Broward County First-Time Homebuyer Program | $80,000+ In Aid

Buying a home in Broward County has never been more challenging, with rising prices and limited inventory putting extra pressure on first-time buyers.

To help bridge the gap, the county’s Housing Finance Division offers a Homebuyer Purchase Assistance program that provides up to $80,000 (and more in some areas) through a 0% interest, deferred-payment loan.

Check Your Florida Down-Payment Assistance Eligibility

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about how the program works, who qualifies, and how to apply.

Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program Overview

Broward County’s Homebuyer Purchase Assistance (HPA) program is designed to help first-time buyers cover the upfront costs of purchasing a home.

The program provides a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage with a 15-year term, making homeownership more achievable for households that qualify.

If you live in the home as your primary residence for the full 15 years, the loan is completely forgiven — essentially turning the support into free down payment assistance.

Funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-qualified basis, so acting quickly is key.

How Broward County Down Payment Assistance Works

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.

Broward County Homebuyer Eligibility Requirements

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.

• 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: single-family homes, condos, villas, and townhomes. Mobile homes and co-ops do not qualify.

Broward County Income and Purchase Price Limits

The program also sets maximum income thresholds and property price caps to ensure assistance is targeted to households that need it most.

Important Note: While Broward County sets income limits at 80% AMI, some cities — like Hollywood — extend eligibility up to 120% AMI. Purchase price limits can also be higher in areas such as Weston to reflect local market conditions.

• Income Limits (Effective 2025)

  • 1-person household: $64,550

  • 2-person household: $73,800

  • 3-person household: $83,000

  • 4-person household: $92,200

  • 5-person household: $99,600

  • 6-person household: $107,000

  • 7-person household: $114,350

  • 8-person household: $121,750

• Purchase Price Limits

  • Countywide maximum purchase price: $636,806

  • Higher purchase price limits may be available in Weston due to market conditions.

City-Specific Variations in Broward County

In addition to the countywide program, several cities run their own versions:

• Hollywood: Offers up to $50,000, with income eligibility up to 120% AMI.

• Tamarac: Provides $40,000–$85,000 depending on income tier, with a purchase price cap of $450,000.

• Margate: Offers up to $40,000, administered in partnership with Broward County.

• Weston: Has the highest countywide purchase assistance cap at $100,000–$120,000.

These variations highlight how municipalities adjust rules to reflect local housing costs.

How to Apply for Broward County Down Payment Assistance

1. 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.

2. Get pre-approved for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. Work with a participating lender who understands Broward County’s program guidelines.

3. Have your lender submit your application package. Once under contract, your lender will send the documents to Broward County for review.

4. Close on your home. After approval, funds are sent to the title company, and you can move into your new home.

Check Your Florida Down-Payment Assistance Eligibility

Frequently Asked Questions About Broward County’s Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program

Here are quick answers to the most common questions about how the program works.

What type of assistance does the program provide?

It provides a 0% interest, 15-year deferred-payment second mortgage that is forgiven if you stay in the home for the full term.

How much assistance can I receive?

Most buyers can receive up to $80,000, while those purchasing in Weston may qualify for up to $120,000.

Who is eligible to apply?

First-time buyers who meet income, credit, asset, and residency requirements may qualify.

What are the income limits?

Household income must generally be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income, though some cities allow up to 120%.

What types of homes are eligible?

Single-family homes, condos, villas, and townhomes qualify, but mobile homes and co-ops do not.

Do I have to repay the loan?

No repayment is required if you remain in the home for 15 years, but if you sell or move earlier, you must repay it.

Can I use the funds for more than just a down payment?

Yes, the assistance can cover down payments, closing costs, principal reduction, or an interest rate buydown.

How long does approval take?

Income certification and funding review typically take about 5 to 6 weeks after your lender submits your application package.

Is there a minimum contribution required from the buyer?

Yes, buyers must contribute at least 3% of the purchase price, with 1% from their own funds; VA buyers are exempt.

Can I combine this with other programs?

Yes, the Broward assistance can be layered with certain other loan programs or down payment assistance sources if allowed by your lender.

The Bottom Line

Broward County’s Homebuyer Purchase Assistance program can be a game-changer for first-time buyers who qualify.

With up to $80,000 available countywide and up to $120,000 in Weston, the program helps cover down payments, closing costs, and more — and the loan is fully forgiven after 15 years.

However, funding is limited, eligibility is strict, and approval can take several weeks, so it’s important to prepare early and act quickly.

For buyers who meet the requirements, this program offers a rare opportunity to make homeownership in Broward County more affordable and achievable.

Check Your Florida Down-Payment Assistance Eligibility