Family Consumer Sciences in Washington & Holmes Counties

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My Florida Home – First-Time Homebuyer Program

Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Our Homebuyer Education Program is a 6-hour class that helps you:

• Understand the homebuying process
• Learn about the costs of owning a home
• Discover simple ways to take care of your home and save money on repairs

If you are applying for SHIP or USDA Rural Development funds, you must complete this class before you can get help.

Class Schedule

You must register ahead of time for the SHIP class.
Call (850) 638-6265 or (850) 547-1108 to sign up.

Steps to Apply for SHIP Funds

1. Complete the First-Time Homebuyer Education Class.
2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage loan from a lender.
3. Have a signed Home Sales Contract.
4. Ask your lender to contact Emerald Coast Regional Council (ECRC) at 850-332-7976 ext. 206 or email Kelly.Oomens@ecrc.org. They will check if funds are available and give you the SHIP application packet.
5. Your mortgage must be fixed-rate. No adjustable rates, balloon loans, zero amortization, pre-payment penalties, or owner financing.
6. If needed, your lender will help you complete the SHIP packet.
7. The lender will send your application to ECRC to see if you qualify for funds.

Note: SHIP funding is limited each year for first-time homebuyers.