Dc Home Buying Programs — Confirmed & Tested
For those who exceed HPAP income limits or need a faster process, DC Open Doors is a highly accessible option through the D.C. Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) .
: Payments are deferred for five years, followed by a 40-year principal-only repayment period. dc home buying programs
: Offers a Down Payment Assistance Loan (DPAL) covering up to 3% or 3.5% of the purchase price. Key Advantage : Open to both first-time and repeat buyers . For those who exceed HPAP income limits or
: Must be a first-time homebuyer (no ownership in 3 years), a D.C. resident (priority given), and meet income limits based on household size. : Offers a Down Payment Assistance Loan (DPAL)
: Typically requires a minimum credit score of 640. For Public Servants: EAHP and DC4ME
: Generous limits—up to $275,400 as of 2026—calculated only on the borrower’s income, not the entire household.
: No monthly payments are required. The balance is due only when the home is sold, refinanced for equity, or ceases to be a primary residence.