Pay the down payment for buying a house, and sign a contract without paying the maintenance fund. The maintenance fund shall be paid in time, and the specific process is as follows:

1. Know the relevant policies: Before returning the maintenance fund, you need to know the relevant policies, including the payment standard, payment method and payment regulations of the maintenance fund.

2. Payment of maintenance fund: Pay the maintenance fund according to the prescribed standards and methods. Generally speaking, it can be paid through property companies, residential property service centers and banks.

3. Payment procedures: According to local policies, you need to go to the property management company or the residential property service center for payment procedures. Generally, it is necessary to provide relevant certification materials, such as house property right certificate and ID card.

4. Review and approval: the property company or the residential property service center will review the payment procedures and approve the payment of the maintenance fund according to the situation.