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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.
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.
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.
People Also Ask
Get answers to the most common questions about the Sunrise first-time homebuyer assistance program.
What is the Sunrise first-time homebuyer program?
The Sunrise first-time homebuyer program provides 0% interest, deferred-payment assistance for down payments and closing costs. Funded through HOME and SHIP allocations administered by Broward County, eligible buyers can receive financial help to purchase homes within Sunrise city limits.
How much down payment assistance can I get in Sunrise, FL?
Assistance amounts vary annually based on Broward County funding availability. The program typically provides tens of thousands of dollars to cover down payment and closing costs. Contact a participating lender for current maximum amounts for the 2026 fiscal year.
What are the income limits for the Sunrise homebuyer program?
Household income must be at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). For 2025-2026, limits are approximately: 1 person - $64,550, 2 people - $73,750, 3 people - $83,000, 4 people - $92,200, and 5 people - $99,600. These figures are set by HUD annually.
Do I have to pay back the Sunrise down payment assistance?
Repayment is only required if you sell, refinance for cash out, rent the property, or stop using it as your primary residence before the 15-year loan term ends. If you remain in the home for the full term, the deferred loan may be forgiven entirely.
What is the definition of a first-time homebuyer in Florida?
A first-time homebuyer is defined as someone who has not owned a principal residence in the past 3 years. This means if you owned a home 4+ years ago, you may still qualify for the Sunrise program as a first-time buyer under federal guidelines.
What types of properties are eligible for Sunrise homebuyer assistance?
Eligible properties include single-family homes, townhomes, villas, and condominiums located within Sunrise city limits. Mobile homes and cooperative housing (co-ops) are not eligible. The maximum purchase price for 2025-2026 is $636,806.
Is homebuyer education required for the Sunrise program?
Yes. All applicants must complete a mandatory 8-hour HUD-approved homebuyer education workshop before receiving assistance. This requirement is set by Broward County and ensures buyers understand the homeownership process and financial responsibilities.
How long does the Sunrise homebuyer assistance application take?
The initial eligibility check takes under 60 seconds. The full application process—including education, mortgage pre-approval, and funding approval—typically takes 30-60 days depending on document readiness and current program queue length.
Can I use the Sunrise program with FHA, VA, or conventional loans?
Yes. The Sunrise down payment assistance can be layered with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional first mortgages. VA loan users may have reduced buyer contribution requirements. Work with a participating lender familiar with Broward County program overlays.
What is the maximum home price for Sunrise first-time buyers?
For the 2025-2026 program year, the maximum purchase price is $636,806 for properties in eligible areas. The home must be located strictly within Sunrise municipal boundaries and meet all property inspection requirements.
Is the Sunrise homebuyer assistance a grant or a loan?
The assistance is structured as a 0% interest, deferred-payment second mortgage—not a grant. You make no monthly payments on this loan, and it may be forgiven after the 15-year affordability period if you maintain primary residency.
How do I apply for the Sunrise first-time homebuyer program?
Start by checking eligibility online, then complete HUD-approved homebuyer education. Next, get pre-approved by a participating lender and find an eligible property. Your lender submits the funding application to Broward County on your behalf.
