Florida first-time home buyer programs.
Florida offers up to $35,000 in down payment assistance through state and county programs. Many buyers qualify without knowing it. See if you’re eligible.
Programs available to Florida buyers.
Florida’s statewide programs are administered through Florida Housing Finance Corporation. County-level SHIP funds provide additional assistance in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade.
Hometown Heroes Housing Program
Up to $35,000Who qualifies: Teachers, nurses, law enforcement, firefighters, veterans, and other community workers.
Down payment + closing cost assistance as a 0% interest, non-amortizing second mortgage. Forgiven after 30 years.
Florida Assist (FL Assist)
Up to $10,000Who qualifies: First-time buyers using an FHA, VA, RD, or Conventional loan.
Deferred 0% interest second mortgage for down payment. No monthly payments. Repaid only when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Florida HLP Second Mortgage
$10,000Who qualifies: First-time buyers with a Florida Housing first mortgage.
3% interest, 15-year term second mortgage. $66/month payment. Can be combined with other Florida Housing programs.
SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership)
Varies by countyWho qualifies: Income-qualifying buyers in participating counties.
Each Florida county administers its own SHIP funds. Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade all offer SHIP grants and deferred loans.
First-Time Buyer
Defined as not owning a primary residence in the last 3 years. Veterans and buyers in targeted areas are sometimes exempt.
Income Limits
Vary by county and household size. Palm Beach County limits range from $75,040 (1 person) to $140,070 (8 people) for most programs.
Credit Score
Minimum 640 credit score for most Florida Housing programs. Some county SHIP programs allow 580 with FHA.
Primary Residence
Must be your primary home. Investment properties and second homes do not qualify.
Homebuyer Education
Most programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course ($50–$125, available online).
Equal Housing Lender. Program terms subject to change. Not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval. NMLS# 1859012. Licensed in Florida.
Frequently asked questions about first-time buyer programs in Florida.
Who qualifies as a first-time home buyer in Florida?
Florida defines a first-time buyer as anyone who has not owned a primary residence in the last three years. Even if you owned a home a decade ago, you may qualify today. Veterans are often exempt from the first-time buyer requirement for certain programs. Buyers in federally designated "targeted areas" may also qualify regardless of prior ownership. Our team confirms your eligibility before you apply.
What credit score do I need for Florida first-time buyer programs?
Most Florida Housing programs require a minimum 640 credit score for conventional loans and some FHA programs. Some county SHIP programs allow scores as low as 580 when paired with FHA. If your score is below 640, we can help you identify the fastest path to qualifying — often through debt paydown, dispute resolution, or authorized user strategies.
How long does the required homebuyer education course take?
Most HUD-approved online homebuyer education courses take 6–8 hours to complete. They cover budgeting, credit, the purchase process, and homeownership responsibilities. The cost is typically $50–$125. The course certificate is valid for one year. You can take it at your own pace. We recommend completing it before you start actively looking at homes so you are ready to move quickly when you find the right property.
Can I use first-time buyer programs to purchase a condo in Florida?
Yes, with conditions. The condo project must be approved for the loan type you are using — FHA approved, Fannie Mae approved, etc. Not all Florida condos meet these requirements, particularly older buildings and those with financial or structural issues. We check condo approval status for every building our buyer clients consider before they invest time in a search.
What happens to my DPA if I sell my Florida home early?
Deferred DPA loans are repaid when you sell or refinance. If you sell before the deferral period ends, you return the original loan amount (typically without interest for 0% programs). Forgivable grants have a forgiveness schedule — selling before the forgiveness period means you may owe a prorated portion back. These terms are disclosed in full at closing. We walk buyers through all scenarios before they commit.
See which programs you qualify for.
Our mortgage team will check your eligibility for every available program at no cost.
Check My EligibilityOr view all loan programs at Pure Equity Realty Mortgage Capital.