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Homebuyer Assistance 2026

Citrus County Down Payment Assistance Program

Get up to $25,000 toward an eligible home purchase in Citrus County. The assistance carries 0% interest, no scheduled monthly payments, and forgiveness after 15 years when all requirements are met.

*Verification of eligibility required.

Up to $25k Maximum Purchase Assistance
0% Interest Deferred Assistance Loan
15 Years Loan Forgiveness Term

Program Guidelines & Assistance Levels

Citrus County's SHIP Purchase Assistance Program Without Rehabilitation helps income-qualified buyers purchase an eligible existing home.

Available Assistance

  • Very Low Income

    Up to $25,000 in purchase assistance for an eligible household.

  • Low Income

    Up to $25,000 in purchase assistance for an eligible household.

  • Moderate Income

    Up to $25,000, subject to the program's income priorities, demonstrated need, and available funds.

Core Requirements

  • Meet the household-size income limit for a very low, low, or eligible moderate income household.
  • Obtain prequalification for an approved fixed-rate first mortgage.
  • Purchase an eligible existing home in Citrus County that meets housing-quality and inspection requirements.
  • Use the home as your primary residence; mobile homes, manufactured homes, and homes with in-ground pools are excluded.

Path to Homeownership: 4 Key Steps

A clear path from your mortgage review to your new home in Citrus County.

1

Get Prequalified

Ask your lender to review your income, credit, and eligibility for fixed-rate financing.

2

Prepare Your Application

Gather household income, asset, and mortgage documents for Citrus County Housing Services.

3

Choose an Eligible Home

Find an existing home that meets the program's price, property, and inspection requirements.

4

Complete Approval

The county reviews your eligibility and property before approving assistance. Complete the loan and closing requirements before funds are applied.

Why Utilize Down Payment Assistance?

Citrus County purchase assistance can reduce the savings you need for an eligible existing home. The county loan is deferred and has no interest while you meet its requirements.

  • Reduce Upfront Costs

    Apply approved assistance toward eligible costs of purchasing your primary home.

  • Keep Monthly Costs Clear

    The assistance loan has no scheduled monthly payment during its 15-year term.

  • Forgiveness After 15 Years

    The assistance balance is forgiven at the end of the term if you satisfy the loan conditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers for homebuyers in Citrus County.

How much purchase assistance can I receive in Citrus County?

Eligible households may receive up to $25,000 under the Purchase Assistance Program Without Rehabilitation. The award depends on need, income eligibility, funding priorities, and available funds.

Is this a grant or a loan?

It is a 0% deferred subordinate loan with a 15-year term. There are no scheduled monthly payments. The balance is forgiven at the end of 15 years if you meet the program conditions.

What are the income limits?

Limits vary by household size. For a four-person household in 2026, the very low-income limit is $39,900, the low-income limit is $63,850, and the moderate-income limit is $95,760.

What type of property can I buy?

This strategy is for an eligible existing home in Citrus County that meets housing-quality standards. Your first lender and the county must approve the property and financing.

Can I use the program for a manufactured home?

No. Mobile and manufactured homes are excluded from this purchase-assistance strategy. Homes with in-ground swimming pools are also excluded.

Does this assistance pay for repairs?

This is the Purchase Assistance Program Without Rehabilitation. The home must meet the applicable condition and inspection standards; a separate rehabilitation award is not included in this program.

What mortgage do I need?

You need prequalification for an approved fixed-rate first mortgage. Your lender and Citrus County review the financing before final assistance approval.

When would I have to repay the assistance?

A sale, transfer, loss of primary occupancy, or another default under your loan documents can trigger repayment before forgiveness. Review those terms with the county before closing.

How do I start the application process?

Start with first-mortgage prequalification and prepare your household income and asset documents. Citrus County Housing Services reviews the assistance application and property requirements.

Is the eligibility form a county application?

No. This is a private mortgage inquiry with Next Wave Mortgage, LLC. It does not replace the county's application, reserve funds, or guarantee assistance approval.

Buy Your Home in Citrus County

Start with a mortgage review and find out how purchase assistance could fit your budget. The county determines your award after reviewing household eligibility, the property, and available funds.

Start Your Check Now