Down Payment Assistance in Florida

What Down Payment Assistance Programs Does Florida Offer?

The Florida Housing Finance Corporation (Florida Housing) administers the state's primary DPA programs. These programs are designed to make homeownership accessible for buyers who meet income and purchase price requirements. Each program can be layered with an FHA, VA, or conventional first mortgage through a participating lender.

Florida Hometown Heroes

Hometown Heroes is Florida's most popular DPA program and is available to a wide range of community workers. Eligible occupations include teachers, nurses, law enforcement officers, firefighters, military personnel, childcare workers, and many more. The program provides up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount as a forgivable second mortgage for down payment and closing costs. The loan is forgiven over the life of the first mortgage as long as the borrower maintains the property as their primary residence.

Key requirements include a minimum credit score of 640, income limits based on county, and a purchase price cap that varies by county. The property must be in Florida and used as a primary residence.

FL Assist

FL Assist provides a $10,000 deferred second mortgage for down payment and closing costs. No monthly payments are required. The loan is repaid when the borrower sells the home, refinances, transfers the deed, or no longer uses the property as a primary residence. This program is available to first-time buyers and can be paired with Florida Housing's first mortgage products.

FL HLP (Housing Loan Program)

FL HLP offers a $10,000 second mortgage at 3% interest, repaid over 15 years. Monthly payments on this loan are roughly $69 per month. This program is a good fit for buyers who prefer a known, low-cost repayment structure rather than a deferred loan.

Are There County-Level Programs in Tampa Bay?

Several Tampa Bay area counties offer additional assistance. Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties have periodically offered local DPA programs funded by federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or HOME funds. These programs have their own income limits and application processes. Availability and funding levels change, so checking with your lender or contacting the county housing office directly is important.

How Do You Apply for Florida DPA?

1. Get pre-approved with a Florida Housing-approved lender
2. Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course
3. Choose a property within the purchase price limits for your county
4. Submit your application through your lender, who handles the DPA paperwork alongside your first mortgage