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

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

Nick Lazarevic (NMLS #386391) with 1st Capital Group serves Ocala and all of Marion County with conventional, FHA, VA, and specialty loan programs. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala offers an affordable, rural-friendly lifestyle with some of the strongest DPA programs in the state. Get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Ocala

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

Statewide Programs Available to Ocala 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.

Marion County Local Programs

Marion 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 Ocala and the surrounding area.

Ocala DPA Stacking Example

Hometown Heroes: $35,000 (state)
FL Assist: $10,000 (state)
Marion 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 Ocala.

2026 Conforming Loan Limit

The conforming loan limit for Marion County in 2026 is $832,750. Ocala’s affordable market means virtually all purchases fall within this limit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ocala qualify for USDA loans?

Yes — much of Marion County qualifies for USDA financing, which offers zero down payment for eligible buyers. Contact us to check if a specific property is in a USDA-eligible zone.

How much down payment assistance is available in Ocala?

Marion County offers up to $100,000 in deferred DPA — one of the largest programs in Florida. Combined with statewide programs like Hometown Heroes (up to $35,000), Ocala buyers have extraordinary DPA access.

Ocala’s Housing Market

Ocala and Marion County have emerged as one of Florida’s fastest-growing affordable markets, attracting retirees from The Villages area, remote workers seeking lower costs, and families drawn by the rural character and equestrian culture. Home prices are well below the state average, and the area’s USDA eligibility makes zero-down financing available for many properties. Marion County is unique in offering up to $100,000 in deferred DPA — one of the most generous programs in the entire state.

Available Loan Programs

Conventional Loans — Competitive rates for primary residences and investment properties
FHA Loans — Low down payment options, very popular with Ocala first-time buyers
VA Loans — Zero down payment for eligible veterans
USDA Loans — Zero down payment — much of Marion County qualifies for USDA financing
DSCR / Investor Loans — Qualify based on rental income for investment properties

Serving All of Marion County

Nick serves homebuyers throughout Marion County, including Ocala and surrounding communities. Licensed statewide.

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