Buying a home in Maryland: the help you may qualify for.

Down payment and closing cost help

From the Maryland Mortgage Program (Department of Housing and Community Development).

• MMP down payment assistance

  $6,000, or 6% of the loan at lower incomes

  0% deferred second mortgage, repaid when you sell, refinance or pay off the first mortgage. The 6% option is for incomes at or under 50% of the area median.

• First Homes for First Responders and Teachers Military and heroes

  5% of the first mortgage

  For first-time buyers working full-time as teachers or in public safety, fire, ambulance or hospital jobs.

• County programs

  Up to $50,000 in some counties

  Montgomery and Prince George's counties offer large add-on assistance when funds are available.

Who qualifies: Mostly for first-time buyers, with income and price limits, through an MMP-approved lender.

Property tax exemptions and credits

Exemptions lower your home’s taxable value or your bill. Most aren’t automatic: you apply with your Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). Maryland’s official exemptions information.

For homeowners who live in the home

• Homestead Tax Credit (assessment cap)

  Limits taxable increases to 10% a year (often less locally)

  Caps how much your home's taxable assessment can rise each year; many counties set a lower cap. Apply once.

  How to apply: One-time application with the Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). (Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation)

• Homeowners' Tax Credit

  A credit based on income

  For homeowners with combined household income up to $60,000 and net worth up to $200,000 (not counting the home). Apply every year.

  How to apply: Yearly application with SDAT. (Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation)

For veterans

• Disabled veteran exemption

  Full exemption on your home

  For veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating, and qualifying surviving spouses. Some counties also offer partial credits for 50 to 99% ratings.

  How to apply: With SDAT. (Maryland Tax-Property §7-208)

Want to see which ones fit you? Answer a few questions in the property tax exemptions checker.

Your next steps

1. Work out a monthly cost you’re comfortable with in the home cost calculator. It also lists Maryland’s programs with the loans you may qualify for.
2. Talk with a free or low-cost HUD-approved housing counselor. Find one near you.
3. Ask each lender which of these programs they work with, and compare Loan Estimates from at least three.
4. Follow the step-by-step home buyer’s guide from budget to keys.

Common questions