The HPAP page explains that eligible DC homebuyers can receive a large “gap” financing loan that fills the difference between the purchase price and what their first mortgage can cover, plus separate closing cost assistance up to $4,000. Assistance levels depend on household income, size and need, with very low-, low- and moderate-income applicants able to receive up to the full $202,000 maximum. For households under 80% of Median Family Income (MFI), the HPAP loan is interest-free with no monthly payments; the balance is due only when the home is sold, refinanced with cash-out, or no longer used as a primary residence. Moderate-income borrowers between 80% and 110% MFI have payments deferred for five years, then repay principal only over 40 years. The maximum first trust loan amount cannot exceed the FHA conforming loan limit, and funds are reserved upon issuance of a Notice to Proceed, giving buyers six months to go under contract and close. The page links to an eligibility/how-to-apply section, an assistance table, and DC’s FrontDoor portal, positioning HPAP as a powerful tool for first-time DC buyers searching for “down payment assistance in Washington DC.”