The following links should help you navigate the difficult process of buying your first home. Remember that most homebuyer programs are designed to help people with lower incomes to purchase homes. Always check a program’s income limits before you apply.

Tips on buying a home from HUD - This website provides a wealth of information for the homebuyer, including a list of HUD’s mortgage and home buying programs, help in finding a real estate broker, and a home shopping checklist.

CDA Maryland Mortgage Program - This state program helps first time homebuyers with low and moderate incomes access low interest loans from private lenders.

Maryland Downpayment and Settlement Program - This state program is used in conjunction with the CDA Maryland Mortgage Program to offer 0% deferred loans up to $3000 for down payment and settlement costs to low and moderate income homebuyers.

State owned homes for sale - These lower cost homes are owned by the state and offered through the private real estate broker, Long & Foster.

Fannie Mae Foundation - The Fannie Mae Foundation provides financial products and services that make it possible for low-, moderate-, and middle-income families to buy homes of their own.

Civil Justice Network: Program for First Time Homebuyers - Civil Justice Network is a non-profit in Baltimore that has established a First Time Home Buyer Program. The program will provide, at no cost, trained lawyers to assist first time homebuyers in the complicated process of entering into a contract to purchase a home. To qualify, you must be a first time homebuyer purchasing a house in Baltimore with a purchase price of $125,000 or less.

Counseling Programs - Programs to help you decide if you are ready to become a home owner and to help you through the process.

St. Ambrose Home Ownership Counseling - St. Ambrose is a non-profit in Baltimore that offers personal counseling and group workshops to first time homebuyers.

Baltimore City Counselors - a Baltimore non-profit that offers a listing of over 20 programs located in Baltimore City.