Beautiful Pensacola home eligible for ARPA down payment assistance program

2026 Program Guidelines

Pensacola ARPA Down Payment Assistance Program

Q: How do I apply for the Pensacola ARPA program?

You must apply through a participating lender. The City of Pensacola maintains a list of approved lenders for this program. To get started, check your eligibility using the form below, and we can connect you with the next steps.

Qualifying homebuyers may receive up to $30,000 in assistance. Administered by the City of Pensacola Housing Department.

See If You Qualify

2026 Funding Status 65% Claimed

Funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Up to $30,000

Assistance for down payment and closing costs.
0% Deferred Loan

No monthly payments required on the assistance amount.
City Sponsored

Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Program Overview & Eligibility

The City of Pensacola Homebuyer Incentive Program (COPHIP-ARPA) provides significant financial assistance to make homeownership attainable in 2026.

Property Requirements

✓ Location: Must be within Pensacola city limits.
✓ Occupancy: Must occupy the home as your principal residence.
✓ Price Limit: Purchase price must not exceed current Florida Housing Finance Corporation annual limits.

Borrower Requirements

✓ Education: Must complete an 8-hour HUD-certified homebuyer education class (e.g., CEII, Pensacola Habitat for Humanity).
✓ Lender: Must qualify with a City participating lender.
✓ Income: Household income must fall within the program's maximum eligibility limits.

Note: This program is administered by the City of Pensacola Housing Department, not the Escambia Housing Authority. Funds are provided as a 0% deferred payment loan to eligible buyers.

Step-by-Step Guide

Your Path to Homeownership

Navigating the Pensacola ARPA program is straightforward when you know the steps. Here is how the process typically works for 2026 applicants.

Check Eligibility

Use the form on this site to request an initial assessment. We verify if your household income and property goals align with program limits.

Partner with Lender

You must be pre-approved by a City participating lender. These lenders are trained on the COPHIP-ARPA guidelines and paperwork.

Complete Education

Attend the mandatory 8-hour HUD-certified homebuyer education class. This certificate is required before your loan can close.

Find & Close

Locate a home within Pensacola city limits. Your lender submits the file to the City for final funding approval, providing up to $30,000 at closing.

Required Homebuyer Education

To ensure sustainable homeownership, the City of Pensacola requires all program participants to complete an 8-hour homebuyer education course. This is not just a formality—it empowers you with the knowledge to manage your mortgage and maintain your investment.

Note: The class must be taken from a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Online options are available through specific providers.

Approved Local Providers Include:

Community Enterprise Investments, Inc. (CEII)

Often provides both in-person and online class options.
Pensacola Habitat for Humanity

Provides comprehensive education for first-time buyers.
Consumer Credit Counseling Services

Assisting Mobile and Pensacola area residents.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Don't worry about finding the right class or lender yet. The first step is to confirm your basic eligibility for the program funds. We can guide you to the approved partners once we know you qualify.

See If You Qualify

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the Pensacola Homebuyer Incentive Program (COPHIP-ARPA).

How much down payment assistance is available in Pensacola?

Qualified homebuyers may receive up to $30,000 in assistance. This funding is specifically designated to cover the down payment and closing costs associated with purchasing a primary residence within the City of Pensacola limits.

Is the Pensacola ARPA assistance a grant or a loan?

The assistance is provided as a 0% interest deferred payment loan. This means you are not required to make monthly payments on this specific loan amount. The loan is typically repaid only if you sell the home, refinance, or no longer occupy it as your primary residence.

Who administers the Pensacola Homebuyer Incentive Program?

The program is administered by the City of Pensacola Housing Department. It is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Note that this program is distinct from housing assistance programs administered by the Escambia Housing Authority.

What are the income limits for the Pensacola ARPA program?

Applicants must meet maximum household income eligibility limits. These limits vary based on the number of people in your household and are set by program guidelines. You must verify your specific income eligibility with a participating lender.

Do I have to take a class to qualify for the assistance?

Yes, an 8-hour HUD-certified homebuyer education class is required. You must complete this course before closing. Approved providers include Community Enterprise Investments, Inc. (CEII) and Pensacola Habitat for Humanity.

Can I buy a house anywhere with this program?

No, the property must be located within the Pensacola city limits. Homes located in Escambia County but outside the official city limits are not eligible for this specific City of Pensacola program.

What is the maximum purchase price allowed?

The purchase price must not exceed Florida Housing Finance Corporation annual limits. These limits are adjusted annually. Your participating lender can confirm if a specific property's price falls within the current 2026 allowable range.

What credit score do I need for Pensacola down payment assistance?

Credit score requirements are determined by participating lenders. While the City sets program rules, you must qualify for a mortgage with a lender on the City's participating lender list, and they will have their own credit underwriting standards.

Can I use the funds for closing costs?

Yes, the funds can be applied to both down payment and closing costs. The program aims to reduce the upfront cash required to purchase a home, making homeownership more accessible for eligible buyers.

How do I apply for the Pensacola ARPA program?

You must apply through a participating lender. The City of Pensacola maintains a list of approved lenders for this program. To get started, check your eligibility using the form below, and we can connect you with the next steps.