Ready to buy a home in the Free State?
With its historic charm and proximity to Washington DC, Maryland offers a desirable lifestyle with financial benefits. Your dream home could be a charming single-family home in Baltimore or a chic waterfront condo in Annapolis.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or new to Maryland’s housing market, this guide will teach you everything you need to know. We’ve shown everything you need to know about buying a home in 13 actionable steps.
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Key Takeaways:
- Get Pre-Approved ASAP: In a buyer’s market like Maryland, a pre-approval letter helps you stand out.
- Save Thousands with Assistance Programs: Programs like the Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) offer down payment and closing cost assistance, often as a 0% interest deferred loan. Be sure to explore eligibility and local partner options before applying.
- Don’t Skip Maryland-Specific Inspections: Radon, lead paint, and mold checks are common and often required for older homes.
- Ask for Credits, Not Repairs: If the inspection has issues, ask the seller for credit at closing. This allows you to hire your own contractors and prevent closing delays.
- Protect Your Investment and Your Wallet: Remember to get hazard and liability insurance, as lenders often require it in Maryland. Don’t forget to file for the Homestead Property Tax Credit to limit increases in your home’s taxable value.
How to Buy a Home For the First Time in Maryland: 13 Steps!
This step-by-step guide walks first-time home buyers in Maryland through everything, from assessing finances and budgeting for a down payment to choosing the right mortgage. This step by step guide to buying a home in Maryland make the real estate process clear, simple, and manageable.
Step 1: Assess Your Finances
As a first-time home buyer in Maryland, the two factors that should matter the most to you are your credit score and Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio. Additionally, you must also consider how much you can afford for a down payment, a monthly mortgage, taxes, and insurance.
What Is Your Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number that indicates your creditworthiness to lenders. The minimum credit score to buy a house in Maryland depends on the type of mortgage you get.
Minimum and Ideal Credit Scores by Loan Type
| Loan Type | Minimum Score | Ideal Score |
|---|---|---|
| FHA | 500 (10% down) | 580+ (3.5% down) |
| Conventional | 620 | 740+ for best rates |
| VA | No minimum | 620 |
| USDA | No minimum | 640 |
Portfolio mortgage loans are easy to qualify for. Here, the credit score needed to buy a house starts at around 580. VA loans are available only to veterans and active-duty service members, and require a score of 620. FHA loans also accept scores as low as 580. They are good for buyers with lower credit scores looking for houses in Maryland.
When purchasing property in Maryland, you can check your credit score using several reliable methods. Most of them are free and will not harm your score:
- Annual Credit Reports: Federal law entitles you to one free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. These can be accessed through the official, government-authorized website, AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Credit Monitoring Services: Many banks, credit card issuers, and financial service apps provide complimentary and regular access to the FICO score. This is a convenient way to track your credit health over time.
Knowing how to repair your credit score is important to get better mortgage rates. If you’re a first time home buyer in Maryland, here’s what you need to do:
- Pay down credit card balances and make all payments on time.
- Avoid opening multiple new accounts quickly.
- Consider becoming an authorized user on a family member’s account with a good history.
- Monitor your score regularly to track progress.
How to Calculate Your Monthly Mortgage Payment in Maryland?
As a first time home buyer in Maryland, knowing your average mortgage payment helps you plan your budget. Your total payment includes 4 key components, often called PITI:
- Principal and Interest: This is a major chunk of your payment, covering the amount you borrowed (principal) and the cost of borrowing (interest). It’s determined by your loan amount, interest rate, and loan term.
- Taxes: Maryland property taxes are based on your home’s assessed value. The lender holds these funds in an escrow account and pays the tax on your behalf.
- Insurance: Lenders require you to have homeowners’ insurance to protect the property. The annual premium is usually divided by 12 and added to your monthly payment, also managed through the escrow account.
Apart from PITI, your monthly payment may also include Private Mortgage Insurance if your down payment is less than 20%, and HOA fees.
What Is a Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio?
Your debt-to-income ratio shows how much of your monthly income goes toward debt payments, including mortgage, car loans, credit cards, and student loans. To calculate it, add all monthly debts and divide the total by your gross pre-tax monthly income.
A high DTI can prevent you from qualifying for a mortgage, as it shows that you struggle to manage your debt. For the best mortgage rates and a higher likelihood of mortgage approval in Maryland, aim for a DTI ratio of 36% or lower.
💡 You can still qualify for a loan in Maryland despite a high DTI if you have compensating factors like a strong credit history, significant cash reserves or savings, stable long-term employment, etc.
Recommended DTI Ratios by Loan Type
| Loan Type | Recommended DTI Ratio | With Compensating Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | 36% back-end | 45-50% |
| FHA | 43% back-end | Up to 50% |
| VA | 41% | Can exceed 50% with the residual income test |
| USDA | 41% back-end | 44% with strong credit |
To improve your DTI ratio for a mortgage, you can either reduce your monthly debts or increase your verifiable income.
- Pay Down Debt: Use a tax refund or bonus to clear smaller loans, or consolidate multiple debts into a single loan with a lower monthly payment.
- Increase Verifiable Income: Ask for a raise, take on part-time work, or start a side business. Include all consistent income sources on your application, such as bonuses or commissions, but remember that lenders require a two-year history for secondary income.
- Adjust Your Housing Budget: A larger down payment reduces your loan amount and your monthly mortgage payment. You can also consider a lower home purchase price to keep your future housing costs down.
Step 2: Budget for Your Down Payment and Closing Costs
You should set aside money for the down payment and closing costs. Maryland’s first time home buyer programs help make homeownership accessible and affordable.
How Much Down Payment Does a Maryland First Time Home Buyer Need?
Typically, the down payment on a house for a first time home buyer in Maryland usually ranges from 3% to 20% of the property’s price. However, it can vary based on the loan type. FHA loans require just 3.5% down, while some conventional loans allow a 3% down payment.
To help with these upfront costs, there are many state and local down payment assistance programs in Maryland. They provide grants or loans to cover these expenses.
👉 First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Maryland: Find out which is the #1 downpayment assistance program in the Free State.
How to Estimate Closing Costs in Maryland?
Closing costs are fees and expenses paid at closing beyond your down payment. Typically, buyer closing costs in Maryland usually range from 2% to 5% of the home’s price. So, for a $435,900 home, buyers might pay $8,718 to $21,795.
These fees cover lender charges, appraisals, inspections, title insurance, taxes, agent commissions, and recording fees when buying a property in Maryland.
Step 3: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Secure your financing early by getting pre-approved for a mortgage as a first time homebuyer in Maryland. This step helps you understand your budget and strengthens your offer when buying a house.
How to Get Pre-approved as a First Time Home Buyer in Maryland?
You need to follow these steps to get pre-approved when buying a house in Maryland:
- Gather Financial Documents: Provide proof of income (recent pay stubs and W-2s), tax returns (last two years), asset statements, debt information, and a government-issued ID. Some lenders may also request verification of employment or rental history.
- Choose a Lender and Apply: Compare lenders in Maryland and submit a mortgage application to get the best rates and terms.
- Receive Pre-Approval Letter: The lender verifies your info and issues a letter stating your approved loan amount, usually valid for 30–90 days.
A mortgage preapproval turns you from a casual house hunter to a serious buyer in Maryland, as it:
- Strengthens Your Offer: 86% of the sellers prefer buyers with a pre-approved mortgage. For the strongest position, ask for a fully underwritten pre-approval, where the lender has already verified all your documents.
- Defines Your Budget: It clarifies exactly how much you can afford, allowing you to focus your home search on a realistic price range.
- Speeds Up Closing: With much of the financial vetting already completed, the mortgage process is streamlined once your offer on a home is accepted.
Yes, you can get pre-approved and even buy a home with bad credit in Maryland. However, your loan options may be limited. You can also expect higher interest rates with poor credit.
Step 4: Choose the Right Mortgage
As a first time homebuyer in Maryland, assess your finances and select a loan that fits your budget and qualifies you for available programs.
| Feature | Conventional | FHA | VA | USDA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min Credit Score | 620 | 580 (500 w/10% down) | No minimum | 640 |
| Min Down Payment | 5% to 20% | 3.5% | 0% | 0% |
| Max DTI | 45% to 50% | 43% to 50% | 41%+ | 41% to 44% |
| Mortgage Insurance | PMI if <20% | Always | None | Always |
| Loan Limits | $766,550-$1,149,825 | $498,257 to $766,550 | $766,550+ | Varies |
| Property Eligibility Criteria | Few | Must meet FHA standards | Must meet VA standards | Rural/suburban areas only |
Step 5: Decide Where to Buy a Home in Maryland
Deciding where to buy is one of the most important steps for a first time homebuyer in Maryland. Consider factors like local housing markets, popular neighborhoods, cost of living, and amenities to help you find the best places to live in Maryland.
Why Now Is the Time to Buy in Maryland
The Maryland housing market is a buyer’s market. You now have more negotiating power and a wider selection of properties to choose from:
- Housing Supply is High: Maryland has a 3-month housing supply, which is the benchmark for a buyer’s market.
- Prices Have Stabilized: The median home price has remained relatively constant at $435,900. This allows you to set your budget with more certainty.
- Sellers are Negotiating: 32.0% of homes in Maryland have seen price drops, signaling increased seller flexibility.
- Homes are on the Market Longer: Properties are taking an average of 42 days to sell, which allows you to make more informed decisions.
These trends show that now is the best time to buy a house in Maryland. According to Mauricio Umansky, founder of The Agency, the current market provides “great opportunities for buyers to be aggressive and write strong offers.”
Popular Areas for Different Buyer Types
With the market now in your favor, you can be more selective about where you buy. Use this advantage to find a neighborhood that matches your priorities, whether it’s schools, commute, or lifestyle.
- Best Areas for Families: Neighborhoods like River Hill, Hickory Ridge, and Wilde Lake are top choices for their excellent schools and family-friendly parks. If you envision life in a community designed for family connection, explore homes for sale in Columbia, MD. Properties with access to top-tier schools and parks typically range between $350,000 and $560,000.
- Best Areas for Retirees: For those seeking an active retirement, Admiral Heights, Eastport, and Bay Ridge offer low-maintenance living and vibrant social activities. If you are interested in a community renowned for its active lifestyle, consider homes for sale in Annapolis, where prices generally range from $300,000 to $450,000.
- Best Areas for Young Adults: Cities like Baltimore and Silver Spring offer thriving job markets and vibrant social scenes. If a cosmopolitan lifestyle is what you seek, browse the latest Silver Spring houses for sale, where you can find modern condos and apartments starting at just $250,000.
Consider the Cost of Living When Choosing a Location
When looking for the best place to buy a house in Maryland, consider the overall cost of living, as lower home prices can be offset by higher taxes or insurance.
- High-Cost Areas: Takoma Park and Fort Lauderdale are 19–23% above the national average.
- Moderate-Cost Areas: Frederick and Salisbury are near or just below the national average.
- Low-Cost Areas: Cumberland, Hagerstown, and Cambridge are 6–18% below the national average.
Step 6: Start House Hunting in Maryland
Once you’re pre-approved and know where you want to live, the next step is finding the right house. As a first-time home buyer in Maryland, you have two options:
- Work with a Realtor.
- Search for homes online.
An experienced agent can give you valuable local insights and expert guidance on neighborhood trends. However, you’ll have to negotiate the buyer agent commission with the seller, which may raise the home sale price.
If you prefer to take the lead, a high-tech platform like Houzeo is what you need. Whether you’re looking for beachfront mansions, high‑rise penthouses, spacious big homes, or luxury homes in Maryland, Houzeo has you covered. You can browse through thousands of listings, set alerts, and save your search. You can even schedule showings and submit offers, all by yourself.
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Your entire home purchase, managed in one place.
Download the Houzeo Mobile AppStep 7: Schedule and Attend Home Showings
After you narrow down your list of potential homes, schedule and attend showings to see each property in person. For a first-time home buyer in Maryland, visiting homes firsthand helps you evaluate condition, layout, and neighborhood, ensuring you make an informed choice.
During the showing, ask specific questions like:
- How long has the home been on the market?
- Why is the owner selling?
- What is the age of the roof, HVAC system, and water heater?
- Are there any HOA fees or pending special assessments?
- Has the home been tested for radon, lead paint, or mold problems?
When buying a house in Maryland for the first-time, check the property carefully during the open house. Look for roof sagging, foundation cracks, water stains, uneven floors, or sticking doors, which may indicate serious issues.
As a first time home buyer in Maryland, there are three main aspects you need to focus on when shortlisting homes:
- Insurance Risks: Verify the home’s flood zone using FEMA’s maps. In Maryland, focus on flood and sewer backup coverage—common concerns in low-lying or older areas.
- Commute and Lifestyle: Test your commute during rush hour. Visit the neighborhood at different times to check for noise from traffic, airports, or nightlife. Ensure convenient access to key amenities like schools, groceries, and parks.
- Maryland Home Loans/Assistance Program Eligibility: If you’re applying for a loan or first time buyer program in Maryland, ensure that the house complies with its property requirements, or you may risk losing the assistance.
Step 8: Make an Offer
When crafting an offer, make a competitive bid but stay within your budget. As a first-time home buyer in Maryland, consider factors like the home’s market value, recent comparable sales, and any repairs needed. This increases your chances of getting a fair deal.
Step 1: Analyze Recent Sales
Your agent will pull up real estate comps that are similar to the one you want. Focus on the final sale price, not the list price. Home prices in some Maryland markets have leveled off or are growing slowly, so check local comps carefully before making your offer.
Step 2: Adjust for the Home’s Condition
Factor in the age and condition of the roof and HVAC. If a comparable home sold for $435,900 but had a new roof, and your target home needs a $20,000 replacement, adjust your offer to account for that expense.
Step 3: Factor in Today’s Market
Because some markets in Maryland are showing more listings and slower growth, you may have stronger negotiating power now. Even home builders are lowering their prices by almost 6% to attract buyers. For a home priced fairly, offer 3–5% below list; go lower only if comps support it.
What is an Earnest Money Deposit in Maryland?
An earnest money deposit is a “good-faith” payment that shows you are a serious buyer. This money is held in escrow and applied towards your down payment at closing.
Earnest money is usually held in a non–interest-bearing escrow account unless both parties agree otherwise. If a dispute arises, the broker must hold the funds until it’s resolved, and once your offer is signed, it becomes legally binding. Backing out without cause can mean forfeiting your deposit.
In Maryland, the standard deposit is 1% to 3% of the purchase price. On a $435,900 home, this would be between $4,359 and $13,077. In highly competitive markets like Bethesda or Columbia, sellers may expect a higher deposit.
Once your offer is accepted, you typically have 3-5 business days to submit the deposit to an escrow agent, such as a title company or real estate attorney.
Yes, you can get your earnest money deposit back in Maryland, but only if you back out of the sale for the following reasons:
- The inspection reveals major issues, and you exercise the inspection contingency.
- The appraisal comes in low, and you exercise the appraisal contingency.
- You’re unable to secure the required financing, and exit during the financing contingency period
- Title issues are discovered.
Many Maryland first time home buyers forfeit their earnest money because:
- They back out after the contingency periods expire without a valid reason.
- They violate contract terms.
- The seller meets all contract obligations, but the buyer still refuses to close.
Step 9: Conduct Home Inspections
First-time home buyers in Maryland should schedule home inspections to uncover any issues before buying a house. You typically get the inspection report within 24 to 48 hours.
Which Maryland Home Inspections Should You Schedule?
A standard home inspection in Maryland isn’t enough. The state’s unique climate and weather risks require a few specialized inspections:
- General Home Inspection ($300–$500): A licensed inspector will examine everything from the roof to the foundation. They pay special attention to storm damage, proper drainage, and the age of the AC unit.
- Radon Test ($100-$200): Maryland has area with high radon levels; testing is strongly recommended.
- Sewer/Septic Inspection ($100-$300): Septic inspection is important in homes with private septic systems, common in rural areas.
- WDO / Termite Inspection ($75–$100): A termite inspection is recommended for all homes, especially in coastal or humid areas, and required by some lenders. Termites and other pests can cause significant structural damage.
Consider Other Specialized Inspections
Based on the property, a Maryland first-time home buyer may want to conduct additional tests. For older homes, a fireplace inspection can detect blockages, cracks. or fire hazards. If you see large cracks or uneven floors, a $700 foundation inspection is worth the investment.
It’s not recommended. Even if you plan to buy cheap homes in Maryland, skipping a home inspection can lead to unexpected repair costs.
Step 10: Complete the Home Appraisal
After the inspection, your lender will typically order a home appraisal, which professionally values the property to ensure it matches your offer.
Why Do Lenders Need Appraisals?
A home appraisal in Maryland confirms the property’s market value. Appraisers typically focus on the following parameters:
- Property Condition and Age: Appraisers evaluate the overall condition of the home, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, and electrical systems, as older or poorly maintained homes may appraise for less.
- Insurance and Mitigation Features: The age of the roof, the presence of hurricane shutters, and impact-resistant windows directly affect a home’s insurability and, therefore, its market value.
- Condo/HOA Health: Appraisers closely examine a condo association’s financial health. They look for anything that may reduce the unit’s value, like the association’s reserve funds or any pending special assessments.
A standard appraisal in Maryland costs between $350 and $650 and typically takes 7 to 14 days to complete. For luxury or waterfront properties, the cost and timeline can be higher.
If the appraisal comes in lower than your offer price, you have an appraisal gap. In such a situation, you can either:
- Renegotiate the Price: Ask the seller to lower the price to the appraised value. In the current market, many sellers are willing to negotiate.
- Cover the Gap: If the seller won’t budge, you can choose to pay the difference in cash.
- Dispute the Appraisal: If you believe the appraiser made a factual error or used poor comparable sales, you can file for a Reconsideration of Value.
- Walk Away: If you cannot reach an agreement, your appraisal contingency allows you to cancel the contract and get your earnest money back.
Step 11: Negotiate Repairs and Credits
As a first time home buyer in Maryland, use your home inspection results to negotiate repairs and request credits from the seller. This step can help reduce unexpected costs and ensure your new house is move-in ready.
How to Use Your Inspection Report to Negotiate Repairs?
Your negotiation strategy should center on issues that impact the home’s safety, structural integrity, and insurability. Minor cosmetic flaws are not worth fighting over and can make you seem unreasonable. It’s easy to make this mistake as a first home buyer in Maryland.
Focus your request on these critical areas:
- Safety Hazards: This includes outdated and dangerous electrical panels, faulty wiring, or missing safety features like GFCI outlets near water.
- Structural Problems: Any issues with the foundation, load-bearing walls, or the roof structure.
- System Failures: A failing HVAC system, major plumbing leaks, or an old roof.
Get 2 to 3 written estimates from licensed contractors for any major repairs. A repair request that includes professional quotes shows you are serious and have done your homework.
Should You Ask for Repair Credit?
While you can ask the seller to perform the repairs themselves, it’s better to ask for credit instead. Credit gives you the funds to hire your own contractors and ensures the work is done to your standards, not just the cheapest way possible. It also allows the sale to proceed on schedule, without any delays.
How to Negotiate Seller Concessions
Seller concessions are a powerful tool for reducing your out-of-pocket closing costs when buying real estate in Maryland. Here, the seller pays for some of your expenses, such as the appraisal, title insurance, or property taxes.
Your ability to negotiate concessions depends on your loan type. Each loan program sets a maximum limit on how much a seller can contribute:
| Loan Type | Minimum Down Payment | Maximum Seller Concession |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Less than 10% | 3% of the purchase price |
| Conventional | 10% or more | 6% of the purchase price |
| FHA Loan | Any amount | 6% of the purchase price |
| VA Loan | Any amount | 4% of the purchase price |
| USDA Loan | Any amount | 6% of the purchase price |
Step 12: Review Your Closing Costs
After negotiating repairs and credit as a first time home buyer in Maryland, review all closing costs carefully. Check title fees, escrow, insurance, and taxes so you can finalize your budget and confidently buy your house.
Understanding Closing Costs in Maryland
- Maryland-Specific Taxes ($1,500+): Your closing costs will include two specific state taxes. The Documentary Stamp Tax costs $0.35 per $100 of your loan amount, while the Intangible Tax costs $0.20 per $100. On a $300,000 loan, these two taxes alone will add $1,650 to your bill.
- Title Fees ($2,000+): These fees cover the title search, settlement services, and title insurance policies for both you and your lender. In Maryland, the party responsible for paying the owner’s title insurance varies by county.
- Third-Party Fees ($1,000 to $1,500): This category includes the appraisal fee, credit report fee, and flood certification fee.
- Prepaid and Escrow Costs ($3,000 to $6,000): You will pay for your first year of homeowners’ and flood insurance upfront. You will also fund your escrow account with several months of property tax and insurance payments to cover future bills.
Step 13: Close on Your New Home
Closing day is the moment you officially become the owner of your new Maryland home. Its success depends on a careful final walk-through, a smooth funding process, and making sure all legal documents are properly signed and recorded.
Complete Your Final Walk-Through
Within 24 hours of closing, you will do one last walk-through of the property. This is not a formal inspection, but rather your final chance to see if you want this home. Use this checklist:
- Verify Repairs: Bring your inspection report and repair addendum. Confirm that all negotiated repairs have been completed to a professional standard.
- Test Everything: Run the air conditioning and test all appliances. Make sure every system is functioning as it should.
- Check for Included Items: Ensure all items that were supposed to be included in the sale, like appliances, window treatments, and light fixtures, are still in place.
- Look for Signs of Additional Damage: Make sure no new damage has occurred since your last visit. If you see any issues, notify your agent and the title company immediately before you sign any documents.
Sign the Documents
While there are numerous documents to sign, the most important ones are:
- The Closing Disclosure: You will sign the final version of this document, which outlines all your loan terms and costs.
- The Promissory Note: This is your legal promise to repay the loan. The promissory note outlines the loan amount, interest rate, repayment schedule, and maturity date.
- The Mortgage: This document secures the property as collateral for your loan.
Once you have signed everything, you will provide your “cash to close” amount via a cashier’s check or wire transfer. After your lender sends their funds to the title company, the deal is officially funded.
Get Your Keys and Celebrate
Once the deal is funded, the title company will record the new deed with the county, officially transferring ownership to you. After they pay the seller and other parties, you will finally get the keys to your new home.
Congratulations, you are officially a Maryland homeowner! 🎉
🚩 What are the Red Flags to Look for When Buying a House in Maryland?
A new home is a huge financial investment. To ensure that you don’t sink your money into a dud, look out for these red flags:
1. Bargain-Priced Homes
An asking price that’s significantly lower than comparable homes in the area seems like a dream come true. But that’s just until the roof collapses or faulty electrical systems burn the house down.
It could indicate structural issues, uninsurability, or expensive repairs. Before making an offer, check the home’s sale history, permits from the local county office, and get insurance quotes to understand total costs.
2. Neighborhood Sell-Out
During the open house, if you notice too many “For Sale” signs on a single street or in a small community, it should ring alarm bells. It could be due to skyrocketing HOA fees, declining school quality, or a recent increase in crime rates. It could also point to a future nuisance, like a commercial development planned nearby.
Talk to potential neighbors to get their opinion on the area. You can also check community social media pages or online forums like Nextdoor for discussions about local issues.
3. Excessive Use of Air Fresheners
A few scented candles create a welcoming atmosphere, but if a home smells like a lavender bubble burst in it, then there’s something fishy. It may be covering up a musty smell that highlights the presence of mold and plumbing issues.
Pay close attention to the smell in the closets, bathrooms, and around the air conditioning unit. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets and smell the area under the sink. If you detect a musty odor, ask for a separate mold inspection along with the standard home inspection.
4. Sloping or Uneven Floors
Floors that are noticeably slanted or feel bouncy can indicate foundation problems. Given coastal Maryland’s sandy soil and high water table, soil settlement can cause the foundation to shift over time. Minor settling may be acceptable in older homes, but significant slopes signal a major structural issue.
Bring a marble or a golf ball with you to showings and place it on the floor in different rooms to see if it rolls. Also, look for other signs of foundation issues, like large zigzag cracks in the drywall, especially above door frames.
5. Condensation in Windows
Fog trapped between the panes of double-glazed windows is a sign that the seal has failed. When the seal breaks, the insulating argon gas leaks out and is replaced by moisture-filled air. This reduces energy efficiency, leading to higher heating and cooling costs in Maryland’s seasonal climate.
Inspect each window and pay special attention to those that receive direct sunlight, as heat can cause seals to fail faster. If you see failed seals, get a quote for window replacement to use as a negotiating point.
What Should You Do After Closing?
Welcome home! Now it’s time to handle a few must-dos to protect your investment:
- File for Homestead Exemption: If the house is your primary residence, apply for Maryland’s Homestead Tax Credit to limit annual increases in your property’s assessed value. This can help reduce your property tax burden, especially in counties with higher rates like Montgomery or Howard.
- Set Up Utilities: Connect water, electric, internet, and trash services. Seasonal pest control is recommended, especially during Maryland’s humid summers when insects and mold can be more active.
- Get Insurance: Homeowners insurance is required if you are financing the property. Flood insurance may also be necessary if the home is in a FEMA-designated flood zone or near rivers, streams, or the Chesapeake Bay.
- Home Maintenance Plan: Schedule AC tune-ups before summer and furnace maintenance before winter. Clear gutters regularly, inspect the roof for damage or moss buildup, and winterize plumbing to prevent freezing during cold months.
How to Buy a House in Maryland Without a Realtor?
Research neighborhoods and browse listings on trusted sites like Houzeo. Then, schedule showings directly with sellers or their agents. You can also hire a real estate attorney to review contracts and handle legal details.
Next, get pre-approved for a mortgage, make an offer, schedule inspections, and negotiate repairs. With the necessary due diligence, you can buy a house without a Realtor.
Which First Time Home Buyer Programs in Maryland Can You Apply For?
Various programs make homeownership accessible for a first time home buyer in Maryland. They assist with down payments through grants or low-interest, deferred-payment loans. Applicants must meet the income and credit score criteria and complete a homebuyer education course to avail of these programs.
| Program Name | Eligibility | Grants | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) | First‑time buyers (or veterans/purchasing in targeted areas) who meet income & credit requirements. | 3–5% of the loan for down payment & closing costs as a 0% deferred second loan | Access to 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with lower upfront costs |
| MMP Flex Loan Program | Repeat or first-time buyers meeting location & income criteria | $5,000 or 3% of first mortgage for down payment & closing costs | Flexible loan option with 0% interest second loan |
| HomeAbility Program (Maryland) | Buyers with a disability or caregivers in Maryland | 0% interest second loan for down payment & closing costs | Makes homeownership accessible for disabled buyers and guardians |
| Pathway to Purchase – Prince George’s County | First-time buyers in Prince George’s County meeting income limits | Up to $25,000 for down payment & closing costs | Significant assistance for entry into the county housing market |
| Gaithersburg Homebuyer Assistance Loan Program | First-time buyers purchasing within City of Gaithersburg | Up to $40,000 for down payment & closing costs | Helps buyers afford homes in city limits with no-interest deferred loan |
1. Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP)
- Eligible Buyers: First-time homebuyers, repeat buyers purchasing in targeted areas, or qualified veterans who meet Maryland’s income and purchase limits.
- Credit Score: Minimum 640
- Assistance: Access to 30-year, fixed rate mortgage loans with down payment and closing cost assistance.
The Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) is the state’s primary homeownership initiative, offering affordable fixed-rate loans through approved lenders. Buyers can pair these mortgages with assistance option like Flex programs, which provide up to 5% of the loan amount toward down payment and closing costs. Completion of an approved homebuyer education course is required before closing.
2. MMP Flex Loan Program
- Eligible Buyers: First-time and repeat homebuyers who meet Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) income and purchase price limits.
- Credit Score: Minimum 640.
- Assistance: Up to 5% of the loan amount in down payment and closing cost assistance, offered as a 0% deferred loan.
The MMP Flex Loan Program provides a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage combined with flexible down payment assistance. The 0% interest deferred loan doesn’t require monthly payments and is only repaid when the home is sold, refinanced, or the mortgage is paid off.
3. HomeAbility Program (Maryland)
- Eligible Buyers: Homebuyers with disabilities or those buying a home for an immediate family member with a disability.
- Credit Score: Minimum 640.
- Assistance: Up to 25% of the purchase price (maximum $45,000) in down payment and closing cost assistance, provided as a 0% deferred loan.
The HomeAbility Program helps Marylanders with disabilities achieve homeownership by pairing a 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage with generous down payment assistance. The assistance loan is deferred, meaning no monthly payments are required until the home is sold, refinanced, or the mortgage is paid off.
4. Pathway to Purchase – Prince George’s County
- Eligible Buyers: First-time homebuyers purchasing in Prince George’s County; household income and purchase price limits apply.
- Credit Score: Minimum 640.
- Assistance: Up to $10,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance as a 0% interest, deferred loan.
The Pathway to Purchase Program offers local buyers in Prince George’s County up to $10,000 to make homeownership more affordable. The loan is deferred with no monthly payments and only becomes due when the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer serves as the buyer’s primary residence.
5. Gaithersburg Homebuyer Assistance Loan Program
- Eligible Buyers: First-time homebuyers purchasing within the City of Gaithersburg; must meet income and purchase price limits.
- Credit Score: Minimum 640.
- Assistance: Up to $40,000 for down payment and closing costs as a 0% interest, deferred loan.
The Gaithersburg Homebuyer Assistance Loan Program helps buyers afford homes within the city by providing substantial down payment and closing cost assistance. The loan is deferred, meaning no monthly payments are required until the home is sold, refinanced, or the buyer no longer occupies the property.
» First Time Buyer Programs: Find the perfect program that helps you get the key to your first home.
How to Buy a House in Maryland Near Me
What Should You Know Before Buying a House in Maryland?
Before you buy a home in the Free State, you must understand the factors that can impact your budget and lifestyle.
What are Some Additional Costs When Buying Houses in Maryland?
Apart from the purchase price, you must account for several other expenses, like property taxes and potential HOA fees. However, the most critical consideration for any Maryland homebuyer is insurance.
- Why Homeowners Insurance is Crucial: While Maryland doesn’t face hurricanes, homes are still exposed to wind, hail, fire, and flood damage in certain areas. Homeowners insurance protects your investment from these risks.
- Insurance Costs: : Annual premiums vary widely depending on the property’s location, age, and condition. Average costs are significantly lower than in hurricane-prone states, but waterfront or older homes may be more expensive to insure.
- Choosing the Right Policy: Make sure your policy provides adequate coverage for wind, hail, and flood risks. You may qualify for lower premiums by having features such as a newer roof or storm-resistant windows.
Do You Need Separate Flood Insurance in Maryland?
Yes. Standard homeowners policies in Maryland do not cover flood damage, so a separate flood insurance policy is necessary for protection. FEMA maps determine your property’s flood risk:
| Flood Zone | Risk Level | Insurance Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| A, AE, V, VE | High-Risk | Mandatory for most federally-backed mortgages. These areas have at least a 1% chance of flooding annually. |
| B, C, X | Low-to-Moderate | Recommended. About 25% of all flood claims come from these lower-risk areas. |
When is Flood Insurance Required?
Whether you need flood insurance depends on your mortgage lender and your property’s location. Two main situations make it mandatory in Maryland:
- Federally-Backed Mortgages in High-Risk Zones: If your home is in a high-risk flood zone and you have a federally-backed mortgage (FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional), federal law requires flood insurance.
- Lender Requirements for Other Properties: Some lenders may also require flood insurance for properties in moderate-risk areas if they feel the exposure is significant.
Why First-Time Homebuyers Should Explore Maryland Now?
Maryland is a smart choice for first-time buyers, thanks to its no-income-tax policy and a market that now favors buyers. Cities like Baltimore and Columbia offer vibrant urban and suburban living and there’s a community for every budget. With thousands of homes for sale and numerous down payment assistance programs, homeownership is more attainable than ever.
» Houzeo Reviews: Read what customers have to say about Houzeo, Maryland’s best home buying website.
