Down Payment Assistance in Tampa Bay — Made Simple
You may be closer to homeownership than you think.
Free guidance · No obligation · Not a lender
Up to $35K Assistance
Florida offers some of the most generous DPA programs in the country. Grants, forgivable loans, and deferred mortgages can cover your entire down payment.
Forgivable & 0% Options
Many programs forgive the loan entirely after 5 years. Others charge 0% interest with no monthly payments — due only when you sell or refinance.
First-Time Friendly
Most programs welcome first-time buyers (no ownership in 3 years). Some, like Hometown Heroes, are open to all Florida W-2 workers regardless of history.
How Does Down Payment Assistance Work?
Getting started takes less than 5 minutes. Here is how we help you find the right program.
Take the Quiz
Answer a few quick questions about your goals, timeline, and budget. It takes about 60 seconds.
We Review Programs
Barrett reviews your situation and matches you with the DPA programs you are most likely to qualify for.
Get Pre-Approved
We connect you with a preferred lender who specializes in DPA loans so you can start shopping with confidence.
Which Down Payment Assistance Program Is Right for You?
Explore our in-depth guides to every major DPA program available to Tampa Bay homebuyers.
Florida Hometown Heroes
Up to 5% of loan amount for Florida workers. Forgivable after 5 years.
FL Assist
Up to $10,000 as a 0% interest deferred second mortgage.
HFA Preferred PLUS
Below-market rates plus a forgivable DPA second mortgage.
DPA for Tampa Buyers
Tampa-specific programs and local lender partnerships.
First-Time Buyer Guide
Step-by-step guide for first-time buyers in Florida.
Eligibility Requirements
Income limits, credit scores, and qualification criteria.
Closing Cost Assistance
Programs that help cover closing costs in addition to down payment.
How Much Do You Need?
Calculate your down payment based on loan type and price.
Which Tampa Bay Counties Do We Serve?
We help homebuyers across 8 Tampa Bay area counties find down payment assistance programs.
Could You Qualify for Down Payment Help?
Take this 60-second quiz and we will match you with the programs you are most likely to qualify for. Free, confidential, and zero obligation.
Step 1 of 6
What's your goal?
🔒 Your info stays confidential. No spam. Response within 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Down Payment Assistance

Meet Barrett Henry
Barrett Henry is a REALTOR® & Broker Associate with REMAX Collective and has 23+ years of real estate experience. He earned the REMAX Hall of Fame award in 2024 and holds the e-PRO, MRP, and SRS designations.
Barrett is passionate about helping Tampa Bay homebuyers take advantage of down payment assistance programs. He is not a lender — he provides free, no-pressure guidance and connects you with trusted lenders who specialize in DPA loans across all 8 counties.
Barrett Henry is a licensed REALTOR and Broker Associate with REMAX Collective — not a lender. Information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program details, income limits, and availability are subject to change. Contact a licensed lender for current rates and eligibility. Equal Housing Opportunity.