First Time Home Buyer
Purpose-built programs and hands-on guidance to make your first home purchase as smooth — and affordable — as possible.
Down Payment
As low as 3–3.5%
Credit Score Min
580+
Loan Limits
Varies by program
Best For
First-time buyers, no ownership in 3 years
A collection of programs designed to lower the barrier to entry
First-time home buyer programs aren't a single loan product — they're a collection of programs, benefits, and loan structures specifically designed to lower the barrier to entry for people purchasing their first home. These programs can include reduced down payment requirements, down payment assistance grants, below-market interest rates, and closing cost help.
At First Look Home Loans, we specialize in identifying which combination of programs is right for your specific situation. That might mean a conventional loan with 3% down, an FHA loan with 3.5% down, or a program that combines a first mortgage with a second mortgage to cover your down payment — potentially allowing you to buy with very little out of pocket.
Florida has several strong state-level programs worth knowing about, including the Florida Hometown Heroes program for eligible community workforce employees. These programs have limited funding and specific eligibility requirements, so timing matters. We stay current on what's available and will match you with the best combination for your goals.
First-Time Buyer Programs at a glance
- Down payment assistance programs may be available
- Access to special low-rate first-time buyer programs
- Educational guidance through every step of the process
- Can be combined with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional
- Credit score requirements vary by program
Who qualifies as a first-time home buyer?
You don't have to have literally never owned a home. For most programs, you simply need to not have owned a primary residence in the past three years — which means more people qualify than you might think.
No ownership in the past 3 years
Anyone who hasn't owned a primary residence in the last 36 months — even if they owned before.
Recent graduates
New grads starting their first career and ready to transition from renting to owning.
Solo first-time buyers
Single buyers purchasing a home for the first time on their own income.
Long-term renters
Those who have rented for years and are finally ready to build equity instead of paying someone else's mortgage.
Eligible community workers
Teachers, nurses, firefighters, and other qualifying occupations who may qualify for Florida Hometown Heroes.
Limited savings buyers
Those who need help with the down payment through assistance grants or second mortgage programs.
Key Benefits
Low Down Payment Options
Get into a home with as little as 3% down on conventional or 3.5% on FHA — making homeownership accessible even without large savings.
Down Payment Assistance
State and local programs may provide grants or second mortgage assistance to help cover your down payment or closing costs entirely.
Education & Support
We're an education-based mortgage company. First-time buyers get extra time and plain-English explanations at every step — no jargon, no pressure.
Requirements
Common questions
Comparing your options?
These loan programs are commonly used by first-time buyers.
Let's find the right first-time buyer program for you.
We'll walk you through every option, explain what you qualify for, and handle the details. Apply online or reach out to talk through your situation first.
NMLS #1898199 · Austin Williams NMLS #885656 · Equal Housing Opportunity