State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Maine housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
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The Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Maine. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
Below-market rate 30-year fixed mortgages for first-time buyers.
Covers up to 3.5% of down payment as a grant.
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Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $380,000 home: approximately $10,640
Maine charges a real estate transfer tax of $4.40 per $1,000 (0.44%) split equally between buyer and seller, so buyers pay approximately $2.20 per $1,000 (0.22%).
Maine is an attorney-closing state. A licensed Maine attorney must conduct the closing. Budget $700–$1,200.
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Find an Inspector →As an attorney-closing state, Maine requires a licensed real estate attorney to conduct your closing. You'll also want one to review your purchase agreement.
Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.
Browse Legal Guides →Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.
Get Legal Help →Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.
Browse Real Estate Forms →Maine first-time buyers can access programs through the Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing) (https://www.mainehousing.org/), including the MaineHousing First Home Loan (Below-market interest rate — well below conventional rates) and the Advantage Down Payment Grant (Up to 3.5% of purchase price as a grant — no repayment required). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Maine typically run 2.8% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: 0.22% (buyer pays half of 0.44% total). Maine charges a real estate transfer tax of $4.40 per $1,000 (0.44%) split equally between buyer and seller, so buyers pay approximately $2.20 per $1,000 (0.22%).
Maine is an attorney-closing state. A licensed Maine attorney must conduct the closing. Budget $700–$1,200.
The median home price in Maine is approximately $380,000. Property taxes average 1.09% of assessed value annually.
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