Buying your first home in Braintree can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. You want a smart path to the keys without stretching too far. The good news is Massachusetts offers proven programs that can lower your upfront costs and monthly payment when you qualify.

In this guide, you will learn how MassHousing mortgages, ONE Mortgage, and down payment assistance work for Braintree buyers, who typically qualifies, how the timeline plays out, and what to expect if you are buying a condo. You will also see how a coordinated approach with your agent, lender, and attorney keeps things on track. Let’s dive in.

Why first-time buyers look to state programs

Massachusetts has supported first-time buyers for years with stable, well-run programs. If you qualify, you can often put less down, reduce or avoid private mortgage insurance, and access down payment assistance that pairs with your first mortgage.

These programs are statewide. That means if you are purchasing in Braintree or anywhere in Norfolk County, you can pursue them with an approved lender. Because rules change, you should always confirm current details on the official program pages or with your lender.

The programs that help in Braintree

MassHousing mortgage programs

MassHousing is the state’s housing finance agency. It partners with approved lenders to offer mortgages built for first-time buyers who meet income and purchase price limits. These loans typically allow low down payments and offer mortgage insurance options designed to keep monthly costs manageable.

To explore current offerings and find participating lenders, start with the official MassHousing mortgage programs page.

ONE Mortgage (administered by MassHousing)

ONE Mortgage is a long-standing option for qualified first-time buyers. It pairs low down payment requirements with reduced or, in some cases, no private mortgage insurance compared with many conventional products. You must meet income and purchase price limits, and the loan is underwritten by participating lenders.

You can review eligibility basics and connect with approved lenders through the ONE Mortgage information on MassHousing.

MassHousing Down Payment Assistance (DPA)

If your biggest hurdle is the down payment, MassHousing’s down payment assistance can help bridge the gap. DPA is usually a second loan that is either forgivable over time or due later under specific conditions. It must be paired with an eligible MassHousing first mortgage, and it requires separate application and approval.

For current DPA terms and how to apply, visit the MassHousing down payment assistance pages and speak with an approved lender.

Regional and federal supports that can complement state programs

• The Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston periodically sponsors grants and matched-savings programs that participating member institutions can offer to eligible buyers. Check program availability on the FHLB Boston site and ask your lender if they participate.
• HUD-approved counselors provide education and guidance, and some assistance programs require a counseling certificate. Use HUD’s tool to find local providers through the HUD housing counseling search.

Note: FHA, VA, and USDA loans are separate federal programs. They can be good alternatives for some buyers, but they are not MassHousing products and have different rules.

Who qualifies and which homes are eligible

First-time buyer definition and income limits

In Massachusetts, programs commonly consider you a first-time buyer if you have not owned residential property in the last three years. Some exceptions can apply based on household circumstances. You must meet household income limits that vary by county and family size. Norfolk County limits are typically higher than many rural counties, but they still cap eligibility.

Always verify current definitions and income caps on the Massachusetts homebuying resources and MassHousing program pages, or with an approved lender.

Purchase price limits and your contribution

Most programs set maximum purchase prices by county and property type. Down payment requirements are designed to be accessible, but the exact minimums and whether DPA can cover some or all of that contribution depend on the specific product. Your lender will review the numbers with you and confirm whether gift funds are allowed.

Credit and underwriting standards

You will need to meet credit score, debt-to-income, and document requirements. Standards vary by program and lender. If you have unique credit items or nontraditional income, an early conversation with an approved lender helps avoid surprises.

Eligible property types and occupancy

Eligible homes typically include 1 to 2 family properties, many condominiums, and in some cases 3 to 4 unit homes when you will live in one unit. You must plan to occupy the home as your primary residence. Investment properties are not eligible.

Condo buyers in Braintree: what to know

Condos are common in Braintree, and many are eligible for MassHousing or ONE Mortgage financing. The condo project usually must meet program criteria and may need to appear on an approved list or go through a formal approval. Lenders also review association budgets, reserves, insurance, and any pending litigation.

Gathering condo documents early keeps your file moving. Expect to provide the budget, recent meeting minutes, a completed condo questionnaire, and evidence of insurance. If the condo needs program approval, build in extra time during your offer and financing timelines.

Step-by-step: from pre-approval to keys

Here is how a typical MassHousing or ONE Mortgage purchase unfolds, including when you pair DPA with your first mortgage.

1) Education and counseling

Start with a homebuyer education class or a session with a counselor. Some DPA programs require this. To locate approved agencies serving Norfolk County, use the HUD counseling search.

2) Documentation and pre-qualification

Collect the basics so your lender can pre-screen your eligibility:

• Government ID and Social Security numbers for all borrowers
• Recent pay stubs, W-2s, and tax returns if self-employed or with other income
• Bank statements for assets and reserves
• Rent or housing expense history
• Gift letters if someone will contribute to your down payment

3) Lender pre-approval for the program

Apply with a lender that is approved for MassHousing and, if relevant, ONE Mortgage and DPA. The lender verifies your income, credit, and program fit. You receive a pre-approval letter that sets budget expectations and helps you make a strong offer.

4) Home search and offer strategy

With your agent, target properties that match your program and budget. If a condo is in the mix, verify program eligibility before you offer. Structure your offer with a mortgage contingency and realistic timing, especially if DPA or condo approvals are needed.

5) DPA application when applicable

If you plan to use down payment assistance, your lender submits the DPA request early. Some DPA requires formal approval before closing and will be documented as a second mortgage at or before the closing.

6) Full loan application, underwriting, and appraisal

Your lender assembles a complete file, orders the appraisal, and completes program checklists. Condo projects often need extra documentation and a focused review, so prompt responses help keep this stage on schedule.

7) Attorney and title coordination

In Massachusetts, buyers and sellers typically work with attorneys. Your attorney reviews the purchase and sale agreement, title work, and closing documents, including the DPA if you have one. This adds protection and clarity at a key point in the process.

8) Closing day

You sign the first mortgage and any DPA documents with your attorney and the closing agent. After funds are disbursed and documents are recorded, the home is yours.

Typical timeline in our market

• Pre-approval: a few days up to 1 to 2 weeks, depending on how quickly you provide documents.
• Accepted offer to closing: commonly 30 to 45 days. With DPA or condo approvals, plan for the longer end, and in some cases 45 to 60 days.
• Condo approvals that require additional review can add 2 to 4 weeks. Front-loading condo documents reduces delays.

How your agent keeps everything on track

A smooth first-time purchase is about coordination and timing. Your agent’s role is to anticipate needs, verify eligibility details, and keep your lender and attorney aligned so you close on schedule. That is especially important when DPA and condo approvals are part of the plan.

Here is how a well-run process looks from your side:

• Lender alignment. You receive introductions to lenders who regularly originate MassHousing and ONE Mortgage loans and understand DPA steps.
• Property eligibility checks. Before you write an offer, your agent confirms the property type works for your program and, for condos, whether program approval is already in place or must be requested.
• Right-sized contingencies and timelines. Your offer reflects realistic financing and approval windows, with clear inspection and appraisal milestones.
• Attorney and title handoffs. Your attorney receives all key documents early, including pre-approval, purchase and sale, and program details.
• Milestone tracking. Appraisal ordering, underwriting conditions, DPA approvals, condo docs, and clear-to-close are monitored, and you get regular updates.

This kind of structure keeps you informed and confident, which is exactly what you want for a first purchase.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Submitting an offer on a condo that does not meet program criteria. Verify condo eligibility early and gather association documents up front.
• Choosing a lender without MassHousing or ONE Mortgage experience. Work with an approved lender familiar with DPA timelines and condo reviews.
• Underestimating the time needed for DPA approvals. Build in sufficient time in your mortgage contingency.
• Missing documents in underwriting. Provide complete income and asset documentation, and flag any gifts or unusual deposits early.

Local Braintree and Norfolk County resources

• Learn about programs, eligibility, and participating lenders on the official MassHousing site.
• Review Massachusetts consumer guidance and updates on the state homebuying resources.
• Explore regional grant and matched-savings opportunities at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston.
• Find approved homebuyer education and counseling via the HUD housing counseling search.
• Confirm local contacts and municipal information on the Town of Braintree website.
• For title and recording details, refer to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds.

When you combine the right program, a prepared file, and well-timed offer terms, your Braintree purchase can be both attainable and smooth. If you would like a calm, coordinated plan from pre-approval to closing day, connect with Abby Valencia-Gooding to map your next steps.

FAQs

Am I automatically eligible for ONE Mortgage in Braintree?

• No. You must meet income and purchase price limits, credit and underwriting standards, and the home must be eligible. Confirm with a MassHousing-approved lender.

Can I use down payment assistance with ONE Mortgage?

• Often yes. Many MassHousing DPA options pair with a MassHousing first mortgage, but terms vary and require separate approval before closing.

Are Braintree condos eligible for these programs?

• Many are, but the condo project must meet program requirements and may need to be on an approved list or go through a review. Verify early in your search.

How much down payment will I need as a first-time buyer?

• It depends on the product. Many MassHousing and ONE Mortgage options allow low down payments, and DPA may cover a portion. Your lender will outline the exact amount.

Do I need an attorney to buy in Massachusetts?

• It is customary and advisable for both buyers and sellers to use attorneys. Attorney review is especially important when a second mortgage for DPA is involved.

How long does a MassHousing or DPA purchase take?

• Plan on 30 to 45 days from accepted offer to closing. If DPA or condo approval is needed, allow up to 45 to 60 days.