Finding “free” services as a new home buyer in Riverview, Florida, is largely about tapping into government-backed programs and professional rebates that offset your upfront costs. While buying a home involves significant expenses, several resources in Hillsborough County are designed to provide financial relief and education at no cost to the buyer.
1. Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance
These programs essentially provide “free” money in the form of grants or deferred loans (often with 0% interest) to cover your initial out-of-pocket costs.
- HFA of Hillsborough County: Offers down payment assistance (DPA) up to $15,000. This is often structured as a 5-year forgivable second mortgage at 0% interest. If you stay in the home for five years, the debt is completely wiped away.
- Florida Hometown Heroes: Specifically for full-time workers employed by a Florida-based employer. It offers up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount (maximum $35,000) for down payment and closing costs.
- Florida Assist (FL Assist): Provides up to $10,000 as a 0% interest, non-amortizing second mortgage. While it must be repaid when you sell or refinance, it acts as an interest-free bridge to help you get into the home now.
2. No-Cost Home Buyer Education
Most assistance programs require you to complete a home buyer education course. Several HUD-approved agencies in the Riverview/Tampa area offer these for free:
- Housing and Education Alliance (HEA): Offers free classes for Hillsborough County residents.
- Solita’s House: Provides coaching and education on credit building and the home-buying process.
- REACH (Real Estate Education and Community Housing): Conducts 8-hour workshops that qualify you for most state and local DPA programs.
3. Specialist Loan Programs
Certain loan types allow for zero or low down payments, which can be a massive service to buyers with limited liquid cash:
- USDA Loans: Many parts of Riverview and surrounding areas (like Ruskin or Wimauma) qualify for 100% financing (no money down) because they are designated as rural areas by the USDA.
- VA Loans: If you are a veteran or active-duty service member, you can purchase with $0 down and no private mortgage insurance (PMI).
4. Realtor Commission Rebates
In Florida, it is legal for a real estate agent to credit a portion of their commission back to you at closing.
- The Benefit: back in your pocket to cover moving expenses, new furniture, or closing costs.
- How to get it: You must negotiate this with your agent before signing a representation agreement.
Summary Table: Riverview Buyer Resources
| Service Type | Provider | Benefit |
| Cash Assistance | Hillsborough County HFA | Up to $15,000 (Forgivable) |
| Occupational Grant | Hometown Heroes | Up to $35,000 for workers |
| Education | HEA / Solita’s House | Free HUD-certified workshops |
| Low Entry Cost | USDA / VA Loans | $0 Down Payment options |
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Free Service To All New Home Buyers Riverview Florida