Stop renting. Start owning. Qualified buyers can receive up to $60,000 in purchase assistance. 0% Interest • Deferred Payments • 100% Forgivable
0%
Interest Rate
$60k
Max Benefit
5yr
Forgivable Term
Based on household income, you may receive significant funding to cover down payment and closing costs.
Structured as a deferred, forgivable second mortgage with absolutely no interest accrued over the 5-year term.
Exclusive to eligible buyers purchasing single-family homes, condos, or townhouses within city limits.
Follow these four steps to secure your down payment assistance in 2026. The program operates on a first-come, first-qualified basis.
Obtain pre-approval for a first mortgage from a SHIP-eligible lender to verify purchasing power.
Complete the mandatory 8-hour homebuyer workshop and receive your certificate of completion.
Find a home within Winter Haven city limits that meets the value cap ($510k - $544k).
Submit your complete application package to the City for final funding approval and closing.
To qualify for the City of Winter Haven SHIP Purchase Assistance program in 2026, applicants must meet specific criteria regarding location, ownership history, and financial standing.
Current documentation lists conflicting purchase price caps between $510,939 and $544,243. We will help you verify the exact cap for the 2026 funding year before you go under contract.
Eligibility is determined by total household gross income. Figures include wages, assets, and other resources.
| Household Size | Very Low (50%) | Low (80%) | Moderate (120%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $29,200 | $46,700 | $70,080 |
| 2 Persons | $33,350 | $53,350 | $80,040 |
| 3 Persons | $37,500 | $60,000 | $90,000 |
| 4 Persons | $41,650 | $66,650 | $99,960 |
| 5 Persons | $45,000 | $72,000 | $108,000 |
| 6 Persons | $48,350 | $77,350 | $116,040 |
| 7 Persons | $51,650 | $82,650 | $123,960 |
| 8 Persons | $55,000 | $88,000 | $132,000 |
*Income limits shown are based on latest City SHIP publications. Official 2026 limits are subject to HUD/FHFC updates.
Incomplete applications are not processed. Prepare these documents to ensure a smooth approval process.
The Winter Haven down payment assistance program covers specific types of homes. Ensure your potential new home falls into one of these categories.
Traditional detached homes located within city limits.
Attached single-family units with shared walls.
Units within a larger complex (HOA fees must be factored).
Note: Mobile homes and manufactured homes are not eligible for this program.
Common questions about the Winter Haven SHIP assistance program.
It is a deferred, forgivable loan. This means it has 0% interest and requires no monthly payments. If you live in the home for the full 5-year term, the loan is forgiven.
If you sell, refinance (cash-out), transfer title, or cease to occupy the home as your primary residence within the 5-year period, you may be required to repay the assistance funds.
For this program, you are considered a first-time homebuyer if you have not owned a home in the last 3 years. Even if you owned a home 10 years ago, you may still qualify.
Yes. You must obtain a pre-approval from a SHIP-eligible lender. Not all mortgage companies are approved to work with the City of Winter Haven's assistance program.
