It depends on your market and whether you qualify for assistance. Eligible DC buyers may receive up to $202,000 through HPAP, Virginia buyers may qualify for up to $10,000 through the VHDA grant, and Maryland's MMP can provide up to 4% of the purchase price.

HPAP is the Home Purchase Assistance Program administered by the DC Department of Housing and Community Development. Eligible first-time buyers may receive up to $202,000 in gap financing at 0% interest plus up to $4,000 in closing cost assistance.

Eligible service members, veterans and qualifying military spouses may use VA financing. Speak with an approved lender to understand your eligibility and available options.

It depends on your budget, lifestyle and commute needs. Raquel can help you compare neighborhoods, prices, assistance programs and monthly costs across all three markets.

You are not legally required to use one, but an experienced buyer's agent can help you navigate competitive offers, inspections, contracts and deadlines.

Many first-time buyers take approximately 2–4 months from search to closing. Assistance programs such as HPAP may require additional processing time.