MaineHousing’s First Home Loan is the backbone program for most Dougherty buyers: a low, fixed-rate mortgage with no liquid-asset test and only a 1% borrower contribution (which can be gifted). The Advantage add-on layers $5,000 on top for down payment and closing costs — with no interest add-on, no extra documentation, no increase in loan amount, and no second mortgage. Program options include First Home, Purchase Plus Improvement, Salute ME (for service members), and Private Mortgage Insurance in designated areas. To use it, work with a lender on MaineHousing’s approved list.