FTB Program
For Very-Low & Low Income
- Up to $50,000 for Very Low Income (<50% AMI)
- Up to $40,000 for Low Income (51-80% AMI)
- 0% interest, 15-year deferred loan
- Forgivable if conditions are met
Updated for 2026 Guidelines
Miramar First Time Home Buyer Program
Access up to $50,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. Zero-interest, deferred loans for eligible buyers.
Programs available for Very-Low, Low, and Moderate Income households.
$50k
Max Assistance Available
0%
Interest Rate on Second Mortgage
$165k
Max Household Income (MIMA)
Two Pathways to Homeownership
The City of Miramar offers two distinct programs to help you buy your first home in 2026. Choose the path that fits your income level.
MIMA Program
For Moderate Income
- Up to $30,000 (Max 10% of purchase price)
- Income limit up to $165,000/year
- Deferred second mortgage, interest-free
- Use for Down Payment & Closing Costs
Am I Eligible?
To qualify for either the FTB or MIMA programs in 2026, applicants must meet specific criteria regarding residency, income, and property type.
First-Time Buyer Status
You must not have owned a home in the last 3 years (exceptions exist for displaced homemakers & others).
Residency & Property
The home must be in Miramar city limits and be your primary residence. Eligible properties include Single-Family, Townhomes, Condos, and Villas.
Buyer Contribution
You must contribute at least 1% of the sales price from your own funds.
Education
Completion of an 8-hour HUD-approved homebuyer education course is required.
Income Limits & Funding Amounts
Your maximum assistance amount is determined by your total household income relative to the Area Median Income (AMI). Check which tier matches your situation.
Tier 1: Very Low
Less than 50% AMI
$50,000
Maximum Assistance
- Part of FTB Program
- 15-year deferred loan
- 0% Interest Rate
Tier 2: Low
51% – 80% AMI
$40,000
Maximum Assistance
- Part of FTB Program
- 15-year deferred loan
- 0% Interest Rate
Tier 3: Moderate
MIMA Program
$30,000
Max (10% of Purchase Price)
- Cap: $165k Household Income
- Interest-free second mortgage
- Can use for Principal Reduction
How It Works
Navigating city grants can be complex. We simplify the process into three main stages.
1
Pre-Screening
Contact a participating lender to get a fully underwritten pre-approval letter. We check your income against the 2026 limits and verify your credit readiness.
2
Education & Intake
Complete the required 8-hour HUD-approved homebuyer course. Submit your application packet to the city's consultant (CRAI) during the open intake window.
3
Approval & Closing
Once funds are reserved, you shop for a home in Miramar. The city provides the funds at closing as a deferred, zero-interest second mortgage.
Check Your Eligibility
Complete the form below to see if you qualify for the 2026 Miramar First Time Home Buyer programs. It takes less than 2 minutes.
Your information is secure and will be used solely for eligibility assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the application process, repayment terms, and property eligibility.
Do I have to pay back the assistance money?
For the FTB (Very Low/Low Income) program, the loan is 0% interest and deferred for 15 years. It is forgivable if you live in the home for the full term. For the MIMA program, it is also a deferred interest-free second mortgage, but repayment is triggered if you sell, refinance, rent out the property, or lose your Homestead Exemption.
Can I buy a home outside of Miramar?
No. Since this program is funded by the City of Miramar (and specific allocations like SHIP/HOME for the city), the property must be located within the corporate city limits of Miramar to qualify.
Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer?
Yes, generally you must not have owned a home in the last 3 years. However, there are exceptions for "displaced homemakers" (e.g., after a divorce) or single parents who only owned a home with a former spouse.
Do I need my own money for a down payment?
Yes. Borrowers are required to contribute a minimum of 1% of the sales price from your own verifiable funds. Gift funds can be used, but only after you have met the 1% minimum contribution yourself.
What types of properties are eligible?
Eligible properties include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, villas, and manufactured homes built after 1994. Mobile homes built before 1994 and cooperatives are not eligible.
What is the maximum income to qualify?
For the MIMA (Moderate Income) program, the maximum household income is currently capped at $165,000 per year. For the FTB program, limits are lower and based on AMI percentages (50% for Very Low, 80% for Low).
Can I rent the house out later?
No. The home must remain your primary residence. If you rent the property, move out, or lose your Homestead Exemption, the full amount of the assistance may become immediately due and payable.