USDA Loans:
USDA loans, guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, give low- to moderate-income borrowers in eligible rural and suburban areas a straightforward path to homeownership. To qualify, you generally need a credit score of at least 640 and household income that falls below your county’s maximum limit. Unlike conventional mortgages, USDA financing requires no down payment, offers more forgiving credit guidelines, eliminates monthly private mortgage insurance, and features competitive fixed interest rates. These advantages make USDA loans an attractive, government-backed alternative for buyers who want to secure a home with lower upfront costs and long-term savings.
County Programs
Miami-Dade County offers a specialized financing program to assist first-time homebuyers who meet income requirements under the CDBG, HOME, SHIP, or Surtax guidelines. This initiative is designed to make homeownership more accessible by providing flexible credit qualifications, especially when compared to conventional loans from traditional lenders such as banks or credit unions.
The program offers a range of benefits, including favorable interest rates, reduced closing costs, and even no down payment for qualified applicants. These features are especially valuable for buyers with limited savings or less-than-perfect credit histories.
One of the key advantages of this type of government-backed mortgage assistance is that it lowers the barriers to entry — making it easier for individuals and families to secure financing and purchase their first home. For many, it represents a practical and empowering step toward achieving the dream of homeownership.Our team of experts has a deep understanding of the local real estate market. We stay up-to-date on the latest trends and can provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.
Heroes Housing Program
The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program was created to support frontline workers—such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics, teachers, active military, and veterans—by making homeownership more accessible and affordable.
Qualified applicants can benefit from below-market interest rates on FHA, VA, RD, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac first mortgages, along with reduced upfront fees and no origination or discount points. The program also offers down payment and closing cost assistance of up to 5% of the loan amount (capped at $25,000) in the form of a 0% interest, 30-year deferred second mortgage.
This second mortgage is not forgivable and becomes due in full if the property is sold, refinanced, transferred, or no longer used as the buyer's primary residence.
Through this initiative, Florida recognizes and supports the everyday heroes who serve their communities—helping them achieve the dream of homeownership in the communities they protect and support.