Beautiful single-family home in Columbia County Florida with green lawn representing home ownership opportunities through down payment assistance program

● 2026 Program Guidelines Active

Columbia County Down Payment Assistance Program

Q: What is the maximum home price allowed?

The purchase price or value of the home cannot exceed $253,000. This cap applies to both new construction homes and existing single-family residences purchased through the program.

Secure up to $30,000 in funding to purchase your home. Local SHIP funds are available now for eligible buyers.

See If You Qualify

No repayment required*

What is the Columbia County Program?

The Columbia County Down Payment Assistance Program is the local implementation of Florida's State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP). It provides subordinate mortgage loans to eligible homebuyers to assist with down payments and closing costs. This initiative is designed to increase housing stability and help local residents bridge the financial gap to homeownership.

Financial Bridge

Reduces the upfront cash required to close on a home.

Local Administration

Managed locally to serve the specific needs of Columbia County residents.

Maximum Assistance

$30,000

For Very Low Income Buyers

Interest Rate

Deferred Second Mortgage

Loan Term

10 Years

Forgivable annually

Program Strategies

Columbia County SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) offers assistance through two primary strategies administered locally by the Suwannee River Economic Council.

Purchase Assistance with Rehab

Code 01 Strategy. Designed for existing homes that require repairs.

✓ Covers Down Payment
✓ Covers Closing Costs
✓ Covers Necessary Repairs

Purchase Assistance without Rehab

Code 02 Strategy. Designed for new construction or move-in ready homes.

✓ Covers Down Payment
✓ Covers Closing Costs
✕ No Repairs Included

Funding Structure & Terms

This is not free cash. It is a 0% deferred loan secured by a recorded subordinate mortgage.

Interest Rate: 0% Fixed
Loan Term: 10 Years
Forgiveness: 10% per year
Repayment: Not required*

Assistance Limits

Income Level	Max Award
Very Low Income	$30,000
Low Income	$25,000
Moderate Income	$20,000

Key Eligibility Rules

1
Buyer Contribution You must contribute 1% of the sales price from your own funds.
2
Purchase Price Cap The sales price or value cannot exceed $253,000.
3
Education Required Completion of a Home Ownership course is mandatory.
4
Private Financing If not using a bank, interest is capped at 8% and SHIP must be in primary lien position.

2026 Income Limits

Household income must not exceed these limits (Effective 4/1/2026 projected).

Household Size	Very Low	Low (80%)	Mod (120%)
1 Person	$26,850	$42,950	$64,440
2 People	$30,650	$49,050	$73,560
3 People	$34,500	$55,200	$82,800
4 People	$38,300	$61,300	$91,920
5 People	$41,400	$66,250	$99,360
6 People	$44,450	$71,150	$106,680

Who Is This Program Perfect For?

🏠

First-Time Homebuyers

Perfect for those entering the market who have the income to support a mortgage but need help bridging the gap for the down payment and closing costs.

💼

Low-to-Moderate Income

Specifically designed for households earning between very low and moderate income levels (up to 120% AMI), ensuring help goes where it is needed most.

🛠️

Fixer-Upper Buyers

Under Strategy 01, buyers willing to purchase older homes can receive funds not just for purchase, but for essential repairs to ensure safety.

Serving Communities Across Columbia County

The Columbia County SHIP program is available for eligible properties located throughout the county, including incorporated cities and unincorporated areas.

Lake City Fort White Watertown Five Points Columbia City Lulu Mikesville Deep Creek Winfield

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Columbia County SHIP program a loan or a grant?

It is a 0% interest deferred loan, not a grant. However, repayment is not required as long as the loan remains in good standing. The loan is forgiven at a rate of 10% per year over a 10-year term. If you live in the home for the full 10 years, the lien is satisfied.

How much down payment assistance can I get?

The amount depends on your income bracket. Very Low Income applicants can receive up to $30,000. Low Income applicants are eligible for up to $25,000, and Moderate Income applicants can receive up to $20,000. These funds cover down payment and closing costs.

What is the income limit for Columbia County assistance?

Income limits vary by household size. For 2026, the projected limits for a 4-person household are:

Very Low: $38,300
Low: $61,300
Moderate: $91,920

Limits are subject to annual adjustments by Florida Housing.

Can I buy a mobile or manufactured home?

Yes. Manufactured housing is eligible for purchase assistance strategies as long as the unit is no older than 5 years. The home must also meet all applicable Florida Building Code standards.

Do I have to contribute my own money?

Yes. The program requires a minimum buyer contribution of 1% of the sales price. This ensures the buyer has a vested interest in the property. This contribution must come from your own verifiable funds.

What is the maximum home price allowed?

The purchase price or value of the home cannot exceed $253,000. This cap applies to both new construction homes and existing single-family residences purchased through the program.

Can I buy a house that needs repairs?

Yes, under Strategy Code 01 (Purchase Assistance with Rehab). This allows you to use funds for down payment, closing costs, and necessary repairs to bring an existing home up to code.

Do I need to take a homebuyer education class?

Yes. Completion of a Home Ownership course from a HUD-approved agency or a provider approved by Columbia County is a mandatory requirement for eligibility.

Who administers the Columbia County SHIP program?

The program is funded by Florida Housing and administered locally, commonly through the Suwannee River Economic Council, Inc., which handles application processing and income verification for the county.

What if I sell my home before 10 years?

If the property is sold, transferred, or no longer your primary residence within the 10-year term, the recapture provisions of the lien agreement are triggered, and you may be required to repay the balance of the loan.

Ready to Stop Renting?

Funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't miss your chance to secure up to $30,000 in down payment assistance.

See If You Qualify