The Escambia County Homebuyer Assistance Program helps qualified, mortgage-ready households overcome upfront homeownership costs through down payment and closing cost assistance.
The Escambia County Homebuyer Assistance Program supports the Neighborhood & Human Services Department’s mission to strengthen community vitality through investment in housing, neighborhood stability, economic opportunity, and effective community development services.
The Program is designed to help qualified, mortgage-ready households overcome one of the most significant barriers to homeownership, the upfront cost of purchasing a home. By providing down payment and closing cost assistance, Escambia County seeks to expand access to sustainable homeownership, promote neighborhood stability, and encourage long-term investment in communities throughout the County.
To be considered for assistance, an applicant must:
This Program is specifically intended for applicants who are mortgage ready, have already obtained prequalification or preapproval from a SHIP-approved lender, and need financial assistance to complete an eligible home purchase.
Contact a SHIP-approved lender and obtain a pre-qualification or pre-approval letter.
Work with a real estate professional or search independently for a home that fits within the amount approved by your lender.
Submit a complete Homebuyer Program application and all required supporting documents to the Neighborhood & Human Services Department.
NED will review household eligibility, income, assets, financing, and the proposed property. Additional documentation may be requested.
If the applicant and property meet Program requirements, NED will issue the appropriate approval.
The applicant, lender, title company, and County will coordinate the remaining requirements and closing on the selected home.
Please note: Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis while funds are available. Submission of an application does not guarantee assistance. Funding is not reserved or committed until the applicant, property, and financing have been reviewed and formally approved by Escambia County.
Bring copies of all applicable documents. An application is not considered complete until all required documentation has been received. NED may request additional information based on the applicant's household or financial circumstances.
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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