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Down Payment Assistance

The Down Payment Assistance Program (DPA) provides funding to eligible homebuyers to buy a home within the City limits of Gainesville. The funding is used to pay a part of the down payment and closing costs associated with purchasing a home. Up to $15,000 in help may be provided. The first step is registering and completing the required Homebuyer Education and Training Workshop.

Homebuyer education & training workshop:

Register Here

Location: Thomas Center, Building A, 302 NE 6th Ave, Gainesville, Florida

Time: 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

2023 Workshop Dates:

Wednesday, January 11

Wednesday, February 15

Wednesday, March 15

Wednesday, April 19

Wednesday, May 17

Wednesday, June 21

The workshop will walk homebuyers through the process and give participants helpful information including how to choose a qualified lender and inspector. Other topics include credit, budgeting, savings, mortgage loans, house selection, lenders, realtors, home inspection, home maintenance and closing day. There is no cost to attend the workshop and there is no test. The homebuyer will receive a certificate upon completion that is valid for one year. Monthly workshops are available.

Who is a qualified home buyer?

A person who has not owned a home (excluding mobile home) within the past 3 years. If a person has previously owned a home, he/she may qualify as a displaced home maker or a single person with minor dependents. A current homeowner living in a dilapidated home which is impracticable to repair.

What are the requirements?

Homebuyer must own and occupy the property as their principal residence during the compliance period. Gross annual household income cannot exceed HUD limits(PDF, 272KB).

Does the city find a home for me to purchase?

Most homebuyers seek the assistance of a realtor. The homebuyer locates the home for purchase.

Does the city finance the purchase of the home?

No, the owner must qualify for a first mortgage loan from a certified Down Payment Assistance Program lender.

How are the DPA funds received by the homebuyer?

Funding is awarded in the form of a due-on-sale loan. The homebuyer must own and occupy the property as his/her primary residence for 5 years. At the end of the 5-year period, the loan is forgiven and the lien is satisfied.

What if I decide to refinance, move, sell or rent the property before the 5-years?

The entire amount of the loan is due and payable to the City of Gainesville.

What properties are eligible?

New or existing single-family homes, condominiums or townhouses. • Property must be located within Gainesville’s city limits. • Sales price or value of existing property cannot exceed $172,000, new $227,000. • Owner financing and lease purchases are not eligible. • Mobile homes are not eligible.

Does the city pay for repairs or provide repair assistance?

The city does not provide any funds for repairs before or after closing. Repairs such as roof, electrical, plumbing, heating, gas or any other danger/safety hazard must be corrected prior to closing. Typically, the homebuyer negotiates with the seller to make the repairs.