How the Program Works

The City of Sunrise utilizes HOME and SHIP funds, administered by Broward County, to help first-time buyers bridge the gap between their savings and the cost of purchasing a home.

Down Payment & Closing Costs

Assistance can provide tens of thousands of dollars to cover your down payment and closing costs. Exact amounts are determined annually by Broward County based on funding availability.

0% Interest, Deferred Loan

The assistance is structured as a second mortgage with 0% interest and no monthly payments. It is generally a 15-year term deferred loan, meaning you pay nothing monthly.

Sunrise City Limits

To qualify for this specific allocation, the property must be a single-family home, townhome, or condo located within the municipal boundaries of the City of Sunrise.

Your Path to Homeownership in Sunrise

Navigating the purchase assistance process requires following a specific sequence. We guide you through every step to ensure you don't miss out on available 2026 funding.

1

Check Eligibility

Use our calculator to verify you meet income (80% AMI) and first-time buyer requirements before starting.

2

Homebuyer Education

Complete the mandatory 8-hour HUD-approved homebuyer education workshop required by Broward County.

3

Secure Financing

Obtain a first mortgage pre-approval from a participating lender who understands the Sunrise overlay.

4

Find a Home

Locate an eligible property (max price limits apply) within Sunrise city limits and submit for funding.

Start Step 1: Check Eligibility

Who Qualifies in 2026?

Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-qualified basis. While specific underwriting guidelines are managed by the Broward County Housing Finance Division, here are the core requirements:

First-Time Buyer: You have not owned a home in the last 3 years.
Income Limits: Household income generally must be at or below 80% AMI (e.g., approx. $92,200 for a family of 4).
Buyer Contribution: You must contribute at least 3% of the purchase price (unless using a VA loan).
Residency: You must occupy the home as your primary residence within 60 days of closing.

Status Update: Funding is categorized as "Limited Funds" for Sunrise. It is critical to get pre-qualified early to secure your spot in the queue.

Family moving into new home in Sunrise FL

Income Qualification Breakdown

To qualify for the 0% deferred loan, your total household income must generally be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). These figures are set annually by HUD and Broward County.

Maximum Household Income (80% AMI)

Estimates based on 2024-2025 Broward County figures

Household Size	Maximum Income Limit
1 Person	~ $64,550
2 People	~ $73,750
3 People	~ $83,000
4 People	$92,200
5 People	~ $99,600

Note: Income calculation includes gross income from all adult household members. Exact limits are subject to change based on the effective date of HUD's annual release.

Eligible Property Standards

Not every home on the market qualifies for city assistance. To protect your investment and comply with federal HOME fund regulations, the property must meet specific standards.

Property Types

Eligible: Single-family homes, Townhomes, Villas, and Condominiums.
Ineligible: Mobile homes, Cooperatives (Co-ops).

Purchase Price Limits

For 2025-2026, the maximum sales price is set at $636,806 for eligible areas. The home must be located strictly within Sunrise municipal limits.

Inspection Requirements

A comprehensive home inspection is mandatory. Any health or safety issues identified must be repaired before closing. The program focuses on safe, decent housing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this assistance a grant or a loan?

The Sunrise purchase assistance program typically takes the form of a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage. This means you do not make monthly payments on the assistance amount, and it does not accrue interest.

Do I have to pay the money back?

Repayment is generally only required if you sell the home, refinance for cash out, rent the property, or cease to occupy it as your primary residence before the loan term ends (typically 15 years). If you stay for the full term, the loan may be forgiven.

Can I buy a condo or townhouse?

Yes. Eligible properties in Sunrise include detached single-family homes, condominiums, townhouses, and villas. Mobile homes and cooperatives are generally not eligible for this program.

What if I owned a home 4 years ago?

You may still qualify. The definition of "first-time homebuyer" usually applies to anyone who has not had an ownership interest in a principal residence during the 3-year period ending on the date of purchase.

Sunrise First Time Homebuyer Program