Every program available to Florida first-time homebuyers — down payment assistance, tax credits, reduced rates, and step-by-step guidance.
Up to 5%
DPA Available
MCC
Tax Credit
0-3.5%
Min Down
Written by Renzo Johnson, Licensed MLO · NMLS #PENDING · Last updated: February 2026
Key Features
- FHA: 3.5% down, credit from 580
- VA: $0 down for eligible veterans
- USDA: $0 down in eligible rural/suburban areas
- Conventional 97: 3% down (HomeReady/Home Possible)
- Florida Hometown Heroes: up to 5% DPA
- FL Assist: $10,000 at 0% interest
- HFA Preferred/Advantage: below-market rates + DPA
- Mortgage Credit Certificate: up to $2,000/year tax credit
Who Is This For?
- Anyone who has not owned a home in the past 3 years
- Buyers who have never owned a home
- Previous homeowners who meet the 3-year rule
Florida-Specific Considerations
- Florida offers some of the best first-time buyer programs in the nation
- Hometown Heroes available in all 67 counties
- Multiple DPA programs can sometimes be layered
- Homebuyer education course required for most FL programs
- Florida homestead exemption saves up to $50,000 on property taxes
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