Tap into 60+ down payment assistance programs in Florida — grants, forgivable loans, and zero-down options worth up to $100,000. Alex Doce matches you to the right program in minutes, not weeks.
The down payment is the single biggest barrier to buying a home in Florida. These programs remove it — through grants, forgivable loans, and second mortgages with no monthly payments.
Some programs deliver assistance as outright grants — money that becomes yours at closing with no repayment ever required.
Many Florida DPA programs — especially county and city options — are forgiven after 5 to 30 years of staying in the home, meaning the balance is wiped clean if you remain in residence. Statewide programs like Hometown Heroes and FL Assist are instead deferred and repayable.
Deferred second mortgages don’t require payments while you live in the home — they sit quietly until you sell, refinance, or pay off the first loan.
Many programs welcome first-time buyers, and the HomeZero™ program is open to repeat buyers with FICO 600+ and no income limits.
Statewide, national, county, and city-level programs can often be combined — covering the down payment AND the closing costs at the same time.
Pair DPA with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional financing. Funds can come from assistance programs, family gifts, or both — the structure is flexible.
Down Payment Assistance Programs (DPA) are state, federal, and local initiatives that provide funds to cover the upfront cash required to buy a home — typically the down payment, closing costs, or both. Assistance comes as grants (never repaid), forgivable loans (forgiven after a residency period), or deferred second mortgages (repaid only at sale or refinance).
Buying a home in Florida feels harder every year — prices keep climbing, and saving 10% or 20% in cash takes most families a decade. The good news: Florida runs more down payment assistance programs than nearly any other state.
Statewide initiatives cover every county, federal programs work across all 67 counties, and dozens of city-level programs deliver targeted help where prices are highest.
Some offer forgivable loans. Others provide outright grants. A few — like the HomeZero™ program — eliminate the down payment entirely. The Doce Mortgage Group specializes in matching buyers to the right program for their income, location, credit profile, and timeline.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the 60+ most valuable opportunities available across Florida today.
These programs are available to qualifying buyers in all 67 Florida counties. Most are administered through Florida Housing Finance Corporation and pair with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional financing.
The original funding channel — for Florida's frontline workers, active-duty military, and veterans. 5% of the total loan amount ($10,000 minimum, $35,000 maximum) as a deferred zero-interest second mortgage. Not forgivable — due in full when you sell, refinance, pay off the first mortgage, or move out. Bond counts household income of all adult occupants and applies purchase price limits.
Alternative funding channel when Bond allocation runs out — same eligible-worker categories, same 5% / $35,000 repayable second. Key difference: TBA counts only the borrowers' own income and first-time status (not the whole household), and active-duty members are exempt from the first-time buyer rule with an LES.
For buyers who don't qualify as Heroes but still need statewide help. Choose 3%, 4%, or 5% of the loan as a repayable second mortgage. Includes interest and monthly payments, but offers more flexibility than fixed-amount programs.
A clean $10,000 deferred second mortgage with zero interest and no monthly payments. Repayment only triggers at sale, refinance, or first-mortgage payoff. Pairs cleanly with FHA, USDA, and VA financing.
$12,500 as a repayable second mortgage at a fixed 3% rate. Requires monthly payments, but the larger upfront amount can make a real dent in down payment plus closing costs.
Mirrors the Bond-based FL Assist but funded through TBA when Bond allocations run dry. $10,000 deferred, interest-free, no monthly payments. One of the most reliable options on the menu.
The TBA-funded version of FL HLP. $12,500 second mortgage at 3% with monthly payments. Not forgivable, but provides higher upfront support than FL Assist for buyers who can carry a small additional payment.
Most Florida buyers stack statewide programs with city-level help. Find your full match.
Get Your Free DPA MatchFederal and government-sponsored programs that work across the state. These often combine with statewide and local DPA to maximize total assistance.
The most widely used path to homeownership in Florida. Buyers with a 580+ credit score qualify with just 3.5% down; scores from 500 still qualify with 10% down. Down payment funds can come from gifts or DPA programs.
For veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses. 100% financing, no down payment, and no private mortgage insurance — saving hundreds per month. Competitive rates and flexible credit.
100% financing for buyers in eligible rural areas, with reduced mortgage insurance and fixed rates. Many Florida counties still qualify — particularly outside the Miami, Tampa, and Orlando metros.
Designed for moderate-income buyers. Just 3% down, accepts roommate income or family contributions, and mortgage insurance can be canceled at 20% equity. Flexible for households who don't fit traditional guidelines.
3% down with reduced mortgage insurance costs. Geared toward households with stronger credit who want low upfront costs. Especially popular with young professionals entering the Florida market.
97% financing with no income restrictions — ideal for moderate-income buyers who earn too much for income-limited programs but still want low cash to close. Works statewide.
HUD's program for teachers, firefighters, law enforcement, and EMTs. 50% off HUD-owned homes in revitalization areas in exchange for a 3-year residency commitment. Discounts can reach tens of thousands.
Up to 5% of the loan amount as either a forgivable grant or a repayable second mortgage. Has helped 40,000+ buyers since launch and remains a strong fallback when state-level options are unavailable.
A proposed federal grant program for first-generation, first-time buyers. Designed to address generational wealth gaps. Implementation details continue to be finalized — check current status before counting on it.
Federal-state partnership programs that deliver forgivable second mortgages. Typically forgiven over 5 to 10 years of continuous occupancy, with no monthly payments along the way.
Federal programs pair with statewide and local DPA. See exactly what stacks for your situation.
Get Your Free DPA MatchMiami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties consistently rank among the most expensive markets in the U.S. These local programs are essential for staying in your community.
Zero-interest deferred loan with no monthly payments. The full balance is forgiven after 6 years of using the home as your primary residence. Critical for buyers facing Miami's $500K+ median home prices.
For first-time buyers, structured as a deferred loan that's fully forgivable after 20 years of continuous residency. Requires a small personal contribution. One of the most substantial local options in the county.
Zero-interest deferred second mortgage from the Miami-Dade Housing Finance Authority. Pairs with a 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage. A reliable option in one of Florida's most expensive metros.
Substantial deferred loan covering down payment, closing costs, or principal reduction. No monthly payments. Repayment only required if you sell or refinance within 15 years. Median home values in Fort Lauderdale exceed $480K.
One of the most generous programs in Broward County. Up to $100,000 for down payment and closing costs, with extra incentives for teachers, nurses, and first responders. Forgivable after long-term residency.
$40,000 to $75,000 in deferred zero-interest loans, sized to household income. Forgivable when residency requirements are met. Works for both new and existing homes.
SHIP-funded grants scaled to income and household size. Structured as a deferred loan, forgivable after 10 years. Buyers must complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course.
Up to $80,000 depending on city of purchase and income. Zero-interest deferred loan, fully forgivable after 15 years. Vital for buyers in Fort Lauderdale, Weston, and rapidly appreciating Broward suburbs.
Community Development Block Grant funding worth up to 3% of the purchase price. Applies to down payment, closing costs, or gap financing. 15-year deferred repayment with forgiveness available.
Up to $100,000 in zero-interest deferred loans, forgiven after 30 years. Covers down payment, closing costs, or home acquisition. Income-limited (under 80% area median). Essential in Boca Raton and Palm Beach Gardens.
South Florida prices keep climbing. Find every program that lowers your cash to close.
Get Your Free DPA MatchOrlando, Polk, Volusia, and Brevard county programs. Orlando's median home price now sits in the mid-$300,000s, with surrounding counties catching up quickly.
Deferred zero-interest loan for first-time buyers, forgivable after long-term residency. Requires HUD-approved education and a small personal contribution. Keeps families rooted in Orlando.
Up to $70,000 for very low-income buyers, smaller amounts for moderate-income. Deferred loan with partial forgiveness over 10 years. One of the largest county-level programs in Central Florida.
$30,000 plus $8,000 in closing cost help for very low-income buyers; $15,000 plus $6,000 for moderate-income. Pairs counseling with financial support in Polk County's growing communities.
Up to $50,000 in deferred loans for down payment and closing costs. No monthly payments. Apply through county-approved housing partners after a pre-screen interview. Strong relief for Daytona Beach buyers.
SHIP-funded deferred loan, zero interest, forgivable after a set residency period. Smaller in absolute amount, but with average Sumter home prices under $300K, it can cover most of the down payment.
$30,000 for first-time buyers within city limits, structured as a deferred loan forgivable after 10 years. Requires homebuyer education and HUD income limits. Strong fit for university-area buyers.
Up to $44,500 in deferred loans, including funds for home repairs. Highest amounts go to very low-income households. Forgiveness after 5 to 10 years. Critical as Brevard County prices climb past $350K.
Up to $67,400 for very low-income, $57,400 for low-income. Deferred zero-interest loans that may include repair funds. Requires HUD-approved education and a good faith deposit. One of Brevard's strongest options.
Central Florida local DPA can save you tens of thousands. Get your county-specific match.
Get Your Free DPA MatchTampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the surrounding metro. Tampa metro home values now average $370K–$410K, with population growth keeping demand well ahead of supply.
Up to $50,000 in forgivable down payment and closing cost assistance. Zero-interest deferred loan, forgiven after 20 years of owner occupancy. Requires housing counseling and a personal contribution.
$25,000 zero-interest deferred loan toward down payment or closing costs. Repayable only at sale, refinance, or transfer. Especially valuable for buyers in Brandon and Riverview as prices climb.
Up to $75,000 for down payment and closing costs. Zero-interest deferred loan, fully forgivable after 10 years of continuous occupancy. Essential as St. Pete experiences double-digit price growth.
$12,000 deferred loan with no monthly payments, paired with affordable fixed-rate financing. Smaller than city-level programs, but reliable for first-time buyers in Clearwater and Largo.
Up to $50,000 in deferred zero-interest loans with long-term forgiveness. With Hernando median prices around $285K, this often covers nearly the entire down payment.
$15,000 to $40,000 in SHIP-funded deferred loans, sized to income. Forgivable after maintaining the property as a primary residence. Critical in fast-growing Wesley Chapel and Land O' Lakes.
Tampa metro values keep rising. Stack the right programs to bring cash to close down.
Get Your Free DPA MatchJacksonville to Pensacola — fast-growing suburbs and long-established communities. Prices are lower than South Florida, but cash-to-close still trips up many buyers.
Up to $25,000 covering up to 75% of down payment plus closing costs. Zero-interest deferred second mortgage, partially forgivable with longer occupancy. Requires education plus a personal contribution.
State Housing Initiatives Partnership funds for income-eligible buyers. Deferred zero-interest second mortgage, forgivable after meeting occupancy requirements. Stacks well with statewide programs.
For first-time buyers meeting income and purchase price limits. Zero-interest deferred subordinate mortgage. Critical in St. Augustine and the beaches, where rapid appreciation has outpaced wages.
SHIP funds covering down payment, closing costs, and inspection-required repairs. Deferred zero-interest second mortgage, forgivable after compliant occupancy. Active in Orange Park, Middleburg, Green Cove Springs.
Income-based assistance for primary-residence buyers in Yulee, Fernandina Beach, and surrounding areas. Deferred loans with no monthly payments, forgivable after long-term occupancy.
Deferred zero-interest second mortgage with partial forgiveness after a set period. Strong fit for the capital's mix of state employees, healthcare workers, and university faculty.
SHIP funds for unincorporated Leon County and partner municipalities. Deferred zero-interest loans, forgivable at occupancy milestones. Education and property standards required.
Affordable fixed-rate first mortgage paired with a second mortgage for down payment or closing costs. Standardized HFA guidelines make this a popular pick across Pensacola and partner counties.
Up to $30,000 funded through American Rescue Plan Act dollars. Deferred zero-interest loan with no monthly payments. ARPA funds are finite — apply promptly while allocations remain.
Joint city-county initiative providing up to $45,000 in deferred zero-interest second mortgages. Removes the monthly burden and supports stable ownership. HUD-approved education required.
Up to $50,000 covering down payment and closing costs through a deferred second mortgage. Counseling required. Designed to rebuild and strengthen Panama City neighborhoods post-storm.
SHIP funds covering down payment, closing costs, and small repairs. Deferred loans with no monthly payments, forgivable after long-term compliant occupancy. Active in Lynn Haven and Callaway.
SHIP-funded zero-interest second mortgages for primary-residence buyers in Milton, Pace, and Gulf Breeze. Deferred with forgiveness after occupancy. Pairs well with statewide programs.
For income-eligible buyers in Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Crestview. Deferred zero-interest second mortgage. Education and inspection requirements protect long-term value.
SHIP assistance for buyers from DeFuniak Springs to the 30A corridor. Deferred loans with no monthly payments, forgivable after sustained occupancy. Often the deciding factor for local workers near 30A.
From Jacksonville to Pensacola, the right DPA mix changes by county. Find yours.
Get Your Free DPA MatchNaples, Fort Myers, Port St. Lucie, and the Keys. Some of Florida's fastest-growing markets — and where rising prices have made local DPA programs essential.
$10,000 deferred zero-interest loan for first-time buyers. No monthly payments. Repayment only at sale, refinance, or transfer. Often enough to close the gap in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, where prices push above $400K.
Up to $75,000 in CDBG-funded deferred loans for down payment or closing costs. Forgivable after 5 years of continuous occupancy. One of the largest sources of assistance in Southwest Florida.
Up to $24,500 — typically around 10% of purchase price — as a deferred zero-interest loan. Prorated forgiveness over a decade. HUD-approved education required.
$10,000 for essential service personnel; larger amounts for households under lower income limits. Zero-interest deferred loan, forgivable after up to 30 years. Vital with Naples median prices above $650K.
Up to $20,000 in deferred loan assistance for the Florida Keys. Forgivable over 30 years if you keep the home as your primary residence. One of the most impactful programs in Monroe County.
$15,000 deferred loan paired with a fixed-rate first mortgage. Buyers may also qualify for a Mortgage Credit Certificate, reducing federal tax liability annually. Strong fit for Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.
$2,500 direct grant toward closing costs — never repaid. Smaller than other programs, but with Port St. Lucie median prices around $350K, it often supplies the final push needed to close.
Combined SHIP and HOME funds delivering more than $25,000 in flexible assistance. Deferred loans forgivable after long-term occupancy. Helps Stuart, Jensen Beach, and Port Salerno families stay local.
$15,000 to $40,000 income-based assistance. Deferred zero-interest second mortgage, forgivable after required residency. Especially impactful in Vero Beach as retirees push prices upward.
$15,000 to $30,000 in SHIP and HOME-funded deferred loans. Interest-free, forgivable after meeting occupancy requirements. Critical relief in Sarasota, where median prices have surpassed $500K.
Naples to the Keys — local programs make the difference. Find what you qualify for.
Get Your Free DPA MatchEverything you need to know before applying — from credit minimums to stacking rules to the FHA pairing question.
Alex will pull your situation against every relevant program — statewide, federal, and local — and tell you exactly what you can stack.
Get Matched in MinutesTell Alex about your situation — credit, income, county, timeline — and you’ll get a clear list of which programs you qualify for, how much assistance you can stack, and exactly what your cash to close looks like.
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