The Strategy
In today's market, sellers are paying to help buyers close — closing costs covered, rates bought down. We structure your loan to take every dollar of it.
Washington County Programs
Washington County buyers can combine Hagerstown city help with state and federal programs:
Up to $7,500 toward down payment and closing costs for homes inside Hagerstown city limits — 0% interest, and forgiven after 5 years in the home. Funding is first-come, so timing matters.
Additional city and county assistance programs are run through the Hagerstown Home Store, the local housing counseling hub — ask us what is currently funded.
No down payment where the property is USDA-eligible, with income limits. Large parts of Washington County qualify — including the Boonsboro, Clear Spring, Hancock and Smithsburg areas. Eligibility is address-specific.
Maryland Mortgage Program & Federal Help
Every Washington County buyer can also tap the statewide Maryland Mortgage Program suite and federal options:
$6,000 flat, or 3%, 4% or 5% of your loan toward down payment and closing costs — a 0% deferred second loan with no monthly payments.
6% of your loan in assistance for households at or below 50% of area median income — 0% deferred, no monthly payments.
$5,000 or 3% of your loan toward down payment and closing costs, as a 0% deferred loan.
Student debt paid off at closing — up to $25,000 (up to 15% of the price), forgivable over 5 years. 720 minimum credit score.
Employer and agency matching funds that can add up to $5,000 more toward your down payment and closing costs.
Certified teachers, firefighters, police officers, EMTs and paramedics, 911 specialists and rescue squad members get extra MMP assistance for serving the community.
Teachers, law enforcement, firefighters and EMTs can buy a HUD-owned home at 50% off the list price in revitalization areas, with a 3-year occupancy commitment.
Not Sure What Fits?
Programs vary by income, occupation and property, and every option is subject to program eligibility and lender approval. Paul Deibler and the Deibler Home Team will check which programs stack for your situation before you shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does assistance have to be repaid?
Most listed assistance is a 0% deferred loan: no monthly payments, with repayment generally due on sale or refinance. Exact terms vary by program.
Do I need perfect credit?
No. Credit requirements vary by program, and we check your full situation before you shop.
Can programs stack?
Often, yes. Stacking is subject to eligibility, income and property requirements, and lender approval.