MassHousing and ONE Mortgage: understand down payment assistance

Assistance is not always a grant

MassHousing currently describes a deferred 0% assistance option up to $30,000 and amortizing options up to $25,000 at 2% or 3%. These are program options with distinct conditions, not a universal award. Review the current official page and ask a participating lender which option, income limit and first mortgage apply to your case.

A deferred payment is not the same as forgiveness. A sale, refinance or payoff can trigger repayment under applicable terms. Include any second-mortgage payment in your monthly budget and understand the payoff before signing.

Keep MassHousing and MHP programs separate

MHP ONE Mortgage and ONE+ have their own rules. ONE+ includes a current-residence requirement in participating communities; a property address in one of those communities alone does not establish eligibility. Ask about property type, household income, buyer education, your own required funds and available funding.

For Portuguese-speaking buyers, request an explanation of both mortgages and any repayment trigger. Language preference and Brazilian nationality do not establish program eligibility.

Bring a written comparison

Compare cash needed at closing, first- and second-loan payments and what is due if you sell or refinance. This article replaces the earlier blanket “$25,000 grant” description; the older address is retained so existing links continue to work. Our inquiry form does not determine eligibility or reserve assistance funds.