Who this is for
Down payment assistance (DPA) helps Florida buyers cover the down payment and closing costs that often stand between them and a first home. Florida runs several programs — most aimed at first-time buyers and essential workers — that layer a second loan or grant on top of your primary FHA, conventional, VA, or USDA mortgage. If cash to close is the thing holding you back, this is where to look first.
Florida down payment assistance programs
Florida Hometown Heroes
- Up to 5% of the loan amount (capped) toward down payment and closing costs, as a 0%-interest, deferred second mortgage — no monthly payment, repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first.
- Originally for frontline workers, now open to any income-eligible first-time Florida buyer in most cases.
- Often paired with a competitive first mortgage rate through the program.
Florida Assist & FL HFA Preferred / Advantage
- Florida Assist: a deferred second mortgage for down payment help, repaid on sale/refinance.
- FL HFA Preferred (conventional) and Advantage (FHA): first-mortgage programs that bundle a percentage-based assistance second toward down payment and closing costs.
Local county & city programs
- Many Florida counties and cities run their own SHIP-funded DPA (State Housing Initiatives Partnership). Amounts and rules vary by location — worth checking for the county you're buying in.
Assistance is a second loan, not free money — usually. Most Florida DPA comes as a deferred or forgivable second mortgage. That's still a great deal: no monthly payment and often 0% interest. The key is understanding the repayment trigger and how it interacts with your plans if you sell or refinance in a few years.
How to qualify
- First-time buyer (generally, no ownership in the last 3 years) for most programs — some exceptions apply.
- Income at or below the program's county limit, adjusted for household size.
- Minimum credit score — typically 640, sometimes higher depending on the program and first mortgage.
- Homebuyer education course — a short certified class is required by most programs.
- Primary residence in Florida, within program purchase-price limits.
FAQ
Do I have to pay back down payment assistance in Florida?
Usually yes, but not right away. Most Florida programs (Hometown Heroes, Florida Assist) structure assistance as a 0%-interest deferred second mortgage — no monthly payment, repaid only when you sell, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage. Some local programs are partially forgivable over time.
Am I eligible for Florida Hometown Heroes?
Most income-eligible first-time Florida buyers qualify — the program has broadened well beyond its original frontline-worker focus. You'll need to meet the county income limit, minimum credit score, and complete a homebuyer education course. I'll check your numbers against the current program.
Can I combine assistance with an FHA or VA loan?
Yes. DPA layers on top of a first mortgage — FHA, conventional, VA, or USDA. The assistance covers your down payment and/or closing costs while the first mortgage does the heavy lifting. I structure the two together.
Is there a minimum credit score for down payment assistance?
Typically 640, though it varies by program and can be higher. If you're close, I'll tell you exactly what would get you over the line — often a small, specific change rather than a long wait.