Florida Housing runs the state’s main first-time buyer programs, and counties add help through the state’s SHIP housing funds.
What is different in Florida
- Florida Housing first mortgages pair a conventional, FHA, VA or USDA loan with the agency’s pricing.
- Florida Assist and other Florida Housing second mortgages help with the down payment and closing costs, deferred until you sell or refinance.
- Hometown Heroes helps eligible full-time workers with down payment and closing costs.
- County SHIP programs offer local assistance with their own income limits and waiting lists.
- Most programs require homebuyer education and set income and price limits by county.
Questions
How do I qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan in Florida?
Usually: no home owned in the past three years, household income within the county limit, a primary home and a homebuyer course. Each program has its own credit minimum. See also: First-time homebuyer programs in Arizona.
Can I get a loan as a first-time homebuyer in Florida?
Yes: conventional 3%-down loans, FHA, VA and USDA all work, and Florida Housing and county programs can help with the down payment.
What housing programs are available in Miami-Dade or Tampa?
Florida Housing’s statewide programs plus the county’s own SHIP assistance. Funding opens and closes during the year, so I check what is available when you apply. See also: Mortgage loans in Florida.
Related
- First-time buyers
- Pre-qualification vs pre-approval
- Home affordability calculator
- Closing costs and cash to close calculator
First-time homebuyer programs in other states: California, Arizona, Ohio. All of Florida: mortgage loans in Florida.
