Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones — but it can also feel overwhelming. Between understanding mortgage options, saving for a down payment, and navigating closing costs, there’s a lot to take in. That’s where Zarro Mortgage Group comes in.
We specialize in helping new buyers take their first confident step into homeownership through First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Martin & St. Lucie County, designed to make purchasing your first home more affordable and achievable.
Whether you’re dreaming of your first home in Stuart, Palm City, or Port St. Lucie, our local mortgage professionals guide you through every step — from prequalification to closing day.
What Is a First-Time Homebuyer Program?
A First-Time Homebuyer Program is a special mortgage or assistance program designed to help new buyers overcome common barriers like high down payments, limited credit history, or steep closing costs.
At Zarro Mortgage Group, we work with a range of national and local programs that can lower your costs, increase your purchasing power, and simplify the process of buying your first home.
These programs include government-backed loans (like FHA, USDA, and VA loans) and local assistance options that provide grants or forgivable loans for down payments and closing costs.
👉 Learn more about your options on our Mortgage Loan Programs page.
Am I Considered a First-Time Homebuyer?
The term “first-time homebuyer” might be broader than you think. Even if you’ve owned a home before, you may still qualify if:
- You haven’t owned a home in the past three years.
- You’re a single parent who previously owned a home with a former spouse.
- You’ve owned property that wasn’t your primary residence (like an investment home).
Our team will review your situation and help determine which first-time homebuyer programs you qualify for in Florida.
Popular First-Time Homebuyer Loan Options
Zarro Mortgage Group offers several loan programs that make it easier for first-time buyers to become homeowners. Here are some of the most popular:
1. FHA Loans
FHA loans are government-backed by the Federal Housing Administration and are one of the most common choices for first-time buyers.
- Down payments as low as 3.5%.
- Flexible credit requirements.
- Competitive interest rates. Learn more about this option on our FHA Loans page.
2. USDA Loans
If you’re buying in a rural or suburban area, a USDA home loan in Florida may allow you to purchase with no down payment required.
- 100% financing available.
- Low fixed rates.
- Ideal for buyers in eligible areas like Palm City and Port St. Lucie. See full details on our USDA Loans page.v
3. VA Loans
For veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible spouses, VA Loans offer incredible benefits.
- Zero down payment.
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI).
- Flexible credit requirements. Visit our VA Loans page to learn more.
4. Conventional 3% Down Programs
Conventional loans often require strong credit, but for first-time buyers, programs like Fannie Mae HomeReady® and Freddie Mac Home Possible® allow you to buy with just 3% down.
- Down payments from 3–5%.
- Lower PMI than FHA.
- Eligible for income-based discounts. Check our Conventional Loans page for details.
Local Florida First-Time Homebuyer Assistance
In addition to federal programs, there are state and county-level assistance programs available to homebuyers in Martin and St. Lucie Counties.
These programs often include:
- Down payment assistance (DPA) in the form of forgivable loans or grants.
- Closing cost assistance for qualified borrowers.
- Reduced mortgage insurance or rate incentives for moderate-income buyers.
Zarro Mortgage Group’s team stays up-to-date on all available Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) programs and can connect you with the best fit based on your income, home price, and location.
First-Time Buyer Requirements
Each loan program has its own qualification guidelines, but generally, you’ll need:
- A credit score of 580–620+.
- A steady income with verifiable employment.
- A debt-to-income (DTI) ratio below 43%.
- Proof of funds for your down payment and closing costs (if applicable).
If you’re unsure where to start, try our Mortgage Affordability Calculator to estimate your home price range.
Advantages of First-Time Homebuyer Programs
✅ Lower Down Payments
Many programs allow you to purchase with 0–3.5% down.
✅ Easier Credit Qualifications
Government-backed loans are designed for accessibility.
✅ Down Payment Assistance
Grants and forgivable loans can help with upfront costs.
✅ Flexible Terms
Fixed and adjustable-rate options available.
✅ Educational Resources
Access to first-time buyer counseling and budgeting tools.
At Zarro Mortgage Group, we’ll help you combine multiple programs and strategies to lower your upfront and monthly costs.
How the First-Time Buyer Process Works
We simplify every step so you can focus on finding the right home—not worrying about paperwork.
- Get Prequalified: Use our Mortgage Payment Calculator to estimate what you can afford, then get prequalified online.
- Choose Your Loan Program: We’ll walk you through FHA, USDA, VA, and Conventional options to match your financial goals.
- Find Your Home: Once you’re prequalified, you’ll know exactly how much you can offer with confidence.
- Submit Your Application: Our digital tools make submitting and signing documents fast and secure.
- Close & Move In: Enjoy personalized support from application to closing day.
Tips for First-Time Homebuyers
- Save Early: Even if your loan requires little down, extra funds cover inspections and moving costs.
- Check Your Credit: Review your score and dispute any errors before applying.
- Get Preapproved: Sellers take your offer more seriously when financing is ready.
- Don’t Forget Closing Costs: Expect 2–6% of your home price in fees.
- Work With a Local Expert: A lender who knows Martin & St. Lucie County can match you with the right programs and local incentives.
👉 Learn more about the homebuying process in our guide: Buying Your First Home in Stuart, FL
Compare Loan Options
| Program | Down Payment | Credit Score | Mortgage Insurance | Income Limits | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FHA Loan | 3.5% | 580+ | Yes | No | Buyers with limited credit |
| USDA Loan | 0% | 620+ | Low | Yes | Rural & suburban buyers |
| VA Loan | 0% | 620+ | None | No | Veterans & active-duty members |
| Conventional Loan | 3–20% | 620+ | PMI if <20% | No | Buyers with stronger credit |
