Last updated: April 2026 · Program availability changes frequently
Down Payment Assistance in Fort Lauderdale: Overview
Fort Lauderdale buyers have access to some of the largest DPA programs in the state. Broward County provides up to $80,000 countywide as a forgivable second mortgage. The City of Fort Lauderdale adds up to $75,000 through its own first-time homebuyer program. Both are 0% interest, and both eventually forgive if you stay. For buyers within city limits, the potential combined local assistance exceeds $150,000.
Fort Lauderdale's median home price sits around $510,000. That puts the 3.5% FHA down payment at $17,850. The county program alone ($80,000) covers the down payment plus $62,150 for closing costs, prepaids, and reserves. The math is straightforward: the programs available in Broward County cover more than enough to get into a home at or below the median price.
Broward County's program has a 15-year forgiveness period. The city's program forgives in 7-15 years depending on the funding source. Neither requires monthly payments during the affordability period. Both use a first-qualified, first-approved model, which means funding is limited and goes to those who apply first.
The FHA limit for Broward County is $667,000, the same high-cost limit as Miami-Dade. Florida Housing's Hometown Heroes adds up to $35,000 statewide for qualifying workers. This guide covers every available program, how the county and city programs compare, and the application strategy that gets you funded.
Quick Answer
Yes. Fort Lauderdale has 5+ DPA programs. Broward County provides up to $80,000 (or $120,000 in Weston), forgivable after 15 years. The city provides up to $75,000 forgivable. Hometown Heroes adds $35,000 statewide.
On a $510,000 home: FHA down = $17,850. Broward County DPA ($80K) covers the down payment plus $62,150 for closing costs. The city program ($75K) covers nearly as much. If they stack, that is $155,000 in combined local assistance.
Credit from 640. Income typically at or below 80% AMI for full local program eligibility. First-time buyer required for most programs.
Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance
Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance
What makes this program stand out: The funds can be used for permanent interest rate buydown, not just down payment and closing costs. If you have enough cash for the down payment but want a lower monthly payment, you can use the county DPA to buy down your interest rate permanently. That is unusual. Most programs restrict funds to down payment and closing costs only. VA borrowers may be exempt from the 1% own-funds requirement.
First-qualified, first-approved. This is not a lottery. Broward County processes applications in order. When funding runs out, the program pauses. If you qualify, apply immediately. Do not wait to find a property first.
City of Fort Lauderdale First-Time Homebuyers Program
Fort Lauderdale First-Time Homebuyers Program
Forgiveness timeline depends on funding source. Some funding sources forgive in 7 years. Others take 15. Ask the city which funding source applies to your application. Rate-and-term refinancing is allowed during the forgiveness period; cash-out refinancing is not allowed until the loan is fully forgiven. The property must pass inspection, so factor in the condition of the home you are buying.
County vs. City: Fort Lauderdale sits within Broward County. The county program ($80K) and city program ($75K) are separate. If both allow stacking, a buyer in Fort Lauderdale could access $155,000 in combined local assistance. Confirm stacking rules with both agencies before building your strategy around combined funds.
Florida Hometown Heroes
Florida Housing Hometown Heroes Program
Hometown Heroes requires qualifying occupations (law enforcement, fire, education, healthcare, childcare, military). On a $510K purchase: 5% = $25,500 deferred at 0%. No monthly payment. Repaid at sale, refinance, or transfer. Funding: $50M for 2025-2026.
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This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a commitment to lend. Program availability, terms, and eligibility requirements change frequently. Verify all details with the administering agency or an approved lender. DownPaymentScout is an independent resource. Last updated April 2026.