Alternatives to the DHCD Website for DC First-Time Home Buyer Information
The DHCD website lists HPAP rules but won't tell you funds ran out in January. Here's what free sources miss and what serious DC buyers use instead.
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All articles about District of Columbia First-Time Home Buyer Guide.
Best DC Home Buying Approach for Buyers Under $110K Competing Against Investors
HPAP-eligible DC buyers face seller rejection in competitive markets. Here's the program stacking, timing, and offer strategy that actually works below $110K income.
DC Condo vs Co-op vs Rowhouse for First-Time Buyers: Which Property Type Is Right?
Each DC property type has hidden financial and legal traps first-time buyers miss. This breakdown covers reserve risks, co-op board rejection, and HPO renovation rules.
DC Homestead Deduction: How to Apply and How Much You Save
The DC homestead deduction reduces your taxable assessed value by $91,950 in 2026 — here's who qualifies, how to file, and what the assessment cap does for you.
DC vs Northern Virginia vs Maryland: Which Is Better for First-Time Home Buyers?
DC has the highest income tax but the lowest property tax. Virginia wins on closing costs. Maryland offers cheaper entry prices. Here's the 30-year cost comparison.
First-Time Home Buyer DC: Programs, Assistance, and What Actually Works
DC offers up to $202K in down payment assistance through HPAP and DC Open Doors — but each program has critical trade-offs first-time buyers need to know.
How Long Does It Take to Close on a House?
Most closings take 30–45 days, but the timeline varies by loan type, appraisal delays, and title issues. Here's exactly what happens and when.
How to Win a Bidding War in DC Without Waiving Your Home Inspection
DC buyers waiving inspections lose tens of thousands on hidden repairs. The right-to-void contingency keeps you competitive without gambling on an unknown property.
HPAP DC Repayment: The Year-Six Shock and Three Traps That Trap Buyers in the Property
DC's HPAP gives up to $202K in deferred loans — but renting, refinancing, or moving triggers full repayment. Here's every HPAP repayment trap modeled in dollars.
HPAP vs DC Open Doors: Which Program Actually Gets You the House?
DC's HPAP offers up to $202K but takes 6+ weeks and faces seller rejection. DC Open Doors is smaller but closes in 30 days. Here's the honest comparison.