Your St. Augustine Mortgage Lender — Home Loans, Refinancing & Pre-Approvals

Down Payment Assistance Programs in St. Augustine, FL — Home Loans & Pre-Approvals

Nick Lazarevic (NMLS #386391) with 1st Capital Group serves St. Augustine and all of St. Johns County with conventional, FHA, VA, and specialty loan programs. America’s oldest city combines historic charm with some of the best schools in Florida. Get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in St Augustine

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

Statewide Programs Available to St Augustine 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.

St. Johns County Local Programs

St. Johns 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 St Augustine and the surrounding area.

St Augustine DPA Stacking Example

Hometown Heroes: $35,000 (state)
FL Assist: $10,000 (state)
St. Johns 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 St Augustine.

2026 Conforming Loan Limit

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is St. Johns County so popular with families?

St. Johns County has the top-rated school district in Florida, low crime, and master-planned communities like Nocatee and World Golf Village. This combination drives strong buyer demand and supports long-term property values.

What down payment assistance is available in St. Augustine?

Statewide programs like Hometown Heroes (up to $35,000) and FL Assist ($10,000) are available to eligible St. Augustine buyers.

St. Augustine & St. Johns County Housing Market

St. Johns County consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Florida, with the top-rated school district in the state driving strong demand from families. Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, and World Golf Village attract move-up buyers, while the historic downtown and beach communities draw retirees and second-home buyers. Home values are higher than the Jacksonville core, reflecting the premium that buyers place on the school district and quality of life. The relatively low property tax rate of approximately 0.78% adds to the area’s appeal.

Available Loan Programs

Conventional Loans — The most popular option in St. Johns County for buyers with strong credit
FHA Loans — Low down payment options for qualifying buyers
VA Loans — Zero down payment for eligible veterans
Jumbo Loans — For premium Ponte Vedra and beachfront properties above the conforming limit
DSCR / Investor Loans — Qualify based on rental income for vacation and long-term rentals

Serving All of St. Johns County

Nick serves homebuyers throughout St. Johns County, including St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, and World Golf Village. Licensed statewide.

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