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The City of Tampa's Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Down Payment Assistance Program is separate from DARE and offers up to $50,000 citywide — with an additional $50,000 for East Tampa buyers. Learn who qualifies and how to stack it for maximum benefit.
Read MoreThe NACA program offers Tampa Bay buyers a zero-down, zero-closing-cost, no-PMI mortgage — no credit score minimum required. Here is how it compares to Florida Hometown Heroes and FL Assist in 2026.
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Had a gap in employment? You may still qualify for Florida DPA programs. Here is how FHA and conventional underwriters evaluate employment history and what Tampa Bay buyers with gaps need to document.
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A home with an existing PACE solar or energy-efficiency lien can stop your FHA loan or Florida Housing DPA in its tracks. Here is what Tampa Bay buyers must check before making an offer.
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Many Tampa Bay buyers worry that using DPA means accepting a higher mortgage rate. Here is what the numbers actually show — and how to evaluate whether any tradeoff is worth it.
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Using down payment assistance in Florida? Learn how earnest money deposits interact with DPA programs, whether DPA covers your EMD, and what happens if your DPA falls through before closing.
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The City of Tampa's Dare to Own the Dream (DARE) program offers eligible first-time buyers up to $50,000 in down payment assistance as a 0% interest silent second mortgage. Learn who qualifies and how to apply in 2026.
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