Buying in Boston might be closer than you think. If saving for a down payment has been the main hurdle, there is new help designed for first-time buyers like you. MassHousing just expanded its Down Payment Assistance, with options that can cover up to $25,000 or even $30,000 depending on income. In this guide, you’ll learn what changed, who qualifies in Boston, how the assistance works, and how to combine it with city programs to stretch your budget. Let’s dive in.
What changed in June 2025
MassHousing expanded its Down Payment Assistance program statewide as of June 11, 2025. According to the MassHousing press release on the June 2025 expansion, income-eligible first-time buyers purchasing in Boston and throughout Suffolk County can now access three DPA options when paired with a MassHousing first mortgage. Maximum DPA amounts are up to $30,000 for the lowest income band and up to $25,000 for higher income bands.
How the DPA works
MassHousing provides DPA as a second-mortgage loan that must be paired with a MassHousing first mortgage. A participating lender will determine which option and amount you qualify for based on your income and application. Review details on the MassHousing DPA program page.
Three options at a glance
- Option 1 - Deferred 0%: Up to $30,000. No monthly payment while you own the home. The full balance is due when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
- Option 2 - 2% amortizing: Up to $25,000. Fixed 15-year second mortgage at 2%. Example payment for $25,000 is about $160.88 per month.
- Option 3 - 3% amortizing: Up to $25,000. Fixed 15-year second mortgage at 3%. Example payment for $25,000 is about $172.62 per month.
When you repay
In every option, the DPA must be paid off when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. Plan ahead if you expect to refinance later.
Eligible homes
You can use DPA for a primary residence in Boston, including a single-family home, a condo, or a 2- to 4-family property that you will occupy. The DPA is only available with a MassHousing first mortgage.
Who qualifies in Boston
First-time status
DPA is designed for first-time buyers. Boston and many lenders define first-time as not owning a home in the past three years. Confirm your status with your lender, since some exceptions can apply. See MassHousing’s overview for first-time buyers on the homebuyers page.
Income limits
Your DPA option depends on your income relative to area median income. MassHousing’s June 2025 update cites an expanded eligibility cap of up to $205,335 for Eastern Massachusetts, which includes Suffolk County. Exact limits vary by household size and program band, so confirm your band with your lender and the figures in the June 2025 press release.
Credit and underwriting
Lenders will review your credit, income, debts, and documentation. Minimum credit score ranges typically fall around the mid-600s to 700 depending on the loan type, and standard underwriting applies. Work with a MassHousing-approved lender to verify the specifics for your situation.
Boston programs you can pair with DPA
City grants and education
The City of Boston offers its own grants, education, and support through the Boston First-Time Homebuyer Program and the Homebuying Support Hub. City programs often require completing a homebuyer education course and meeting income and asset guidelines. Some city grants may be stackable with MassHousing DPA, depending on rules. Coordinate with your lender and the Boston Home Center to confirm.
MassDREAMS grants
MassDREAMS grants can add significant funds for eligible buyers and may be used with a MassHousing loan. See the MassDREAMS announcement and check current eligibility and sequencing through MyMassHome. Program rules and availability can change, so verify early in your planning.
Veterans and military
MassHousing’s Operation Welcome Home provides tailored assistance for eligible veterans and military homebuyers. Explore the Operation Welcome Home overview and discuss possible combinations with your lender.
Your step-by-step plan
Take a homebuyer education class. MassHousing requires approved education, and Boston’s grants often require Homebuyer 101. Check the city’s resources in the Homebuying Support Hub.
Get pre-approved with a MassHousing lender. Choose a participating lender and request a MassHousing first mortgage with DPA. You can review loan options on the MassHousing homebuyer loans page, or contact the MassHousing Homebuying Team at 888-843-6432.
Gather documents. Expect to provide ID, two years of tax returns and W-2s, recent pay stubs, two months of bank statements, and documentation for assets or gifts. Self-employed buyers will need business returns and profit-and-loss statements. See the Mass.gov homebuying process guide for a typical checklist.
Shop within your approval. Search for eligible property types and price points. Your lender will structure the MassHousing first mortgage and your DPA option in the offer and loan package.
Confirm stacking rules early. If you plan to layer a Boston city grant or MassDREAMS, your lender will help you sequence applications and lock in funds.
Key tradeoffs to consider
- Deferred DPA has no monthly payment, but you will owe the full amount when you sell or refinance.
- Amortizing DPA adds a second monthly payment, so include it in your budget.
- Refinancing later may require paying off the DPA. Confirm whether subordination is possible for your case.
- Program terms, income limits, and rates can change. Details are current as of June 2025. Always verify with a participating lender and the June 2025 MassHousing release.
Ready to map out your options in Boston or nearby neighborhoods? Reach out to the local team that helps first-time buyers plan, qualify, and move with confidence. Connect with RE/MAX Real Estate Center for a clear path from pre-approval to keys.
FAQs
What is MassHousing DPA for Boston buyers?
- It is a second-mortgage down payment assistance program tied to a MassHousing first mortgage, with options up to $25,000 or $30,000 depending on income.
How much down payment help can you get in Boston?
- You may qualify for up to $25,000 on amortizing options or up to $30,000 on the deferred 0% option as outlined in MassHousing’s June 2025 expansion.
Do you have to repay the assistance?
- Yes; the deferred 0% option is due at sale, refinance, or payoff, and the amortizing options are repaid monthly over 15 years.
Can you combine MassHousing DPA with Boston grants?
- Often yes, but it depends on program rules; coordinate with your MassHousing lender and the Boston Home Center to confirm stackability.
What are the income limits for Suffolk County?
- MassHousing cites an expanded eligibility cap up to $205,335 for Eastern Massachusetts, but limits vary by household size and DPA band.
Can you buy a multi-family in Boston with this?
- Yes, eligible primary residences include 2- to 4-family properties that you will occupy, as well as single-family homes and condos.
Can you refinance later if you use DPA?
- You can refinance, but you typically must pay off the DPA at that time unless subordination is approved by the DPA holder.
How do you get started with DPA?
- Take a homebuyer class, get pre-approved with a MassHousing lender, confirm your income band and stacking options, then shop within your approval.
