2026 loan limits in Alachua County
These are the 2026 limits for one-unit homes in Alachua County, set by HUD (FHA) and FHFA (conforming). Two- to four-unit properties have higher limits. We confirm the current figures before every rate lock.
Buying a home in Alachua County
Alachua County centers on Gainesville and the University of Florida, along with UF Health, one of the region's largest employers. Many parents buy a condo or small home for a student to live in and rent rooms to roommates, and investors buy near campus for rental income. Newberry and High Springs offer newer subdivisions and more land outside the city.
Areas served in Alachua County
We work with buyers and homeowners throughout Alachua County, including Gainesville, Alachua, High Springs, Newberry, Archer, and Micanopy.
Florida closing costs on a Alachua County purchase
Example: a $560,000 purchase with an FHA loan of $540,400. The state taxes on that deal:
- Deed doc stamps: $0.70 per $100 of price = $3,920. The standard Florida contract has the seller pay this; check yours.
- Doc stamps on the mortgage note: $0.35 per $100 of loan = $1,891. Paid by the buyer.
- Intangible tax on the mortgage: 0.2% of the loan = $1,081. Paid by the buyer.
Add title insurance, lender fees, prepaid taxes and insurance, and recording fees for the full picture. Run your own numbers with the Florida closing cost calculator.
Homestead exemption in Alachua County
If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption with the Alachua County Property Appraiser by March 1 of the year after you close. It can take up to about $50,000 off your assessed value and caps future increases under Save Our Homes. Details in the homestead guide.
Loan programs available in Alachua County
- Conventional: Low down payment options for qualifying first-time buyers.
- FHA: Low down payment and flexible credit; minimum scores vary by lender.
- VA: For eligible veterans and service members.
- USDA: For eligible homes in qualifying rural and suburban areas.
- Jumbo: Loans above the conforming limit.
- DSCR: Investment property qualified on rental income.
- Bank statement: For self-employed borrowers.
- Construction-to-perm: One closing for building a new home.
- Foreign national: For buyers without US credit.
- Down payment assistance: Including Florida Hometown Heroes.