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8 articles on this topic
Most buyers think DPA is only for FHA loans. Florida's HFA Preferred program pairs a conventional Fannie Mae mortgage with 3–5% forgivable down payment assistance. Here's how it works in Tampa Bay.
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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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Choosing between FHA and conventional when using DPA in Florida can save or cost you thousands. Here's how to decide based on your credit score, monthly costs, and the programs available in Tampa Bay in 2026.
Read MoreFlorida offers two conventional loan tracks for down payment assistance: HFA Preferred (Fannie Mae) and HFA Advantage (Freddie Mac). Learn how they differ, which DPA programs pair with each, and how to choose the right one for your Tampa Bay purchase.
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Age is never a disqualifier for Florida's down payment assistance programs. Retired and near-retirement buyers in Tampa Bay can qualify using Social Security, pension, and retirement distributions as income. Learn which programs work best and how to get approved.
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HomeReady and Home Possible are both 3% down conventional loans — but they differ in ways that affect Tampa Bay buyers using DPA. Learn which program qualifies more buyers and costs less over time.
Read MoreMost buyers assume FHA is the only loan type that works with DPA — but Florida's HFA Preferred program pairs conventional financing with forgivable down payment assistance. Here's how it works in Tampa Bay.
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Comparing FL Assist ($10K deferred) with HFA Preferred PLUS (up to 5%). Learn the key differences and which is better for your Tampa Bay home purchase. Call (813) 733-7907.
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