Down Payment Assistance Programs in Highlands County

Highlands County buyers have access to multiple state-level DPA programs that can be combined for up to $45,000+ in assistance. Highlands County also receives SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) funding which provides additional local assistance — contact me for current availability and amounts.

Statewide Programs Available in Highlands County

• Hometown Heroes: Up to $35,000 — 0% interest deferred loan, no monthly payments. Available to teachers, nurses, first responders, military, childcare workers, and 50+ eligible professions.
• FL Assist: Up to $10,000 — 0% interest deferred second mortgage, no monthly payments while you live in the home.
• FL HLP: Up to $10,000 — 3% interest, 15-year repayment (~$69/month).
• Salute Our Soldiers: Up to $35,000 — for veterans and active military. Veterans do not need to be first-time buyers.

Highlands County SHIP Program

Florida distributes SHIP funding to all 67 counties. Highlands County administers its own SHIP program which can provide additional down payment and closing cost assistance. SHIP amounts and availability vary by funding cycle — I track which programs are currently funded and accepting applications.

Highlands County DPA Stacking Example

• Hometown Heroes: $35,000 (state)
• FL Assist: $10,000 (state)
• Highlands County SHIP: varies (county)
• Total potential: $45,000+ depending on SHIP availability

I specialize in finding and stacking every DPA program you qualify for. Contact me to get a personalized breakdown for your situation.

Highlands County Loan Limits

The 2026 conforming loan limit for Highlands County is $832,750 for a single-family home.

---

Cities Served in Highlands County

Sebring, Avon Park, Lake Placid

---

Home Loans in Highlands County

As a licensed mortgage lender serving all of Highlands County in the Central Florida region, I help buyers and homeowners find the right loan at the best rate. Whether you’re purchasing your first home in Sebring or refinancing an existing property, I shop dozens of wholesale lenders to get you the most competitive terms available.

Loan Programs Available

• Conventional — As low as 3% down
• FHA — 3.5% down, credit scores from 580
• VA — 0% down for eligible veterans
• USDA — 0% down in eligible rural areas
• Foreign National & DSCR — Specialty programs available

Nick Lazarevic | NMLS #386391 | 1st Capital Group as dba of GFL Capital Mortgage Inc | Company NMLS #64367 | Equal Housing Lender