-purchase class within a year are required, plus a multifamily/landlord course or counseling for 2- to 3-family properties; no interest subsidy is available above 80% AMI, on 3-family purchases, or with more than 20% down. Apply through a participating ONE Mortgage lender.
• Status: Open — Offered by participating lenders with income limits updated May 2026. Read our ONE Mortgage Program guide.

ONE+ Mortgage Program

• Sponsor: Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP), with state and private partners including The Boston Foundation, through participating ONE+ lenders
• Amount & Type: Builds on the 30-year fixed ONE Mortgage (3% down, no PMI) by adding a permanent interest-rate discount and enhanced down payment and closing cost assistance of up to $50,000 (figure cited by program partner The Boston Foundation; MHP's page does not publish a dollar maximum, so confirm with a ONE+ lender).
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers who currently live in one of 29 eligible Massachusetts communities (Attleboro, Barnstable, Boston, Brockton, Chelsea, Chicopee, Everett, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lawrence, Leominster, Lowell, Lynn, Malden, Methuen, New Bedford, Peabody, Pittsfield, Quincy, Randolph, Revere, Salem, Springfield, Taunton, Westfield, or Worcester), though the home purchased may be elsewhere. Buyers must meet MHP income limits for the community where they buy, have household assets under $100,000 (excluding DPA funds), and have a credit score of at least 640 for a single-family or condo or 660 for a 2- to 3-family.
• Key Rules: Follows the same property types, down payment, homebuyer education, and primary-residence rules as ONE Mortgage. ONE+ offerings cannot be combined with one another, and buyers who qualify for ONE+Boston and buy in Boston must use ONE+Boston instead. Apply through a participating ONE+ lender and confirm remaining 2026 funding.
• Status: Open — Active on MHP's site as of October 2026, though funding is limited. See our ONE Mortgage Program guide.

FHLBank Boston Equity Builder Program (EBP)

• Sponsor: Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston, through participating member banks and credit unions
• Amount & Type: Grant of up to $32,099 per household in 2026 for down payment, closing costs, homebuyer counseling, and eligible rehab, provided through a participating FHLBank Boston member lender. Each member lender can receive up to $320,000 for 2026, with funding releases starting at a lower cap and rising to the maximum on later release dates. The grant is subject to a 5-year retention mortgage and note requiring pro-rata repayment if the home is sold or refinanced within 5 years; confirm the exact retention schedule with the program.
• Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers with household income at or below 80% of area median income. Buyers must contribute at least $500 of their own funds and complete homebuyer counseling through an approved agency. There is no maximum asset limit for 2026, and credit score rules are not published.
• Key Rules: Available only through a member lender that enrolled in the 2026 round (member applications ran Feb 2–27, 2026); the lender must submit the enrollment request at least 15 business days before closing, and a reservation is not guaranteed until FHLBank Boston approves. MassHousing says EBP can be combined with MassHousing DPA; property types and price caps are not published, so confirm with a participating lender.
• Status: Open — 2026 funds released first-come, first-served from April 1, 2026; remaining funds are not published and vary by lender, so confirm with a participating lender. See how it pairs with MassHousing down payment assistance.

FHLBank Boston Housing Our Workforce (HOW)

• Sponsor: Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston, through participating member lenders
• Amount & Type: Grant of up to $25,000 per household in 2026 toward down payment and closing costs through a participating member lender, with a member lender limit of up to $250,000. Assistance is secured by a 5-year retention mortgage and note.
• Who Qualifies: Households with income above 80% and up to 120% of area median income; first-time buyer status is not required. Buyers must contribute a minimum of $2,000 of their own funds and meet a $150,000 asset cap (including deposit and cash to close) effective in 2026. Homebuyer education or counseling is required for first-time buyers; credit score requirements are not published.
• Key Rules: Funds are distributed first-come, first-served only through member lenders enrolled for 2026. The lender must submit the enrollment request 15 business days before closing; property types, price caps, and combining rules are not published, so confirm with a participating lender.
• Status: Open — 2026 round is available first-come, first-served through enrolled lenders; remaining 2026 funds are not published, so confirm with a participating lender.

USDA Section 502 Direct Home Loan

• Sponsor: USDA Rural Development (Southern New England state office serves Massachusetts)
• Amount & Type: Direct federal mortgage made by USDA to low- and very-low-income buyers, typically with no down payment and payment assistance that can reduce the effective interest rate to as low as 1%. The loan has a fixed rate set at approval or closing (whichever is lower) and a term up to 33 years, or 38 years for some very-low-income applicants. Payment subsidy is subject to recapture when the home is sold or no longer owner-occupied.
• Who Qualifies: Low-income (generally up to 80% AMI) or very-low-income households under USDA Direct county income limits who are without decent, safe housing and unable to get credit elsewhere. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens and occupy the home as their primary residence. Massachusetts county Direct income limits are not published here; use the USDA eligibility tool or call the state office to confirm.
• Key Rules: The property must be in a USDA-eligible rural area (check the address on USDA's map) and be modest in size and cost within area loan limits, which you should confirm with USDA. Funding is subject to annual appropriations, and buyers apply directly to the USDA Rural Development office rather than a bank.
• Status: Open — Funding is subject to annual appropriations; confirm current Massachusetts county income and area loan limits with USDA. Read our Massachusetts USDA loans guide for program background.

USDA Section 502 Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan

• Sponsor: USDA Rural Development, through USDA-approved lenders
• Amount & Type: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage from an approved lender guaranteed by USDA, offering up to 100% financing of the appraised value plus the upfront guarantee fee so no down payment is required. For FY2027 (from Oct 1, 2026), the upfront guarantee fee is 1.00% and the annual fee is 0.35%, and reasonable closing costs can be financed if the appraised value allows.
• Who Qualifies: Not limited to first-time buyers (though current owners qualify only in limited cases), and open to U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or qualified aliens with household adjusted income (counting all household members) at or below USDA's 2026 moderate-income limits. For 1–4 / 5–8 persons, limits are $197,100 / $260,200 in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy area, $157,550 / $208,000 in the Lowell area, $155,700 / $205,550 in most other areas (including Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire), $162,350 / $214,350 in Barnstable, $155,850 / $205,750 in Dukes, $209,450 / $276,500 in Nantucket, $170,900 / $225,600 in Easton-Raynham, and $131,450 / $173,550 in the Providence-Fall River area. Standard debt-to-income ratios are 29%/41% (with exceptions for compensating factors); credit score minimums are not stated, so confirm with a USDA-approved lender.
• Key Rules: The home must be in a USDA-eligible rural area (check the exact address on USDA's map), serve as the buyer's primary residence, and not be an income-producing property. Buyers apply through a USDA-approved lender.
• Status: Open — FY2027 funds are available as of Oct 6, 2026. Learn more in our USDA loans in Massachusetts guide.

HUD Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) Sales Program

• Sponsor: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD/FHA)
• Amount & Type: Provides a 50% discount off the list price of an eligible HUD-owned home via a silent second mortgage with no interest or payments. The silent second is released after 36 months of owner occupancy, with prorated repayment if you leave, rent, or sell earlier. With FHA financing, the down payment is $100, closing costs can be financed, and an FHA 203(k) loan can be used for repairs.
• Who Qualifies: Full-time law enforcement officers, pre-K–12 teachers, firefighters, and EMTs whose job serves the area where the home is located. Buyers do not need to be first-time homebuyers, but neither the buyer nor spouse may have owned residential property in the 12 months before the offer; income, credit, and asset rules are not specified in the record.
• Key Rules: Eligible homes are listed for GNND for 7 days on hudhomestore.gov; buyers submit an offer at list price through a HUD-registered broker, and HUD holds a random lottery among multiple eligible offers. Buyers must live in the home for 36 months with an annual occupancy certification, and the discount can be combined with state or local assistance.
• Status: Open — Ongoing, though Massachusetts GNND listings are rare, change weekly, and none were confirmed in Oct 2026. See our Good Neighbor Next Door Massachusetts guide and FHA 203(k) loan guide.

CommonWealth Builder (CWB) Affordable Homes

• Sponsor: MassHousing (developer subsidy; homes sold to buyers by lottery)
• Amount & Type: MassHousing subsidizes new single-family homes and condos (minimum 10 deed-restricted units per project) so they are sold at below-market prices affordable at 70%–120% of AMI. Buyers must pair the purchase with a fully amortizing 30-year fixed mortgage meeting CommonWealth Builder rules and put at least 3% down from their own funds or approved DPA, plus pay closing costs.
• Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers (no ownership interest in 3 years, with exceptions for displaced homemakers, single parents, and non-permanent dwellings) with income within the unit's 70%–120% AMI tier (the 80% tier uses the HUD low-income limit) who complete homeownership counseling. Assets must be under $155,000 (as of Sept 2025, adjusted annually) and up to $250,000 total excluding retirement accounts, though HUD-assisted households are exempt. Lottery preferences apply to right-sized households first, then Disproportionately Impacted Households (at or below 80% AMI, living in a qualified census tract, or living in Boston, a listed Gateway City, Framingham, or Randolph).
• Key Rules: Units carry a 30-year deed restriction: through year 15, resale is limited to income-qualified first-time buyers at a capped price (the lowest of initial price plus 5% annual appreciation plus approved capital improvements, or the price affordable at the restricted AMI tier), and in years 16–30, sale is unrestricted but 50% of appreciation above the year-15 permissible price is shared with public funders. Owner occupancy is required, MassHousing and the municipality hold a purchase option, and Boston projects with the Mayor's Office of Housing use Boston's deed rider. Buyers apply for lotteries through each project's marketing agent, such as on MyMassHome listings.
• Status: Lottery-based — Homes are sold by project lotteries, while the 2025 developer funding round is closed.

Massachusetts Homeownership Tax Credit Homes

• Sponsor: MassHousing (Affordable Homes Act; developer tax credit)
• Amount & Type: State tax credits of up to $10 million per year through 2029 reduce the sale price of newly built affordable homes, providing an expected subsidy of about $225,000 to $250,000 per unit based on the HQAP formula. Paired first-mortgage requirements are not published on the program page, so confirm with the development's marketing agent.
• Who Qualifies: Income-qualified first-time homebuyers earning no more than 120% of AMI. Buyer asset limits, credit score rules, and education requirements are not published on the program page (check the July 2026 HQAP or confirm with the program).
• Key Rules: Applies to projects of 10 or more for-sale units with at least 20% affordable anywhere in Massachusetts. Homes carry a 10-year deed restriction limiting resale to income-qualified first-time buyers, with owners sharing in appreciation on an increasing scale based on years owned. Units are marketed by each development (typically by lottery); buyers should watch MyMassHome and town housing pages.
• Status: Lottery-based — New program with the developer application round closed Apr 30, 2026 and homes still in the pipeline; no completed buyer lotteries were confirmed as of Oct 2026.

Chapter 40B / Local Initiative Program (LIP) Affordable Homeownership Units

• Sponsor: Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) rules, administered by developers, towns, and lottery/monitoring agents.
• Amount & Type: Provides deed-restricted homes sold well below market, with initial prices set so a household at 70% AMI pays no more than 30% of its income on housing (assuming a 30-year fixed loan with 5% down). Buyers must put at least 3% down and use a fixed-rate institutional mortgage at a market rate with no more than 2 points, which can include ONE Mortgage or MassHousing loans.
• Who Qualifies: First-time buyers (no home owned in 3 years, with exceptions for displaced homemakers, certain single parents, and 55+ households) with household income up to 80% AMI (or the percentage in the permit). Household assets cannot exceed $75,000, or $275,000 for 55+ age-restricted units; funds from public down payment assistance programs do not count toward the asset limit. Minimum credit score and education requirements are not published; confirm with the monitoring agent.
• Key Rules: Units must be owner-occupied and are subject to a resale price cap tied to area income that usually lasts in perpetuity; refinancing and resale require monitoring agent approval. Buyers apply through project-specific lotteries with a mortgage pre-approval in hand, and lotteries may apply bedroom-size preferences and local preferences for up to 70% of units.
• Status: Lottery-based — ongoing lotteries and resales are posted by project on MyMassHome and town pages. Read our Chapter 40B affordable homes guide for details.

STASH First-Gen Home (First Generation Homeownership Program)

• Sponsor: Massachusetts Affordable Housing Alliance (MAHA), Boston; promoted by the City of Boston
• Amount & Type: Provides down payment and closing cost grants of up to $20,000 for homes outside Boston and $10,000 in Boston (which can increase in some circumstances depending on other DPA received) when funds are available. The grant is paired with an 8-hour Zoom financial literacy and homebuyer cohort and savings held in a custodial account (described by the City of Boston as a matched-savings program, though MAHA does not state a match ratio).
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-generation buyers, meaning the buyer, their parents, their spouse, and their spouse's parents have never owned a U.S. home or lost one to foreclosure. Household income must be at or below 100% AMI for household size and county, with a minimum income of $45,000 outside Boston or $60,000 in Boston, and assets between $2,000 and $100,000. Buyers must be mortgage-ready with a credit score of at least 640 and have graduated from MAHA's or another CHAPA-approved first-time homebuyer class.
• Key Rules: Valid for homes anywhere in Massachusetts, and the City of Boston notes it can be combined with Boston Home Center assistance. Buyers must complete the cohort program before closing, meaning those already in an active purchase who are not yet enrolled cannot finish in time. Apply through MAHA when the cohort application window opens.
• Status: Paused — Paused for rest of 2026; applications expected Jan 2027, next cohort Feb 2027. Compare other options in our Massachusetts first-time homebuyer grants and programs guide.

MassHousing 2026 Expanded First-Time Homebuyer Assistance ($25,000 0% deferred)

• Sponsor: MassHousing and the Healey-Driscoll Administration
• Amount & Type: Offered a temporary fixed $25,000 second mortgage at 0% interest with no monthly payments, due on sale, refinance, or payoff of the first mortgage. It replaced the 2% and 3% amortizing DPA for first-mortgage locks starting April 27, 2026.
• Who Qualifies: Was open to first-time homebuyers earning up to 135% of AMI using a MassHousing HFA Preferred, HFA Advantage, or FTHB FHA first mortgage.
• Key Rules: Because of demand, MassHousing stopped accepting locks after July 2, 2026 and reinstated the 15-year amortizing $25,000 DPA for locks from July 6, 2026. Buyers now use the $25,000 amortizing DPA or, if income-eligible, the $30,000 Workforce Advantage deferred DPA; no return had been announced through October 13, 2026.
• Status: Closed — Locks stopped after July 2, 2026 ahead of the planned July 31, 2026 end date. See current options in our MassHousing down payment assistance guide.

MassDREAMS (Delivering Real Equity And Mortgage Stability) Grant

• Sponsor: MassHousing, with Commonwealth ARPA funds
• Amount & Type: This 2022 grant provided up to $50,000 for buyers at or below 100% AMI and up to $35,000 for buyers above 100% up to 135% AMI toward down payment and closing costs. Interest, repayment, and paired first-mortgage details are not stated in the record.
• Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers living in one of 29 disproportionately impacted communities with household income up to 135% AMI. Credit score, asset, and homebuyer education rules are not stated in the record.
• Key Rules: MassHousing suspended grants on November 30, 2022 and said it did not expect more grants without a new appropriation. MHP says ONE+ builds on MassDREAMS and serves the same 29 communities, so buyers should look at ONE+ and MassHousing DPA instead.
• Status: Closed — Suspended Nov 30, 2022 after funds were exhausted. Read our MassDREAMS grant guide or check MassHousing down payment assistance for current options.

Check Your Massachusetts Home Purchase Eligibility

Greater Boston Programs

Greater Boston programs offer city grants and deferred or forgivable loans from $5,000 to $50,000, neighborhood-targeted assistance up to 10% of the purchase price, shared-equity subsidies and buydowns up to 65% of the price or $75,000 to $200,000, and ONE+Boston's discounted rate with city down payment help. This section also covers municipal deed-restricted home lotteries, resale pools, a waitlisted public housing and Section 8 homeownership program, a multi-community consortium forgivable loan up to $10,000, and Habitat for Humanity lottery builds.

Boston First-Time Homebuyer Program (Financial Assistance)

• Sponsor: City of Boston Mayor's Office of Housing, administered by the Boston Home Center
• Amount & Type: Buyers with household income under 100% AMI can receive down payment assistance up to 3% of the purchase price plus eligible closing costs, up to $50,000; those at 101% to 135% AMI can receive up to 2% plus eligible closing costs, up to $35,000; and buyers of deed-restricted homes can receive up to 2% of the purchase price (no stated maximum; confirm with the program). Assistance is a grant for current Boston residents, and a 0% interest deferred loan repayable on transfer, refinance, or sale for non-residents (secured by a mortgage and promissory note effective September 15, 2026, unless a complete application and signed offer or executed P&S were in place on or before September 14, 2026). It pairs with a first mortgage from a city-listed participating lender.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time homebuyers (no property owned in the past three years) with total household income below 135% of AMI (exact dollar figures are not published on the city's page; confirm with the Boston Home Center). Household assets must be below $100,000 with demonstrated financial need, and credit score requirements are not published. Buyers must graduate from a CHAPA-approved Homebuying 101 class and obtain first-mortgage pre-approval from a participating lender.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are primary-residence one- to three-family homes or condominiums in Boston, and the first mortgage must meet Fannie Mae general loan limits. According to the City, this assistance can be combined with ONE+Boston, the Community Stabilization Fund, and other programs. Apply online at housing.boston.gov/homebuyer after completing Homebuying 101 and getting pre-approved, or contact the Boston Home Center at 617-635-4663 or homecenter@boston.gov.
• Status: Open — Program page updated Oct 16, 2026; non-resident terms changed Sept 15, 2026. See our guide to Boston first-time home buyer programs.

ONE+Boston

• Sponsor: Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP) and the City of Boston (Boston Home Center)
• Amount & Type: Provides a 30-year fixed-rate ONE Mortgage with a City-funded discounted interest rate below standard ONE Mortgage rates, no PMI, and enhanced down payment and closing cost assistance from the City of Boston. Neither MHP nor the City publishes the exact rate discount or the enhanced assistance dollar amount, so confirm both with a participating lender and the Boston Home Center.
• Who Qualifies: Must be a current Boston resident (documented by a lease, utility bill, or voter registration) buying in Boston as a first-time buyer (no ownership in the last three years) who completes a homebuyer class. The 2026 income limits are $120,000 (1 person), $137,150 (2), $154,300 (3), $171,400 (4), $185,150 (5), $198,850 (6), $212,550 (7), and $226,250 (8), with household assets under $100,000 excluding most retirement and college savings accounts. Minimum credit scores are 640 for a single-family home or condo and 660 for a two- or three-family home, with options available for applicants with no credit history.
• Key Rules: Buyers must put down 3% for a condo, single-family, or two-family home (at least 1.5% from own savings) or 5% for a three-family home (at least 3% from own savings), and two- and three-family buyers must complete a landlord/multifamily course or counseling. The home must be an owner-occupied primary residence, and moving out requires refinancing out of the ONE Mortgage. Buyers who qualify for ONE+Boston and buy in Boston must use it rather than another ONE+ program; apply through a participating ONE+Boston lender first, then contact BHC-OnePlus@boston.gov.
• Status: Open — 2026 income limits posted by MHP; city page updated Feb 24, 2026. Learn more about the ONE Mortgage program in Massachusetts.

Boston Community Stabilization Fund (Fenway, Mission Hill, Roxbury)

• Sponsor: City of Boston Boston Home Center, with Mission Hill Neighborhood Housing Services, Madison Park Development Corporation and Fenway Forward; funded by Northeastern University
• Amount & Type: Provides up to 10% of the purchase price toward down payment or closing costs. The program page does not state whether the assistance is structured as a grant or a loan, or what interest or repayment terms apply, so confirm those details with the Boston Home Center. It pairs with a first mortgage from a participating lender.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be current Boston residents and first-time homebuyers (no home ownership in the past three years) with household income at or below 100% AMI under HUD limits (exact dollar figures are not listed on the page; confirm with the program). Priority goes to current residents of ZIP codes 02115, 02118, 02119, 02120, and 02215, though former residents may qualify with proof and certification from a partner organization. Buyers must meet Boston Home Center DPA guidelines, graduate from a CHAPA-approved Homebuying 101 class, and hold pre-approval from a participating lender.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are primary-residence one- to three-family homes or condos located in Boston ZIP codes 02115, 02118, 02119, 02120, or 02215, with a first mortgage meeting Fannie Mae general loan limits. It can be combined with Boston Home Center DPA, BHA First Home, STASH, MPDC's NextDoor program, FHLBank Boston Equity Builder, or MassHousing. Apply through the Boston Home Center Financial Assistance application at housing.boston.gov/homebuyer before funds are fully awarded.
• Status: Open — Limited funds, first-come first-served; page updated Sept 11, 2026. Read more in our Boston first-time home buyer programs guide.

Allston/Brighton Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Boston Home Center with Allston Brighton CDC; funded by the Allston Yards development
• Amount & Type: Provides up to $50,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. Current program pages do not publish the loan or grant structure, interest, or repayment and forgiveness terms, so confirm with the Boston Home Center or Allston Brighton CDC. Buyers must pair the assistance with a first mortgage from a Boston Home Center participating lender.
• Who Qualifies: Open to income-eligible first-time homebuyers who meet all standard Boston Home Center financial assistance requirements, including income and asset limits (specific limits and credit score requirements for this program are not published; confirm with the program). Applicants must complete a CHAPA-approved Homebuying 101 class and obtain pre-approval from a participating lender.
• Key Rules: The home must be located in the Allston or Brighton neighborhoods of Boston. Price caps, occupancy periods, and combining rules beyond standard Boston Home Center terms are not published on current pages. Apply through the Boston Home Center application, and contact Allston Brighton CDC at 617-787-3874 x35 or the Boston Home Center at 617-635-4663 to confirm current funding and rules.
• Status: Open — Listed on City's Homebuying Support Hub (updated Nov 12, 2025); 2026 funding not confirmed. Explore more Boston first-time home buyer programs.

Cambridge Down Payment Assistance

• Sponsor: City of Cambridge Community Development Department, Housing Division
• Amount & Type: Provides a forgivable loan of up to $10,000 toward down payment and closing costs. The loan is forgiven at 20% per year over five years as long as the buyer lives in the home as their only and primary residence. Specific interest rate terms and required first-mortgage pairings are not published; confirm with the City of Cambridge.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers who complete a First-Time Homebuyer workshop, cannot buy without assistance, and use all other available resources. Household income must be at or below 80% AMI (HUD FY2026 limits effective June 1, 2026): $96,000 (1 person), $109,700 (2), $123,400 (3), $137,100 (4), $148,100 (5), $159,050 (6), $170,050 (7), and $181,000 (8). Specific credit score minimums and asset caps are not published on the program pages; confirm with the Housing Division.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are primary-residence single-family homes, condos, or two- or three-family homes in Cambridge, including both market-rate and deed-restricted affordable units. Purchase price caps are not stated. Applicants for city homebuyer opportunities are pre-screened automatically, while market-rate buyers should contact the Housing Department at 617-349-4622 or homeownership@cambridgema.gov.
• Status: Open — Listed on city page Oct 2026; contact city to be screened. Read our full guide to the Cambridge first-time homebuyer program.

Cambridge HomeBridge

• Sponsor: City of Cambridge Community Development Department, Housing Division
• Amount & Type: The City pays a shared-equity subsidy of up to 65% of the purchase price for a three-bedroom, 60% for a two-bedroom, and 50% for a one-bedroom bought on the open market. In exchange, the buyer signs an Affordable Housing Covenant that makes the home permanently affordable, with the maximum price set per applicant so the monthly payment (including taxes, insurance, and condo fee) is 30% to 33% of gross monthly income. It pairs with a 30-year conventional fixed-rate mortgage.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be current Cambridge residents, first-time homebuyers, and have a household income between 60% and 120% of AMI (2026 4-person limits are $102,840 at 60% and $197,520 at 120%). Buyers must have completed a CHAPA-certified first-time homebuyer workshop within the last three years, qualify for a market price of at least 90% of the HomeBridge maximum, and contribute liquid assets above $50,000 (above $100,000 if all adults are 62+ or disabled). Credit score minimums are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes or condos in Cambridge approved by Housing staff, and 2- to 3-bedroom units or homes for households with children under 6 must be deleaded. Buyers sign the City's Affordable Housing Covenant, which includes resale, limited-equity, and residency restrictions. Apply online through the OpenGov portal or by paper upon request to receive a City preapproval letter to use with a lender preapproval, or contact 617-349-4622 or homeownership@cambridgema.gov.
• Status: Open, with rolling applications as of October 2026. Read our Cambridge first-time homebuyer guide for more details.

Somerville Closing Cost 80

• Sponsor: City of Somerville Housing Division (HUD HOME funds)
• Amount & Type: Provides up to $5,000 in closing cost assistance structured as a 0% interest, five-year forgivable loan. The loan is forgiven in full at the end of five years if the home remains the buyer's primary residence, and it pairs with a 30-year fixed-rate standard mortgage.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time homebuyers (no ownership interest in residential property in the prior three years) with household income up to 80% AMI (dollar limits are not published; confirm with the program) and must complete an approved homebuyer class. Households with liquid assets over the higher of $25,000 or six months of income must put the excess toward the purchase first, and credit score minimums are not published.
• Key Rules: The home must be a primary residence meeting State Sanitary Code and HUD HQS, with a purchase price not exceeding FHA 203(b) limits. Buyers must contribute at least 3% of the acquisition cost from their own funds and can use only one Somerville closing cost program. You must apply to the program before signing a purchase and sale agreement; the income-eligibility certificate is valid for six months.
• Status: Open, per the city program sheet updated September 2026.

Somerville Closing Cost 110

• Sponsor: City of Somerville Housing Division (Somerville Affordable Housing Trust Fund)
• Amount & Type: Offers up to $5,000 in closing cost assistance as a 0% interest, five-year forgivable loan. The loan is forgiven at 20% per year over five years and pairs with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be first-time homebuyers (no ownership interest in the prior three years) with a household income from 81% to 110% of AMI (dollar limits are not published; confirm with the program). Applicants must complete an approved homebuyer class and invest any liquid assets above the higher of $25,000 or six months of income first; credit score requirements are not published.
• Key Rules: The property must be a primary residence that meets State Sanitary Code and HQS standards, and purchase price caps are not published (confirm with the program). Buyers must contribute at least 3% of the acquisition cost from their own funds, may use only one Somerville closing cost program, and must apply before signing a purchase and sale agreement. Somerville also sells income-restricted condos to first-time buyers through separate Inclusionary Housing Program lotteries.
• Status: Open, per the city program sheet updated September 2026.

North Suburban Consortium First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Loan Program

• Sponsor: North Suburban HOME Consortium (federal HOME funds), administered by the City of Malden Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development and member town planning offices
• Amount & Type: Provides up to $10,000 for a market-rate property and up to $5,000 for an NSC HOME-subsidized property, with the final amount set after underwriting. It is a 0% interest, 5-year deferred loan with no monthly payments that is forgiven at 20% on each anniversary and fully forgiven after 5 years, though pro-rated repayment is required if sold or refinanced within 5 years (NSC does not subordinate). A fixed-rate first mortgage is required, and the lender must fund the assistance at closing and accept reimbursement afterward.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers (no principal residence ownership in the past 3 years, with displaced homemaker and single-parent exceptions) earning at or below 80% AMI (effective June 1, 2025 limits on Malden's page: 1-person $96,000; 2-person $109,700; 3-person $123,400; 4-person $137,100; 5-person $148,100; 6-person $159,050; 7-person $170,050; 8-person $181,000). Buyers need a 620 minimum credit score, max 35% housing ratio, max 50% total DTI, no more than $75,000 in liquid assets (including retirement accounts and gifts), and a HUD-certified homebuyer workshop certificate no more than 2 years old; prior town residency is not required.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes, condos, or townhouses (no multi-family) used as a primary residence in Arlington, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Revere, or Winthrop, with a maximum purchase price of $858,000 (effective December 1, 2025). Homes must pass a HUD Housing Quality Standards inspection, follow HUD lead rules if built before 1978, and carry flood insurance if in a flood zone, and the buyer cannot receive cash back at closing. Apply on paper to the NSC representative in the town where the home is located after you have a signed purchase and sale agreement (allow 3 to 4 weeks), or call 781-324-5720.
• Status: Open on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis until funds run out, per the Malden HOME Program page checked October 2026.

City of Everett First-Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Everett Department of Planning & Community Development (ARPA-funded)
• Amount & Type: Provides up to $20,000 per eligible buyer as a forgivable loan, forgiven at 20% per year over 5 years. Pro-rated repayment is required only if the owner sells, refinances to take out equity, transfers title, or stops using the home as a primary residence within 5 years. It pairs with a conventional or government fixed-rate mortgage from a lender of the buyer's choice, and the lender must fund the assistance at closing.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be HUD first-time homebuyers (no deeded interest by applicant or spouse in the past 3 years) with valid Social Security numbers and household income between 60% and 150% of AMI (city FY2025 table: 60% minimum from $69,480 for 1 person to $115,140 for 6 persons; 150% maximum of $173,700 for 1, $198,500 for 2, $223,300 for 3, $248,100 for 4, $267,950 for 5, and $287,800 for 6). Household liquid assets cannot exceed $100,000 (excluding retirement accounts and college savings), and buyers need a homebuyer counseling certificate from the past 2 years; non-Everett residents are eligible as of July 2025 (confirm document requirements with the city), and credit score minimums are not published.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes, condos, or 2- to 4-family homes in Everett used as a primary residence (non-owner units in multi-family homes must be rented below market per state guidelines), with no published purchase price cap. A free third-party inspection is required at least 10 days before closing along with a pre-1978 lead acknowledgment, and the Preliminary Eligibility Certificate is valid for 6 months. Apply online or at Planning & Development, 484 Broadway Room 25, or contact 617-394-2452 or Everett.FTHB@ci.everett.ma.us.
• Status: Open on a first-come, first-served basis under June 2025 guidelines while ARPA funds last; 2026 funding levels are not published, so confirm availability with the city.

City of Chelsea First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Chelsea Department of Housing and Community Development
• Amount & Type: Offers up to $10,000 for a non-subsidized property as a 0% interest deferred payment loan with a five-year term and no monthly payments. The loan is forgiven and becomes a grant if the buyer owns and lives in the home as a primary residence for five years, while a portion must be repaid if sold or converted to a rental within five years. First-mortgage requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be income-eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing a primary residence in Chelsea. Specific income limits, credit score minimums, asset limits, and homebuyer education requirements are not published on the city page; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes and condominium units in Chelsea that the buyer occupies as a primary residence; purchase price caps are not published. Chelsea buyers may also be eligible for the separate North Suburban Consortium DPA (confirm whether the programs can be combined). Applications in English and Spanish are available on the city's website.
• Status: Open, listed on the city website with an application as of October 2026; current funding levels are not published.

City of Revere First-Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Revere Affordable Housing Trust Fund / Department of Planning and Community Development
• Amount & Type: Provides $10,000 in down payment assistance per qualified applicant. Whether the assistance is structured as a grant or a loan, any repayment terms, and specific first-mortgage pairing rules are not published on the city pages; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be first-time homebuyers with at least 2 years of current Revere residency and household income at or below 100% AMI (the city's 2025 announcement listed $115,800 for 1 person, $132,350 for 2, $148,900 for 3, $165,400 for 4, and $178,650 for 5, and the city now links to MHP's current ONE Mortgage income table). Applicants must be pre-qualified for a mortgage and enroll in a first-time homebuyer course; credit score and asset limits are not published, so confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties include market-rate or affordable condos and single-family homes in Revere, or 2- to 3-family homes if the buyer agrees with the city and state to rent all non-owner units below market. After eligibility is verified, the buyer has 6 months to sign a Purchase and Sale agreement, and the assistance cannot be combined with the Revere Affordable Homeownership Buydown Program. Buyers apply online via the Laserfiche form on revere.org/programs-and-support (contact jgravellese@revere.org or 781-286-8181).
• Status: Open — First-come, first-served while funds are available as listed on the city site in October 2026 (eligibility expanded June 26, 2025). Because the city links to the ONE Mortgage income table, you can review that guide for background.

City of Newton Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance (deed-restricted homes)

• Sponsor: City of Newton Planning and Development Department, Housing and Community Development Division
• Amount & Type: Provides down payment and closing cost assistance for buyers of new and existing affordable deed-restricted homeownership units in Newton; the dollar amount (not published; confirm with the program), loan or grant structure, and first-mortgage pairing rules are not published on the current city page.
• Who Qualifies: Open to income-eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing a deed-restricted affordable unit in Newton. Specific income limits, first-time buyer definitions, credit scores, asset limits, and education requirements are not published on the current page; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Assistance is offered only when properties with Affordable Housing Deed Restrictions are actively for sale, with current opportunities posted on the city's Affordable Housing Opportunities page (where buyers can also sign up for email alerts). To inquire or apply, contact Newton Housing and Community Development (Housing Planner Malcolm Lucas, 617-796-1149).
• Status: Open — The city page (October 2026) notes the program is currently offered, though only when deed-restricted homes are actively for sale.

Boston Homes Lottery Program (formerly Neighborhood Homes Initiative / Welcome Home, Boston)

• Sponsor: City of Boston Mayor's Office of Housing, Boston Home Center
• Amount & Type: Offers income-restricted homes built on City-owned land and sold by lottery at $200,000 to $420,000. The discount is built directly into the purchase price rather than paid as cash. Buyers must obtain a mortgage pre-approval matching the property type and price.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers with household income at or below 80%, 90%, or 100% of AMI depending on the property (exact dollar limits are in the city's spreadsheet rather than on the webpage; confirm with the program). Asset limits and minimum household size rules apply, and buyers need sufficient savings, mortgage pre-approval, and an approved homebuyer education course; credit score minimums are not published on the page. Preference is given to Boston residents and households with at least one person per bedroom.
• Key Rules: Homes must be owner-occupied and carry a 50-year resale restriction when produced through City programs. Buyers can combine the purchase with Boston's First-Time Homebuyer Program (at the 2% tier for deed-restricted homes). Register and apply on a rolling basis through the Boston Home Center portal at housing.boston.gov to be entered into all eligible lotteries, though individual properties may have specific deadlines.
• Status: Lottery-based — Rolling applications; listings posted Oct 2026 (page updated Oct 6, 2026). See our overview of Boston first-time home buyer programs.

BHA First Home Program

• Sponsor: Boston Housing Authority, with City of Boston down payment funds
• Amount & Type: Previously offered $75,000 in enhanced down payment assistance from the City of Boston for purchases in Boston, which ended on August 26, 2026, with newer applicants placed on a waitlist. Separately, eligible Section 8 voucher holders can apply their voucher's housing assistance payment toward a mortgage under Section 8 Homeownership (payment standards are not published as a single figure), and Project-Based Voucher public housing residents can convert to a mobile voucher after one year. Loan structure, interest, and repayment terms for the DPA are not published on the page; confirm with BHA.
• Who Qualifies: Must be a current BHA public housing resident (in listed communities) or BHA Section 8 participant in good standing with no household member owning a home in the past three years; port-ins are not accepted. Requires a credit score above 650, at least $4,000 in savings, steady employment (two years for public housing; 30+ hours per week for Section 8 unless elderly or disabled), and completion of a first-time homebuyer course within the past three years.
• Key Rules: Enhanced DPA applied to homes in the City of Boston, while Section 8 Homeownership applies within BHA's jurisdiction; specific property types, price caps, and deed restrictions are not detailed on the page. Apply via BHA's online forms (Cognito form for public housing or the BHA Home 101 screening quiz for Section 8) to receive an eligibility email within about two weeks, or contact firsthome@bostonhousing.org.
• Status: Waitlist — City's enhanced $75,000 DPA ended Aug 26, 2026; new applicants waitlisted (BHA notes to check back at the end of 2026 and spring 2027). See other Boston first-time home buyer programs.

Cambridge Homeownership Resale Pool (affordable deed-restricted homes)

• Sponsor: City of Cambridge Community Development Department, Housing Division
• Amount & Type: The program provides access to more than 500 deed-restricted homeownership units sold at a below-market price, priced so housing costs generally do not exceed 30% of gross income. Buyers use conventional bank financing and can also pair the purchase with up to $10,000 in City Down Payment Assistance.
• Who Qualifies: Households must earn between 50% and 100% of AMI (2026 4-person limits are $85,700 at 50% and $164,600 at 100%), with preference given to Cambridge residents and households with children. First-time buyer, credit score, asset, and homebuyer education requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Buyers sign an Affordable Housing Covenant with limited-equity, residency, and resale restrictions, and occupancy standards apply. Submit a rolling application by mail or drop box at 344 Broadway (newly built units are sold separately through lotteries); when a unit is available, staff contact selected applicants to submit updated documents and a mortgage preapproval. For details, contact the Homeownership Team at 617-349-4643 or homeownership@cambridgema.gov.
• Status: Waitlist, with rolling applications to the pool as of October 2026. See our Cambridge first-time homebuyer guide for additional local options.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Boston Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity Greater Boston
• Amount & Type: Habitat builds or renovates homes and sells them to first-time buyers at an affordable price with an affordable mortgage, capping total monthly housing costs (mortgage, tax escrow, and condo fee) at 30% of gross monthly income. Specific sale prices and mortgage interest rates are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must have owned no home in the past three years, have lived or worked in the 26-municipality Greater Boston service area for at least one year with legal residency, and have a household income at or below 80% AMI (May 2026 limits: 1-person $96,000; 2-person $109,700; 3-person $123,400; 4-person $137,100; 5-person $148,100; 6-person $159,050; 8-person $181,000; confirm the 7-person limit with the program as the source lists $179,050). Minimum incomes vary by project, and buyers need a 640+ credit score (with exceptions for no credit history), a debt-to-income ratio of 43% or less, and assets of no more than $100,000.
• Key Rules: Selected buyers must complete first-time homebuyer classes and contribute at least 200 hours of sweat equity; deed restriction terms are not published. Qualified applicants attend an information meeting and enter a lottery, with the application process taking 4 to 8 months and construction taking 12 to 24 months after. Sign up on Habitat Greater Boston's website to be notified when pre-applications open.
• Status: Lottery-based, with pre-applications opening per build for 4 to 8 weeks and none listed open as of October 2026.

Revere Affordable Homeownership Buydown Program (RAHBP)

• Sponsor: City of Revere Department of Planning and Community Development and Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board (CDBG and AHTF funds)
• Amount & Type: Provides a direct purchase-price subsidy of up to $75,000 to $200,000 (equal to the lesser of the city-approved price minus the HUD affordable price, or the track maximum: up to $200,000 at or below 80% AMI, $150,000 at 81%–100% AMI, and $75,000 at 101%–120% AMI). It is delivered as a 0% subordinate loan with no monthly payments, due on sale, refinance, or transfer, paired with a fixed-rate first mortgage from a participating lender and at least 3% down from the buyer's own funds or other approved DPA.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers (no ownership in the past 3 years) who are US citizens or legal permanent residents and either have continuous Revere residency for 2+ years, have children in Revere Public Schools, or work 30+ hours per week for a Revere employer. FY2026 income limits (effective June 1, 2026) are $96,000 (1 person) to $137,100 (4 persons) at 80% AMI, $120,000 to $171,400 at 100% AMI, and $144,000 to $205,680 at 120% AMI (6-person max $238,600), with a $75,000 household asset limit (excluding retirement accounts). Buyers must complete an 8-hour HUD-approved homebuyer course (certificate under 12 months old at closing); credit score minimums are not published, so confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Applies to single-family homes, condos, or 2-family homes in Revere (3+ units ineligible; the second unit in a 2-family must be rented at or below the 80% AMI rent), and the city reviews and approves the purchase price. Homes must pass inspection (those needing over $30,000 in immediate repairs are generally ineligible, and CDBG pre-1978 homes require lead abatement), cannot be combined with the Revere $10,000 DPA, and carry a 20-year occupancy and deed restriction with a city right of first refusal (years 1–10 cap the resale price to an income-eligible buyer with loan repayment; years 11–20 allow market-rate resale with 50% of net appreciation paid to the AHTF plus loan repayment). Apply online via revere.org/programs-and-support.
• Status: Lottery-based — Applications open November 4, 2026, at 8:15 AM, with the lottery entry period running through November 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM, followed by a first-come, first-served waitlist.

Town of Brookline Affordable Homeownership Lotteries (deed-restricted condos)

• Sponsor: Town of Brookline Planning and Community Development, Housing Division
• Amount & Type: Offers no cash down payment assistance; instead, the town sells income-restricted, deed-restricted homes at below-market prices (for example, $437,836 for a 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo at 6 Olmsted Road #104 posted October 23, 2026, with estimated monthly real estate taxes of $365.22 before exemption and condo fees of $601.52). First-mortgage requirements are not published in the summary; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Each lottery sets its own limits; for the 6 Olmsted Road #104 unit, buyers must be first-time homebuyers (no ownership interest in residential property in the past 3 years) with household assets limited to $75,000 and income up to 110% AMI (1 person $126,742; 2 $144,848; 3 $162,954; 4 $181,060; 5 $195,545; 6 $210,030). Credit score, residency, and homebuyer education requirements are not published on the alert; confirm in the lottery guidelines packet.
• Key Rules: Properties carry affordable housing deed restrictions (resale formula and restriction length are in the lottery guidelines packet; confirm with the program), and Brookline has no town-run down payment assistance program listed. For the current condo lottery, applications and guidelines are at brooklinema.gov DocumentCenter/Index/6422 (contact Amy Yuhasz at 617-730-2130 or ayuhasz@brooklinema.gov), and buyers can subscribe to town email alerts for future Brookline and Boston affordable opportunities.
• Status: Lottery-based — For the 6 Olmsted Rd #104 lottery, applications are due by 12:00 p.m. on November 13, 2026, and the lottery will be held by Zoom on November 23, 2026.

North Shore & Merrimack Valley Programs

North Shore and Merrimack Valley programs feature municipal 0% deferred, forgivable, and repayable down payment loans ranging from $7,500 to $30,000, with several options covering 1- to 4-family owner-occupied homes. This list also includes Essex County and Greater Lowell Habitat for Humanity homeownership programs, one paused city HOME loan, and the closed ONE+Lowell pilot.

Essex County Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Essex County Habitat for Humanity (Danvers).
• Amount & Type: Offers a Haverhill home priced at $245,000 with 3% down and an affordable 30-year mortgage (interest rate not published). The buyer pays about $5,000 in closing costs, with total monthly housing costs estimated at $1,900 to $2,100 plus utilities.
• Who Qualifies: First-time buyers (at least one co-applicant has not owned in 3 years) with two years of taxable income between 40% and 60% of 2026 HUD AMI ($48,000–$72,000 for 1 person; $68,560–$102,840 for 4; $79,560–$119,340 for 6; Haverhill requires a $68,560 minimum for 3–4 people). Applicants need a 640+ credit score, assets up to $75,000, at least 5 years since any bankruptcy discharge, and housing need. Selected buyers must complete 240 to 360 sweat equity hours and first-time homebuyer, financial literacy, and HOA classes.
• Key Rules: The current Haverhill offering is a 3-bedroom duplex unit at 41 Curtis Street subject to a DHCD/EOHLC (LIP) deed rider (term not published; confirm with the affiliate). Buyers apply via an info session and application (by mail, drop-off, or secure upload) for review by the Family Selection Committee and Board; a public lottery is held when approved applicants outnumber homes, though Haverhill is first-come, first-served.
• Status: Open — accepting applications on a first-come, first-served basis for the Haverhill 3BR duplex unit, with the deadline extended to Dec 10, 2026.

Salem First-Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan Program (FTHB)

• Sponsor: City of Salem, Department of Planning and Community Development (HUD CDBG funds)
• Amount & Type: Provides a 0% interest, deferred-payment loan of up to $7,500 for down payment and closing costs, matching the buyer's down payment dollar for dollar up to $6,500 plus an extra $1,000 for completing a CHAPA-certified homebuyer counseling course before closing. The loan is not forgiven over time and must be repaid in full upon sale, transfer, or if the buyer stops occupying the home as a permanent residence. Specific first-mortgage pairing rules are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be first-time homebuyers (no ownership interest in a principal residence in the past 3 years, with exceptions for displaced homemakers, certain single parents, and owners of non-permanent mobile homes or properties that cannot be brought to code) and are limited to one city-assisted purchase per household in 5 years. Gross annual income limits effective June 1, 2026 are $96,000 for 1 person, $109,700 for 2, $123,400 for 3, $137,100 for 4, $148,100 for 5, and $159,050 for 6. Buyers must supply matching funds, household cash assets after purchase cannot exceed $50,000 (excluding retirement accounts), and credit score minimums are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties include condos, single-family homes, and 2-to-4-family properties in Salem used as a principal residence, with maximum purchase prices (effective December 1, 2025) of $858,000 (1-family), $1,099,000 (2-family), $1,330,000 (3-family), and $1,648,000 (4-family). Buyers must apply to the Department of Planning and Community Development at least 6 weeks before closing, and conditional approval letters are valid for 6 months.
• Status: Open — 2026 guidelines were revised June 8, 2026, with applications posted on the city site as of October 2026.

Lynn LHAND Down Payment Assistance

• Sponsor: Lynn Housing Authority & Neighborhood Development (LHAND), in partnership with the City of Lynn
• Amount & Type: Offers $10,000 in down payment assistance. Whether the assistance is structured as a grant or a loan, along with any interest, repayment, forgiveness, or first-mortgage pairing terms, is not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Specific eligibility rules for first-time buyer status, income limits, credit scores, assets, and residency are not published on LHAND's page; confirm with the program. LHAND runs Massachusetts Homeownership Collaborative-certified first-time homebuyer classes ($50 per person, $75 per couple) whose certificate is typically required for down payment programs.
• Key Rules: Property rules, price caps, occupancy terms, and combining rules are not published; confirm with the program. Buyers can contact Patricia Capano at LHAND's Executive Office (10 Church Street, Lynn, MA 01902; 781-581-8600) to apply for down payment assistance, or call 781-581-8621 to register for the homebuyer class.
• Status: Open — Listed on LHAND's Home Ownership page as of October 28, 2026, though current funding status is not stated.

Lawrence First Time Home Buyers Program (FTHB)

• Sponsor: City of Lawrence, Community Development Department (HOME Investment Partnerships funds)
• Amount & Type: Provides a 0% interest, deferred second-lien loan of up to 5% of the purchase price, capped at $25,000, for down payment, closing costs, or buying down interest rate points. The loan has no monthly payments and is forgiven after an affordability period of 5 years for awards under $14,999 or 10 years for awards of $15,000 to $25,000, with full repayment due upon sale, cash-out refinance, home equity loan or line, title transfer, or default during the term. The award amount depends on the lender's down payment requirement, estimated closing costs, earnest deposits, and seller concessions.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time homebuyers with household income within HUD-HOME limits (exact dollar figures and credit score minimums are not published on the city page; confirm with the program) and must meet the program's affordability ratio criteria. Buyers cannot have more than $25,000 in cash assets (excluding retirement savings) and must hold a CHAPA-approved Homebuyer and Landlord Education Certificate. Priority is given to people who live or work in Lawrence.
• Key Rules: The property must be an owner-occupied principal residence in Lawrence within HOME value limits (dollar limits not published; confirm with the program) and must pass a free city Housing Quality Standards inspection. Buyers must contribute at least 1.5% of the purchase price (minimum $2,000 for purchases under $100,000), maintain the property, and not take out equity during the affordability period. After getting a mortgage pre-approval, buyers must attend an intake session and apply to the Community Development Department right after signing an offer or purchase and sale agreement; processing takes up to 45 days.
• Status: Open — New funding arrives each July and is available starting in August on a first-qualified, first-come basis; no applications are accepted the last two weeks of June and first three weeks of July.

Haverhill First Time Homebuyer Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Haverhill, Community Development Department (HUD, North Shore HOME Consortium, and CDBG funds)
• Amount & Type: Offers a 0% interest loan of up to $15,000 for down payment and closing costs, covering up to 50% of the required down payment plus legal and other closing costs. Secured by a note and mortgage over a 5-year term, the loan is forgiven at 20% per year that the buyer lives in the home as a primary residence, leaving nothing owed after 5 years unless sold or transferred earlier. It must be paired with a 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage.
• Who Qualifies: Available to first-time homebuyers (no home owned in 3 years, including single parents and displaced homemakers who owned with a spouse) with gross income within limits effective May 1, 2026: $74,800 (1 person), $85,450 (2), $96,150 (3), $106,800 (4), $115,350 (5), $123,900 (6), $132,450 (7), and $141,000 (8). Buyers must complete a CHAPA-listed first-time homebuyer training seminar, and the city page notes a post-closing liquid asset cap of $25,000 (confirm this asset cap and any credit score requirements with the department).
• Key Rules: Assistance is limited to selected streets in the Mount Washington and Lower Acre neighborhoods (or adjacent addresses at the department's discretion), with purchase price limits effective September 1, 2024 of $606,000 (1-family), $775,000 (2-family), $939,000 (3-family), and $1,163,000 (4-family). Buyers must contribute at least 1.5% of the purchase price from their own savings, the property must pass a Housing Quality Standards inspection and comply with lead paint rules, and multifamily rents cannot exceed 85% of Fair Market Rent during the term with no tenant displacement. Buyers should notify the Community Development Department at Haverhill City Hall as soon as an offer is accepted.
• Status: Open — Income limits were updated May 1, 2026; funding is limited and subject to yearly appropriation.

Gloucester First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program (FTHBDPAP)

• Sponsor: City of Gloucester, Community Development Department, Grants Division (CDBG funds)
• Amount & Type: Provides a 0% interest deferred second-mortgage loan from $1,000 up to $15,000, covering 50% of the required down payment and reasonable closing costs based on need, purchase price, and lender requirements. The loan is not forgivable and must be repaid upon sale, refinance (except a no-cash-out rate reduction), title transfer, rental, failure to occupy as a principal residence, or non-compliance. Specific first-mortgage type restrictions are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time homebuyers (no home owned in 3 years, or qualifying displaced homemakers and single parents) with household income at or below 80% AMI (2022 guidelines showed $78,300 for 1 person and $111,850 for 4; confirm current figures with the program). Buyers need a 660+ credit score, a front-end ratio of at most 38% and back-end ratio of at most 45% (46% with a 680+ score), no foreclosure in 3 years, no bankruptcy in 2 years, no outstanding collections, judgments, or liens, and no more than $50,000 in post-closing liquid assets. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, be a U.S. citizen, U.S. non-citizen national, or qualified alien (with valid Social Security numbers for household members age 6+), and complete an approved homebuyer course.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are existing 1-to-4-family homes in Gloucester occupied as a principal residence that are vacant, seller-occupied, or buyer-occupied (tenant-occupied homes are ineligible), and the purchase price cannot exceed the appraised value. Buyers must contribute at least $1,000 or 1% of the price from their own funds (excluding gifts), and co-signers are not allowed. Apply through the city's Neighborly Software portal and allow at least 6 weeks from the signed purchase and sale agreement for processing.
• Status: Open — Online applications are available via the Neighborly portal as of October 2026 under the July 2022 guidelines.

Newburyport HOME PORT Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance

• Sponsor: City of Newburyport Affordable Housing Trust (Community Preservation Act funds)
• Amount & Type: Offers an interest-free deferred payment second-mortgage loan of up to $20,000 per household for down payment and eligible closing costs (appraisal, credit report, survey, plot plan, flood certification, and interest-rate reduction). The loan has no principal reduction between years 1 and 5, is forgiven in full if the buyer lives in the home for 5 years, and must be repaid upon sale or refinance within those 5 years. Specific first-mortgage pairing rules are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Open to income-eligible first-time homebuyers earning up to 100% AMI for a non-deed-restricted home or up to 80% AMI for a home with an affordable deed restriction (exact dollar limits and credit score minimums are not published in the reviewed excerpts; confirm with the program). Earlier June 2023 guidelines required a homebuyer course and capped assets at $75,000 ($375,000 if over 55); confirm with the Trust whether these rules still apply.
• Key Rules: Both market-rate homes and deed-restricted affordable homes in Newburyport are eligible when purchased as a principal residence. Earlier June 2023 guidelines required a 3% buyer down payment and applying at least 5 weeks before closing; confirm current requirements with the Affordable Housing Trust at 60 Pleasant Street, Newburyport, or (978) 465-4400.
• Status: Open — Program page is live as of October 2026 and profiled in MHP's May 2026 DPA guidebook.

Amesbury Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Amesbury Affordable Housing Trust; administered by the Amesbury Housing Authority
• Amount & Type: Provides an interest-free deferred payment loan of 10% of the purchase price up to $20,000, set by the Trust based on price and available funds. Over a 10-year term, the loan requires full repayment if sold before the 6th anniversary, is forgiven at 20% per year during years 6 through 10, and is fully forgiven after 10 years, with early repayment triggered if refinanced or encumbered without Trust approval, no longer used as a primary residence, or in default. Specific first-mortgage pairing rules are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be first-time homebuyers (no ownership in 3 years, with exceptions for displaced homemakers, single parents, and households with a member 55+) with household income at or below 100% of HUD Boston-area AMI adjusted per the CPA statute (exact dollar figures and credit score minimums are not published; confirm with the program). Assets cannot exceed $75,000 ($375,000 if over 55), and buyers must complete homebuyer education from a HUD-approved counseling agency. Priority goes to current Amesbury residents, people employed in Amesbury for 2+ years, or people who lived in Amesbury for 2+ of the past 10 years.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes or condominiums in Amesbury used as a principal residence, and the purchase price cannot exceed the appraised value unless the Trust approves. Buyers must put down at least 1.5% of the sale price. Applications and documents must be submitted to the Amesbury Housing Authority (forms available online or at Amesbury City Hall, 1 Market Street) at least 5 weeks before closing, and conditional approval is valid for 6 months.
• Status: Open — Accepting applications on a first-come, first-served basis until allocated funds are used as of October 2026.

North Andover Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: North Andover Affordable Housing Trust (Affordable Housing Trust and CPA funds); administered by Bread & Roses Housing / Center for Assistance to Families (Centro de Apoyo Familiar)
• Amount & Type: Provides an interest-free deferred payment loan of 10% of the purchase price up to $30,000 over a 10-year term. Full repayment is due if the home is sold before the 6th anniversary, or if transferred, refinanced, encumbered without Trust approval, or no longer used as a primary residence; otherwise, the loan is forgiven at 20% per year during years 6 through 10 and is fully forgiven after 10 years. It must pair with a fully amortizing fixed-rate first mortgage from an institutional lender at an interest rate no more than 2 points above MassHousing's rate, charging no more than 2 points, with no non-household co-signers.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time homebuyers (no ownership in 3 years, including displaced homemakers, single parents, and households with a member 55+) with household income at or below 100% AMI under the CPA moderate-income definition; undated guidelines list $98,910 (1 person), $113,040 (2), $127,170 (3), $141,300 (4), $152,604 (5), and $163,908 (6) (confirm current limits and any credit score minimums with the program). Assets cannot exceed $75,000 ($375,000 if over 55), and homebuyer education by a HUD-approved agency is required.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes or condominiums in North Andover occupied as a principal residence. Buyers must put down at least 1.5% of the sale price, and combined mortgages cannot exceed the purchase price. Apply at least 5 weeks before closing via Town Hall (120 Main Street) or the Center for Assistance to Families (15 Union Street, Suite 205, Lawrence); approvals are valid for 6 months.
• Status: Open — Listed on the town's Affordable Housing Trust page as of October 2026 on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are distributed.

Lowell LDFC Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Lowell Development & Financial Corporation (LDFC); administered by Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership (MVHP).
• Amount & Type: Offers a 0% interest repayable loan of up to $7,500, calculated as 1.5% of the purchase price if the lender requires 3% down, or 2.5% if the lender requires 5% down. Repayment begins on the 5th anniversary in five annual installments of 20% each (or on the 4th anniversary in 60 monthly payments counted in the debt ratio when paired with a MassHousing first mortgage), and the full balance is due on sale, transfer, or refinancing. A $100 processing fee is added to the first payment and a $205 recording fee is due at closing.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers with a maximum household income of $153,900 (with exceptions for UMass Lowell and City of Lowell employees), aimed at buyers above the city HOME income limits. All borrowers must hold a first-time homebuyer certificate and have a total debt ratio of 42% or less. Credit score and asset limits are not published; applications are reviewed case by case and LDFC may deny high-risk files.
• Key Rules: The home must be purchased in Lowell; price caps are not published, so confirm with the program. FHA mortgages are not eligible, and two-family purchases require a landlord training certificate. Buyers must submit application packages to MVHP (978-459-8490) by the second Wednesday of the month for month-end closings.
• Status: Open — MVHP is accepting packages monthly by the second Wednesday of each month as of Oct 2026, subject to limited funds.

City of Lowell HOME Down Payment Assistance (First-Time Home Buyers Program)

• Sponsor: City of Lowell Department of Planning & Development (HUD HOME funds); applications processed by Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership (MVHP).
• Amount & Type: Provides need-based down payment and closing cost assistance of up to $20,000 per MVHP's program page (the city's page lists up to $10,000, and MHP's 2026 guidebook lists $11,800; confirm the current maximum with the program). It is a 0% interest deferred loan repaid when the deed is sold, transferred, or—per MHP's 2026 guidebook—refinanced, with subordination requests considered case by case. Eligible first mortgage types are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers (no residential real estate owned in the past 3 years) or veterans who do not currently own a home, with annual gross household income up to $76,750 (1 person), $87,700 (2), $98,650 (3), $109,600 (4), $118,400 (5), $127,150 (6), $135,950 (7), or $144,700 (8). Applicants need a mortgage pre-approval, a total debt ratio of 45% or less, valid Social Security numbers for all household members, and a first-time homebuyer training certificate. Minimum credit score and asset limits are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: The property must be in Lowell and pass both a home inspection and a Housing Quality Standards inspection with all deficiencies, major mechanical problems, asbestos, or chipping paint repaired before closing. Price caps and combining rules are not published; confirm with the program, and note the $310 mortgage recording fee. Buyers complete a pre-application interview and submit a full application to MVHP (978-459-8490) after an accepted offer for review and city approval in about 3 weeks.
• Status: Paused — MVHP reports the program is temporarily on hold for new applications until further notice (checked Oct 28, 2026).

ONE+Lowell Mortgage Program

• Sponsor: City of Lowell (CPA funds), Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP), and Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership.
• Amount & Type: Provided up to $30,000 per household as a grant paired with an MHP ONE Mortgage. Funds first covered a permanent 1% interest-rate reduction (a 4% rate reduction fee paid to the lender), then down payment assistance up to 3% of the purchase price, with any remainder applied to closing costs. The assistance was a grant and was not repaid on sale or refinance.
• Who Qualifies: Qualified low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers earning no more than 100% AMI and buying in Lowell. Specific credit score, asset, and education rules are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Applied to purchases in Lowell; specific property types and price limits are not published. Lowell residents may still check MHP for eligibility under the separate statewide ONE+ program.
• Status: Closed — No longer listed on MHP's ONE Mortgage programs page as of Oct 28, 2026; see our MHP ONE Mortgage guide for active state options.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell.
• Amount & Type: Provides the purchase of an affordable Habitat home (the latest round offered renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bath condominiums at Drew Farm Barn in Westford) to selected partner families. Mortgage terms, purchase price, and down payment requirements are only in the round's info packet and are not published on the web page; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: First-time buyer rules, income limits, credit scores, asset caps, and education requirements are provided in each project's application packet and are not published on the web page; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Covers 16 Northern Middlesex communities, with applications accepted by project round only. Sweat-equity hours, occupancy rules, and deed restrictions are not published on the web page; confirm with the program at 978-692-0927.
• Status: Closed — The latest application round for two condos in Westford closed on Aug 28, 2026.

Check Your Massachusetts Home Purchase Eligibility

MetroWest & Central Massachusetts Programs

MetroWest and Central Massachusetts options include a $5,000 conditional municipal grant for 1- to 4-family homes, townhomes, and condos, plus two regional Habitat for Humanity homeownership programs—one currently open for a multi-family home and one between application cycles. The region's $25,000 municipal ARPA down payment assistance program is now closed.

Worcester Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Worcester, Housing & Neighborhood Development Division (HUD CDBG funds).
• Amount & Type: Provides up to $5,000 as a conditional grant to cover only the gap needed for up to 50% of the lender-required down payment, closing costs, or a rate buydown. It is secured as a silent second mortgage with a 3-year affordable housing restriction and must be repaid if the home is sold, transferred, refinanced, or no longer owner-occupied within 3 years. It pairs with a pre-approved first mortgage from a lender.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers earning at or below 80% AMI: $73,750 (1 person), $84,300 (2), $94,850 (3), $105,350 (4), $113,800 (5), $122,250 (6), $130,650 (7), or $139,100 (8) for FY2026. Buyers need a mortgage pre-approval, must complete an approved homebuyer course before closing, and cannot have liquid assets above $75,000 per the 2019 guidelines (confirm current asset and credit rules with the city).
• Key Rules: Eligible Worcester properties include single-family homes, 2-4 family homes, townhomes, and condos in habitable HUD-standard condition that have been vacant or seller-occupied for 3 months before the offer (unless the tenant is the buyer). Homes needing over $10,000 in repairs (unless repaired by the seller) are ineligible, pre-1978 homes require a visual lead inspection, and maximum purchase price caps are not confirmed; confirm with the program. Apply through the city's Housing & Neighborhood Development Division (508-799-1400) at least 45 days before closing.
• Status: Open — Listed on the city's Housing & Neighborhood Grants page as of Oct 28, 2026; see our Worcester first-time homebuyer guide for more local options.

Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts
• Amount & Type: Provides a Habitat home sold with a 0% interest mortgage, with monthly payments set around 30% of gross monthly income. Partner families must pay at least 1% of the home's final cost as a down payment, plus ongoing taxes, fees, and maintenance.
• Who Qualifies: Household income must be between 30% and 60% of HUD area median income (confirm 2026 dollar limits with the program), and total gross assets cannot exceed $75,000. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or documented permanent residents, demonstrate a responsible bill-paying history, and complete homeowner education classes. First-time buyer requirements and specific credit score minimums are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Partner families must complete 200 hours of sweat equity for a one-adult family or 350 hours for two adults. Deed restrictions limit the owner's ability to sell, lease, refinance, or mortgage the property and limit equity on resale. Buyers apply directly through Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts; confirm eligible property types, price caps, and combining rules with the program.
• Status: Open — application open for a multi-family home in Acton as of October 28, 2026, with no deadline posted.

Worcester ARPA Downpayment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Worcester (ARPA funds); administered by Worcester Community Housing Resources.
• Amount & Type: Provided up to $25,000 per eligible household to cover up to a 3.5% down payment plus eligible closing costs from a $1 million city ARPA allocation. Further loan or grant repayment structure details and first-mortgage requirements are not published in the record; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applied to eligible first-time homebuyers under income rules set in the 2023 program documents; specific dollar limits, credit scores, and asset limits are not published in the record.
• Key Rules: Required a 5-year owner-occupancy affordable housing restriction on properties in Worcester. Applications are no longer accepted.
• Status: Closed — Listed under Closed Programs on the city's ARPA page as of Oct 28, 2026; see our Worcester first-time homebuyer guide for active programs.

Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/Greater Worcester Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/Greater Worcester.
• Amount & Type: Provides the purchase of an affordable Habitat home, paired with a mortgage obtained from a third-party lender of the buyer's choice. Purchase prices, down payment amounts, and specific mortgage terms are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers with household income between 30% and 60% AMI for Middlesex or Worcester County (exact dollar figures are in an image on the program site; confirm with the program). Applicants must demonstrate housing need, ability to pay, and willingness to partner, and the household size must match the home's bedroom count at 1 to 2 people per bedroom. Credit score and asset limits are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Covers Worcester, Framingham, Marlborough, Natick, Milford, Shrewsbury, Southbridge, Westborough, and about 35 surrounding towns. Selected buyers must complete 300 hours of sweat equity and homeownership education; deed restriction details are not published. Buyers can sign up online or contact 508-290-3620 or familyservices@habitatmwgw.org for notices of future application rounds.
• Status: Closed — Application cycle is closed as of Oct 28, 2026, with the next home planned in Upton; see our Worcester first-time homebuyer guide.

South Shore & South Coast Programs

South Shore and South Coast buyers can access municipal and multi-town HOME consortium deferred and forgivable loans ranging from $10,000 to $40,000 for single-family homes, condos, and, in some cities, multi-family or manufactured homes. This section also includes four regional Habitat for Humanity partner family programs, one of which is open for lottery applications in fall 2026 while three are between application rounds.

South Shore HOME Consortium First-Time Homebuyer Program

• Sponsor: South Shore HOME Consortium (Braintree, Quincy, Randolph, Weymouth); administered by the City of Quincy Office of Healthy Homes / Department of Planning and Community Development
• Amount & Type: Provides a 0% interest deferred-payment second mortgage for down payment and eligible closing costs equal to the lesser of 9% of the purchase price or $40,000 (minimum $1,000), prorated based on liquid assets. The loan is due in full upon sale, transfer, refinance (unless subordinated under Consortium policy), or if the home ceases to be the principal residence, with recapture limited to net sale proceeds. It can be paired with a fixed-rate, fully amortizing first mortgage, including MHP ONE Mortgage or MassHousing loans.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time buyers with no homeownership in the past 3 years (displaced homemaker and single-parent exceptions apply) and household income at or below 80% AMI (2026 web page limits range from $96,000 for 1 person to $137,100 for 4 and $181,000 for 8; FY2025 guidelines list 2025 limits from $92,650 to $174,650). Liquid assets cannot exceed $75,000 excluding 401(k)-type retirement accounts, and buyers must contribute at least 3% of the price in Braintree, Randolph, and Quincy, or 1.5% in Weymouth. Prior consortium residency is not required, and buyers must complete a first-time homebuyer workshop.
• Key Rules: Applies to single-family homes, condominiums, and townhomes in the four consortium communities with a maximum purchase price of $858,000 that pass a Housing Quality Standards inspection and are free of lead paint hazards. Target ratios are 33% for housing and 45% for total debt-to-income, with a principal residence requirement of 5 years for assistance under $15,000 or 10 years for $15,000 to $40,000. Apply through the Quincy Neighborly online portal after signing a purchase and sale agreement, or call the Office of Healthy Homes at 617-376-1055.
• Status: Open — Online application portal is open with FY2025 guidelines posted, subject to funding availability. See our guides to the ONE Mortgage Program and MassHousing mortgages.

Town of Plymouth Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Town of Plymouth Office of Community Development; funded by the Plymouth Affordable Housing Trust (CDBG guidelines)
• Amount & Type: Offers a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage of up to $15,000 based on need, covering up to 50% of the required down payment plus reasonable closing costs (excluding prepaids and escrows), with lead hazard assessment or rehab funds available on request for pre-1978 homes. There are no monthly payments, and the loan is not forgiven; full principal is repaid upon sale, transfer, further encumbrance, or ending primary residency. It pairs with a fixed-rate first mortgage of up to 30 years from an institutional lender (maximum 2 points, rate no more than 2 points above the current MassHousing rate, and no ARMs, interest-only, balloon, or prepayment penalties).
• Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers with no principal residence ownership in the prior 3 years (exceptions for single parents, displaced homemakers, and certain others) and household income at or below 80% AMI (2026 limits: $96,000 for 1 person, $109,700 for 2, $123,400 for 3, $137,100 for 4, up to $181,000 for 8). Total assets cannot exceed $75,000 (including real estate equity and foreign assets), co-signers or guarantors are not allowed, and buyers must invest at least 1.5% of the purchase price and complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education class.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are single-family homes or condos in the Town of Plymouth used as a principal residence where the purchase price does not exceed the appraised value. Properties require a buyer-paid home inspection, a town Housing Quality Standards inspection, and lead compliance for pre-1978 homes; refinancing or home equity loans require town approval and may trigger repayment. Apply with a mortgage pre-approval at the Office of Community Development at 26 Court Street (contact Peggy Whalen at 508-322-3321); funds are not reserved until eligibility is certified.
• Status: Open — Program guide updated May 5, 2026; assistance is contingent on the availability of funds. For rules on pre-1978 homes, see our Massachusetts lead paint law guide.

Town of Middleborough Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Town of Middleborough Planning and Community Development Office (member of the Greater Attleboro/Taunton HOME Consortium)
• Amount & Type: Provides a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage of up to $10,000 based on need, covering up to 20% of the required down payment plus reasonable closing costs (not prepaids). The loan is forgiven at one-tenth per completed year and fully forgiven after 10 years as a primary residence, with pro-rated repayment due upon sale, transfer, refinance, or ending primary occupancy within 10 years. It must pair with a fixed-rate first mortgage of up to 30 years from an institutional lender with debt ratios within HUD guidelines.
• Who Qualifies: First-time buyers with no homeownership in the past 3 years and income at or below 80% AMI (the posted guide lists 2024 limits from $68,500 for 1 person to $97,800 for 4 and $129,100 for 8; confirm current HUD limits with the town). Assets may not exceed $75,000, and buyers must put down at least 3% with at least 1.5% from their own funds (not a gift). Prior Middleborough residency is not required, co-signers are not permitted, and buyers must complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education class.
• Key Rules: The home must be in Middleborough, serve as the buyer's principal residence, have a purchase price not exceeding the appraised value, and pass a town-reviewed home inspection paid for by the buyer. Funds are not reserved until eligibility is certified and a purchase and sale agreement is signed. Contact Robin Perry at the Planning and Community Development Office at 508-946-2425 x1152 to apply.
• Status: Open — Program guide is posted on the town site, and assistance is contingent on the availability of funds.

Greater Attleboro/Taunton HOME Consortium First Time Buyer / Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Greater Attleboro/Taunton HOME Consortium (lead agency: City of Taunton Office of Economic and Community Development); administered by NeighborWorks Housing Solutions
• Amount & Type: Provides HUD HOME-funded down payment assistance (amount and terms not published) for buyers in the 14 consortium communities. The dollar limit, loan structure, interest rate, and repayment or forgiveness rules are not posted on the city or NeighborWorks pages, so buyers must confirm them with the program. It is typically paired with a conventional, FHA, USDA, or VA first mortgage.
• Who Qualifies: Open to first-time homebuyers with no ownership in the last 3 years (with single-parent and displaced-homemaker exceptions) whose income falls within HUD HOME limits for the property's location. Credit score and asset limits are not published; confirm with the program. At least one borrower must have completed a HUD-approved first-time homebuyer class within the last 2 years.
• Key Rules: Applies to homes in Taunton, Attleboro, Berkley, Carver, Dighton, Freetown, Lakeville, Mansfield, Middleborough, North Attleboro, Norton, Plainville, Raynham, and Seekonk within HUD HOME purchase price limits. NeighborWorks will not issue a pre-approval without a signed purchase and sale agreement. Contact NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (Julie Lane at 781-422-4202 or lending@nhsmass.org) or Taunton OECD at 508-821-1030.
• Status: Open — Listed on the City of Taunton Housing Programs page, with funds awarded first come, first served. Compare first-mortgage options in our FHA loan guide.

New Bedford Neighborhoods First First-Time Homebuyer Program

• Sponsor: City of New Bedford Office of Housing and Community Development (HUD HOME funds)
• Amount & Type: Provides two 0% deferred-payment second mortgages totaling up to $40,000 combined: 5% of the purchase price up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs (forgiven after 10 years), plus need-based gap financing up to $30,000 (forgiven after 10 years, or 15 years if total project cost exceeds $40,000). Separate purchase-rehab loans of up to $24,000 (1-family), $40,000 (2-family), or $50,000 (3-family) plus $2,500 per de-leaded unit are also offered, and loans are repayable on sale, lease, transfer, refinance (with some exceptions), or default. Assistance pairs with a fixed-rate, fully amortizing first mortgage of up to 30 years, including ONE Mortgage and MassHousing loans.
• Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers under the HUD HOME definition (no ownership in the prior 3 years; displaced-homemaker and single-parent exceptions apply) with gross income at or below 80% of the New Bedford median (2025 limits: $67,000 for 1 person, $76,550 for 2, $86,100 for 3, $95,650 for 4, up to $126,300 for 8; confirm 2026 figures with OHCD). Good credit is expected, a homebuyer counseling seminar is required, and buyers must contribute at least 1% of the price from their own funds. Buyers with more than $10,000 in liquid assets must put all above $10,000 toward the purchase and may not qualify for down payment assistance.
• Key Rules: Covers 1- to 3-family homes in New Bedford within HUD HOME price limits (95% of area median purchase price) that are owner-occupied or vacant at the time of offer and meet housing quality, code, and lead paint standards with no chipping or peeling paint. Borrowers may not own other property, must occupy the home as a principal residence at least 10 months a year for the loan term, and must follow HOME rent and 60% AMI tenant income limits on assisted rental units. Apply through OHCD at 572 Pleasant St. (508-979-1500) or a participating lender.
• Status: Open — Program description effective June 1, 2025; funds are awarded first come, first served each fiscal year, subject to availability. Learn more about multi-unit financing in our multifamily mortgage guide.

Fall River First Time Homebuyer HOME Program

• Sponsor: City of Fall River Community Development Agency (HUD HOME funds)
• Amount & Type: Provides up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs as a 1% interest loan deferred for the affordability period (5 years for under $15,000; 10 years for $15,001 to $40,000). If the borrower complies with program rules, the loan converts to a grant at the end of the period; recapture provisions and a $627 CDA closing cost apply. It pairs with a first mortgage from a qualified lender working with the CDA, up to a 100% combined loan-to-value ratio.
• Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers with no ownership in the 3 years before purchase whose income falls within HUD HOME limits (confirm current dollar figures with the CDA). Applicants need a minimum 650 credit score, front and back debt ratios of 45% or less, at least $3,000 in post-closing cash, and no more than $25,000 in total assets. Buyers must contribute at least 1.5% of the purchase price, complete a homebuyer counseling course before closing, and have no outstanding Fall River property taxes or fees.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties include 1- to 4-family homes, condos, co-ops, and manufactured or mobile homes in Fall River within FHA mortgage limits that pass Section 8 Housing Quality Standards and a lead paint visual assessment. The buyer must occupy the home as a principal residence for the affordability period. Contact the Fall River Community Development Agency at One Government Center, Room 633, 508-679-0131.
• Status: Open — Guidelines are posted on the city CDA site; confirm current funding availability with the agency. Check price caps in our FHA loan limits guide.

South Shore Habitat for Humanity Family Partnership Program

• Sponsor: South Shore Habitat for Humanity (with host towns and the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities)
• Amount & Type: Sells a deed-restricted Habitat home with an affordable mortgage (in most cases from South Shore Habitat), currently offering a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home at a maximum sale price of $290,000 at 1929 Main St., Marshfield. The estimated total monthly payment is about $2,470 (including $1,909 principal and interest, $232 taxes, $145 insurance, and $183 PMI), with delivery expected in fall 2027.
• Who Qualifies: First-time buyers (exceptions apply) with household income at or below 80% AMI (2026 flyer limits from $96,000 for 1 person to $181,000 for 8) and at least $98,781 per year for the Marshfield home. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, demonstrate housing need, be unable to qualify for a market-rate home, and meet conventional mortgage standards. Selected households must complete 200 sweat-equity hours per adult, capped at 400 hours.
• Key Rules: Qualified households are selected by lottery and must be approved by the state Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, with the home deed-restricted as affordable in perpetuity. Only paper applications are accepted (no email); pick up a packet at Ventress Memorial Library, download it from sshabitat.org/programs, or call 781-347-3765.
• Status: Lottery-based — Marshfield home applications are due by 4:00 PM on November 30, 2026.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plymouth Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plymouth
• Amount & Type: Allows a selected family to purchase a Habitat-built home at an affordable price with a 30-year below-market-rate mortgage from Habitat's partner bank. Specific sale prices and loan amounts vary by home; the homeowner pays property taxes, insurance, and upkeep.
• Who Qualifies: At least one adult must live or work in Plymouth, Carver, Kingston, Middleborough, Plympton, or Lakeville, and household income must be at or below 60% AMI (2025 site figures: $89,340 for 3 people, $99,240 for 4, $107,220 for 5, $115,140 for 6; confirm current limits and first-time buyer rules with Habitat). Applicants must demonstrate housing need and the ability to pay, and each adult in the household must contribute 250 sweat-equity hours.
• Key Rules: Homeowners are selected by lottery from qualified applicants when a specific home is released for sale. Check hfhplymouth.org or email info@hfhplymouth.org for upcoming application rounds and property rules.
• Status: Lottery-based — Applications open per home; no open application round was posted on the site as of October 28, 2026.

Old Colony Habitat for Humanity Homeownership (Partner Family) Program

• Sponsor: Old Colony Habitat for Humanity (Raynham/Attleboro)
• Amount & Type: Buyers purchase a Habitat home with an affordable mortgage and a required down payment. The interest rate, sale price, down payment amount, closing costs, and payment cap are not published; confirm these details with the program.
• Who Qualifies: First-time buyers (with some exceptions) who cannot get conventional financing, have lived or worked in the 24-town service area for at least 1 year, and earn at or below 80% AMI (2025 limits for a 1- to 4-person household range from $67,300 to $96,100 in Freetown up to $92,650 to $132,300 in the Bellingham/Franklin/Wrentham group). Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents with housing need, secure employment, good credit, no felony and at most one misdemeanor, and meet asset limits (amount not published; confirm with the program), plus complete homeownership and first-time homebuyer courses.
• Key Rules: Partner families complete at least 250 hours of sweat equity per adult (up to 500 hours); the next planned build is a 3BR/1.5BA, roughly 1,900-square-foot single-family home on Island Road in Norton expected in 2027, and deed restriction terms are not published. Applications open for a 30-day window only while a home is marketed and involve an eligibility questionnaire, DocuSign application, 10- to 12-week qualification review, home visit, background and credit checks, and a lottery; contact family@oldcolonyhabitat.org.
• Status: Closed — the family application is closed as of October 28, 2026, though the notification list is open for the Norton build expected in 2027.

Buzzards Bay Area Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Buzzards Bay Area Habitat for Humanity (Mattapoisett)
• Amount & Type: Buyers purchase a Habitat-built home with a down payment and a low-interest ('no-profit') mortgage amortized over at least 20 years, with monthly payments covering principal plus escrowed taxes and insurance. Sale prices, down payment amounts, interest rates, closing costs, and payment caps are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Residents of the 9-town service area who are US citizens or permanent residents with a compelling housing need (overcrowded, structural problems, or housing costs over 30% of income), good credit, and household income between 30% and 60% of AMI. Specific dollar income tables, credit score minimums, and asset limits are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Homes carry a perpetual affordable-housing deed restriction and a one-year home warranty, and buyers must complete at least 300 hours of sweat equity under a Sweat Equity Contract. Selection includes an application, USDA pre-qualification, need analysis, interview, and a lottery among qualified families; to hear about future rounds, submit the volunteer application noting homeownership interest or call 508-758-4517.
• Status: Closed — no application round is open as of October 28, 2026, following the June 2026 announcement of the affiliate's first New Bedford build.

Check Your Massachusetts Home Purchase Eligibility

Cape Cod & the Islands Programs

Cape and Islands programs combine 0% deferred loans and forgivable buydowns from $15,000 to $50,000 with price-capped covenant homes, year-round occupancy deed-restriction grants, a Tribal down payment assistance program up to $5,000, and ground-leased soft second mortgages. Because Barnstable County discontinued its countywide HOME down payment program and all three regional Habitat chapters are between application rounds as of October 2026, active assistance here is run at the town, island trust, or Tribal level.

Nantucket Closing Cost Assistance Program (CCAP)

• Sponsor: Town of Nantucket Affordable Housing Trust (administered by the Town Housing Department)
• Amount & Type: Up to $15,000 per eligible buyer for documented closing costs only, based on a bona fide Loan Estimate. It is a 0% deferred-payment loan secured by a subordinate second mortgage to the Trust Fund, with no repayment until the home is sold or transferred (and subordinated if the original owner refinances). Full repayment is due if sold before the fifth anniversary; after five years, the owner can ask for a waiver if the gross sale price is no more than $30,000 above the original purchase price.
• Who Qualifies: Year-round residents earning up to 175% of AMI, aimed at 80%–175% AMI households (published limits without a named HUD year: 80% AMI is $76,750 for 1 person and $109,650 for 4; 150% AMI is $160,860 for 1 and $229,650 for 4; 175% AMI is $187,680 for 1 and $267,930 for 4). Buyers must be approved for a mortgage by a recognized lender, supply the required down payment from their own funds, complete an approved homebuyer course such as Housing Nantucket's course, and stay within the liquid-asset limit for their AMI tier (asset limits and credit score minimums are not published; confirm with the program).
• Key Rules: Available only for buying a permanently deed-restricted unit in Nantucket County that is affordable at 175% AMI or less, such as a Covenant home or lottery unit, to be used as a principal residence. Buyers need a lottery eligibility letter (or a signed P&S plus a Qualified Purchaser Certificate) and a mortgage pre-qualification letter. Apply at least 8 weeks before closing; conditional approval is good for 6 months and funds are released to the closing attorney.
• Status: Open — First-come, first-served until the annual Trust allocation is used up (checked Oct 28, 2026).

Nantucket Housing Needs Covenant Program (Covenant Homes)

• Sponsor: Town of Nantucket (Chapter 301 of the Acts of 2002); administered and monitored by Housing Nantucket
• Amount & Type: Not a cash grant; qualified buyers purchase a permanently price-capped Covenant home (usually a secondary dwelling or lot carved out of a larger parcel) under a 2026 Maximum Sales Price Cap of $854,171. The cap resets every January based on HUD median income and interest rates, and the resale price is capped at the greater of the current cap or what the owner paid. This program pairs with the town's CCAP closing-cost loan.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be Nantucket residents or intend to become one, and may not own residential Nantucket real estate at purchase. Household income (averaged over the previous two years) must be below 150% of Nantucket AMI ($245,250 for 2026), and unrestricted assets must be under $427,085 in 2026 (half the price cap). Credit score and homebuyer education requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Owners must live in the home 10 of 12 months a year and may not rent the whole unit, though renting rooms and compliant ADUs is allowed; violations carry fines up to $300/day, and the seller pays a 2026 transfer fee of $4,271 (0.5% of the cap) on resale. To apply, file the Qualified Purchaser's Application with Housing Nantucket for a certificate (issued within 30 days and valid for 1 year), get bank qualification, find a Covenant home, and close with an attorney and Housing Nantucket.
• Status: Open — Rolling buyer qualification; 2026 caps reset in January 2026, with one listing posted as of Oct 28, 2026.

Nantucket Year-Round Deed Restriction Pilot Program

• Sponsor: Town of Nantucket Affordable Housing Trust
• Amount & Type: Payment amount not published (confirm with the program). The Trust pays a financial incentive to existing or prospective year-round owners who place a permanent year-round deed restriction and an affordable-housing deed restriction on the home, and a buyer can use the payment toward a purchase.
• Who Qualifies: Existing or prospective year-round property owners with household income at or below 240% of Nantucket County AMI (2025 limits: $251,550 for 1 person, $287,400 for 2, $359,250 for 4, and $474,300 for 8). Applicants must also be a Nantucket employee as defined in the guidelines, a year-round resident who contributes to the community (such as through a town board, nonprofit volunteering, or arts), or a year-round resident unable to work due to an ADA-qualifying disability. Credit score, asset limits, and education rules are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Requires living on Nantucket at least 10 months in any 12-month period and placing both a year-round deed restriction and an affordable deed restriction held permanently by the Trust. Property price caps and combining rules are not published; confirm with the program. Buyers apply through the town's OpenGov procurement portal.
• Status: Open — Pilot program with application rounds; the town page shows an active link to the OpenGov portal as of Oct 28, 2026.

Wellfleet Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Wellfleet Housing Authority (with the Wellfleet Affordable Housing Trust and Local Housing Partnership)
• Amount & Type: $20,000 to $50,000 as a 0% interest, deferred-payment subordinate second mortgage. The loan equals the down payment and closing costs in the lender's mortgage commitment minus the buyer's required contribution of at least 1.5% of the purchase price. It is not a grant or forgivable loan; repayment is due on sale or title transfer, and may be required if the first mortgage is refinanced.
• Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers and moderate-income households buying in Wellfleet who have a commitment from a recognized commercial lender. Specific income limits, asset limits, and credit score minimums are not published online; confirm with the program. The town recommends completing first-time homebuyer education through the Community Development Partnership.
• Key Rules: Buyers must contribute at least 1.5% of the purchase price from their own funds. Property price caps are not published online; confirm with the program. Request an application through the form on the Wellfleet Housing website.
• Status: Open — Applications are open as of January 2026 (checked Oct 28, 2026).

Brewster Affordable Home Buyers Buy-down Program

• Sponsor: Town of Brewster (Community Preservation Act funds; Brewster Affordable Housing Trust / Housing Office)
• Amount & Type: Up to $30,000 in purchase assistance provided as an interest-free loan that is forgiven after 30 years. In exchange, the buyer places a permanent affordable deed restriction on the home.
• Who Qualifies: Households earning at or below 80% of Area Median Income (dollar limits are not stated on the page; check current HUD Barnstable County limits or confirm with the program). First-time buyer rules, credit score minimums, asset limits, and education requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: The home must be in Brewster and requires a permanent affordable deed restriction. Property price caps and combining rules are not published; confirm with the program. Buyers apply by joining the town's Affordable Buy-Down (Ready Buyer) Application list.
• Status: Open — The Buy-down Ready Buyer List is open, with assistance contingent on available funds (checked Oct 28, 2026).

Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance

• Sponsor: Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Housing Department
• Amount & Type: Up to 2% of the approved mortgage, capped at $5,000, for down payment and/or closing costs. Whether the assistance is a grant or loan is not published (confirm with the program), though funds must be repaid if the application contained misrepresentations.
• Who Qualifies: Members of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe or another federally recognized tribe living in the service area (Barnstable, Bristol, Plymouth, Norfolk, and Suffolk counties) with family income at or below 80% of county median income. Applicants must meet all HUD and Housing Department eligibility rules, show they can pay the mortgage, have a mortgage payment that does not exceed 50% of gross income, and not have been served by the program in the past 24 months. Credit score, asset, and homebuyer education rules are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: All household members must provide Social Security cards and Tribal ID where applicable, and adults must provide income documents and sign a release within 60 days of intake or the application is denied (denials can be appealed to the Board of Commissioners within 10 days). Property types and price caps are not published; confirm with the program. Apply through the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Housing Department at 483 Great Neck Road South, Mashpee.
• Status: Open — Guidelines and application are posted on the Tribe's housing page as of Oct 28, 2026.

Island Housing Trust Soft Second Loan Program

• Sponsor: Island Housing Trust (Martha's Vineyard community land trust)
• Amount & Type: Up to $15,000 as a 15-year fixed-rate second mortgage at 3% annual interest, with the amount set by the Island Housing Trust together with the mortgage lender. Principal and interest are deferred for the life of the first mortgage and repaid when the first mortgage is paid off or the home is sold, while repayment on a refinance is decided case by case. Approval expires after 60 days.
• Who Qualifies: Open to year-round island households buying a home or ground-leasing land from the Island Housing Trust through a lottery run by the Dukes County Regional Housing Authority, with income limits matching the AMI level of the specific home. The program is need-based and requires a down payment of 5% of the price or $15,000, with at least 3% from the buyer's own funds and the rest from gifts, grants, or private loans unless exempted. Credit score and homebuyer education requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Available only for Island Housing Trust ownership homes, which are ground-leased and permanently deed-restricted to remain affordable. Funding is limited. Buyers apply through the Island Housing Trust at 508-693-1117.
• Status: Open — listed on the Island Housing Trust Homebuyer Resources page as of October 28, 2026 (program sheet dated March 2022) for buyers of IHT homes only, though no ownership homes were listed on that date.

The Down Payment Assistance Program (Federated Church / Martha's Vineyard Community Foundation)

• Sponsor: The Federated Church (TFC Housing Fund Committee), funded by the Martha's Vineyard Community Foundation Workforce Housing Fund
• Amount & Type: A down payment grant of up to 7% of the purchase price, forgiven over 10 years. It pairs with a first mortgage pre-approved for no more than 90% of the purchase price. The trial program has $200,000 in total funding.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be year-round residents with full-time, year-round employment on Martha's Vineyard and household income between 140% and 240% of Dukes County AMI (not to exceed 240% AMI). Household assets, excluding retirement accounts, cannot exceed 10% of the purchase price. First-time buyer, credit score, and homebuyer education rules are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: The property must be located on Martha's Vineyard. Awards are approved by the TFC Housing Fund Committee and depend on available funds. Buyers request an application by email from the program contact named on the program flyer.
• Status: Open — trial program with limited funds ($200,000) per the March 2025 flyer linked by the Island Housing Trust as of October 28, 2026; confirm remaining funds and application status with the program.

Island Affordable Housing Fund Year-Round Occupancy Restrictions and Soft Second Mortgages

• Sponsor: Island Affordable Housing Fund (Martha's Vineyard volunteer-run 501(c)(3))
• Amount & Type: A deed-restriction purchase grant of about 10–15% of the purchase price (or about $80,000–$150,000 on homes the Fund says cost about $800,000 to $1.3 million) in exchange for a permanent year-round occupancy restriction. The Fund also holds and services soft second mortgages for down payment assistance, though the amount, interest rate, and repayment terms are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Open to "missing middle" households with incomes up to 240% of AMI, which the Fund states is about $300,000 depending on family size. First-time buyer, credit score, asset, residency, and homebuyer education requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: The property must carry a permanent year-round occupancy deed restriction requiring occupancy for at least 10 months a year. The home can be rented only year-round or as approved by the monitoring agency, which is usually the Fund. Buyers can contact the Fund through its website to apply.
• Status: Open — the Fund stated it was using these methods as of October 28, 2026; funding is limited, so contact the Fund directly.

Falmouth Housing Trust Home Buy Down Program

• Sponsor: Falmouth Housing Trust (nonprofit), funded by donors and the Town of Falmouth Affordable Housing Fund
• Amount & Type: Provides a significantly reduced below-market purchase price (exact discount per home is not published; confirm with the program). The Trust buys market-rate homes using donor money and the Town's Affordable Housing Fund, then resells each home a few months later to a working family with an affordability restriction on resale.
• Who Qualifies: Income-qualified working households; past Falmouth Housing Trust homes have served buyers earning up to 80% and up to 120% of Barnstable County median income, depending on the specific property. First-time buyer rules, credit score minimums, asset limits, and education requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Homes are in Falmouth and carry an affordable or attainable deed restriction on resale. Buyers are usually selected by lottery for each individual property; contact the Falmouth Housing Trust for current offerings.
• Status: Lottery-based — Homes are offered one at a time as the Trust buys them; no open offering was posted on the FHT site as of Oct 28, 2026.

Barnstable County HOME Down Payment and Closing Cost (DPCC) Program

• Sponsor: Barnstable County HOME Consortium (Barnstable County Department of Human Services); formerly administered by Housing Assistance Corporation (HAC)
• Amount & Type: Historically offered up to $20,000 (raised from $10,000 per an undated HAC page first published in Feb 2017) as a federally funded (HUD HOME) 0% interest, no-payment loan for down payment and closing costs. The loan was repaid to the county when the home sold.
• Who Qualifies: Historically open to income-eligible first-time buyers earning up to the HOME limit of 80% AMI who were buying in Barnstable County. Applicants needed decent credit and a lender pre-approval.
• Key Rules: The Barnstable County HOME Consortium discontinued this homebuyer activity in its PY2023 Annual Action Plan because high Cape Cod home prices made the program unfeasible. County HOME funds are now used for affordable rental housing development and preservation, though an older HAC web page remains online.
• Status: Closed — Discontinued in the county's PY2023 Annual Action Plan, with the PY2025 CAPER (Aug 2026) confirming HOME funds go to rental housing only.

Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod
• Amount & Type: Deed-restricted homes sold at $233,400 to $320,250 with an affordable mortgage. Expected monthly payments are about $1,562 to $2,071 including taxes and insurance.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time buyers (no home owned in the past 3 years, with some exceptions), U.S. citizens or permanent residents, in critical need of year-round housing, and unable to get conventional financing for a market-rate home. Household income must be at or below 80% of AMI ($79,100 for 1 person, $112,950 for 4, and $149,100 for 8 effective May 1, 2026) or 60% of AMI for some homes ($59,340 for 1 person and $84,720 for 4). Credit is reviewed for creditworthiness and stable income, but no minimum credit score is used; homeownership courses are required.
• Key Rules: Homes are typically 1 to 3 bedrooms in Barnstable County and carry a deed restriction to stay affordable in perpetuity. Buyers must complete 250 hours of sweat equity per adult (500 hours for a two-adult household). Applications are accepted only during announced periods for specific builds.
• Status: Closed — between application rounds as of October 28, 2026, after the last 2026 deadline closed on July 20, 2026.

Habitat for Humanity of Martha's Vineyard Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity of Martha's Vineyard
• Amount & Type: Perpetually affordable homes built with donated land, donated materials, and volunteer labor, sold with an affordable mortgage at prices set per home. Exact prices and mortgage terms are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Eligibility rules, income limits, credit requirements, and education rules are not published while applications are closed. Confirm qualification rules with the program when a new round opens.
• Key Rules: Homes on Martha's Vineyard are deed-restricted to remain perpetually affordable. Applications are accepted only during announced rounds; contact the program at 508-939-4573.
• Status: Closed — not accepting home applications as of October 28, 2026.

Habitat for Humanity Nantucket Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity Nantucket
• Amount & Type: Deed-restricted homes sold with an affordable mortgage and monthly payments of about $985 to $1,115, per the program's site. Specific home sale prices and mortgage terms are not published; confirm with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time buyers (with some exceptions), U.S. citizens or permanent residents, in critical need of year-round affordable housing, and unable to get conventional financing for a market-rate home. Households must demonstrate the ability to make timely payments and meet HUD Nantucket County median income and asset limits; confirm current dollar limits, credit score rules, and education requirements with the program.
• Key Rules: Homes on Nantucket are deed-restricted to stay affordable on resale in perpetuity, and buyers must complete 350 hours of sweat equity. Applicants should obtain a lender pre-approval letter and a housing-need statement, with selection based on need, willingness to partner, and ability to pay.
• Status: Closed — no open application round was posted as of October 28, 2026, and the application packet on the site is labeled 2021.

Western Massachusetts Programs

Western Massachusetts programs span municipal 0% deferred and forgivable loans and grants from $5,000 to $25,000, a $50,000 mortgage subsidy, and town buy-down subsidies up to 20% of the purchase price ($60,000 maximum). Buyers will also find four regional Habitat for Humanity homeownership programs—three with open applications or pre-applications in fall 2026 and one currently closed.

Northern Berkshire Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Northern Berkshire Habitat for Humanity (North Adams)
• Amount & Type: Habitat sells homes at no profit with a 25- to 30-year mortgage structured so principal, interest, taxes, and insurance do not exceed 30% of income. Interest rate, down payment, and closing cost terms are not published, so confirm these details directly with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time buyers (no homeownership in the past 3 years, with standard exceptions) who currently live or work in Northern Berkshire and demonstrate a housing need, including paying over 30% of income for housing. Household income must be between 30% and 80% AMI (per the Sept. 2026 fact sheet: $27,650–$73,650 for 1 person, $31,600–$84,200 for 2, $35,550–$94,700 for 3, $39,450–$105,200 for 4, up to $55,720–$138,900 for 8). Credit score and asset limits are not published; confirm with the program, which requires financial counseling, homeownership education, and at least 250 sweat equity hours per adult (friends and family may contribute up to 150 hours, and financial class hours count).
• Key Rules: A deed rider limits the resale price, requires owner-occupancy, prohibits renting, and requires both Town and Habitat approval to refinance. Price caps and combining rules are not published; confirm with the program. Selection involves a financial review, two home interviews, and a lottery with bedroom-fit preference; submit applications to PO Box 391, North Adams, MA 01247 or 61 Main St, Suite 246 (413-664-4440).
• Status: Open — applications for the 3-bedroom home on Summer Street in Williamstown are due Oct. 30, 2026, for a lottery among qualified families, and applications are kept on file for future homes.

Springfield Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Springfield Office of Housing
• Amount & Type: A 0% interest forgivable loan of $7,500 per the March 17, 2026 application, or $10,000 to $20,000 per the city's web page as of October 2026; confirm the current award amount with the Office of Housing. Payments are deferred and forgiven over 10 years of owner-occupancy, with no forgiveness in years 1 through 5 and one-fifth forgiven each year in years 6 through 10. Pro-rated repayment applies if the owner sells, refinances, transfers title, or stops living there, and funds are disbursed at closing for down payment or closing costs.
• Who Qualifies: Open to income-qualified first-time homebuyers with incomes up to the program limits (per the March 2026 application, effective June 1, 2025: $67,340 for 1 person, $76,960 for 2, $86,580 for 3, $96,200 for 4, $103,896 for 5, $111,592 for 6, $119,288 for 7, and $126,984 for 8; confirm current annual limits). Buyers must contribute at least 1% from their own funds, be current on City of Springfield taxes, fees, fines, and liens, and complete homebuyer education with a HUD-certified counselor at a HUD-approved agency (Cambridge Credit Counseling, Holyoke Housing Authority, Springfield Partners for Community Action, Valley CDC, or Way Finders). Credit score requirements are not published; confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are 1- to 4-unit primary residences in Springfield where the appraisal supports the price and maximum loan-to-value follows lender rules up to 103%. Landlord training is required for 2- to 4-unit homes. Apply online via the Cognito form or on paper after loan approval and finding a home through the Office of Housing at 1600 East Columbus Ave, Springfield, (413) 787-6500.
• Status: Open — the city page checked October 28, 2026 noted that funds were likely not available before August 7, 2026; confirm current funding with the city and see our Springfield first-time homebuyer programs guide.

Holyoke Borrower's/Buyer's Assistance Program (BAP)

• Sponsor: City of Holyoke Office of Community Development (HOME funds); administered by Holyoke Housing Authority
• Amount & Type: Up to $14,999 as a 5-year, 0% interest declining-balance soft second mortgage that is forgiven after 5 years if program rules are met (note: the city's web page still lists an older $4,999 cap, while the Holyoke Housing Authority's August 2025 fact sheet lists up to $14,999). Funds can cover down payment and eligible closing costs, and a $250 HHA administrative fee is included in the loan amount.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be first-time homebuyers (no home owned in the past 3 years) with household income at or below 80% of HUD AMI, certified at acceptance and recertified at closing. Applicants must invest at least 1.5% of the purchase price from their own funds, pass a needs test by depleting savings beyond 3 months of PITI and 3 months of living expenses, and keep debt ratios at or below 35% for housing and 43% total. Completion of an approved first-time homebuyer course is required; credit score minimums are not published, so confirm with the program.
• Key Rules: Applies to single-family principal residences in Holyoke with a sale price no higher than 95% of the Hampden County median ($606,000 per the August 2025 fact sheet). The home must pass an HHA Housing Quality Standards inspection and meet HUD lead-based paint rules. Apply through the Holyoke Housing Authority at 475 Maple St, Suite One, (413) 539-2220.
• Status: Open — listed as active on the Holyoke Housing Authority page and August 1, 2025 fact sheet with no closure noted as of October 28, 2026.

Chicopee First Time Homebuyer Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Chicopee Office of Community Development
• Amount & Type: Provides a 0% interest, deferred-payment loan of 3% of the purchase price, up to $10,000. Full repayment is required if program terms are broken in years 0 through 5; the balance is partially forgiven in years 6 through 10 and fully forgiven after year 10 of compliance. It pairs with a 30-year fixed first mortgage with a combined loan-to-value ratio up to 103%.
• Who Qualifies: Open to HUD-defined first-time homebuyers with U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status who have graduated from a HUD-certified homebuyer program within 24 months. Household income limits (revised June 1, 2026) are $73,650 for 1 person, $84,200 for 2, $94,700 for 3, $105,200 for 4, $113,650 for 5, $122,050 for 6, $130,450 for 7, and $138,900 for 8. Assets should not exceed $25,000, Buyers should contribute 1% from their own funds (gifts do not count), and credit score minimums are not published.
• Key Rules: Purchase price limits are $310,000 for a single-family home and $350,000 for a two-unit property; the home must meet Housing Quality Standards, not displace tenants, and have annual proof of owner-occupancy. Any other secondary programs must be approved by the city, and the city must be listed as an additional lender/insured. Apply through the Office of Community Development at 38 Center St or (413) 594-1490.
• Status: Open — application revised June 1, 2026 is posted on the city site (checked October 28, 2026).

Westfield First Time Homebuyer Assistance Program

• Sponsor: City of Westfield Office of Community Development (Community Preservation Act funds)
• Amount & Type: Offers a deferred-payment loan of up to 3% of the purchase price, not to exceed $8,000. Repayment and forgiveness terms are not published in the application, so confirm with the office. It pairs with a 30-year fixed first mortgage with a combined loan-to-value ratio of no more than 100%, a housing ratio under 35%, and total debt under 42%.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be first-time homebuyers as defined by HUD, show demonstrated need based on pre-purchase assets, and have graduated from an approved homebuyer program within the past 24 months. Income limits (revised July 1, 2025) are $67,000 for 1 person, $76,550 for 2, $86,100 for 3, $95,650 for 4, $103,350 for 5, $111,000 for 6, $118,650 for 7, and $126,300 for 8. Buyers must contribute 3% from their own funds; credit score requirements are not published.
• Key Rules: Eligible single-, two-, or three-family homes in Westfield must meet Housing Quality Standards, cause no tenant displacement, and fall within HUD price limits of $606,000 for a single-family and $775,000 for a two-family. The program follows most federal HOME rules and requires 25 business days from city approval to closing. Contact the Office of Community Development at 59 Court St or (413) 572-6246 to apply.
• Status: Open — the city lists a 2025 application (revised July 1, 2025), though remaining 2026 funding is not stated as of October 2026.

Easthampton Housing Subsidy (mortgage subsidy for first-time buyers)

• Sponsor: Valley Community Development (Valley CDC), funded by the City of Easthampton Community Preservation Act
• Amount & Type: Provides a $50,000 mortgage subsidy to reduce mortgage costs for eligible buyers purchasing in Easthampton. Loan structure, interest, repayment, recapture, and first-mortgage pairing rules are not published on the program page; confirm these details with Valley CDC.
• Who Qualifies: Available to first-time homebuyers with household incomes up to $87,080 for 1 person, $99,520 for 2, $111,960 for 3, $124,400 for 4, $134,352 for 5, and $144,304 for 6. Credit score, asset, and residency requirements are not published; Valley offers first-time homebuyer education and counseling.
• Key Rules: The home must be located in Easthampton, and lead testing may be required if children under six live in the household. Price caps, property types, and deed-restriction terms are not published; confirm with the administrator. Apply by contacting Valley's Homeownership Program at dc@valleycdc.org or 413-586-5855 ext. 180.
• Status: Open — Valley's page states that applications are open (checked October 28, 2026).

Leverett Homeownership Assistance (Buy Down) Program

• Sponsor: Town of Leverett Affordable Housing Trust; administered by Franklin County Regional Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA)
• Amount & Type: Provides 20% of the purchase price, up to $60,000, as a buy-down subsidy to reduce the purchase price of a home (HRA's web page shows an older $50,000 figure, while the FY25 flyer and 2026 town update state 20% up to $60,000). A permanent deed restriction is placed on the property to preserve long-term affordability. Applicants must include a pre-qualification for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with their application.
• Who Qualifies: Household income must be below 100% AMI, which as of the April 2024 flyer is $76,650 for 1 person, $87,600 for 2, $98,550 for 3, $109,500 for 4, $118,300 for 5, $127,050 for 6, and $135,800 for 7 (confirm newer income limits with HRA). Buyers must attend a Massachusetts-certified first-time homebuyer workshop before closing. Credit score, asset, and prior-ownership rules are not published.
• Key Rules: The home must be in Leverett with a purchase price not exceeding $310,000 per the FY25 flyer and 2026 town update (HRA's web page shows an older $270,000 cap), and it carries a permanent affordability deed restriction. Applications are available at fcrhra.org or leverett.ma.us, or by contacting Amanda Watson at HRA at 413-863-9781 x151 or awatson@fcrhra.org.
• Status: Open — HRA's page states applications are being accepted, and the program is listed as current in the Leverett Affordable Housing Trust 2026 update.

Leverett Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Town of Leverett Affordable Housing Trust; administered by Franklin County Regional Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA)
• Amount & Type: Provides up to 5% of the purchase price as a 0% interest, deferred-payment loan. The loan is due upon sale or transfer of the property. Applicants must submit a pre-qualification for a 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage.
• Who Qualifies: Household income must be below 100% AMI, listed as of April 2024 at $76,650 for 1 person, $87,600 for 2, $98,550 for 3, $109,500 for 4, $118,300 for 5, $127,050 for 6, and $135,800 for 7 (confirm current limits and whether first-time buyer status is required with HRA). Per the application, a homebuyer class is required only for the Buy Down program; credit score and asset limits are not published.
• Key Rules: The property must be in Leverett with a purchase price not exceeding $310,000 (HRA's web page shows an older $280,000 cap). To apply, contact Amanda Watson at HRA at 413-863-9781 x151.
• Status: Open — HRA's page notes applications are being accepted, and the Leverett Affordable Housing Trust 2026 update lists it as a current program.

Great Barrington Down Payment Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Town of Great Barrington Affordable Housing Trust Fund (Community Preservation Act funds)
• Amount & Type: Offers a 0% interest deferred loan of up to 10% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of $25,000. The loan is repaid in full when the house is sold or transferred, unless the sale price is less than 90% of the original purchase price. It pairs with a mortgage commitment from a participating lender using standard secondary-market underwriting.
• Who Qualifies: Household income cannot exceed 100% AMI per Community Preservation Coalition guidelines: $73,990 for 1 person, $84,560 for 2, $95,130 for 3, $105,700 for 4, $114,156 for 5, $122,612 for 6, $131,068 for 7, and $139,524 for 8 (confirm the current income table year with the Trust). The town page describes it as for income-qualified first-time buyers, while the Trust page notes borrowers cannot own other residential property and first-time buyers must complete homebuyer counseling. Applicants do not need to currently live in Great Barrington; credit score and asset caps are not published.
• Key Rules: Eligible properties are owner-occupied 1-to-4-unit homes in Great Barrington used as a principal residence; price caps are not published. The loan can be combined with other first-time buyer programs and Federal Home Loan Bank grants. Buyers apply with a mortgage commitment from a participating lender: Adams Community Bank, Berkshire Bank, Greylock FCU, Lee Bank, MountainOne, NBT Bank, Pittsfield Cooperative Bank, Salisbury Bank, or Total Mortgage.
• Status: Open — available first-come, first-served as listed on the town and Trust pages in October 2026.

Lenox First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Lenox Affordable Housing Trust
• Amount & Type: Provides a zero-interest grant structured as a 5-year loan of up to $20,000 for down payment, closing costs, homeowner insurance, and/or repairs needed for safe habitation. One-fifth (20%) is forgiven each year until it is fully forgiven and the lien is released after five years; selling within five years requires repaying the remaining balance. Buyers must have mortgage approval and sign an additional mortgage with the town at closing.
• Who Qualifies: Available to first-time homebuyers, buyers who have not owned a home or who have been divorced or widowed within the past five years, or active-duty U.S. military regardless of prior ownership. Household income can be up to 100% AMI for Lenox (2025 limits: $86,400 for 1 person, $98,750 for 2, $111,100 for 3, $123,400 for 4, $133,300 for 5, $143,150 for 6, $153,050 for 7, and $162,900 for 8). First-time buyers must complete homebuyer counseling, applicants may live elsewhere when applying, and credit or asset limits are not published.
• Key Rules: Covers a single-family home, townhome, duplex, or condominium in Lenox with a purchase price up to $498,257, used as the buyer's primary and sole residence. A five-year declining recapture applies. Buyers apply through a participating lender, including Adams Community Bank, Berkshire Bank, Greylock FCU, Lee Bank, MountainOne, Pittsfield Cooperative Bank, and NBT Bank.
• Status: Open — funds are distributed each year first-come, first-served per the 2025 brochure on the town site as of October 2026.

Williamstown DeMayo Mortgage Assistance Program

• Sponsor: Williamstown Affordable Housing Trust
• Amount & Type: Provides a grant of up to $20,000 to help a buyer with demonstrated need, such as shoring up a down payment or funding accessibility modifications. Prorated repayment applies if the home is sold within five years ($16,000 after one year, $12,000 after two, and so on), and the grant is free and clear after five years. It pairs with a first mortgage from one of the four participating local banks.
• Who Qualifies: Open to below-median-income buyers purchasing a primary residence for the long term who show financial need, where the bank determines the grant makes the difference in mortgage eligibility or affordability. Exact income limits, first-time buyer requirements, credit scores, asset limits, and education rules are not published on the town page; confirm with a participating bank.
• Key Rules: The house must be in Williamstown and serve as a long-term primary residence, subject to the five-year prorated recapture. Applications run through mortgage officers at the four banks in Williamstown—Adams Community Bank, Greylock Federal Credit Union, MountainOne, and TD Bank—who request the grant from the Trust on the anonymous buyer's behalf.
• Status: Open — available as long as funds remain per the town page as of October 2026.

Belchertown First-Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance

• Sponsor: Town of Belchertown; administered by Way Finders
• Amount & Type: This town grant is intended to award $5,000 to low- and moderate-income first-time Belchertown homebuyers, according to January 21, 2025 town meeting minutes. A homeownership specialist at Way Finders explains the current terms and first-mortgage pairing to eligible certified buyers.
• Who Qualifies: Buyers must be income-eligible first-time homebuyers who have not owned a home anywhere in the past three years. Applicants must complete a certified first-time homebuyer course, which Way Finders offers for $75 per household. Specific income limits, credit score minimums, and asset caps are not published, so confirm them directly with the program.
• Key Rules: The home must be located in Belchertown. Property types, price caps, occupancy rules, and combining rules are not published; buyers can contact Way Finders homeownership at homeownership@wayfinders.org or 413-233-1600 for details and to apply.
• Status: Open — Way Finders lists this as an active administered program as of October 2026, and January 21, 2025 town minutes reported over $30,000 remaining to disburse.

Franklin Hampshire Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Program (Trailside Condos, Northampton)

• Sponsor: Franklin Hampshire Habitat for Humanity (formerly Pioneer Valley Habitat)
• Amount & Type: Buyers purchase a new Habitat home with an affordable mortgage designed for target housing payments of $900 to $1,800 per month. Sale prices and exact mortgage terms are not published on the program page, so confirm them with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must be first-time homebuyers who have not owned a home in the prior three years (with HUD exceptions for displaced homemakers and single parents) and must be able to pay $900 to $1,800 per month. Gross household income must be at least $38,000 and cannot exceed maximums by family size: $55,238 for 1 person, $63,150 for 2, $71,025 for 3, $78,900 for 4, $85,238 for 5, and $91,538 for 6. Buyers must also complete at least 250 hours of sweat equity, which can be modified for disabilities.
• Key Rules: The current project features four deed-restricted, all-electric condominiums on Cooke Ave in Northampton (three 3-bedroom units and one accessible 2-bedroom unit) restricted for long-term affordability. Eligible applicants enter a public lottery with final approval by Habitat's board. Apply online via Jotform or on paper so the application is received, uploaded, or postmarked by November 24, 2026; fax and email submissions are not accepted.
• Status: Open — Applications are open from September 24 to Tuesday, November 24, 2026.

Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity
• Amount & Type: Buyers purchase a Habitat-built home using an affordable mortgage from a third-party lender with low interest rates and low down payments arranged through Habitat. Applicants are asked whether they can save $3,000 toward the purchase, while specific home prices and loan terms are not published and must be confirmed with the program.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must not have owned a home in the past three years, must currently live in substandard, subsidized, or unaffordable housing, and must have household assets not exceeding $75,000 (excluding retirement). Household income must fall within the unpublished AMI range for the chosen town (Pittsfield, Dalton, or Housatonic), and buyers must obtain a mortgage pre-approval from a third-party lender. Approved buyers complete 275 to 425 partnership hours (sweat equity), which includes financial education classes.
• Key Rules: The program covers home builds in Pittsfield, Dalton, and Housatonic (Great Barrington) in Berkshire County, though current site availability and price caps are not published. The process typically takes 1.5 to 2 years of credit building, budgeting, and sweat equity. Buyers start with an online Step 1 pre-application, followed by a Step 2 full application returned in person or by mail (not electronically).
• Status: Open — The online pre-application is available as of October 28, 2026.

Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Program

• Sponsor: Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity
• Amount & Type: This program allows families to buy Habitat-built homes with an affordable mortgage. Specific loan terms, sale prices, and repayment rules are not published while applications are closed, so confirm details with the program when it reopens.
• Who Qualifies: Applicants must live or work in one of 23 listed Hampden County municipalities, including Springfield, Chicopee, Holyoke, Westfield, West Springfield, Agawam, Ludlow, and 16 nearby towns. Income limits, credit score requirements, asset caps, and homebuyer education rules are not currently published.
• Key Rules: The program is not currently accepting applications, and property rules or price caps are not published. For questions about future openings, contact the organization at (413) 739-5503, homeownership@habitatspringfield.org, or 268 Cold Spring Ave, West Springfield.
• Status: Closed — The organization's website states it is not accepting homeownership applications as of October 28, 2026. For active local options, see our guide to Springfield first-time homebuyer programs.

Check Your Massachusetts Home Purchase Eligibility

How to Combine State and Local Assistance

Several Massachusetts programs let you layer state, regional, and municipal assistance on the same purchase when the first-mortgage lender and local administrator approve the combination:

• MassHousing loans + FHLBank Boston and local DPA: MassHousing states that both its Workforce Advantage 4.0 ($30,000 0% deferred DPA) and its $25,000 15-year amortizing DPA can be combined with the FHLBank Boston Equity Builder Program and many city and town down payment programs. Eligible military borrowers can also stack the MassHousing $2,500 Closing Cost Credit with MassHousing DPA.
• City of Boston program stacking: According to the City of Boston, the Boston First-Time Homebuyer Program (up to $50,000) can be combined with ONE+Boston, the Boston Community Stabilization Fund, and the STASH First-Gen Home grant (when open). Buyers of Boston Homes Lottery deed-restricted homes can also use the 2% tier of Boston's First-Time Homebuyer Program.
• Deed-restricted and discounted homes + state financing: Chapter 40B / LIP affordable units can pair with ONE Mortgage or MassHousing loans, CommonWealth Builder homes allow approved down payment assistance toward the 3% buyer contribution, and HUD Good Neighbor Next Door discounts can combine with state and local assistance.
• Consortium and municipal combinations: Buyers in Chelsea may qualify for both the City of Chelsea DPA and the North Suburban Consortium DPA (up to $10,000 each), and Chicopee allows other secondary programs up to a 103% combined loan-to-value ratio when approved by the city.
• Programs that forbid stacking: ONE+ offerings cannot be combined with one another, and Boston residents buying in Boston who qualify for ONE+Boston must use ONE+Boston rather than the statewide ONE+ program. Locally, Somerville buyers may use only one Somerville closing cost program, and Revere forbids combining its $10,000 DPA with the Revere Affordable Homeownership Buydown Program.

Next Steps to Claim Your Massachusetts Homebuyer Assistance

Most statewide programs—including MassHousing, ONE Mortgage, ONE+, and FHLBank Boston grants—require you to apply through an approved or participating lender, while municipal grants, deferred loans, and affordable housing lotteries are handled through city housing offices, regional administrators, or project marketing agents. Many local programs and FHLBank Boston grants distribute funds on a first-come, first-served basis each year and require 3 to 8 weeks of processing before closing.

Before you sign a purchase and sale agreement, check which programs match your income, household size, assets, credit score, and target town, and register for a CHAPA-certified homebuyer class. Our team at Make Massachusetts Your Home (run by Next Wave Mortgage, LLC) helps you check your eligibility, compare loan options side by side, and get pre-approved so you are ready to move when the right home and program line up.

Check Your Massachusetts Home Purchase Eligibility