Your Clearwater Mortgage Lender — Home Loans, Refinancing & Pre-Approvals

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Clearwater, FL — Home Loans & Pre-Approvals

Nick Lazarevic (NMLS #386391) with 1st Capital Group serves Clearwater and all of Pinellas County with conventional, FHA, VA, and specialty loan programs. Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the country, and the city offers a mix of beachfront living, established neighborhoods, and investment opportunities. Get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Clearwater

Clearwater buyers have access to statewide DPA programs plus Pinellas County local assistance that can be combined for $45,000+ in total help toward your down payment and closing costs.

Statewide Programs Available to Clearwater Buyers

Hometown Heroes: Up to $35,000 — 0% interest deferred loan, no monthly payments. For teachers, nurses, first responders, military, and 50+ eligible professions.
FL Assist: Up to $10,000 — 0% interest deferred second mortgage, no monthly payments.
FL HLP: Up to $10,000 — 3% interest, 15-year repayment.
Salute Our Soldiers: Up to $35,000 — for veterans and active military. Veterans don’t need to be first-time buyers.

Pinellas County Local Programs

Pinellas County receives SHIP funding from the state and may offer additional local DPA programs. Program amounts and availability change throughout the year. I track which programs are currently funded and accepting applications in Clearwater and the surrounding area.

Clearwater DPA Stacking Example

Hometown Heroes: $35,000 (state)
FL Assist: $10,000 (state)
Pinellas County SHIP/local programs: varies
Total potential: $45,000+ depending on local availability

I specialize in finding and stacking every DPA program you qualify for. Contact me for a personalized breakdown based on your income, occupation, and where you’re buying in Clearwater.

2026 Conforming Loan Limit

The conforming loan limit for Pinellas County in 2026 is $832,750.

Frequently Asked Questions

What down payment assistance is available in Clearwater?

Pinellas County offers up to $75,000 in interest-free deferred assistance — one of the best in Florida. Plus statewide programs like Hometown Heroes (up to $35,000). These can often be stacked.

Do I need flood insurance in Clearwater?

Many properties in Clearwater, especially beachside and waterfront, are in FEMA flood zones and require flood insurance with a mortgage. We factor this into your payment analysis.

Clearwater’s Housing Market

Clearwater benefits from its position on the Gulf of Mexico with access to world-class beaches while maintaining a more affordable entry point than many South Florida markets. The city attracts vacation home buyers, retirees, and families. Clearwater Beach draws short-term rental investors, while mainland neighborhoods offer single-family homes at a range of prices. Pinellas County’s limited land for new development supports long-term property values.

Available Loan Programs

Conventional Loans — Competitive rates for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties
FHA Loans — Low down payment options for first-time buyers
VA Loans — Zero down payment for eligible veterans
DSCR / Investor Loans — Qualify based on rental income, ideal for Clearwater Beach vacation rentals
Jumbo Loans — For beachfront and waterfront properties above the conforming limit

Serving All of Pinellas County

Nick serves homebuyers throughout Pinellas County, including Clearwater, Largo, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, and Tarpon Springs. Licensed statewide.

Call: 954-300-1287 | Email: [email protected] | Contact Us for More Help