How much down payment assistance can I get in Clay County?

Qualified first-time homebuyers in Clay County can receive up to $30,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance through the SHIP program. Current funding rounds typically offer between $20,000 and $30,000 depending on availability and program guidelines for the specific fiscal year.

Do I have to pay back the Clay County SHIP loan?

Yes, the assistance is not forgivable. It is structured as a 0% interest, deferred second mortgage. You are not required to make monthly payments, but the full principal balance becomes due if you sell the home, refinance, transfer the title, or no longer occupy the property as your primary residence.

Who is eligible for Clay County down payment assistance?

Eligibility requires you to be a first-time homebuyer (or have not owned a home in the last 3 years), have a minimum credit score of 640, and permanently reside in the United States. You must also purchase a home within Clay County and occupy it as your primary residence within 60 days of closing.

What are the income limits for Clay County SHIP?

For 2026, estimated household income limits are approximately $78,865 for 1-2 person households and $90,694 for households with 3 or more people. Income is calculated based on all adults (18+) living in the home and is verified using an IRS-based process.

What credit score is needed for Clay County DPA?

Applicants generally need a minimum FICO credit score of 640 to qualify for the Clay County SHIP purchase assistance strategy. This credit requirement applies to the primary borrower and any co-borrowers on the loan application.

Can I use the assistance for closing costs?

Yes, Clay County SHIP funds can be used for the down payment and/or closing costs associated with purchasing your home. This helps reduce the total amount of cash you need to bring to the closing table.

What properties are eligible for the program?

Eligible properties include new or existing single-family homes, condominiums, and townhomes located within Clay County. Mobile homes are not eligible for this specific purchase assistance strategy. The property must be 1-4 units.

When do I have to repay the assistance loan?

Repayment is triggered when you sell the property, transfer title/conveyance, refinance or pay off the first mortgage, lose your homestead exemption status, or convert the home to a rental property (cease occupying it as your primary residence).

Is homebuyer education required?

Yes, completion of a program-approved pre-purchase homebuyer education course is mandatory. This course covers the responsibilities of homeownership and must be completed prior to closing on the home.

What is the maximum purchase price allowed?

The Clay County program currently lists a purchase price limit of $322,925. While statewide SHIP limits may be higher ($602,915), the local county program cap often takes precedence for this specific assistance strategy.

Clay County Down Payment Assistance Program

Clay County Down Payment
Assistance Program

Secure up to $30,000 in purchase assistance. 0% interest. Deferred payment. Designed for first-time homebuyers.

Takes less than 60 seconds • No impact on credit score

2026 Funding Status

65% Claimed

Funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Program Overview

The Clay County SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) provides substantial down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers. This initiative is designed to make homeownership affordable within Clay County limits.

The 2025–2028 SHIP plan authorizes awards up to $30,000, with current rounds typically advertising up to $20,000 depending on funding availability.

Loan Structure & Repayment

Deferred Payment:
No monthly payments are required as long as you remain in compliance.
30-Year Term:
The loan is secured by a second mortgage with a 0% interest rate.

Repayment Triggers:
Due if you sell, refinance, transfer title, lose homestead exemption, or stop occupying as primary residence.

Eligibility Requirements (2026)

Borrower Checklist

First-time homebuyer status
Minimum 640 FICO score
Primary residence occupancy required
Must reside in U.S. permanently

Property Rules

Must be located in Clay County
Single-family, Condos, Townhomes
1-4 Unit properties eligible
Mobile homes are not eligible

Household Income Limits

The program serves Very Low, Low, and Moderate income households.

Up to 140% AMI

The SHIP plan authorizes assistance for households earning up to 140% of the Area Median Income.

Published Caps for FHA / USDA-RD / VA Loans

~$78,865 1-2 Person Household

~$90,694 3+ Person Household

*Income is broadly defined (borrowers, spouses, and other adults 18+) and verified using an IRS-based process. Actual limits depend on your specific loan type and funding availability.

Purchase Price Limits

While statewide SHIP limits may be higher, Clay County's local program cap is currently listed at $322,925.

Note: Pre-purchase homebuyer education is mandatory.

Serving Communities Across Clay County

The SHIP program is available for properties located anywhere within the designated limits of Clay County, Florida. Whether you are looking for a quiet rural setting or a suburban neighborhood, your down payment assistance travels with you.

From the historic charm of Green Cove Springs to the bustling avenues of Orange Park, we help first-time homebuyers put down roots in our community.

See If You Qualify

Clay County Down Payment
Assistance Program

2026 Funding Status

Program Overview

Loan Structure & Repayment

Eligibility Requirements (2026)

Borrower Checklist

Property Rules

Household Income Limits

Published Caps for FHA / USDA-RD / VA Loans

Purchase Price Limits

Your Path to Homeownership

Check Eligibility

Get Pre-Approved

Education

Find a Home

Closing

Serving Communities Across Clay County

Orange Park

Middleburg

Green Cove Springs

Fleming Island

Oakleaf Plantation

Keystone Heights

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Buy Your First Home?