State Guides/Washington D.C.
DC

Washington D.C. Home Buying Guide

Northeast Region · Judicial Foreclosure State

Homestead ExemptionAttorney Required

Key Facts at a Glance

Median Home Price
$620,000
Property Tax Rate
0.85%
Transfer Tax
1.1%
Attorney Required
Yes
Foreclosure Type
Judicial

What Makes Washington D.C. Unique

HPAP offers up to $202,000 in forgivable assistance — nationally leading program

No Recordation Tax on first $100K of financing for first-time buyers

Judicial foreclosure provides strong homeowner protections

First-Time Buyer Programs in Washington D.C.

1

DC HPAP (Home Purchase Assistance Program)

Contact your state housing finance agency for current eligibility and rates

2

DC Employer Assisted Housing

Contact your state housing finance agency for current eligibility and rates

3

DC Open Doors

Contact your state housing finance agency for current eligibility and rates

Program availability, income limits, and interest rates change frequently. Verify current terms with your lender or state housing finance agency.

Closing Costs in Washington D.C.

1.5%
Avg Closing Costs
of purchase price
$9,300
Estimated Closing Costs
on median-priced home
1.1%
Transfer Tax
may be split with seller

Attorney at Closing

Attorney Required at Closing

Washington D.C. requires a licensed real estate attorney to oversee the closing process. Budget $500–$1,500 for attorney fees.

Local Tips for Washington D.C. Buyers

1

HPAP is one of the most generous DPA programs in the nation.

2

DC Homestead deduction saves ~$800/year on property taxes.

3

Neighborhood pockets vary enormously — research your quadrant.

Estimated Annual Ownership Cost in Washington D.C.

Based on the median home price of $620,000 with a 10% down payment and 7% mortgage rate.

Annual Mortgage Payment$44,528
Annual Property Taxes$5,270
Homeowners Insurance (est.)$3,100
Maintenance (est. 1%/yr)$6,200

Ready to Calculate Your Numbers?

Use our free calculators to estimate your monthly payment, affordability, and closing costs in Washington D.C..