As I have mentioned before in this Blog, there are many great down payment assistance (DPA) programs available to buyers.

Programs like the Prince Georges County Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP).  Many first time home buyers are eligible for the NSP's Down Payment On Your Dream loan.  In Anne Arundel County you have the Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP).  In Montgomery County Maryland you have the HOC down payment assistance program.

Buyers state wide in Maryland have access to the DSLP program.

All of the these down payment assistance programs are available in Maryland.  However, not every lender has access to them.

Many, if not all of these programs are available only to buyers that use a direct lender.  In most cases, these programs are not available to Mortgage Brokers.

Ask your lender if they are a director indirect lender.  If they are a direct lender, have them put that in writing for you.  Direct lenders usually have access to Maryland state and Maryland county DPA programs. Mortgage Brokers are indirect lenders and in most cases, do not have access to State and County DPA programs.

Make sure you work with a real estate agent who is aware of these facts and can direct you to lenders who have programs that may save you thousands of dollars.

For more information about Maryland home sales, visit Maryland real estate.