While there is a lot of uncertainty around the housing market in 2025, affordability remains a top challenge for homebuyers — especially first-time buyers. According to a 2025 Bankrate survey, many cite upfront costs as the biggest barrier to homeownership. A 2023 LendingTree study shows that while 39% of homebuyers nationwide use financial assistance, about 22% turn to friends and family for help instead of tapping into local resources.

Here’s how homebuyers in Washington, D.C., can access assistance programs and address some of the upfront costs of purchasing a home.

What are my down payment assistance program options?

Down payment assistance programs aim to make housing more affordable and can be used to offset upfront costs. Options, which range from government and municipal program

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