In Deerfield Beach, located within Broward County, Florida, there is an opportunity for aspiring homeowners to receive up to $85,000 in financial support to help cover the down payment and closing costs on their first home. This city-run program is specifically designed for households meeting certain income criteria, and applications can be submitted online through their portal.
The application period for the fiscal year 2026-2027 kicked off on October 3, 2026, and will remain open until funds run out. It's important to note that this is not an automatic benefit or a new law; rather, each application is individually reviewed, with funds allocated to eligible applicants on a first-come, first-served basis.
Understanding the $85,000 Assistance Program
Deerfield Beach's Purchase Assistance Program aims to assist qualified buyers in covering the costs associated with purchasing a home within city limits. The financial aid is offered as a second mortgage with 0% interest and deferred payments. If all program conditions are met, this loan could potentially be converted into a grant, though it's not a guaranteed sum for every applicant.
The program is funded by federal and state housing initiatives, including CDBG, HOME, and SHIP. While the maximum amount available per applicant is $85,000, the actual amount granted is determined by the city’s evaluation and the available funds.
Eligibility Criteria for the Assistance
According to the Housing and Grants Division, applicants must meet several key requirements:
- First-time homebuyers: This includes individuals who have not owned or held interest in a home for three years prior to the application.
- Property location: The home must be located within Deerfield Beach and serve as the primary residence.
- Income limits: Only households earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) are currently eligible to apply due to fund availability.
- Mortgage pre-approval: A letter from a lender must accompany the application.
- Signed purchase contract: An executed contract is required at the time of application, not just the intent to buy.
Eligible properties include single-family homes, condos, townhouses, and villas. Buyers have the freedom to choose their licensed real estate professional, and seeking competent legal advice is encouraged.
Income Limits for 2026
The income limits vary based on household size. As per the city's income table for 2026, which took effect on June 1 and is subject to updates by HUD, the maximum income thresholds at 80% of the AMI are:
- One person: $71,000 annually
- Two people: $81,150 annually
- Three people: $91,300 annually
- Four people: $101,400 annually
- Five people: $109,550 annually
- Six people: $117,650 annually
- Seven people: $125,750 annually
- Eight people: $133,850 annually
These figures represent the income limits, not the assistance amounts. While moderate-income levels are noted in the program's description, currently, the city is only accepting applications from households at or below 80% of the AMI.
How to Apply Online
As announced in municipal notice 2026-085 on September 4, the application process began on October 3, 2026, and will continue until funds are depleted. The Deerfield Beach housing page still indicates that the portal is open.
Interested individuals should visit the official Housing and Grants page and click on "Apply Now" to access Deerfield Beach's Neighborly platform. While the public information doesn't detail the internal steps of the application form or the funding balance, it's crucial to have the loan pre-approval, signed purchase contract, and required documentation ready before submitting.
Applications must be complete, and priority is given to those who apply first and meet eligibility criteria, not simply those who create an account.
Is the Money Repayable? Can Cubans Apply?
This aid comes in the form of a 0% deferred loan, which can transform into a grant upon fulfilling specific requirements. Before accepting the funds, buyers should request in writing the duration of residency needed, conditions for forgiveness, and scenarios requiring repayment, especially if they sell, rent, move, or refinance.
The program targets eligible homebuyers, not specific nationalities. Being Cuban or residing in South Florida doesn’t automatically qualify someone. Prospective applicants with immigration status questions should confirm their eligibility with the city before applying.
Where to Seek Information and Other Broward County Assistance
For inquiries, the Housing and Grants Division of Deerfield Beach can be reached at 954-250-4253 or via email at Housing@Deerfield-Beach.com. Due to limited funds, verifying the availability and current conditions before proceeding with a purchase is advisable.
The initiative in Deerfield Beach differs from similar programs, such as Tamarac’s $85,000 assistance and Hallandale Beach’s $100,000 offering. While all are within Broward County, each has distinct rules, geographic limits, and procedures.
Common Questions About Deerfield Beach's Housing Assistance
Who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer?
A first-time homebuyer is someone who has not owned or had an interest in a home in the three years prior to applying for the program.
What types of properties are eligible for this assistance?
Eligible properties include single-family homes, condos, townhouses, and villas located within Deerfield Beach.
Is there a preference for certain applicants in the program?
Priority is given to applicants who submit their complete applications first and meet all eligibility requirements.