State Buyer Programs

First-Time Home Buyer
Programs in Massachusetts

Down payment assistance, transfer tax rates, and what to expect at closing when buying your first home in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts First-Time Buyer Overview

State Housing Agency
MassHousing →

Your state's HFA is the primary source for below-market mortgages and down payment assistance programs.

Down Payment Assistance Programs
MassHousing Down Payment Assistance
Up to $30,000 (or $50,000 in certain Gateway cities)

Income limits based on household size and location.

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ONE Mortgage
Below-market rate with no PMI and low down payment

Income limits at 100% of AMI; strictly for first-time buyers.

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Transfer Tax Rate
0.456% (state excise)

Massachusetts Excise Tax on Deeds is $4.56 per $1,000 of value (0.456%). Cities and towns do not add separate transfer taxes.

Attorney Required at Closing?
Yes — attorney state

Massachusetts is an attorney-state. A licensed Massachusetts attorney must conduct the title examination and closing.

Tools for Buying Your First Home in Massachusetts

Pre-approval, inspection, insurance, and moving — the same trusted tools, relevant wherever you're buying in Massachusetts.

Get Pre-Approved

Our Pick
Better Mortgage
Online pre-approval in minutes

Get a real pre-approval letter in about 3 minutes with no origination fee and no commission-hungry loan officer. Fully online — you won't get pressured into a bigger loan.

Get Pre-Approved →
Credible
Compare rates from multiple lenders

See real mortgage rates from multiple lenders side by side without your credit score taking a hit. Takes 3 minutes and you don't have to commit to anything.

Compare Rates →

Home Inspection

Inspectify
Book a licensed inspector online

Never skip the inspection. Inspectify lets you book a certified home inspector in your area in seconds. Digital reports, same-day availability in most markets.

Book an Inspection →

Home Insurance

Lemonade
Instant homeowners insurance quotes

Get a homeowners insurance quote in 90 seconds. Lemonade uses AI to underwrite policies faster than any traditional insurer — and claims are often paid in minutes.

Get a Quote →

Home Warranty

American Home Shield
Coverage for systems and appliances

When the HVAC dies three weeks after closing, you'll be glad you have a home warranty. AHS covers major systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical — plus appliances.

View Plans →

Moving

Moving.com
Compare moving company quotes

Get quotes from licensed movers in your area. Moving.com vets companies for licensing and insurance so you're not handing your stuff to a random guy with a truck.

Get Moving Quotes →

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