Program Overview
The Marion County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance program is designed to make homeownership accessible by covering the biggest hurdle: upfront costs. Assistance is provided as a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage. This is not a grant, but a "silent" loan that requires no monthly payments as long as you remain compliant with residency rules.
Assistance Limits (2026)
Per LHAP updates for FY 2025–2028.
-
1
Households ≤ 80% AMI
Up to $100,000
-
2
Households 120%–140% AMI
Up to $75,000
Actual award depends on eligibility, need, underwriting, and available funding.
Payback Rules
- No monthly payments required while you remain compliant.
- 20 or 30-year lien period (depending on assistance amount).
- Loan becomes due if you sell, rent out the home, transfer title, cash-out refinance, or no longer occupy the home as primary residence.
Eligibility Requirements
2026 Household Income Limits
Maximum annual income to qualify (140% AMI Threshold)
| Household Size | Max Income (140% AMI) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $75,600 |
| 2 Persons | $86,380 |
| 3 Persons | $97,160 |
| 4 Persons | $107,940 |
| 5 Persons | $116,620 |
| 6 Persons | $125,300 |
| 8 Persons | $145,520 |
How The Process Works
Check Eligibility
Complete the form below to connect with an approved lender. Do not go house hunting yet.
Get Pre-Approved
Obtain a pre-approval letter and tell the lender you want to apply for Marion County SHIP Purchase Assistance.
Education & Preparation
Complete the required homebuyer education class and set aside funds (~$4,000) for prepaid items like inspections.
Approval & Closing
Sign income certification and loan terms. Do not go under contract until you have the official approval letter from the County.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much down payment assistance can I get in Marion County?
Eligible first-time homebuyers in Marion County can receive up to $100,000 if their household income is at or below 80% AMI, or up to $75,000 for incomes between 120%–140% AMI. This assistance helps cover down payments and closing costs.
Is the Marion County down payment assistance a grant or a loan?
It is a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage, not a grant. No monthly payments are required as long as you occupy the home as your primary residence. Repayment is only triggered if you sell, refinance for cash, rent out the home, or transfer the title.
What are the income limits for the Marion County First Time Homebuyer Program?
For 2026, the maximum household income is capped at 140% of the Area Median Income (AMI). For a single person, the limit is $75,600, and for a family of four, it is $107,940. Limits vary by household size.
Do I have to pay back the Marion County down payment assistance?
Yes, eventually. The loan must be repaid in full if you sell the property, move out, rent it to others, or refinance to take cash out. However, as long as you live in the home and follow program rules, no monthly payments are due for the 20- or 30-year term.
What credit score is required for Marion County homebuyer assistance?
Applicants generally need a minimum credit score of 620 to qualify for the Marion County Purchase Assistance Program. You must also qualify for a first mortgage with a participating approved lender before applying for the county assistance.
Can I buy a house in Ocala with this program?
No. Properties located inside the city limits of Ocala are not eligible for this specific Marion County program. You must purchase a home in Marion County that lies outside of the Ocala municipal boundaries.
Who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer in Marion County?
You are considered a first-time homebuyer if you have not owned a home in the past three years. Additionally, you must be a Florida resident for at least two years and complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education class.
How long does it take to get approved for Marion County SHIP funds?
The process operates on a first-qualified, first-served basis. Once you have a lender pre-approval and submit your package, county review can take several weeks. Funding is not guaranteed, so you must not go under contract until you receive an official approval letter.
Can I use this program if I already own a home?
No. This program is exclusively for first-time homebuyers or those who haven't owned a home in the last three years. Current homeowners are not eligible. You must also intend to occupy the purchased property as your primary residence.
What happens if I sell my house before the lien period ends?
If you sell the home, transfer the title, or cease to use it as your primary residence during the 20- or 30-year lien term, the entire amount of the assistance becomes due and payable immediately to Marion County.
Do I need to take a class to qualify for assistance?
Yes. Completion of a homebuyer education class from a HUD-approved provider is a mandatory requirement. This certificate must be submitted as part of your application package to the county.
Ready to Stop Renting?
Funds are limited for the 2026 fiscal year. Check your eligibility today to secure up to $100,000 in assistance before funding runs out.
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