Seminole County runs one of Florida’s most generous local programs, with assistance up to $145,000 for income-eligible first-time buyers, on top of statewide help.
Written by Renzo Johnson, Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator · Sourced from Seminole County and Florida Housing · Last updated: June 2026
Buying near Orlando in Seminole County? You have access to an unusually large local program plus the statewide Florida Housing programs that work in every county.
Seminole County local assistance
The Seminole County Purchase Assistance Program, funded through SHIP, helps income-eligible first-time buyers with down payment and closing costs to buy a new or existing home in the county.
| Assistance | Up to $145,000, depending on income and need |
| Structure | Deferred subsidy secured by a second mortgage |
| Income limit | At or below 120% of Seminole County area median income |
| Requirements | First-time buyer (no ownership in 3 years), pre-approved first mortgage, homebuyer counseling (HELP CDC) |
| Administered by | Seminole County Community Development |
Funding is limited and awarded by cycle, so confirm current availability with Seminole County before you shop.
Statewide programs you can also use in Seminole County
- Hometown Heroes: up to $35,000 for full-time workers in 50+ eligible occupations
- Florida Assist: up to $10,000, 0% deferred second mortgage
- HFA Preferred: conventional loan with reduced mortgage insurance plus assistance
- Mortgage Credit Certificate: up to $2,000/year federal tax credit
See the full breakdown on our Florida down payment assistance guide and the 2026 Seminole County loan limits.
How to get started
Start with a HUD-approved homebuyer education course and get pre-qualified with a participating lender. Request a free eligibility check and we’ll map the Seminole County and statewide programs you qualify for.
Sources: Seminole County Community Services / Community Development (seminolecountyfl.gov) and the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, 2026. Local funding is limited and allocated each cycle; verify current terms with the administering office.