Buying a home in Broward County remains challenging in 2026, with elevated home prices, tight inventory, and higher interest rates making upfront costs the biggest obstacle for first-time buyers.
To help close that gap, Broward County's Housing Finance & Community Development Division offers a powerful Homebuyer Purchase Assistance (HPA) Program, providing up to $80,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance — and up to $120,000 in higher-cost areas like Weston.
This guide explains how the program works, who qualifies in 2026, current income and purchase price limits, city-specific variations, and how to apply before funds run out.
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Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program Overview
A county-administered down payment assistance program designed to reduce upfront homebuying costs for qualified first-time buyers.
The assistance is provided as a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage with a 15-year affordability period. If the home remains owner-occupied for the full term, the loan is fully forgiven.
Program guidelines, income limits, and purchase price caps are subject to change based on funding availability and HUD updates. Funding remains limited and is awarded on a first-qualified, first-approved basis.
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How Broward County Down Payment Assistance Works
A deferred, forgivable second mortgage that functions like a grant if program rules are met.
0% Interest, Deferred-Payment Second Mortgage
The program provides a second mortgage at 0% interest with no monthly payments.
Borrowers don't have to make any payments during the 15-year term. If the home is sold, transferred, or stops being the primary residence before then, the loan must be repaid in full.
Up to $80,000 in Assistance (and $120,000 in Weston)
Buyers can receive up to $80,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance across most of Broward County. In Weston, where home prices are higher, the maximum benefit increases to $120,000.
These amounts are significantly higher than in past years, reflecting the rising cost of homes.
Flexible Uses for Homebuyers
Program funds can be applied toward down payments, closing costs, principal reduction, or even a permanent interest rate buydown on the first mortgage.
Seller concessions of up to 6% of the purchase price are also allowed, giving buyers more flexibility when negotiating.
Forgiveness After 15 Years
Because the second mortgage carries no interest and no monthly payments, it effectively functions like a grant if the homeowner stays in the property for at least 15 years.
This feature makes the program especially valuable for buyers planning to remain in their home long term.
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Broward County Homebuyer Eligibility Requirements (2026)
To qualify for the Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- First-Time Buyer — No homeownership in the past 3 years (exceptions for divorced or displaced individuals).
- Income — Household income generally at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI); some cities allow up to 120% AMI. See Florida Housing income and purchase price limits for statewide context.
- Mortgage — Must qualify for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA). Adjustable-rate or subprime loans are not allowed.
- Cash Contribution — At least 3% of the purchase price, with a minimum of 1% from the buyer's own funds. VA buyers are exempt.
- Assets — Liquid assets capped at $100,000 before closing and $50,000 after closing. Retirement accounts are discounted when calculating assets.
- Residency Status — Open to lawful permanent residents and individuals with political asylum who have at least 2 years of U.S. employment, residency, and credit history.
- Property — Must be an owner-occupied primary residence. Eligible property types include single-family homes, condos, villas, and townhomes. Mobile homes and co-ops do not qualify.
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Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance: Income Limits (Baseline 80% AMI)
Some Broward municipalities may extend eligibility up to 120% AMI. Always confirm with your participating lender and the program administrator.
| Household Size | Maximum Household Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $64,550 |
| 2 | $73,800 |
| 3 | $83,000 |
| 4 | $92,200 |
| 5 | $99,600 |
| 6 | $107,000 |
| 7 | $114,350 |
| 8 | $121,750 |
Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance: Key Limits & Maximum Assistance
Exact caps and availability can change based on funding and city overlays. Verify current limits before writing an offer.
| Item | Countywide Standard | Weston (Higher-Cost Exception) |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Assistance | Up to $80,000 | Up to $120,000 |
| Program Structure | 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage; forgiven after 15 years of owner occupancy | Same |
| Countywide Purchase Price Limit | $636,806 | Higher limits may be available |
| Seller Concessions | Up to 6% (program + loan guidelines apply) | Up to 6% |
| Eligible First Mortgages | 30-year fixed only (FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional). No ARMs/subprime. | Same |
Broward County: City-Specific Homebuyer Assistance Variations
In addition to the countywide program, several cities run their own versions:
| City / Area | Max Assistance | Notable Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Hollywood | Up to $50,000 | Income eligibility may extend up to 120% AMI |
| Tamarac | $40,000–$85,000 | May vary by income tier; purchase cap may differ |
| Margate | Up to $40,000 | Often administered in partnership with Broward County |
| Weston | $100,000–$120,000 | Highest assistance; higher purchase price limits may apply |
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How to Apply for Broward County Down Payment Assistance
Applications are lender-driven and time-sensitive. Typical review timeline is 5–6 weeks after submission.
- Check your eligibility online for free today. This helps you confirm whether your income, credit, and property type meet the program's requirements before you begin.
- Get pre-approved for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. Work with a participating lender who understands Broward County's program guidelines.
- Have your lender submit your application package. Once under contract, your lender will send the documents to Broward County for review.
- Close on your home. After approval, funds are sent to the title company, and you can move into your new home.
Bottom Line
Broward County's Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program remains one of the most generous local down payment assistance programs in Florida in 2026.
With up to $80,000 countywide — and up to $120,000 in Weston — available as a forgivable, 0% second mortgage, qualified first-time buyers can dramatically reduce upfront costs and secure long-term homeownership.
Because funding is limited and approval timelines are strict, buyers should prepare early, work with an experienced lender, and submit complete applications as soon as they're under contract. For a comparison, see the Orange County down payment assistance program or our complete guide to Florida grants and programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of assistance does the Broward County program provide?
How much assistance can I receive in Broward County?
Who is eligible to apply for Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance?
What are the income limits for Broward County down payment assistance?
What types of homes are eligible under the Broward County program?
Do I have to repay the Broward County assistance?
Can I use Broward County assistance for more than just a down payment?
How long does Broward County approval take?
Is there a minimum contribution required from the buyer?
Can I combine Broward County assistance with other down payment assistance programs?
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