Unlock down payment and closing cost assistance through official Florida homebuyer programs. See if you qualify and get one step closer to your dream home.
Verify Your Florida Housing Assistance Eligibility
Buying your first home in Florida just got easier.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a frontline worker, there are programs available that can help reduce upfront costs through down payment assistance, closing cost help, and affordable loan options.
Florida’s housing programs are designed to make homeownership more accessible across the state. See below for a breakdown of top programs currently available.
The Hometown Heroes Program helps full-time workforce community members—including educators, law enforcement, firefighters, healthcare workers, and military personnel—purchase a primary residence in Florida.
Up to 5% of the loan amount, max $35,000, in down payment and closing cost assistance.
Forgivable 0% interest, non-amortizing second mortgage.
Must be employed full-time by a Florida-based employer.
Income limits and purchase price limits apply by county.
This program is perfect for those who serve their communities and want to put down roots close to where they work.
The FL Assist program offers a deferred second mortgage with no interest or monthly payments, making it a great option for buyers who want to reduce upfront costs without affecting their monthly mortgage budget.
Up to $10,000 in assistance for FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional Loans.
0% interest, non-amortizing second mortgage.
Deferred repayment — only due if the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer the primary residence.
Not forgivable, but repayment is delayed.
This second mortgage option is ideal for buyers who can manage a small monthly payment in exchange for additional upfront assistance.
Provides $10,000 in assistance.
3% interest rate with a 15-year term.
Monthly payments required.
Full balance due if the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer the primary residence.
Note - Monthly payments may affect debt-to-income (DTI) ratio during underwriting.
This option provides forgivable assistance based on a percentage of the total loan amount, making it ideal for buyers who want flexible support with no repayment after a few years.
Choose 3%, 4%, or 5% of the loan amount in a forgivable second mortgage.
Forgiven at 20% per year over 5 years.
Must be used with HFA Preferred or HFA Advantage conventional first mortgages.
Florida has special programs to help people buy their first home. You can get a 30-year loan with a steady interest rate through lenders across the state.
If you qualify, you may also get extra help with your down payment and closing costs. To qualify, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
Minimum Credit Score: 640 or higher.
Work With an Approved Lender: You must apply through a participating Program Lender.
Homebuyer Education: Completion of an approved Homebuyer Education course is required.
Purchase Price Limits: Your home’s purchase price must be within county-specific limits.
Income Limits: Your household income must also fall within county-specific limits.
First-Time Buyer Requirement: You must meet the IRS definition of a first-time homebuyer—meaning you haven’t owned and lived in a primary residence in the last three years.
If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible for Florida’s home loan and assistance programs.
Buying a home with assistance is simpler than you think. Here’s how it works:
Check your eligibility using our quick form.
Connect with an approved lender in your area.
Take a short homebuyer education course.
Get pre-approved and start your home search.
Close with down payment help and move into your new home.
Yes—unless you're a veteran or buying in certain targeted areas.
No, you must use a participating lender approved for the Florida Housing programs.
No. There’s no cost to check your eligibility or get matched with a lender.
Some programs are forgivable; others are deferred or come with low monthly payments. See each program's details above.
We’ll match you with a Florida Housing-approved loan officer who knows these programs inside and out.
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