FAQs

Homebuyers FAQs 

For more information call us at 800-388-1970 or 850-432-7077. *Participating Lenders provide specific APR information as required by law.

Phone: 800-388-1970 -OR- 850-432-7077
Address: 700 South Palafox St., Ste. 310, Pensacola, FL 32502
Email: Visit our Contact Page
The Escambia County Housing Finance Authority (ECHFA) serves 21 counties across Florida by offering Homeownership Programs to first-time homebuyers and former homeowners (Do I Qualify?) in an effort to provide safe, decent and affordable housing. ECHFA also economically assists developers of multi-family housing communities through the issuance of tax-exempt revenue bonds.

SINGLE FAMILY GOVERNMENTAL/CONVENTIONAL PROGRAM OPTION:
Classic 0%, 30 year Deferred Second Mortgage of up to $10,000* is available in connection with our 30-year fixed rate loans. Lenders may charge a Discount/Origination Fee not exceeding 1.00% (combined) of the principal loan amount. See Today's Interest Rates below.
Yes, if the the Classic Second Mortgage option used because is not forgiven and becomes due when first mortgage is satisfied (i.e. within 30 years) or upon sale, transfer, rental or disposition of property.
We serve a number of regions around Florida: the areas around Pensacola, Destin, Panama City, Apalachicola, Perry, Tallahassee, Gainesville, Brooksville, and Vero Beach. The 21 counties we serve are Alachua, Bay, Bradford, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Hernando, Indian River, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Madison, Marion, Martin, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, St. Lucie, Taylor, Walton and Wakulla. Check out Participating Counties Map to learn more.
No. We serve individuals with a wide range of income levels. Individuals of middle, moderate and low incomes are welcome to apply. Learn the income limits for each Participating County.
No. ECHFA Programs are available to not only first-time homebuyers, but also individuals who have not owned a home as their principal residence in the last 3 years.

Plus, the first-time homebuyer restriction is waived for veterans who have received an honorable discharge and individuals who select a home in one of the Targeted Areas.
Borrowers must meet normal standards of credit worthiness and have a FICO score of 640 or higher.
Single-family homes (both detached and attached), as well as condominiums, townhomes and PUDs. Learn more details on what properties qualify.
We have been in business for over 40 years and have helped thousands of homebuyers realize their dream of becoming a homeowner. This tenure has allowed us to fine-tune our skills in quickly and efficiently making the loan origination process as smooth as possible.
ECHFA is under the oversight of a five-member board of citizens appointed by the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners. The Board, which meets monthly to review ECHFA’s progress, shares a passion for providing affordable housing.

Learn More About our Homeownership Program