Down Payment Path

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Florida

Florida provides a variety of programs to help homebuyers manage the upfront costs of purchasing a home. These initiatives are available to a wide audience, making homeownership more accessible for both first-time and repeat buyers in the Sunshine State.

Florida Assist Second Mortgage Program

The Florida Assist Second Mortgage Program offers financial support to cover down payments and closing costs.

  • Provides up to $10,000 as a deferred second mortgage.
  • No interest and no monthly payments; repayment is deferred until the home is sold, refinanced, or paid off.
  • Available for FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans through Florida Housing-approved lenders.
  • Open to buyers who meet income and purchase price limits.

Florida HFA Preferred and HFA Advantage Programs

The HFA Preferred and HFA Advantage Programs provide affordable financing options with added benefits for homebuyers.

  • Offers reduced mortgage insurance costs for conventional loans.
  • Can be paired with down payment assistance through Florida Housing.
  • Available to buyers meeting income and credit score requirements.

Salute Our Soldiers Program

The Salute Our Soldiers Program is designed to assist military personnel, veterans, and surviving spouses with homeownership.

  • Offers down payment assistance in the form of a second mortgage.
  • Provides favorable terms to recognize the service of military families.
  • Open to both active and retired members of the armed forces.

USDA Rural Development Loans

For buyers in rural areas of Florida, the USDA Rural Development Loan provides affordable financing with no down payment requirement.

  • Available to low- and moderate-income buyers in eligible rural areas.
  • Flexible credit requirements make it accessible to many buyers.
  • Can be combined with state or local assistance programs to cover closing costs.

Local City and County Assistance Programs

Numerous cities and counties in Florida offer additional resources to assist homebuyers.

  • Programs in areas such as Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville often include grants or low-interest loans for down payments and closing costs.
  • Eligibility varies by location, with many programs available to a broad range of buyers.
  • Some local initiatives offer added benefits for public service workers or purchases in targeted areas.

Florida’s down payment assistance programs aim to reduce financial barriers and make homeownership more attainable for residents. Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading, these programs provide valuable support to help you achieve your goal of owning a home in the Sunshine State.