First time home buyers in Hillsborough County still have some great financing loan programs available in 2025. Among the most popular are the government-backed mortgage loan programs like USDA and FHA. USDA Rural Housing still offers 100% NO money down financing in selected parts of Hillsborough, Manatee and Pasco County.
Many fast-growing locations just outside of Tampa may still be eligible for the 100% USDA mortgage program. Example: Wesley Chapel, Lutz, Odessa, Riverview, Ruskin, Brandon, Sun City and Valrico may still be eligible.
Not only is the USDA program 100% financing, but it can be used by any home buyer, just not first time buyers. Buyers can also include closing costs into their loan, or have them paid via concessions from the home seller. In addition, the USDA rural housing program can be used with any single-family home, no matter who the seller is. The physical location of the home is the key eligibility factor with USDA. Please read all the basic USDA loan requirements in Florida.
For home buyers interested in the more populated locations like metro Tampa or St. Petersburg – the FHA loan is a fantastic option.
- FHA home loans require only 3.5% down payment for home purchases – up to 96.5% financing.
- 100% FHA loans is also now permitted for eligible first-time buyers, with new down payment assistance.
- FHA home loans are secure and backed by the US Government and have NO prepayment penalty.
- Homebuyers can use gift funds to help pay for the down payment and closing costs expenses.
- Closing costs can also be paid by the seller of the home.
- FHA home loans are secure fixed terms at low market interest rates. Interest rates are very comparable to conventional loans that require a large down payment.
- No household income restrictions.
- FHA mortgages are for ANY new & existing single family residence, town home or FHA approved condo. The property being purchased can be a regular sale, short sale, foreclosure home, etc.
- Co-signers and non-occupying home buyers are also permitted!
Questions? Just submit the quick info request form on this page to have a specialist call you today. You can also learn more about the 100% USDA loan or FHA loan by calling 800-743-7556.