Bradenton's SHIP plan allows up to $50,000 for first-time buyers, including up to $10,000 for closing costs, as a low-payment 0% loan.
How is Bradenton's purchase assistance different?
The City of Bradenton Planning & Community Development department holds a 2026-29 Local Housing Assistance Plan, approved by Florida Housing, that includes Purchase Assistance of up to $50,000 for very low to moderate income first-time buyers, with up to $10,000 of that for closing costs. Unlike most Florida SHIP loans, this one is not purely deferred. It is a 0% loan with a 20-year term and a minimum payment of $50 a month. If you stay in good standing, the unpaid balance is forgiven at the end.
That small payment counts in your debt-to-income ratio, so tell your lender about it early. The plan sets the terms, but the program's current status was not confirmed on a City page, so call the City housing office to ask whether funds are available and how to apply. Because the plan limits help to first-time buyers, have proof that you have not owned a home recently ready. Over 20 years the required payments add up to at least $12,000, which is far less than the full award, and the rest is forgiven if you keep the loan in good standing.
Manatee County has more options than most counties. The county's SHIP Purchase Assistance lists up to $70,000 and is also funding-dependent. The Key to Homeownership program is open and pairs up to $15,000 in down payment help with a mortgage credit certificate at a 20% credit rate. Teachers in the School District of Manatee County and Bradenton Police or Manatee County EMS staff can check Florida Hometown Heroes as well. The Manatee County guide explains how the county layers combine.
Buyers in Bradenton also have 3 statewide programs to draw on, Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program among them. Browse every Florida program or let the program search narrow it down.
Nearly every down payment program makes you finish a homebuyer class before closing. These HUD-approved agencies around Manatee County teach one or offer one-on-one counseling before you buy.
From HUD's list of housing counseling agencies. A given program may accept only certain classes.
Which class counts for you? Your loan officer knows which courses each Florida program accepts and can start your pre-approval in the same conversation. Start with the 2-minute check
Bradenton, asked and answered
How much is Bradenton purchase assistance?
Up to $50,000 under the City's 2026-29 SHIP plan, with up to $10,000 for closing costs.
Do I make payments on Bradenton's loan?
Yes, a minimum of $50 a month on a 0% loan with a 20-year term. The unpaid balance is forgiven at the end if you are in good standing.
What Manatee County programs are open?
Key to Homeownership (up to $15,000 plus an MCC) is open; the county SHIP program is funding-dependent.
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