Can You Afford to Buy a Home With Less Money Than You Think?

Before You Choose a Lender

Not All Mortgage Lenders Offer the Same Assistance Programs.

You might be approved for a mortgage and still be unaware of down payment assistance or closing cost programs worth exploring. That's because lenders don't all participate in the same programs.

One Question I Wish More Buyers Would Ask

"Are there homebuyer assistance programs I might qualify for that your company doesn't offer?"

A lender can be knowledgeable, professional, and competitive without participating in every assistance program. That doesn't make the lender a bad choice. But you deserve to understand what options may be available before making your decision.

Why This Matters to Me

One of my biggest frustrations in real estate is the possibility of a buyer missing out on financial assistance simply because nobody encouraged them to investigate it.

I believe mortgage professionals should be transparent about which programs they offer and which ones they don't. If exploring another lender might help a buyer access assistance that better fits their needs, I believe the buyer deserves to know.

My priority is helping you make informed decisions, not steering you toward a particular mortgage company.

Let's Explore Your Options Before You Commit to a Lender.

I can help you identify programs worth investigating and connect you with mortgage professionals experienced in homebuyer assistance. You can compare your options and choose the lender that's right for you.

Or call Dan directly: 410-670-4762

Explore Your Options

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Maryland & Delaware

If saving for a down payment or closing costs has kept you from exploring homeownership, there may be programs worth investigating. Both Maryland and Delaware offer assistance options for eligible homebuyers. Some counties and cities offer additional help.

Don't Overlook Local Homebuyer Assistance

Depending on where you're buying, you may also find assistance through county or city programs, employers, housing organizations, or other local initiatives.

Some programs may be combined with state financing, while others have separate requirements or restrictions. Funding and eligibility can change, so it's worth checking before choosing a lender or loan program.

Not Sure Which Programs You Might Qualify For?

You don't need to figure it all out on your own. Let's talk about where you're hoping to buy, your timeline, and your questions. I can help you identify programs worth exploring and connect you with mortgage professionals experienced in homebuyer assistance.

Or call Dan directly: 410-670-4762

Understanding Homebuyer Assistance

Not All Homebuyer Assistance Is Free Money.

You'll often hear programs described as first-time homebuyer grants. But assistance can take several different forms, and the details matter. Some funds may never need to be repaid if you meet the rules. Others are loans that can become due when you sell or refinance.

A Bigger Assistance Amount Doesn't Always Mean a Better Mortgage.

Imagine comparing two mortgage options. One provides more money toward your upfront expenses, but it may also come with a different interest rate, closing costs, or repayment requirements.

That's why you should compare the full financial picture: your monthly payment, cash needed at closing, interest rate, loan terms, and any assistance balance you might eventually owe. The largest assistance amount isn't automatically the most affordable choice.

Let's Make Sure You Understand Your Options.

You shouldn't have to become a mortgage expert to buy your first home. I can help you understand which questions to ask and connect you with lenders experienced in down payment assistance programs. The lender can explain eligibility and compare the actual loan terms so you can make an informed decision.

Or call Dan directly: 410-670-4762

Making Homeownership More Attainable

You May Not Need 20% Down to Buy a Home.

One of the biggest misconceptions about buying a home is that you need to save 20% of the purchase price before you can get started. In reality, several mortgage programs offer lower down payment options for qualified buyers in Maryland and Delaware.

But Your Down Payment Is Only Part of the Picture.

Even with a low-down-payment mortgage or assistance program, buying a home can involve closing costs, inspections, prepaid taxes and insurance, and other expenses.

Your ongoing costs matter just as much. A comfortable monthly housing budget should consider principal and interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, any applicable mortgage insurance or HOA fees, utilities, and maintenance.

The goal isn't simply to qualify for the most expensive home a lender will approve. It's to find a home and payment that make sense for your life.

Not Sure What You Can Afford?

You don't have to figure out the financing side alone. Let's talk about your goals, your preferred areas, and your timeline. I can connect you with mortgage professionals who can review your qualifications, explain financing options, and help you explore assistance programs that may apply.

Or call Dan directly: 410-670-4762

Homebuyer Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Home in Maryland & Delaware

If you're wondering whether you can afford to buy a home, you're probably not alone. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about down payments, mortgage assistance, and getting started.

Can I buy a house in Maryland with little or no money down?

Possibly. Certain conventional loans allow eligible buyers to put as little as 3% down, while FHA loans may require as little as 3.5%. Eligible VA and USDA borrowers may qualify for no-down-payment financing. Down payment assistance programs may also help with upfront costs. Qualification depends on the loan and program requirements.

Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify for assistance?

Not always. Some programs are specifically designed for first-time homebuyers, while others may also be available to repeat buyers. Certain programs define a first-time buyer as someone who has not owned a principal residence during the previous three years, subject to program-specific rules.

Are first-time homebuyer grants really free money?

Some assistance is provided as a true grant that generally does not require repayment when program conditions are met. Other assistance may be a forgivable, deferred-payment, or repayable loan. Always ask for the written terms so you understand whether the funds must eventually be paid back.

Can down payment assistance cover my closing costs?

Some programs allow assistance funds to be used toward eligible closing costs as well as down payments. The amount and permitted uses depend on the program. A participating lender can explain which expenses may be covered and how much cash you may still need.

Do all mortgage lenders offer homebuyer assistance programs?

No. Many state and local programs work through approved or participating lenders. A lender may offer competitive traditional mortgages without participating in certain assistance programs. Ask which programs a lender offers and whether other programs may be worth exploring.

Can I combine more than one assistance program?

Sometimes. Certain state, county, city, employer, or other assistance programs may be used together, but not every combination is permitted. Program rules, funding availability, loan requirements, and eligibility all matter. An experienced lender can help review possible combinations.

What credit score do I need to buy a home?

There isn't one credit score requirement for every mortgage. Different loan programs and lenders have different standards, and down payment assistance programs may have additional requirements. A mortgage professional can review your circumstances and explain which options may fit.

How do I know how much house I can afford?

Start by looking at your income, existing debts, savings, and the monthly payment you're comfortable making. Remember to account for property taxes, insurance, mortgage insurance when applicable, HOA fees, utilities, and maintenance. A lender can help estimate your financing options, but your personal budget should guide the final decision.

Still Have Questions About Buying Your First Home?

Let's talk. Whether you're ready to buy now or just trying to figure out what's possible, I'm happy to help you understand the process and connect with mortgage professionals who can explore your financing and assistance options.

Or call Dan directly: 410-670-4762

Hi, I'm Dan McDevitt.

I've been helping people buy and sell homes in Maryland and Delaware for more than 20 years. One thing I've learned is that many buyers underestimate the options available to them, especially when it comes to financing and assistance.

My job isn't to approve your mortgage or promise that you'll qualify for a grant. It's to help you navigate the process, understand the questions worth asking, and connect with experienced mortgage professionals who can evaluate your options.

Here's How I Can Help:

• Understand the homebuying process and what to expect.
• Identify Maryland and Delaware assistance programs worth investigating.
• Connect with lenders experienced in down payment and closing cost assistance.
• Explore neighborhoods, available homes, and realistic purchase options.
• Develop a plan that fits your goals, budget, and timeline.