For many Florida homebuyers, the biggest obstacle to homeownership isn’t qualifying for a mortgage—it’s coming up with the funds for a down payment and closing costs. Fortunately, Florida offers a wide range of down payment assistance (DPA) programs designed to make buying a home more accessible.
Understanding how these programs work—and working with the right professionals—can make the difference between a smooth closing and costly delays.
Down payment assistance programs help eligible buyers with:
Down payments
Closing costs
Prepaid expenses
Assistance is commonly structured as:
Deferred second mortgages (no monthly payments)
Forgivable loans (forgiven over time if you remain in the home)
Low-interest second mortgages
These programs are offered through Florida Housing, as well as local counties, cities, and housing authorities.
Florida Hometown Heroes Program
This popular program offers assistance of up to 5% of the loan amount, with a maximum of $35,000.
0% interest, deferred second mortgage
No monthly payments
Available to many full-time Florida workers of eligible occupations
Property must be owner-occupied
Local and County Down Payment Assistance Programs
In addition to statewide programs, many Florida counties and municipalities offer their own DPA programs, often with higher assistance amounts.
These programs may:
Provide $15,000 to $80,000 or more in assistance
Have stricter income limits
Require the buyer to remain in the home for a set period
Miami-Dade Advocacy Trust Grant (MDEAT Homeownership Assistance Program)
Offers up to ~$28,000 in zero-interest, deferred assistance for down payment and closing costs.
Because funding is often limited, local programs are usually first-come, first-served.
Education & Program Requirements
Most DPA programs require:
First-time homebuyer status (typically no ownership in the past three years)
Income limits based on household size and county
Minimum credit score
Primary residence occupancy
Completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course
Flamingo Title Services has participated in approved homebuyer education courses by providing instruction on the closing process and is experienced in closing these transactions, which in many cases involve three to four loans.
Title Company Approval Matters
In most down payment assistance transactions, the title company must be approved by the housing authority or municipality administering the program.
Using a title company that is not approved or unfamiliar with DPA requirements can result in closing delays or last minute change to an approved title company.
Working with an experienced, approved title company helps ensure compliance with program guidelines and a smooth closing. Flamingo Title Services is approved by various participating municipalities to handle these complex closings.
Work With DPA-Experienced Professionals
Down payment assistance transactions are more complex than standard home purchases. Choosing the right professionals is critical.
Selecting a loan officer with proven DPA experience is important, as these programs involve additional underwriting, timelines, and documentation.
Choosing a real estate agent knowledgeable in down payment assistance programs can make a significant difference in ensuring a successful and on-time closing.
An experienced team can help buyers properly structure their financing, meet program deadlines, and avoid unnecessary obstacles.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s down payment assistance programs can open the door to homeownership for buyers who might otherwise be unable to purchase. With the right preparation—and the right professionals—these programs can be navigated successfully.
The keys to success include:
Understanding both state and local DPA options
Completing required education early
Working with a DPA-experienced real estate agent, loan officer, and approved title company
Acting quickly when funding becomes available
When handled correctly, down payment assistance can turn the goal of owning a home in Florida into a reality.