Through programs like SHIP, HOME, and the Pensacola Homebuyer Incentive Program, eligible buyers can receive up to $45,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.
Verify Your Pensacola Housing Assistance Eligibility
0% interest, deferred-payment loans — no monthly payments.
HUD-certified homebuyer education included — tools to succeed as a homeowner.
Programs for both City of Pensacola and Escambia County buyers.
Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones — and Pensacola County is here to help.
The Pensacola County Down Payment Assistance Program helps first-time homebuyers in Pensacola and Escambia County afford the upfront costs of purchasing a home.
Through programs like SHIP, HOME, and the Pensacola Homebuyer Incentive Program, eligible buyers can receive between $12,500 and $45,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.
These funds are offered as 0% interest, deferred-payment loans, meaning there are no monthly payments and repayment is only due if you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
To qualify, buyers must meet income limits, complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education class, and work with an approved lender.
By reducing the largest barrier to homeownership, the program makes it possible for more families to achieve housing stability in the community they call home.
If you’ve dreamed of owning a home but thought the upfront costs were out of reach, this program can help turn that dream into reality.
The Pensacola County Down Payment Assistance Program removes the biggest obstacles to buying your first home by lowering upfront costs and providing long-term support.
Up to $45,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance (depending on the program).
0% interest, deferred-payment loans with no monthly payments.
HUD-certified homebuyer education to prepare you for successful ownership.
Available to first-time buyers across Pensacola and Escambia County.
Designed to make homeownership more affordable and accessible for local families.
To qualify for assistance, homebuyers must meet certain income and program guidelines.
Must be a first-time homebuyer (no homeownership in the past 3 years).
Total household income must fall within program income limits.
Must have sufficient income and creditworthiness to qualify for a primary mortgage with a participating lender.
Completion of an 8-hour HUD-certified homebuyer education class is required before closing.
The home must be your primary residence and meet program purchase price limits.
Mobile or manufactured homes are not eligible.
Applying for the Pensacola County Down Payment Assistance Program is straightforward, and following the right steps will help you qualify quickly and confidently.
See if you meet the income, credit, and first-time homebuyer requirements before starting the process.
Work with an approved lender who understands the program and can guide you through the application.
An 8-hour course is required to prepare you for long-term homeownership success.
Collect income verification, credit information, and identification for all household members.
Apply through your lender, who will coordinate with the City of Pensacola or Escambia County to secure your assistance funds.
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to securing up to $45,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance and achieving your goal of homeownership.
Buying your first home can feel complicated, so here are answers to the most common questions about how Pensacola’s down payment assistance works.
Depending on the program, you may qualify for up to $45,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.
No monthly payments are required — the loan is 0% interest and deferred. Repayment is only due if you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
You must be a first-time homebuyer, meet income limits, complete a HUD-certified class, and qualify for a primary mortgage with a participating lender.
Yes. Veterans are typically exempt from the “first-time homebuyer” rule and may still qualify based on income and other program requirements.
Eligible homes must meet program purchase price limits and be used as your primary residence. Mobile and manufactured homes are not allowed.
Yes, the program can often be layered with FHA, VA, or USDA mortgages, making it possible to buy with little to no money out of pocket.
Yes. An 8-hour HUD-certified homebuyer education class is required before closing and helps prepare you for successful ownership.
Yes. While the program itself does not set a score, you must meet the minimum credit requirements of your participating lender.
First, check your eligibility online for free, then work with an approved lender who will guide you through the paperwork and submission.
No. Funds are limited and released on a first-come, first-served basis. Once annual allocations are committed, you must wait until more funding opens.
Navigating Pensacola’s homebuyer programs can feel overwhelming — but that’s where we come in. Our team specializes in guiding first-time buyers through every step of the process so you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Expert Program Knowledge – We understand SHIP, HOME, and local incentive programs inside and out.
Direct Access to Approved Lenders – Connect with trusted lenders who participate in the program.
Step-by-Step Guidance – From eligibility checks to closing day, we walk you through each step.
Faster Approvals – Avoid common mistakes that delay funding by working with experienced advisors.
Local Focus – We’re dedicated to helping families in Pensacola and Escambia County achieve homeownership.
With the right guidance, buying your first home doesn’t have to be stressful — it can be simple, affordable, and life-changing.
