First Time Homebuyers in Florida
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Florida, there may be programs and resources that can help make buying a home more attainable. JenHomes can help you understand where to start and what options may be available for your situation.
Could You Be a First-Time Homebuyer ?
Being a first-time homebuyer doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve never owned a home. For many Florida Housing programs, a first-time homebuyer is someone who has not owned and occupied a primary residence during the three years before purchasing a home. That means you may still qualify as a first-time buyer even if you owned a home in the past
Rented for the past 3+ years
Even if you owned a home years ago, you may qualify again.
Sold a previous home
Must have been at least 3 years since you last owned and occupied a primary residence.
Military & Veteran buyers
Active-duty members and veterans often qualify with waived 3-year history rules.
You May Still Qualify!
You may still be considered a first-time homebuyer under certain program guidelines if you have not owned and occupied a primary residence within the previous three years.
Every program is different.
Income limits, credit requirements, purchase-price limits and other eligibility rules can apply.
Florida Homebuyer Programs May Be Available.
Florida offers several programs that may help eligible homebuyers with the cost of purchasing a home. Some are available through Florida Housing, while others are offered through local governments or specific programs.
Florida Housing Programs
Florida Housing offers homebuyer programs that may include a mortgage along with help toward down payment and closing costs for eligible buyers.
Local SHIP Assistance
Your city or county may offer SHIP assistance to eligible buyers for expenses such as down payment and closing costs.
*While Funds Are Available*
Special Homebuyer Programs
Some programs offer additional assistance for buyers who meet specific requirements, such as eligible workers, servicemembers, or veterans.
*Every program has its own requirements, and availability can change.
JenHomes can help you explore what options may be available for your situation.
YOU'RE NOT ALONE
Need Help with a Specific Step?
Navigating the path to homeownership in Florida doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you need to boost your profile or cover upfront expenses, targeted assistance is available every step of the way:
Credit Repair & Optimization
We focus on the exact credit metrics mortgage underwriters look for, avoiding tactics that could delay your approval.
Closing Cost Guidance
Plan ahead for lender fees, escrow, and taxes while leveraging seller concessions and state tax exemptions to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Down Payment Assistance
Explore Florida programs like Hometown Heroes and local county SHIP grants to reduce upfront costs. *when state and local finances are available
YOU'RE NOT ALONE
Need Help with a Specific Step?
Navigating the path to homeownership in Florida doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you need to boost your profile or cover upfront expenses, targeted assistance is available every step of the way:
Credit Repair & Optimization
We focus on the exact credit metrics mortgage underwriters look for, avoiding tactics that could delay your approval.
Closing Cost Guidance
Plan ahead for lender fees, escrow, and taxes while leveraging seller concessions and state tax exemptions to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Down Payment Assistance
Explore Florida programs like Hometown Heroes and local county SHIP grants to reduce upfront costs. *when state and local finances are available
FAQs
Buying Your First Home in Florida.
Explore answers to the most frequent questions about repairing your credit score to qualify for a home loan, unlocking down payment grants, and streamlining your path to closing.
Who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer in Florida?
To qualify as a first-time homebuyer in Florida, you or your co-borrower must not have owned a primary residence within the last 3 years.
If you previously owned a home more than 3 years ago, you are eligible again under state guidance. Active-duty military members and honorably discharged veterans are often exempt from the 3-year rule when applying for programs like the Florida Hometown Heroes Program.
*While state and local funds are available
What credit score do I need as a first-time homebuyer in Florida?
While qualification depends on the specific loan program, standard baseline score requirements across Florida include:
FHA Loans: Minimum score of 580 for a 3.5% down payment.
Conventional Loans: Minimum score of 620.
Florida Down Payment Assistance Programs: Most programs (including Hometown Heroes and SHIP) require a minimum credit score of 640.
How much money do I need saved to buy a home in Florida?
Most first-time homebuyers in Florida need to budget for two main upfront costs:
Down Payment: Ranges from 0% (VA or USDA loans) to 3.5% (FHA) or 3%–5% (Conventional).
Closing Costs: Typically average 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price to cover lender fees, title insurance, escrows, and local taxes.
Down payment and closing cost assistance programs can significantly lower or eliminate these out-of-pocket expenses for qualified applicants.
Is homebuyer education required for Florida assistance programs?
Yes. Almost all state and local assistance programs require you to complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. These courses can be completed online or in person, take about 6 to 8 hours, and cover budgeting, loan structures, and home maintenance basics.
