Highlands County SHIP Purchase Assistance Program

Special Alert

Maximum Purchase Price

$230,000

Contact Info:

https://www.highlandsfl.gov 501 S. Commerce Avenue, Sebring, FL 33870 863-402-6648

Limitations

Credit Score Requirements

Based on 1st mortgage requirements.

Deferred Payments?

Yes, for 3 years

Accepted First Mortgage Type:

Freddie Mac, Freddie Mac HFA Advantage, Freddie Mac Home Possible, Fannie Mae, Fannie Mae HFA Preferred, Fannie Mae HomeReady, FHA 203(b), VA, USDA / RD

Homeowners Education Class:

Required

Is Forgivable?

No Forgiveness.

Location:

1 County: Highlands Property must be located in Highlands County, FL.

Income Limitations:

Yes, based on Compliance Income (including household income) Income limits from HUD 2023 140% AMI guidelines Income Categories to be served for this SHIP strategy: Extremely low, Very low, Moderate and Workforce households up to 140% AMI. (our program model will reflect the highest income category that is eligible)

Maximum Assistance

$20,000 Maximum Assistance varies and is based on income category of the applicants: Extremely Low, Very Low and Low income: $20,000 (80% AMI or less) Moderate income: $15,000 (120% AMI) Workforce income: $10,000 (140% AMI) (For this section our program model reflects the highest amount available) NOTE: Loan will be awarded in the amount of money required in order to allow the homebuyer to qualify for the first mortgage. The maximum will not be awarded in all cases.

Education Requirements Info:

You may take the course on-line, or call the Housing Office for participating neighboring counties that offer the homebuyer education classes.

Eligible Property Types:

Single Family Detached Condo Townhome/PUD

Income By Household Size:

$750 Applicant must make a minimum cash contribution, based upon income bracket: Ext Low–Very Low (50% or less of AMI) – $750; Low (80% of AMI) – $1,000; Moderate Income (120% of AMI) – $1,200; Work Force (120%-140% of AMI) – $1,400. (For this section our program model reflects the lowest amount required) NOTE: Out of Pocket expenses paid before closing are considered as part of the applicant’s contribution (i.e., appraisal fees, inspections, earnest money deposits).

Qualifying Ratios:

Determined by first mortgage product or lender.