Port St. Lucie Down Payment Assistance Program

Q: Do I have to repay the St. Lucie County down payment assistance?

The $50,000 HOME Consortium assistance is a 0% interest, deferred-payment loan. It is forgiven at the end of the affordability period (5–15 years) if you remain in the home. The Escambia $10,000 option is a deferred second mortgage that must be repaid upon sale, refinancing, or paying off the first mortgage.

Q: Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer?

Generally, yes. You must not have owned a home in the past three years. However, exceptions typically exist for qualified veterans and those purchasing homes in specific federally targeted areas within St. Lucie County.

Q: Can I use the funds for closing costs?

Yes. The assistance funds can be applied toward your down payment, closing costs, or a combination of both. This helps reduce the total cash you need to bring to the closing table, often requiring as little as $500 of your own funds.

Q: Are homebuyer education classes required?

Yes, you must complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing. This requirement ensures you understand the mortgage process and the financial responsibilities of homeownership.

What is the Port St. Lucie Down Payment Assistance Program?

The Port St. Lucie Down Payment Assistance Program is a strategic housing initiative designed to bridge the financial gap for first-time homebuyers. By partnering with local county divisions and state housing finance authorities, this program aims to increase homeownership rates across the Treasure Coast.

This "Gap Financing" is essential for buyers who can afford monthly mortgage payments but struggle to save the significant lump sum required for a down payment and closing costs.

Funds are allocated as a deferred-payment loan. This means you do not make monthly payments on the assistance amount. Instead, the loan sits silently in the background—often at 0% interest—and may be completely forgiven if you reside in the home for the required affordability period.

Official Program Benefits

Designed to assist first-time homebuyers in Port St. Lucie and unincorporated St. Lucie County with down payments and closing costs.

Up to $50,000 Assistance

Through the HOME Consortium, eligible buyers in unincorporated areas may receive up to $50,000 to bridge the affordability gap.

0% Interest & Deferred

Payments are deferred for 5–15 years with 0% interest. Loans may be forgivable at the end of the affordability period if occupancy requirements are met.

Countywide Options

Additional programs available within city limits (Port St. Lucie/Fort Pierce) offering up to $10,000 in assistance for closing costs.

Who This Program Is Perfect For

This assistance is specifically tailored to support residents in the following situations.

Renters Facing Rising Costs

If you are currently renting in Port St. Lucie and watching rental rates climb year after year, this program helps lock in a stable, fixed monthly mortgage payment.

Growing Families

Families needing more bedrooms or a yard but lacking the large cash savings for a traditional 20% down payment can use these funds to move into a home that fits their needs.

Stable Income, Low Savings

Perfect for buyers with a steady job and good credit (640+) who simply haven't had the time or ability to save $10,000–$50,000 for upfront costs.

Who Is Eligible in 2026?

First-Time Buyers: No home ownership in the last 3 years (exceptions apply for veterans/targeted areas).
Income Limits: Household income must fall within HUD guidelines (e.g., 1-person max ~$53k, up to 8-person max ~$100k for HOME program).
Credit Requirement: Minimum credit score of 640 typically required.
Contribution: Minimum $500 contribution from the homebuyer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about down payment assistance in St. Lucie County.

How much down payment assistance can I get in Port St. Lucie?

Eligible buyers in unincorporated St. Lucie County can receive up to $50,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance through the HOME Consortium. For properties within city limits or via the Escambia County HFA program, assistance is typically capped at $10,000.

Do I have to repay the St. Lucie County down payment assistance?

The $50,000 HOME Consortium assistance is a 0% interest, deferred-payment loan. It is forgiven at the end of the affordability period (5–15 years) if you remain in the home. The Escambia $10,000 option is a deferred second mortgage that must be repaid upon sale, refinancing, or paying off the first mortgage.

What are the income limits for the 2026 program?

Income limits vary by household size. For the HOME program (80% AMI), limits range from approximately $53,050 for a single person to $100,000 for a family of eight. The Escambia HFA program allows higher incomes, up to $113,640 for smaller families and $130,799 for families of three or more.

Is there a credit score requirement for DPA?

Yes, most down payment assistance programs in St. Lucie County require a minimum credit score of 640. Lenders may have additional requirements depending on whether you are using an FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional first mortgage.

Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer?

Generally, yes. You must not have owned a home in the past three years. However, exceptions typically exist for qualified veterans and those purchasing homes in specific federally targeted areas within St. Lucie County.

Can I use the funds for closing costs?

Yes. The assistance funds can be applied toward your down payment, closing costs, or a combination of both. This helps reduce the total cash you need to bring to the closing table, often requiring as little as $500 of your own funds.

What is the maximum purchase price for a home?

Purchase price limits depend on the specific program. The Escambia HFA program currently allows for purchase prices up to $619,629 (non-target areas) or higher in targeted areas. The HOME Consortium program typically has lower purchase price caps for existing and new construction homes.

Do I have to live in the home?

Yes, all down payment assistance programs require the property to be your primary residence. Renting out the home during the affordability period (usually 5 to 15 years) typically triggers a requirement to repay the assistance loan immediately.

Are homebuyer education classes required?

Yes, you must complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing. This requirement ensures you understand the mortgage process and the financial responsibilities of homeownership.

How do I apply for the Port St. Lucie DPA program?

Applications are processed through participating lenders. Start by checking your eligibility using the form below, and a specialist will guide you to the specific program (HOME or Escambia) that fits your location and income profile.