RaquelRealTour · Alexandria, VA & the DMV
First-Time Home Buyer in DC, Maryland & Virginia
Buying your first home in the DMV is one of the most important financial decisions you will ever make. The DC, Maryland, and Virginia market moves fast prices are high, competition is real, and the process is more complex than most buyers expect. Raquel Gutierrez helps first-time buyers across Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia move forward with clarity, confidence, and a strategy built around their goals.
RaquelRealTour Alexandria, VA & the DMV
First-Time Buyer Programs in DC, MD & VA
The DMV has some of the strongest first-time buyer assistance programs in the entire country. Before you assume you cannot afford a home, check whether you qualify. Many buyers close with far less out-ofpocket than they expected.
HPAP — Home Purchase Assistance Program
One of the most generous first-time buyer programs available through the DC Department of Housing and Community Development.
✓ Up to $202,000 in down payment gap financing
✓ 0% interest
✓ Up to $4,000 closing cost assistance
✓ Deferred loan with no monthly payments
✓ First-time buyer and income eligibility requirements
01 / WASHINGTON DC
DC Open Doors
Assistance available to both first-time and repeat buyers purchasing in Washington DC.
✓ Up to 3% of purchase price
✓ Up to 3% of purchase price
✓ Deferred down payment assistance
✓ Below-market first mortgage rates
✓ Second mortgage may be forgiven after five years
02 / WASHINGTON DC
Maryland Mortgage Program
Maryland's primary first-time buyer assistance program.
✓ Up to 4% of purchase price
✓ Down payment and closing cost assistance
✓ 30-year fixed-rate mortgage options
✓ MCC tax credit may provide additional savings
03 / MARYLAND
VHDA Down Payment Grant
Virginia Housing offers assistance options for Northern Virginia first-time buyers.
✓ Up to $10,000 down payment grant
✓ Grant does not need to be repaid
✓ Competitive 30-year fixed rates
✓ Available in Northern Virginia
04 / VIRGINIA
Washington DC Assistance
HPAP Can Help Make Your First Home More Accessible
Eligible DC first-time homebuyers may qualify for substantial assistance with down payment and closing costs through the Home Purchase Assistance Program
$202K
Up to down payment gap financing
0%
Interest on HPAP financing
$4K
Additional closing cost assistance
Deferred
No monthly payments
Raquel's Note on HPAP
HPAP funds are limited and reserved on a first-come, first-served basis each fiscal year. Start the application process well before you find a home because processing takes time and funds can run out.
Compare major first-time buyer assistance programs across Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia.
Program Quick Comparison
Program details and funding availability can change. Verify current terms with an approved lender before relying on any figures.
The Home Buying Process
From pre-approval to closing, here's what to expect when purchasing your first home.
How to Buy Your First Home in the DMV
Get Pre-Approved
Get a written pre-approval from a lender before beginning your home search.
Choose Your Market
Compare DC, Maryland and Virginia based on your budget, lifestyle and goals.
Work With an Agent
Get guidance from a DMV first-time buyer agent who understands the local market.
Inspect & Close
Navigate inspection, appraisal, documents and closing before getting your keys.
Make an Offer
Structure a competitive offer while protecting your interests and managing risk.
Find Your Market
DC vs Maryland vs Virginia
Washington DC
Strongest assistance programs, urban lifestyle and Metro-rich access.
Maryland
More affordable entry points, additional space and Maryland Mortgage Program assistance.
Northern Virginia
Suburban feel, Metro access and Virginia Housing assistance options.
How Raquel guides you home
01
Understand your goals
Raquel starts by listening — your timeline, budget, must-haves, and neighborhoods — before a single listing is pulled.
02
Navigate the market
Raquel explains every step without jargon — from pre-approval to closing disclosure — so you always know where you stand.
03
Trusted partner network
Lenders, inspectors, attorneys — Raquel connects you with vetted professionals who treat her clients like their own.
04
End-to-end support
From your first search to handing you the keys, Raquel is your single point of contact for every question and decision.
