Tampa Bay counties run real programs that put tens of thousands of dollars toward your down payment and closing costs. I work with these programs regularly and can tell you quickly whether one fits your situation.
For first time buyers (no home owned in the last 3 years) purchasing a primary residence in Pasco County. A zero interest second mortgage with no monthly payments, deferred 30 years and then 100% forgiven. Household income must be at or below 80% of area median income, and the maximum purchase price is $330,000.
Full Pasco guideAn interest free, deferred loan for eligible buyers purchasing a primary residence in unincorporated Pinellas and eligible areas. No payments, with forgiveness after 30 years. Income and purchase price limits apply, and buyers complete a homebuyer education class.
Full Pinellas guideHillsborough County, the State of Florida, and individual cities run additional assistance programs, and they open and close throughout the year. If you tell me where you want to buy, I'll check what's currently available for that area.
The Pasco and Pinellas programs are deferred loans with no monthly payments. Stay in the home for the full term and the balance is forgiven. Sell or refinance early and repayment rules kick in, which we'd review together before you commit.
Sellers care about certainty and timelines. A well documented file with assistance behind it closes reliably, and I keep listing agents informed so the program is never a surprise.
Each program pairs with a regular first mortgage such as FHA or Conventional, so the loan's credit requirements apply. If your score needs work, I'll tell you honestly and map out the steps.
Programs add some processing time versus a standard loan, so we build that into your offer timeline up front. Funds are limited and programs open and close, which is another reason to check early.
Tell me a bit about your plans and I'll come back with which programs are realistic for your county, income, and price range.