09/05/2025
🚨DOWN-PAYMENT ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITY!🚨
Are you ready to take the leap into homeownership? The City of Tampa’s “Dare to Own the Dream” (DARE) program offers up to $50,000 in down-payment and closing-cost assistance for income-eligible, first-time homebuyers purchasing within Tampa city limits—which could be the game-changer you've been waiting for!
As an APPROVED REALTOR, I'm excited to guide you through every step of this powerful opportunity.
Let’s break down what it takes to qualify:
✅️First-Time Homebuyer: You must not have owned a home in the past three years (per program and FHA definitions).
✅️Begin with Approved Housing Counseling: Start the process with one of the city’s three approved Housing Counseling Agencies—you must not be under contract before receiving a reservation number.
✅️Use Approved Professionals: You must work with a Loan Officer and a REALTOR who are both on the city’s current Approved Lender List and Approved Realtor List (and yes—I’m on that list!).
Income Limits Based on Household AMI (Area Median Income):
Household AMI Assistance Amount
50.01%–80% $50,000
80.01%–120% $40,000
120.01%–140% $30,000
Households at or below 50% AMI are not eligible .
➡️Forgivable Loan: Fully forgiven after 20 years, as long as the home remains your primary residence.
➡️Credit & Debt Requirements: Mid-credit score of at least 600; back-end debt ratio must not exceed 50%. No front-end ratio limits.
➡️Purchase Price Cap: Up to $450,000 if you qualify for primary financing.
➡️Your Investment Required: Must contribute at least $2,000, with $1,000 from your own verifiable funds; the additional $1,000 may come from other purchase-related costs (like appraisal or inspection)
➡️Inspection Requirements: You must complete an independent home inspection and pass a City’s HQS (Housing Quality Standards) inspection before closing.
Let’s take this step together—DM or call me today to find out how we can make Tampa your home. Your path to homeownership starts here!
