Florida Bond Program – Down Payment Assistance for First-Time Buyers

The Florida Bond Program gives eligible homebuyers financial help with their down payment and closing costs, making homeownership more attainable. At North Star Mortgage Network, we guide borrowers through every step so you can move confidently toward owning your first home.

This state-wide program was created to help qualified Florida residents purchase a home by providing down payment and closing cost assistance that works alongside an FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional first mortgage.

What the Florida Bond Program Offers

The Florida Bond Program provides affordable down payment assistance that can be used toward your initial investment or closing costs. The amount varies by program and borrower profile, but most buyers can expect up to $10,000 in support.

Assistance may be offered as:

  • A deferred, 0% interest second mortgage with no monthly payment.

  • A low-interest repayable second mortgage over a set term.

  • Forgivable assistance options after a required period of occupancy.

These funds help reduce the out-of-pocket expenses at closing, allowing buyers to keep more money available for moving or home improvements.

Who Qualifies for the Florida Bond Program

To qualify for the Florida Bond Program, homebuyers generally must meet the following requirements:

  • First-time homebuyer: You must not have owned a home in the past three years (exceptions exist for veterans and targeted counties).

  • Minimum credit score: Typically 640 or higher, depending on the loan type.

  • Income limits: Household income must fall within your county’s program guidelines.

  • Purchase price limits: The home must fall under county purchase price caps.

  • Homebuyer education: Completion of an approved course is required.

  • Primary residence: The property must be your primary home, not an investment property.

Because each county sets its own income and price limits, our team confirms your exact eligibility before application.

How the Florida Bond Program Works

Here’s how we help you use the program step by step:

  1. Pre-qualification: We assess your eligibility and determine the best loan pairing.

  2. Program selection: Choose between FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional first mortgages.

  3. Education requirement: Complete a certified homebuyer education course.

  4. Loan reservation: We reserve the bond funds for your file.

  5. Closing: Your down payment or closing cost assistance is applied at closing.

You’ll receive full guidance from start to finish so your loan and assistance flow together seamlessly.

Why Choose the Florida Bond Program

  • Helps first-time homebuyers overcome one of the biggest barriers to homeownership.

  • Offers affordable and flexible assistance options.

  • Works with multiple mortgage types, giving you more ways to qualify.

  • Provides no-payment or low-payment second loans depending on your profile.

  • Makes buying a home possible sooner, without draining your savings.

The program is designed to strengthen Florida’s housing market while helping residents achieve stability and long-term financial success.

Local Focus – Serving Homebuyers Across Florida

At North Star Mortgage Network, we specialize in helping families across Jacksonville, St. Johns County, Clay County, and throughout Florida navigate the Florida Bond Program.

With more than 25 years of lending experience, our team understands how to pair this program with the right first mortgage — ensuring a smooth process and maximum savings for every qualified buyer.