DC First-Time Homebuyer Programs 2026

Quick answer

Washington, DC has some of the largest down payment programs in the country. HPAP can provide up to $202,000 toward a down payment plus up to $4,000 for closing costs as an interest-free deferred loan. DC Open Doors offers 3% or 3.5% of the price with a 2026 income limit of $275,400 and is open to repeat buyers. DC government employees can add DC4ME and EAHP, and qualifying first-time buyers pay a reduced 0.725% recordation tax on homes up to $777,000.

HPAP maximum: Up to $202,000 + $4,000 closing costs
DC Open Doors: 3% or 3.5% of the price
Open Doors income limit (2026): $275,400
First-time buyer recordation tax: 0.725% on homes up to $777,000

The four main programs at a glance

Program	Who runs it	What you can get	Who qualifies
HPAP (Home Purchase Assistance Program)	DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)	Up to $202,000 for down payment and up to $4,000 for closing costs, as an interest-free deferred loan	First-time buyers within DHCD income limits for their household size, buying a primary residence in DC
DC Open Doors	DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA)	3% or 3.5% of the purchase price toward down payment or closing costs, with a DCHFA mortgage	First-time and repeat buyers; 2026 income limit $275,400; 2026 maximum loan $832,750
DC4ME	DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA)	Below-market first mortgage rate plus optional 3% down payment assistance	Full-time DC government employees, including independent agencies and DC public charter schools
EAHP (Employer Assisted Housing Program)	DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)	Up to $20,000 deferred loan plus up to $5,000 matching grant	DC government employees buying their first home in DC

HPAP: the largest program

HPAP is gap financing: it fills the difference between what you can afford and the price of the home. The amount you get depends on your household size and income, up to $202,000 for the down payment and up to $4,000 toward closing costs.

It is an interest-free deferred loan, so there is no monthly payment. Repayment terms depend on your income tier and come due when you sell, refinance, or stop living in the home. HPAP funding is set each fiscal year and new applications are sometimes paused, so check availability with an approved lender before you count on it. Nick's team can help you check.

DC Open Doors: higher income limits, repeat buyers welcome

DC Open Doors pairs a DCHFA first mortgage with down payment assistance of 3% or 3.5% of the purchase price. Its 2026 income limit of $275,400 is far higher than most programs, and you do not need to be a first-time buyer. The 2026 maximum loan amount is $832,750.

Programs for DC government employees

If you work full time for the DC government, including independent agencies and DC public charter schools, DC4ME offers a below-market mortgage rate with optional 3% down payment help. EAHP adds up to $20,000 as a deferred loan plus up to a $5,000 matching grant, and it can often be combined with DC4ME.

The first-time buyer recordation tax break

In DC the buyer normally pays recordation tax of 1.1% on homes under $400,000 and 1.45% of the full price at $400,000 or more. Qualifying first-time buyers pay a reduced 0.725% instead, on homes up to $777,000 in 2026. On a $600,000 home that saves roughly $4,350 at closing.

The home must qualify for the Homestead Deduction, and you have to claim the reduced rate at closing, not afterward. Tell your title company early.

How to apply, step by step

Talk to a lender approved for HPAP and DCHFA programs. Not every lender participates, so Nick's team can connect you with one.
Get pre-approved and find out which programs you qualify for based on income and household size.
Complete the required homebuyer education course through an approved DC counseling agency.
Shop for a home with an agent licensed in DC, and leave enough time in your contract for program approval.
Apply for the recordation tax break with your title company before settlement.

Frequently asked questions

How much can I get from HPAP in 2026?

Up to $202,000 toward your down payment plus up to $4,000 for closing costs, depending on your household size and income. It is an interest-free deferred loan.

Do I have to be a first-time buyer for DC Open Doors?

No. DC Open Doors is open to repeat buyers. The 2026 income limit is $275,400 and the maximum loan amount is $832,750.

Can I combine DC programs?

Some can be combined, such as DC4ME with EAHP for DC government employees. Your approved lender confirms which combinations work for your situation.

What is the DC first-time homebuyer recordation tax rate?

0.725% instead of 1.1% or 1.45%, for qualifying first-time buyers on homes up to $777,000 in 2026. You must apply at closing.

Do I need a DC-licensed agent?

Yes, the agent representing you on a DC purchase must be licensed in DC. Nick Jungmarker is licensed in both DC and Maryland, so you can compare homes on both sides of the line with one agent, backed by his team.

Have a question about your situation?

I'm licensed in Maryland and DC and work in English and Spanish. Call or text, or send a message and my team will be in touch shortly. I'll personally help you work out the right next step.

Ask Nick (301) 875-7182

Sources

General information, not legal, tax, or lending advice. Programs, rates, and limits change; confirm details with an approved lender or the program administrator. Facts checked October 20, 2026.

DC First-Time Homebuyer Programs in 2026: HPAP, Open Doors, DC4ME, and EAHP