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

Looking for a mortgage lender in St. Petersburg, Florida? Nick Lazarevic (NMLS #386391) with 1st Capital Group serves St. Petersburg and all of Pinellas County with conventional, FHA, VA, and specialty loan programs. From the charming bungalows of Old Northeast to beachfront condos in St. Pete Beach, get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg buyers can access city, county, and state DPA programs for up to $185,000+ in combined assistance.

City of St. Petersburg Purchase Assistance

• Assistance: 20% of purchase price + $5,000 for closing costs (up to $75,000)
• Type: 0% interest secondary mortgage — 100% forgiven after 10 years for buyers at or below 80% AMI
• Current status: Limited state funding; prioritizing designated populations
• Contact: (727) 893-7247 or (727) 892-5572 for availability

Pinellas County DPA

• Assistance: Up to $75,000
• Type: Interest-free deferred loan
• Income limits: Individual ≤$58,450; Family of 4 ≤$83,450
• Status: Reopened December 2025 — currently accepting applications

Statewide Programs

• Hometown Heroes: Up to $35,000 — 0% deferred loan for eligible workers
• FL Assist: Up to $10,000 — 0% deferred second mortgage
• Salute Our Soldiers: Up to $35,000 — for veterans

St. Petersburg DPA Stacking Example

• Hometown Heroes: $35,000 (state)
• Pinellas County: $75,000 (county)
• St. Petersburg: $75,000 (city)
• Total potential assistance: up to $185,000

Contact me for current program availability.

2026 Conforming Loan Limit in Pinellas County

The conforming loan limit for Pinellas County in 2026 is $832,750 for a single-family home. Loans up to this amount qualify for conventional financing with the best available rates. For higher-priced waterfront properties, jumbo loan options are available.

Frequently Asked Questions — St. Petersburg Mortgages

What are the current mortgage rates in St. Petersburg, FL?

Mortgage rates change daily and depend on your credit score, loan type, down payment, and property type. Contact us for a personalized rate quote based on your specific situation.

How much do I need for a down payment to buy a home in St. Petersburg?

It depends on the loan program. Options range from zero down (VA loans for eligible veterans) to low down payment programs (FHA and conventional). Pinellas County offers up to $75,000 in down payment assistance, plus statewide programs — St. Pete buyers have some of the best DPA access in Florida.

Does St. Petersburg have down payment assistance programs?

Yes — and some of the best in the state. Pinellas County offers up to $75,000 in interest-free deferred assistance, plus buyers can access statewide programs like Hometown Heroes (up to $35,000) and FL Assist ($10,000). These can often be stacked.

Do I need flood insurance in St. Petersburg?

Many properties in St. Petersburg and Pinellas County are in FEMA flood zones and will require flood insurance if you’re using a mortgage. Flood insurance costs vary significantly by zone and elevation. We factor flood insurance into your total housing payment when evaluating loan options so you know exactly what your monthly costs will be.

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St. Petersburg’s Mortgage Market

St. Petersburg has transformed into one of Florida’s most desirable cities, blending a thriving arts and dining scene with walkable neighborhoods and waterfront living. The city’s resurgence has drawn young professionals, families, and retirees alike, creating strong demand across all price points. Historic neighborhoods like Old Northeast, Kenwood, and Snell Isle offer character homes, while areas like Downtown St. Pete and the Grand Central District attract buyers looking for an urban lifestyle.

Pinellas County’s unique geography — a peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico — means limited land for new development, which supports long-term property values. The Gulf beaches from St. Pete Beach to Clearwater Beach attract vacation home buyers and short-term rental investors. Flood insurance is a significant consideration for many Pinellas County properties, and working with a lender who understands how insurance costs affect your total housing payment is essential for making informed decisions.

Available Loan Programs in St. Petersburg

• Conventional Loans — Competitive rates and flexible terms for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties. The top choice for St. Pete buyers with strong credit.
• FHA Loans — Low down payment options with flexible credit requirements. Popular with first-time buyers entering the St. Petersburg market.
• VA Loans — Zero down payment for eligible veterans and active-duty military. The Tampa Bay area’s military community makes VA loans commonly used throughout Pinellas County.
• DSCR / Investor Loans — Qualify based on rental income. St. Pete Beach and the Gulf beaches generate strong vacation rental income for investors.
• Jumbo Loans — For properties above the conforming limit. Common in waterfront neighborhoods, Snell Isle, and premium beach locations.

Serving All of Pinellas County

In addition to St. Petersburg, Nick serves homebuyers and homeowners throughout Pinellas County, including Clearwater, Largo, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Tarpon Springs, and all Gulf beach communities. Licensed statewide.

Ready to Get Started in St. Petersburg?

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or investing in St. Petersburg real estate, I’m here to help you find the best financing option.

Call: 954-300-1287
Email: [email protected]
Apply Online: Start Your Application

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Nick Lazarevic | NMLS #386391 | 1st Capital Group as dba of GFL Capital Mortgage Inc | Company NMLS #64367 | Equal Housing Lender | Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator. All loans subject to credit approval. This is not a commitment to lend. Terms and conditions apply. NMLS Consumer Access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org