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

Down Payment Assistance Programs in The Villages, FL — Home Loans & Refinancing

Nick Lazarevic (NMLS #386391) with 1st Capital Group serves The Villages and all of Sumter County with conventional, FHA, VA, and specialty loan programs. As one of the fastest-growing communities in America, The Villages attracts active adults and retirees looking for their next home. Get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in The Villages

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

Statewide Programs Available to The Villages 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.

Sumter County Local Programs

Sumter 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 The Villages and the surrounding area.

The Villages DPA Stacking Example

Hometown Heroes: $35,000 (state)
FL Assist: $10,000 (state)
Sumter 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 The Villages.

2026 Conforming Loan Limit

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a VA loan in The Villages?

Yes. VA loans are commonly used in The Villages given the large veteran community. VA loans offer zero down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates for eligible veterans.

Should I pay cash or get a mortgage for a home in The Villages?

It depends on your financial situation. Many buyers in The Villages have the option to pay cash but choose to finance to preserve liquidity and investment flexibility. Contact us to discuss which approach makes the most sense for your situation.

Can I refinance my home in The Villages?

Absolutely. Rate-and-term refinancing and cash-out refinancing are both available for Villages homeowners. Whether you want a better rate or to access equity, we can help.

Serving The Villages & Sumter County

Nick serves homebuyers and homeowners throughout The Villages, including areas in Sumter, Marion, and Lake counties. Licensed statewide.

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

The Villages Housing Market

The Villages is the largest age-restricted (55+) community in the world, spanning portions of Sumter, Marion, and Lake counties. The market is unique — most buyers are purchasing retirement homes, often using proceeds from selling a home in another state. Many are cash buyers, but conventional and VA financing remain popular options, especially for buyers who want to preserve liquidity. Refinancing is also active as homeowners look to tap equity or improve their rate. The steady demand and controlled development keep property values stable.

Available Loan Programs

Conventional Loans — Competitive rates for primary residences and second homes. The most common financed option in The Villages.
VA Loans — Zero down payment for eligible veterans. The Villages has a large veteran population, making VA loans a significant part of the market.
FHA Loans — Low down payment options available where the community and property type meet FHA guidelines.
Jumbo Loans — For higher-priced properties in premium Villages neighborhoods.
Refinancing — Rate-and-term and cash-out refinancing for current Villages homeowners.