Orange County Housing and Community Development (HCD) is extending the temporary closure of the Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Program. This extension is necessary to allow additional time for the release of SHIP funding from the State. Although additional funding is anticipated, the State has not yet disbursed the funds necessary to resume normal program operations. During this temporary closure, HCD will continue to prioritize existing program participants who have received a Commitment Letter. No new applications will be accepted or processed. Applicants who have not received a Commitment Letter will be placed on a waitlist until additional funding becomes available.
While HCD anticipates receiving additional state funding, the timing of disbursement is unknown and remains outside the County's control. As such, the anticipated reopening date is subject to change based on the receipt and availability of funds, with an anticipated reopening date of March 1, 2027. Participants and their lenders are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Training for the updated DPA Program guidelines for buyers, lenders, realtors, housing counseling agencies, and community partners has been rescheduled for late January 2027. Registration information will be posted on the County's website. All interested parties are welcome to attend virtually. Updates regarding funding availability, closing timelines, the anticipated reopening date, and future program operations will be shared as additional information becomes available.
The DPA Program appreciates the community's continued interest, patience, and understanding as we await the State's disbursement of allocated funding and work to fulfill existing commitments.
For additional information please contact Dorenda Christian at 407-836-5172 or Marcia Owens at 407-836-5192.
The Down Payment Assistance Program provides funding to eligible first-time homebuyers to purchase a new or existing home in Orange County. The amount of assistance provided will be determined based on household income and size. The amount of assistance available is $70,000 for eligible very low-income buyers, $40,000 for low-income buyers, or $10,000 for eligible moderate-income buyers. All applicants must complete a pre-purchase homebuyer's education program and secure a first mortgage.
Ready to get started? Choose a HUD-approved Homebuyer Education Workshop below and click the registration link to enroll. (You only need to complete one of the courses)
Housing and Community Development Division 525 East South Street, Orlando, Florida 32801-2891 Email: housing@ocfl.net Phone: (407) 836-5171
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