💰 Massachusetts Expands Down Payment Assistance—What It Means for Homebuyers in MA & RI
Massachusetts just made one of the most significant moves in the country to support first-time homebuyers. In June, MassHousing expanded its Down Payment Assistance (DPA) program statewide, offering up to $30,000 in support for eligible buyers. This is a game changer—especially in high-cost regions like Greater Boston, Worcester, and Gateway Cities.
MassHousing’s official announcement outlines the full program update, which had previously only been available in limited communities.
1. 🏡 What’s Changing?
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First-time buyers earning ≤60% of Area Median Income (AMI) can now receive up to $30,000 in down payment assistance.
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Buyers earning up to 100% of AMI may be eligible for $25,000 at reduced interest rates.
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Most importantly, this program is now available in all 351 cities and towns across Massachusetts.
First-time buyers earning ≤60% of Area Median Income (AMI) can now receive up to $30,000 in down payment assistance.
Buyers earning up to 100% of AMI may be eligible for $25,000 at reduced interest rates.
Most importantly, this program is now available in all 351 cities and towns across Massachusetts.
This makes it one of the most prominent and most accessible state-funded down payment assistance programs in the country.
2. 💡 Why It Matters for Bay Staters—And for RI Buyers, Too
This change is beneficial for working families and middle-income earners. For example, in the Metro Boston area, households earning up to $205,000 may now qualify. Even in Worcester County and Bristol County, families earning around $160,000 could be eligible, depending on household size.
This also benefits homebuyers and sellers in border towns across Rhode Island, where buyers often commute into Massachusetts or relocate for affordability. Increased buyer activity and broader eligibility could stimulate competition in areas such as Attleboro, the Blackstone Valley, and even northern Providence County.
If you’re buying near the state line, this change could affect which communities offer the best value and opportunity.
3. 📈 What to Expect in the Market
With the program now live statewide, we’re likely to see a boost in demand for move-in-ready homes in the $350,000–$600,000 range, particularly in communities like:
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Worcester, Leominster, and Fitchburg
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Taunton, Fall River, and Brockton
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Merrimack Valley and parts of MetroWest
If you’re considering selling in any of these areas, it may be time to revisit your timing. More qualified buyers = greater exposure and stronger offers.
📝 Learn how to prepare your home for the current market.
🧭 What You Should Do Now
📌 Buyers:
Consult with a MassHousing-approved lender to verify your eligibility and obtain pre-approval.
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Utilize DPA to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses and enhance your offer.
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Work with a local buyer agent who understands both the program and your market.
Consult with a MassHousing-approved lender to verify your eligibility and obtain pre-approval.
Utilize DPA to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses and enhance your offer.
Work with a local buyer agent who understands both the program and your market.
📌 Sellers:
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Understand how this program expands your buyer pool.
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Work with an agent who knows how to market your listing to first-time buyers.
Understand how this program expands your buyer pool.
Work with an agent who knows how to market your listing to first-time buyers.
