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

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

Nick Lazarevic (NMLS #386391) with 1st Capital Group serves Tallahassee and all of Leon County with conventional, FHA, VA, and specialty loan programs. As Florida’s state capital and home to Florida State University and FAMU, Tallahassee offers a stable housing market with affordable prices. Get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Tallahassee

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

Statewide Programs Available to Tallahassee 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.

Leon County Local Programs

Leon 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 Tallahassee and the surrounding area.

Tallahassee DPA Stacking Example

Hometown Heroes: $35,000 (state)
FL Assist: $10,000 (state)
Leon 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 Tallahassee.

2026 Conforming Loan Limit

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What down payment assistance is available in Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has some of the strongest DPA in the state. Leon County offers $7,500-$20,000, the City of Tallahassee offers up to 20% of the purchase price, and statewide programs like Hometown Heroes add up to $35,000 more. These can often be stacked.

Can I get a mortgage for student rental property near FSU?

Yes. Conventional investment loans and DSCR loans are available for rental properties near FSU and FAMU. DSCR loans qualify based on the property’s rental income rather than personal income.

Does Tallahassee qualify for USDA loans?

Parts of Leon County outside the urban core qualify for USDA financing with zero down payment. Contact us to check if a specific property qualifies.

Tallahassee’s Housing Market

Tallahassee’s real estate market is anchored by state government, two major universities, and a growing healthcare sector. This creates steady demand from government employees, faculty, students transitioning to homeownership, and young professionals. Home prices remain well below the state average, making Tallahassee one of Florida’s most accessible markets for first-time buyers. Investors also find opportunities in the student rental market near FSU and FAMU campuses.

Available Loan Programs

Conventional Loans — Competitive rates for primary residences and investment properties
FHA Loans — Low down payment options popular with first-time buyers and state employees
VA Loans — Zero down payment for eligible veterans
USDA Loans — Zero down payment in eligible areas outside the Tallahassee urban core
DSCR / Investor Loans — Qualify based on rental income, ideal for student housing near FSU/FAMU

Serving All of Leon County

Nick serves homebuyers throughout Leon County and the Big Bend region. Licensed statewide.

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