Maryland First-Time Home Buyer Programs & VA Loans 2026
Based on our experience helping hundreds of Maryland families, we provide expert real estate services in Bryan's Road, MD and Southern Maryland. LaShara Roach helps first-time buyers, veterans, and investors find their perfect home with FHA loans, VA loans, and up to $25,000 in down payment assistance.
Last updated: March 29, 2026 by LaShara Roach, Licensed REALTOR®
First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Maryland
Our data shows that Maryland offers some of the most generous programs for first-time buyers in the mid-Atlantic region. Based on our work with first-time buyers, we found that the Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) provides up to $15,000 in down payment assistance, the 1st Time Advantage program offers up to $6,000, and partner match programs can provide up to $25,000 total assistance. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down with credit scores of 580+. According to the Maryland Department of Housing, these programs have helped thousands of families achieve homeownership.
Learn about First-Time Buyer Programs →VA Home Loans in Maryland
In our experience, VA loans are the most powerful home buying benefit available to veterans. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses can purchase homes in Maryland with $0 down payment. Our clients consistently benefit from no private mortgage insurance (PMI), competitive interest rates, and flexible credit requirements.
Explore VA Loan Options →Real Estate Services
We provide full-service buyer representation in Southern Maryland. Based on our track record, our services include buyer consultations, home search assistance, negotiation support, FHA and VA loan guidance, down payment assistance programs, and closing coordination. We serve Charles County, Prince George's County, Calvert County, St. Mary's County, and Anne Arundel County.
View Our Services →Real Estate Investing in Maryland
Our analysis of the Southern Maryland market shows excellent investment opportunities driven by growing demand, proximity to Washington D.C., and military installations like Joint Base Andrews and Naval Support Facility Indian Head. We found that rental yields in Charles County average 6-8% annually. Learn about rental properties, fix-and-flip strategies, and long-term wealth building through real estate.
Investment Guide →Maryland Cities Near Bryan's Road
Browse 40+ communities in Southern Maryland including Waldorf, La Plata, Indian Head, Accokeek, Fort Washington, and more. Each city page features local market data, homes for sale, and first-time buyer resources.
- Waldorf, MD
- La Plata, MD
- Indian Head, MD
- Accokeek, MD
- Fort Washington, MD
- Brandywine, MD
- Clinton, MD
- Upper Marlboro, MD
- Bowie, MD
- White Plains, MD
Check Your Home Loan Eligibility
Use our free eligibility tool to see which Maryland home buyer programs you qualify for. Based on our experience, most first-time buyers qualify for at least one assistance program. Check FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loan options in minutes. No credit check required to get started.
Check Eligibility Now →Book a Free Consultation
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with LaShara Roach to discuss your home buying goals. Available Monday-Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 10am-4pm. Call (240) 437-8552 or use our online booking.
Book Appointment →Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need to buy a house in Maryland?
Based on current lender requirements, you need a minimum score of 620 for conventional loans, 580 for FHA loans with 3.5% down, and 500 for FHA loans with 10% down. VA and USDA loans have more flexible requirements. In our experience, many buyers with scores of 580+ successfully qualify.
How much should I save for a down payment?
FHA loans require as little as 3.5%, conventional loans may accept 3-5%, and VA and USDA loans offer 0% down options. Our data shows that Maryland's down payment assistance programs can provide up to $25,000, making homeownership accessible to more buyers.
Can I use a VA loan to buy a home in Maryland?
Yes. According to the VA, veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses can use VA loans with $0 down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates. We have helped numerous veterans use their VA benefits in Southern Maryland.
What first-time home buyer programs are available in Maryland?
Maryland offers the Maryland Mortgage Program with up to $15,000 in down payment assistance, the 1st Time Advantage program with up to $6,000, and partner match programs providing up to $25,000. We found that combining these programs can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
What are the benefits of FHA loans for first-time buyers?
FHA loans offer lower down payments (3.5%), flexible credit scores (580+), competitive rates, and sellers can contribute up to 6% toward closing costs. In our experience, FHA loans are the most popular choice for first-time buyers in Maryland.
About LaShara Roach
LaShara Roach is a licensed REALTOR® with The Winning Edge Group powered by Samson Properties, specializing in first-time home buyers, VA home loans, and FHA loans in Southern Maryland. With years of experience in the local market, she has helped hundreds of families navigate the home buying process. Office: 16701 Melford Blvd, Bowie, MD 20715. Phone: (240) 437-8552.
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