The down payment is the #1 thing standing between renters and homeownership. Florida has programs designed to remove it — and most buyers don't even know they qualify.
Book Your Free ConsultationWe help Tampa Bay buyers stack the right programs for their situation. Here are a few we work with every day:
For Florida's frontline workers and veterans: 5% of your loan amount ($10,000 minimum, $35,000 maximum) toward your down payment and closing costs — plus lower interest rates and reduced fees. It's a 0%-interest, 30-year deferred second mortgage with no monthly payment; it's only repaid if you sell, refinance, or move out.
Who qualifies: First-time buyers (haven't lived in a primary residence they owned in the past 3 years — active military and veterans are exempt) working 35+ hrs/week for a Florida employer in fields like law enforcement, firefighting, education, healthcare, childcare, and public safety.
Community Reinvestment Act loans are special bank financing for low- to moderate-income buyers and underserved neighborhoods — featuring relaxed credit guidelines, down payments as low as 1%, and typically no PMI.
These stack with local assistance: Hillsborough County offers a 0%-interest second mortgage up to $15,000 for first-time buyers, and Tampa CRA districts (like East Tampa) offer forgivable loans up to $50,000.
A City of Tampa initiative providing up to $50,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers. It's a 0%-interest "silent second" loan that is fully forgivable after 10–20 years, as long as you continue living in the home.
Location: Home must be within Tampa city limits. Stackable with CRA programs.
Three simple steps between you and your keys:
A free 15-minute call with our team. We'll learn your goals, timeline, and budget.
Our trusted lending partner reviews your situation and identifies every dollar of assistance you qualify for.
You'll know your true buying power — then we find you the home and negotiate like it's our own money.
These programs reach further than most people think. You may be eligible if you are:
Not sure where you fit? That's exactly what the free consultation is for — most buyers are surprised by what they qualify for.
We have the keys — don’t miss your turn. 🔑
Our Mission: At The DW Collective, we believe homeownership is the foundation of generational wealth. Our mission is to educate, empower, and advocate for every buyer we serve — opening doors that once felt out of reach and turning Tampa Bay renters into proud homeowners, one family at a time.
Broker Associate
Principal Agent | The DW Collective
Partner Agent | The DW Collective
Partner Agent | The DW Collective
When Hometown Heroes funding runs out, it's gone until the next release. The buyers who move first get the money.
Claim Your Spot — Book NowNeed an immediate response? Email dwcollective@compass.com or send a quick text to (813) 331-5346 or DM — someone from the team will respond right away.