Current mortgage rates · week of July 2, 2026
| Week | 30-yr / 15-yr fixed |
| July 2, 2026 | 6.43% / 5.79% |
| June 25, 2026 | 6.49% / 5.84% |
| June 18, 2026 | 6.47% / 5.81% |
| June 11, 2026 | 6.52% / 5.84% |
| June 4, 2026 | 6.48% / 5.79% |
| May 28, 2026 | 6.53% / 5.87% |
| May 21, 2026 | 6.51% / 5.85% |
| May 14, 2026 | 6.36% / 5.71% |
U.S. weekly averages — Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey via FRED.
Washington DC Mortgage Overview
The nation's capital is a beautiful place for anyone to live. It's also quite costly, which means financing programs are very helpful for first-time and subsequent homebuyers. If you're in the market for a loan in Washington DC, here are your options.
Washington DC conventional loans
You need just 3 percent down if you're a first-time homebuyer, but 5 percent if you've owned a home before. Conventional loans require a 660 credit score and low debt ratio. You will pay PMI with the lower down payment, but you can cancel it when you owe less than 80 percent of the home's value.
Washington DC FHA loans
FHA loans don't require great credit. You can get a loan with just a 580 score for a 3.5 percent down payment and a 500 - 579 score if you put down 10 percent. FHA loans have mortgage insurance for the life of the loan, but you get flexible underwriting guidelines in return.
Washington DC VA loans
Veterans of the military can secure 100 percent financing with a VA loan. All you need is a 620 credit score and proof you have enough money to cover your bills. The VA looks at your disposable income too so they know you can cover the daily cost of living. VA loans don't have mortgage insurance, but they have a funding fee.
Washington DC USDA loans
If you can't get an FHA loan, consider a USDA loan. You don't have to live in the middle of nowhere
- just a rural area as deemed by the USDA. Your income must fall within the USDA guidelines. If you are eligible, you can get a 100 percent loan, which means you don't need a down payment.
First-Time Homebuyer
Programs in Washington DC
Home Purchase Assistance Program
This is an interest-free loan that helps first-time homebuyers buy their first home. You may receive up to $80,000 in gap financing and $4,000 for closing cost assistance.
Employer-Assisted Housing Program
This 0% deferred loan provides District employees with the funds to buy a home. You don't owe any payments until you sell the home or refinance the loan.
District of Columbia mortgage FAQ
- What loan options are available in Washington DC?
- Washington DC buyers can use conventional loans with 3 percent down for first-time buyers or 5 percent for repeat buyers and a 660 credit score, FHA loans with a 580 score and 3.5 percent down or a 500 to 579 score with 10 percent down, VA loans offering 100 percent financing with a 620 score, and USDA loans with no down payment in USDA-designated areas.
- What assistance programs exist for first-time buyers in Washington DC?
- The Home Purchase Assistance Program gives first-time homebuyers an interest-free loan for gap financing plus separate help with closing costs. District government employees can also use the Employer-Assisted Housing Program, a zero percent deferred loan with no payments due until you sell the home or refinance the mortgage.
- What is the minimum down payment in Washington DC?
- First-time homebuyers in Washington DC can put just 3 percent down on a conventional loan, while repeat buyers need 5 percent. FHA loans require 3.5 percent down with a 580 credit score or 10 percent with a lower score, and eligible buyers can skip the down payment entirely with a VA or USDA loan.