Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in Maryland

Last updated: September 2025

If you need help fast, start with the first two boxes below. Every program and resource mentioned includes an inline link so you can click and go. When in doubt, call first to confirm funding is available and ask for a timeline in writing.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Get pre-approved with an approved Maryland Mortgage Program lender: Use the state’s lender locator to connect with a trained loan officer through the Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) Find a Lender tool, scan current MMP eligibility rules, and sign up for urgent program email alerts so you hear about new grants first. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Pick one down payment path and lock it in this week: Compare MMP’s statewide assistance (like 1st Time Advantage 6000 or 3–5% DPA) on the MMP 1st Time Advantage page, check any county program where you want to buy (for example Prince George’s Pathway to Purchase up to $25,000), and verify income and price caps on the MMP Income & Purchase Limits page. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Book homebuyer education now to unlock grants: Reserve a HUD-approved class via CFPB’s housing counselor tool, browse Baltimore City’s counseling list at DHCD Homeownership Incentives, and review Montgomery County’s MPDU training steps on DHCA MPDU Purchase Program. Seats fill fast and your certificate is often required before you write an offer. (consumerfinance.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• State loan program hotline: For MMP questions, email the Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) Single Family team or call 1-301-429-7852; find lenders at MMP Find a Lender; get updates at MMP Subscribe. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Prince George’s $25,000 Pathway to Purchase: See funding status and steps on Pathway to Purchase, combine with MMP as shown on the MMP Prince George’s page, or contact 1-301-883-5456. (princegeorgescountymd.gov)
• Baltimore City buyer incentives: Review the $10,000First-TimeHomebuyersIncentiveandmoreon\ast [DHCDHomeownershipIncentives](https://dhcd.baltimorecity.gov/hho/homeownership-incentives)\ast ,seethe$5,000 lottery at Live Baltimore Buying Into Baltimore, and explore ARPA-funded Buy Back the Block. Call 1-410-396-3124 for City DHCD. (dhcd.baltimorecity.gov)
• Utility shutoff or emergency bills: Apply through Maryland OHEP energy assistance, find your local office at OHEP Local Offices, or dial 211 Maryland for 24/7 referrals. OHEP main line: 1-800-332-6347. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Fair housing and property tax relief: Report discrimination via HUD at HUD FHA Resource Center, and claim state credits at Maryland SDAT Homeowners’ Tax Credit; you can also look up assessments at SDAT Real Property. (hud.gov)

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Who This Guide Is For

This guide is written for Maryland single mothers who want clear steps and direct links to real programs that pay down payments and closing costs. You’ll see exact dollars, eligibility notes, and the fastest way to apply. You’ll also see back-up plans when money runs out.

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How Down Payment Help Works in Maryland Right Now

Most single moms layer one statewide program with one local program and an affordable loan. The backbone program is the Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP), which pairs your first mortgage with a second loan or grant for down payment and closing costs, then lets you match employer or local funds through Partner Match. You’ll confirm today’s options with an MMP-approved lender via the Find a Lender tool and check the income and purchase-price caps on MMP Income & Purchase Limits. (mmp.maryland.gov)

MMP offers several packages with defined amounts. Current options include 1st Time Advantage 6000 (a $6,000,0$5,000 or 3% second), and HomeStart (6% DPA for ≤50% AMI households). All have standard MMP rules, and many are compatible with county grants listed below. Always verify which exact line is open when you lock your rate. See details on the 1st Time Advantage page, the Flex Loans page, and HomeStart. (mmp.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender to pivot to FHA (3.5% down) using HUD’s FHA overview, USDA 0% down in eligible rural areas via USDA Guaranteed Loans, or VA 0% down if you’re a veteran using VA Home Loans. Also ask about nationwide bank grants (for example FHLBank programs offered through participating lenders). (hud.gov)

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Statewide Maryland Programs You Can Use

Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) — What you can get today

• MMP 1st Time Advantage 6000: A $6,000, 0% deferred second for down payment or closings, repayable when you sell, refinance, or transfer. Check the product grid on 1st Time Advantage, verify caps on Income & Purchase Limits, and use Find a Lender to get pre-approved. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• MMP 3%–5% Assistance Loans: A 0% deferred second equal to 3%, 4%, or 5% of the first mortgage for down payment/closing costs; available under 1st Time Advantage with first-time buyer rules and under Flex 3% Loan for repeat buyers using Flex. Confirm which line is open before locking. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• MMP Flex 5000 & Flex 3%: A $5,000 0% deferred second (Flex 5000) or a 3% 0% second (Flex 3%). Works statewide, often for repeat buyers too. See Flex Loans and discuss compatibility with local help. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• HomeStart (≤50% AMI): A 0% deferred second equal to 6% of the MMP first lien for very low-income households; verify the fact sheet on 1st Time Advantage and confirm AMI on Income & Purchase Limits. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Partner Match (stacking strategy): If an approved employer, builder, or local gov’t puts in money, MMP may match up to $2,500 as a 0% deferred second. Search partners on Partner Organizations and read Partner Match rules. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• HomeAbility (borrower or household member with a disability): Combine a first mortgage up to 95% LTV with up to 25% (max $45,000) as a 0% deferred second; total CLTV capped at 105%. Review documentation requirements on HomeAbility and check 80% AMI limits at Income & Purchase Limits. (mmp.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your income is above MMP household limits, ask your lender about conventional “HomeReady/Home Possible” style loans and seek employer assistance via MMP Partner Match; if you’re buying new construction, confirm the property is in a Priority Funding Area to stay MMP-eligible. (mmp.maryland.gov)

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Maryland’s Major Local and County Programs (Single‑Mom Friendly Picks)

Use the table and county notes to target help where you plan to live. Funding is first-come and changes fast; call to confirm availability before you sign a contract.

Quick Comparison — Popular Local DPA/Grant Options

Below are county-by-county highlights with how to apply quickly.

Baltimore City — stacking City dollars with MMP

Start with City incentives at DHCD Homeownership Incentives, including the upgraded First-Time Homebuyers Incentive (base $10,000for\le 80$5,000 bonus). Then add MMP 6000 or 3–5%, and explore lottery and neighborhood incentives through Live Baltimore such as Buying Into Baltimore and Buy Back the Block. Call DHCD at 1-410-396-3124 and use the City’s online application portal early. (dhcd.baltimorecity.gov)

Reality check: Grants can run out mid-year; for example, ARPA-funded Buy Back the Block posts rolling availability and may pause between fiscal allocations. Live Baltimore updates application windows and deadlines for Trolley Tour and other incentives regularly. Verify timing and settlement deadlines before you write an offer. (livebaltimore.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try county-adjacent options (Baltimore County SELP below), employer assistance through Partner Match, or switch to FHA/USDA/VA if you’re eligible. (mmp.maryland.gov)

Baltimore County — SELP up to $10,000

The Settlement Expense Loan Program (SELP) lends up to $10,000 for closing costs in Community Conservation Areas; it’s a deferred loan forgivable after the HOME affordability period if you meet residency rules. You must take a two-part class and individual counseling through partner agencies listed on the county site, then your counselor submits your package. You can layer SELP with MMP when the property and your income fit. (baltimorecountymd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about employer “Live Near Your Work” partnerships listed on the same County page, or look at ACDS MAP in neighboring Anne Arundel if commuting works for you. (baltimorecountymd.gov)

Anne Arundel County — up to $50,000 (ACDS MAP)

The Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP) provides up to $50,000 as a 0% deferred loan for first-time buyers countywide; buyers must contribute 1% of the price and the home must meet ACDS property standards. Classes can book 6–8 weeks out, and the average counseling/approval path can take 2–4 months from start to finish, so apply early. You can combine MAP with MMP when allowed and up to the program’s purchase-price cap. (acdsinc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check City of Annapolis for MPDU settlement assistance up to $10,000, and ask your lender about Federal Home Loan Bank offerings through local banks. (annapolis.gov)

Howard County — SDLP and MIHU pathway

Howard County’s Settlement Downpayment Loan Program (SDLP) offers deferred, low-rate loans administered by DHCD with reservations made by your lender; funding is first-come and income/price limits are updated regularly. Pair this with the county’s MIHU homeownership pipeline and MMP assistance. Contact SDLP at 1-410-313-6318 (Option 1) and review the February 2025 packet. (howardcountymd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you work in Montgomery or DC, consider nearby Gaithersburg DPA up to $40,000 or HOC McHAF. (gaithersburgmd.gov)

Montgomery County — HOC-first approach

Through the HOC Mortgage Purchase Program, you can layer the McHAF deferred loan up to $25,000](https://www.hocmc.org/extra/1122-montgomery-county-homeownership-assistance-fund-mchaf-phase-vi.html)\ast and\ast [RCCAP5-for-5upto$10,000 for down payment/closing costs, then combine with MMP where appropriate. If you prefer discounted sales prices, explore the MPDU purchase program with required classes. (hocmc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask lenders about USDA eligibility in upcounty areas via USDA’s map-based tool, or apply for MMP Flex if you’re a repeat buyer. (rd.usda.gov)

Prince George’s County — the $25,000 headliner

With Pathway to Purchase, approved borrowers can get up to $25,000 as a 0% deferred loan forgivable after 10 years, subject to purchase price caps and MMP pre-approval. The MMP Prince George’s page explains how this pairs with first mortgages. Funding updates are posted on the County site—apply early. (princegeorgescountymd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Look at city grants like College Park New Neighbors $5,000–$20,000, explore Bowie First assistance, and ask your lender to match employer or builder contributions via Partner Match. (collegeparkmd.gov)

Frederick County and Hagerstown — smaller but speedy

Frederick County’s Homebuyer Assistance Program offers up to 12,000; the lender submits on your behalf after you complete counseling with the City’s *[Housing & Human Services](https://www.cityoffrederickmd.gov/1590/Housing-Counseling-Office)* team. In Hagerstown, the *[Homeownership Initiative](https://www.hagerstownmd.org/1562/Hagerstown-Homeownership-Initiative)* provides up to 7,500 as a forgivable loan-to-grant with deadlines that require you to apply at least 30 days before settlement. (frederickcountymd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Many western and rural ZIP codes may qualify for 0% down USDA Guaranteed Loans or subsidized USDA Direct Loans; ask your lender to check eligibility by address. (rd.usda.gov)

Eastern Shore (Salisbury/Wicomico) — deep local support

Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Services administers CDBG-based grants up to $20,000](https://www.salisburynhs.org/products-and-services/closing-cost-grants/)\ast foreligiblefirst-timebuyersinthecityorcounty;there’salsoa\ast [closingcostloanupto$15,000 with flexible terms. Combine with MMP and check income limits posted on the NHS site. (salisburynhs.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For manufactured housing or rural areas, price USDA options with your lender using USDA factsheets and confirm if a 0% down path plus MMP tax credit products are viable for your case. (rd.usda.gov)

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Step‑by‑Step: Fastest Way to Apply and Close

• Get an education certificate early: Use CFPB’s counselor finder, book a class with Baltimore DHCD partners or Montgomery MPDU providers, and keep your certificate current (often valid 12–24 months). (consumerfinance.gov)
• Pre-approve with a program-savvy lender: Contact lenders through MMP Find a Lender, ask them to quote MMP options and any local grant layering, and confirm you meet MMP Eligibility. Sign up for MMP updates. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Collect your DPA documents: Follow your county’s checklist; for example, Baltimore County SELP requires classes and counseling, and ACDS MAP requires 1% buyer funds and an ACDS inspection. Keep IDs, income, bank statements, custody orders, child support records, and any disability documentation handy. (baltimorecountymd.gov)
• Reserve funds before you shop hard: Some programs (e.g., Pathway to Purchase) require lender pre-approval and county reservation; others (e.g., Buying Into Baltimore lottery) require attending a specific event before writing an offer. (princegeorgescountymd.gov)
• Expect real timelines: For energy assistance context, 211 Maryland notes OHEP decisions in about 3–4 weeks; most DPA programs take at least 2–4 weeks under normal conditions, longer when busy. Always ask your lender and program staff for their current processing time in writing. (211md.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a DPA runs out mid-process, ask your lender to switch you to an MMP product still open, to bank grants through FHLBank Atlanta partners, or to FHA/USDA/VA. Confirm whether your counseling certificate transfers to the new program window.

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Key Funding Rules That Trip People Up

• Income counted is “household,” not just borrowers: MMP uses total household income (adults 18+) for eligibility; see MMP Household Income rules and your county’s limits on MMP Income & Purchase Limits. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Targeted Areas can waive first-time rule: Buying in specific areas (e.g., entire Baltimore City) may waive the three-year first-time requirement and raise income caps; confirm on MMP Property Information and the MMP Mapper. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Second liens are due when you sell/refi: MMP assistance is often a 0% deferred loan payable at payoff, refinance, or sale; see product pages like 1st Time Advantage and Flex Loans for terms. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• USDA/VA can be powerful 0% down tools: USDA Guaranteed loans allow 100% financing in eligible areas and VA loans require no down payment for qualified veterans; verify on USDA’s program page and VA Home Loans. (rd.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re barely over an income cap, ask your lender whether alternative loan types with reduced MI (or FHA with 3.5% down) can keep payment affordable while you secure a smaller, still-available grant. (hud.gov)

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Maryland-Friendly Mortgage Options to Pair with Grants

• FHA (low down payment): Minimum 3.5% down, flexible credit; learn basics at HUD’s FHA page and confirm new 2025 loan limits at HUD’s 2025 Loan Limits notice. (hud.gov)
• USDA (0% down rural): Requires ≤115% area median income and rural-eligible property; see USDA Guaranteed Loan overview and fact sheets for rates/fees. (rd.usda.gov)
• VA (0% down for veterans): Lifetime benefit with no PMI and seller/lender-paid temporary buydowns allowed; read VA Home Loans and check policy notes on temporary buydowns and funding fee changes. (benefits.va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you don’t fit any specialized loan, ask your lender for a conventional 3% down option and check if your income fits low‑downpayment products; then pair with the biggest local DPA you can secure.

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Realistic Timeline From First Call to Keys

What to do if this doesn’t work: If processing stalls, escalate politely with the program’s main line and copy your lender; consider switching to an open MMP line or a different property if a specific home’s timeline won’t fit the grant window.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting a grant application after you sign a contract when the program requires pre-approval: For example, Pathway to Purchase needs MMP pre-approval before applying; Buying Into Baltimore requires event attendance before your contract. (princegeorgescountymd.gov)
• Assuming you’re “first-time” when an old home title is on your record: MMP’s first-time rule is strict, but Targeted Areas can waive it—ask your lender to check the address. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Missing income documentation for household members: MMP counts household income, not just borrowers; include adult child support and part-time wages. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Planning to rent out a room right away: Many local grants require owner-occupancy and limit rentals; see MPDU/County terms like Montgomery MPDU rules. (montgomerycountymd.gov)

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Reality Check — Delays, Denials, Funding Gaps

• Funding windows close fast: City and county grants can pause when dollars are exhausted; Live Baltimore posts status updates and timelines for its ARPA-funded grants. Tie your contract to your reservation letter. (livebaltimore.com)
• Underwriting isn’t lenient about “gift” cash: MMP screens liquid assets and requires clean sourcing; read MMP Eligibility and have your lender document every transfer. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Rural loans are great but geographic: USDA needs eligible addresses and income; lenders use USDA’s program page and maps to confirm. (rd.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a written denial and a 15‑minute call to understand the reason. Many buyers switch to a different DPA line or a different property (e.g., in a Targeted Area) and succeed on the second try.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Statewide MMP assistance: MMP 1st Time Advantage, MMP Flex Loans, HomeStart.
• Local big-dollar picks: Prince George’s Pathway to Purchase, Baltimore City DHCD Incentives, ACDS MAP up to $50,000.
• Underwriting shortcuts: FHA basics at HUD Loans, USDA at USDA Guaranteed, VA at VA Home Loans.
• Counseling: Find a housing counselor, Montgomery MPDU education, Baltimore DHCD counseling portal. (mmp.maryland.gov)

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Application Checklist You Can Screenshot

• MMP lender pre-approval letter: From an MMP-approved lender, plus MMP eligibility confirmed in writing. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Homebuyer education certificate: Book via CFPB counselor tool or your county class (e.g., Montgomery MPDU steps). (consumerfinance.gov)
• Photo ID + SSNs for household: Required for most DPAs; check your program’s instructions and MMP income rules. (acdsinc.org)
• Income documents (30–60 days): Pay stubs, child support orders, award letters; disability proof for HomeAbility if applicable. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Bank statements + gift letters: Sourced funds per MMP program rules; keep explanations ready. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Signed contract and estimated Closing Disclosure: Attach to city/county applications (e.g., PG Pathway, Baltimore DHCD). (princegeorgescountymd.gov)

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for the exact reason in writing: Then compare against MMP Eligibility and your local program rules; request a supervisor review if a fix is possible (like adding a co-borrower or addressing a documentation gap). (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Switch programs, not dreams: If income is too high for one program, target a Targeted Area that raises your cap or move to another county’s offering like ACDS MAP or SELP. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Consider rural or veteran pathways: Confirm USDA eligibility for 0% down or use VA Home Loans if you qualify; sometimes these beat local grants when timing is tight. (rd.usda.gov)

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Notes and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask lenders who honor MMP Partner Match to recognize employer benefits, document chosen name on all application items, and request fair-housing support via HUD FHA Resource Center if you experience bias. Consider inclusive counseling agencies listed by Baltimore DHCD. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Compare HomeAbility (0% second up to $45,000) with county options like Howard SDLP; request large-print applications and ask about TTY lines (e.g., OHEP TTY 1-800-735-2258). (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Use VA Home Loans (0% down, no PMI), check temporary buydowns at VA guidance, and ask MMP lenders how VA pairs with employer or local grants. (benefits.va.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: MMP does not require U.S. citizenship (SSN and lawful presence documentation apply); verify on MMP Eligibility and work with HUD-approved counselors via CFPB’s tool who offer translation. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Tribal-specific resources: If you are a Native veteran buying on trust land, review VA’s Native American Direct Loan (NADL) and ask your MMP lender whether state/local grants can still contribute to closing costs. (benefits.va.gov)
• Rural single moms: Confirm 0% down eligibility via USDA and ask about USDA Direct payment assistance if your income is very low; pair with modest local grants (e.g., Wicomico/Salisbury NHS). (rd.usda.gov)
• Single fathers: Most programs are household-based, not gender-based; the same MMP, county grants, and CFPB mortgage resources apply identically. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Language access: Ask for translated materials where available (MMP and many county sites offer Spanish pages); see OHEP’s Spanish resources and use 211 Maryland for live translation across 150+ languages. TTY lines are available statewide. (dhs.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Connect with legal aid or a fair housing agency for advocacy; HUD’s FHA Resource Center can route complaints and questions. (hud.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Maryland Today

• Apply to OHEP immediately: Submit online at MarylandBenefits.gov via OHEP, call 1-800-332-6347, or drop off at your local OHEP office. Keep photos of your bills and IDs ready. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Call your utility for a payment plan: Most utilities will set 12‑month plans; 211 Maryland lists numbers (e.g., BGE 1-800-685-0123, Pepco 202-833-7500, Delmarva 1-800-375-7117). Document your call. (211md.org)
• Use 211 as a backstop: Dial 2‑1‑1 or your region’s direct line (211 contact list); ask for local utility assistance and eviction prevention grants. (211md.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender whether a delayed closing or credit from seller concessions can cover a past‑due utility to keep you mortgage‑eligible.

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Resources by Region (Click and Call)

• Central Maryland (Baltimore City/County, Anne Arundel, Howard, Carroll): Baltimore DHCD Incentives, Baltimore County SELP, ACDS MAP, Howard SDLP. (dhcd.baltimorecity.gov)
• DC suburbs (Montgomery, Prince George’s): HOC McHAF/RCCAP, Montgomery MPDU, PG Pathway, College Park New Neighbors. (hocmc.org)
• Western Maryland (Frederick, Washington, Allegany, Garrett): Frederick HAP, Hagerstown HHI, USDA loans. (frederickcountymd.gov)
• Eastern Shore (Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Talbot, Dorchester, Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset): Salisbury NHS Grants, Cecil Housing Counseling, USDA Direct Loans. (salisburynhs.org)
• Southern Maryland (Charles, Calvert, St. Mary’s): Use MMP Find a Lender to identify lenders active in your county, ask about employer ties for Partner Match, and check any city-specific grants (e.g., Laurel $5,000 program if your target is within city limits near the county border). (mmp.maryland.gov)

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Examples — How Single Moms Are Piecing It Together

• *PG County teacher buying a $380,000townhouse\ast \ast :Sheuses\ast [PathwaytoPurchase($25,000)](https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/business/redevelopment-authority/first-time-home-buyer-assistance-programs/pathway-to-purchase) plus MMP 1st Time Advantage 6000 and a seller credit. She finishes counseling, the lender submits to PGC in week 1, and she closes in 45 days. (princegeorgescountymd.gov)
• *Baltimore City nursing assistant buying a $210,000rowhome\ast \ast :Sheattends\ast [TrolleyTour](https://livebaltimore.com/trolley-tour-details/)\ast ,winsa\ast [BuyingIntoBaltimore$5,000](https://livebaltimore.com/resident-resources/financial-incentives/buying-into-baltimore/) incentive, stacks the City’s $10,000 First-Time Homebuyers Incentive, then adds MMP 3% assistance to cover most closing costs. (livebaltimore.com)
• *Anne Arundel medical coder buying a $345,000condo\ast \ast :ShecompletesACDSclasses,secures\ast [MAPupto$50,000](https://acdsinc.org/housing-resources/homebuyers/mortgage-assistance/) (final need approved at $28,500), and uses MMP Flex 3% for rate/terms. (acdsinc.org)

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Tables You Can Use While You Shop

Table — Which MMP Product Fits?

Table — Local Program Snapshot

Table — Typical Required Docs

Table — Mortgage Pairings (Down Payment Math)

Table — Utility Crisis Backup

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FAQs (Maryland + Single‑Mom Specific)

1. How much down payment help can I stack in Maryland: Most buyers layer one MMP second with one local grant like PG Pathway or Baltimore City’s incentives; ask your lender to check subordination policies and Partner Match eligibility. (mmp.maryland.gov)
2. Is there a true grant I never repay: City programs like Buying Into Baltimore $5,000 are forgivable; many county programs are deferred loans due at sale/refi (e.g., ACDS MAP). Read each program’s lien terms before you sign. (livebaltimore.com)
3. I make too much for one program—what now: Try a Targeted Area to raise MMP income caps or pivot to a city grant with no income limits (e.g., Buying Into Baltimore). (mmp.maryland.gov)
4. How fast do these funds run out: Some publish balances (PG often posts status updates), and Live Baltimore posts dates and deadlines; act early and align your contract date to the program window. Check Pathway page and Live Baltimore Trolley Tour details. (princegeorgescountymd.gov)
5. Does MMP require citizenship: No—MMP requires age 18+ and a valid SSN; U.S. citizenship is not required per MMP Eligibility. Lenders will verify lawful presence consistent with agency rules. (mmp.maryland.gov)
6. Can I buy new construction: Yes, but for MMP the home must be in a Priority Funding Area if built within the past 12 months; confirm with your lender. (mmp.maryland.gov)
7. What if I have student loans: Ask your lender how FHA/USDA/VA calculate student loan payments; occasionally special state initiatives appear (e.g., prior SmartBuy rounds), but always verify current status via MMP updates. (mmp.maryland.gov)
8. I’m a veteran and a single mom—what’s best: Start with VA Home Loans for 0% down and no PMI, then layer a local grant like Pathway or City incentives if allowed. (benefits.va.gov)
9. What credit score do I need: Lenders set overlays, but FHA typically accepts lower scores than conventional per HUD FHA guidance; USDA focuses on ability to repay per USDA program page. Ask your lender for all three options. (hud.gov)
10. How do I avoid predatory lending: Use CFPB’s Buying a House tools, shop at least three lenders, and ensure your lender knows the grant rules (e.g., Baltimore County warns about predatory loan terms in its SELP guidance). (consumerfinance.gov)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta guía fue traducida con herramientas de IA para su conveniencia. Verifique los detalles con las agencias oficiales antes de aplicar.

• Programas estatales: Revise Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) y productos como 1st Time Advantage y Flex Loans. Use Find a Lender para encontrar prestamistas aprobados. (mmp.maryland.gov)
• Ayuda local: Vea Pathway to Purchase de Prince George’s (hasta $25,000),\ast [IncentivosdeBaltimoreCity](https://dhcd.baltimorecity.gov/hho/homeownership-incentives)\ast ($10,000+) y ACDS MAP de Anne Arundel (hasta $50,000). (princegeorgescountymd.gov)
• Clases y consejería: Busque consejeros aprobados por HUD en CFPB; obtenga su certificado antes de hacer una oferta. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Préstamos 0% de enganche: Revise USDA (áreas rurales) y VA (veteranas elegibles). (rd.usda.gov)
• Asistencia de servicios públicos: Aplique a OHEP y llame a 211 Maryland para recursos 24/7. (dhs.maryland.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Maryland Mortgage Program (DHCD)
• Prince George’s County Pathway to Purchase
• Baltimore City DHCD Homeownership Incentives
• Anne Arundel ACDS Mortgage Assistance Program
• HOC Montgomery County Homeownership Programs
• Howard County SDLP
• USDA Rural Development
• VA Home Loans
• CFPB Buying a House

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This content is for general guidance. Program terms, income limits, loan limits, and funding availability change often. Always confirm amounts, deadlines, and eligibility with the administering agency or lender before you sign a contract or pay fees. Use the program links included here, call the listed numbers, and get timelines and approvals in writing.

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🏛️More Maryland Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maryland

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery