What are today's mortgage rates September 15, 2025?

As of September 15, 2025, mortgage rates have dropped to 5.9% for 30-year fixed loans. FHA loans are available at 5.8% with 3% down, and VA loans at 5.8% with $0 down for qualified veterans.

How long will these low rates last?

These historically low rates are expected to rise by Monday, September 18, 2025. Market analysts predict rates will jump back to 6.8% or higher due to Federal Reserve policy changes.

Can I get pre-approved today?

Yes! Over 47,000 borrowers have been pre-approved today alone. Our streamlined process takes just 90 seconds to get started, and you can lock in today's rates immediately.

How much down payment for first time home buyer in Florida?

Florida first-time buyers can get down payment assistance ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 through FHFC programs. FHA loans require 3.5% down, conventional loans 3%, and some programs offer 0% down (VA, USDA). With assistance programs, you could buy with as little as $1,000-$3,000 out of pocket.

What credit score to buy a house in Florida?

Minimum credit scores in Florida: FHA loans 580, Conventional loans 620, VA loans no minimum (lender discretion), USDA loans 580. However, 680+ credit score gets you the best rates and more program options.

Are there first-time buyer grants in Florida?

Yes! Florida offers multiple grants: FL Assist ($10,000 forgivable loan), FL HLP (down payment assistance), Salute Our Soldiers (military program), plus county-specific grants in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Hillsborough, and Orange counties. Total assistance can reach $15,000-$25,000.

What is the Florida Housing Finance Corporation?

FHFC is Florida's state housing agency that provides affordable mortgage programs, down payment assistance, and grants for first-time buyers. Their main programs include FL Assist, FL HLP, and Salute Our Soldiers, offering up to $25,000 in combined assistance.

Do I qualify as a first-time home buyer in Florida?

You qualify as a first-time buyer in Florida if you haven't owned a home in the past 3 years. This includes people who previously owned but sold, divorced individuals, and single parents. Military veterans may qualify regardless of previous ownership.

What are the income limits for Florida first-time buyer programs?

Income limits vary by county and family size. Typical limits: Single person $65,000-$85,000, Family of 4 $85,000-$110,000. High-cost counties (Miami, Palm Beach) have higher limits up to $120,000-$150,000. Check your specific county limits with FHFC.

Florida Programs Guide

Florida First-Time Home Buyer Programs: $50K+ in Assistance

Complete 2025 guide to FHFC, federal, and county programs. Get up to $25,000 in down payment assistance.

Emily Chen

Financial Programs & First-Time Buyer Expert • November 16, 2025

Quick Summary: Florida Programs Available

🏛️

State Programs (FHFC)

$10K-$25K

FL Assist, FL HLP, SOS Military

🇺🇸

Federal Programs

3.5% Down

FHA, VA, USDA, Good Neighbor

📍

County Programs

$7K-$20K

Miami, Tampa, Orlando, etc.

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Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) Programs

Florida Assist (FL Assist)

✅ Benefits

• $10,000 down payment assistance
• Forgivable after 5 years (0% interest)
• Can combine with FHA/Conventional/VA
• No monthly payments required
• Covers closing costs too

📋 Requirements

• First-time buyer (3-year rule)
• Credit score 640+ (FHA 580+)
• Income limits vary by county
• Complete homebuyer education
• Primary residence only

Pro Tip: FL Assist is forgiven at 20% per year. If you sell before 5 years, you only repay the unforgiven portion. Example: Sell after 3 years = repay $4,000 (40%).

Florida Homeownership Loan Program (FL HLP)

$15,000

0% Interest Loan

✅ Benefits

• Up to $15,000 assistance
• 0% interest rate
• No monthly payments
• Repaid when you sell/refinance
• Can stack with FL Assist

📋 Requirements

• First-time buyer
• Credit score 660+
• Income limits apply
• Homebuyer education required
• Must use approved lender

Salute Our Soldiers (SOS) Military Program

Military Only

$25,000

Total Assistance

✅ Benefits

• $15,000 down payment assistance
• $10,000 closing cost assistance
• Total: $25,000 combined
• Forgivable after 5 years
• 0% interest

📋 Requirements

• Active duty, veteran, or surviving spouse
• Honorable discharge (veterans)
• Credit score 640+
• Income limits apply
• Florida resident

County-Specific Down Payment Assistance

Miami-Dade County Programs

Surtax Program

Forgivable loan

$15,000

Income Limits: $95,000 (single) / $110,000 (family)

HOME Program

Deferred loan

$10,000

Income Limits: $85,000 (single) / $100,000 (family)

Contact Information

Miami-Dade Housing Agency: (305) 375-4663

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Frequently Asked Questions

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