Saving for a down payment can feel like the biggest roadblock to buying a home in Framingham. If you are a first-time buyer, you are not alone, and there is real help available. As of June 2025, MassHousing expanded its Down Payment Assistance program, opening the door for more middle-income buyers in eastern Massachusetts. In this guide, you will learn what changed, how the assistance works, who qualifies in Framingham, and the exact steps to take next. Let’s dive in.
2025 update at a glance
- As of June 11, 2025, MassHousing announced an expanded, statewide Down Payment Assistance program that reaches more middle-income buyers in eastern Massachusetts, including Framingham. See the official announcement for details and current limits in the region, including the eastern MA cap referenced at $205,335 for eligibility review as part of the middle-income tier in the press release.
- Two assistance tiers are highlighted in program materials: up to $30,000 as a deferred, 0 percent second mortgage, and up to $25,000 as a low fixed-rate second mortgage with monthly payments. Your income tier determines which option you can use, and at what rate.
- Always confirm the latest area median income (AMI) limits by household size with MassHousing or your lender. AMI and program terms can change.
How MassHousing DPA works
Pair with a MassHousing first mortgage
MassHousing DPA is only available when you use a MassHousing first mortgage through a participating lender. Your lender will confirm eligibility and package the first mortgage with the DPA second. Review current program mechanics on the official MassHousing Down Payment Assistance page.
First-time buyer and education
You must be a first-time homebuyer as defined by MassHousing and complete a MassHousing-approved homebuyer education course before you buy. You can find approved classes and get your certificate through the MassHousing education page.
Eligible homes and occupancy
Eligible properties include 1 to 4 unit primary residences and condominiums. You must live in the home as your primary residence.
Two assistance options and repayment
- Option 1: a deferred, interest-free second mortgage. You make no monthly payments on the DPA while you own and live in the home. The full balance is due when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
- Option 2: a 15-year, low fixed-rate second mortgage with monthly payments. MassHousing provides example payment scenarios on the program page.
Who qualifies in Framingham
Your income, household size, and the AMI for Middlesex County determine which DPA tier you can use. In the June 11, 2025 announcement, MassHousing referenced an eastern Massachusetts income cap of $205,335 for the expanded middle-income tier in the press release. Because limits vary by household size, verify your exact eligibility with a MassHousing-participating lender using the official program page.
Framingham resources and complementary programs
City of Framingham buyer resources
The city’s resource page points first-time buyers to statewide programs like MassHousing and ONE Mortgage and lists local contacts for housing questions. Start with the city’s overview of first-time home buying resources.
MassDREAMS grants update
MassDREAMS has offered larger down payment and closing cost grants for residents of certain communities that were most impacted by COVID-19. Framingham is on the eligibility list. The program has paused new applications at times as funds are committed, so check the current status on the MassDREAMS page.
ONE Mortgage and ONE+
The Massachusetts Housing Partnership’s ONE Mortgage and ONE+ offer low down payments and discounted rates, and ONE+ launched with assistance available in select areas, including Framingham. These programs have their own rules, so confirm details on the ONE+ launch overview and with your lender.
Homebuyer classes at SMOC
South Middlesex Opportunity Council’s Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC) in Framingham runs MassHousing-approved first-time buyer classes and counseling. You can register through SMOC’s HCEC.
Possible city CDBG support
Framingham’s Community Development Block Grant program sometimes funds local assistance. Funding and eligibility vary by year. See the city’s Community Development Block Grant page for current information.
Step-by-step plan for Framingham buyers
- Confirm eligibility and program mix. Check AMI by household size and talk with a MassHousing-participating lender about which DPA tier fits your situation. Review the MassHousing DPA program page to get oriented.
- Take a homebuyer education class. Complete a MassHousing-approved class and keep the certificate. Start with the education page or SMOC.
- Get pre-approved with a participating lender. Ask if they will pair your first mortgage with MassHousing DPA and whether you are eligible for MassDREAMS or ONE+.
- Gather documents. Expect to provide ID, recent pay stubs, W-2s or 1099s, tax returns, bank statements, and any grant eligibility proofs your lender requests.
- Finalize your loan and DPA selection. Your lender will determine whether the deferred or amortizing option applies to you and submit your loan package to MassHousing.
Typical timeline
- Homebuyer class: 2 to 6 weeks
- Pre-approval: 1 to 2 weeks
- Underwriting and DPA approvals: 2 to 6 weeks
- Closing: once underwriting and title work are complete
Pitfalls to avoid
- Skipping the class. Without a MassHousing-approved certificate, you cannot use the DPA.
- Assuming the highest amount. Your DPA type and amount depend on income tier and program rules, so confirm with your lender.
- Missing local opportunities. Check Framingham city resources, SMOC classes, and the status of MassDREAMS or ONE+ before you lock in your plan.
- Not verifying current limits. AMI limits and funds change. Use the press release, program page, and MassHousing contacts to confirm the latest information.
Ready to take the next step?
If homeownership in Framingham is your goal, you have real tools to make it happen. Pair MassHousing’s DPA with local resources, complete your class, and get pre-approved with a participating lender. If you want a local guide who understands MetroWest and first-time buyer programs, reach out to CENTURY 21 Marathon. We will help you line up the right team and move forward with confidence.
FAQs
How much down payment help can a Framingham first-time buyer get from MassHousing in 2025?
- Program materials reference up to $30,000 as a deferred, 0 percent second mortgage or up to $25,000 as a low fixed-rate second mortgage, with eligibility based on income tier and household size; confirm details on the program page.
Do you have to repay MassHousing Down Payment Assistance?
- Deferred second mortgages are typically repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage, while amortizing seconds require monthly payments; see the program page for mechanics and examples.
Can a Framingham buyer combine MassHousing DPA with MassDREAMS or city aid?
- Many buyers layer assistance, but each program has its own rules and funding status; check the current MassDREAMS update on the program page and review Framingham’s CDBG resources.
What income limits apply to MassHousing DPA in Middlesex County?
- The June 11, 2025 announcement referenced an eastern Massachusetts cap of $205,335 for the expanded middle-income tier; verify your exact household-size limit with a lender and the press release.
Do you need a homebuyer education certificate for MassHousing DPA?
- Yes, you must complete a MassHousing-approved class and provide the certificate; start on the education page or with SMOC’s HCEC.
Where can you get program answers directly from MassHousing?
- Use the agency’s contact page to reach the homebuying team for current income limits, lender lists, and application steps.
