To qualify for the St. Johns County SHIP program, household income must generally fall within the 80% Area Median Income (AMI) limits. These figures are subject to change and must be verified by the County.
Household Size
50% AMI (Very Low)
80% AMI (Low Income)
1 Person
$35,900
$57,400
2 Person
$41,000
$65,600
3 Person
$46,150
$73,800
4 Person
$51,250
$82,000
*Figures are based on 2025/2026 projections for the Jacksonville MSA and are for informational purposes only. Official qualification is determined during the application intake.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 St. Johns County First Time Homebuyer Program, applicants must meet specific criteria regarding income, residency, and credit history.
Residency: Must live OR work in St. Johns County for at least 12 consecutive months.
First-Time Buyer: Generally defined as no homeownership in the last 3 years.
Credit Score: Minimum credit score of 640 is required.
Income Limits: Household income must fall within SHIP limits (e.g., 80% AMI for a 4-person household is approx. $82,000, subject to verification).
Contribution: Minimum $1,000 contribution required from the buyer.
Important Refinance Policy: Cash-out refinancing is prohibited. The loan is forgiven prorated 10% per year starting in year 6.
To protect the county's investment and your financial future, St. Johns County enforces strict standards on the first mortgage. You must use a participating lender familiar with SHIP guidelines.
1
Fixed-Rate Requirement
Your first mortgage must be a fixed-rate loan. Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs), prepayment penalties, negative amortization, and balloon payments are strictly prohibited.
2
Participating Lenders
You must obtain pre-approval from a lender on the County's specific "Participating Lender List." These lenders understand the SHIP process and timeline.
3
Buyer Contribution
Applicants should be prepared for negotiation costs. A minimum contribution of $1,000 is required from your own funds.
Your Path to Homeownership
Follow these four required steps to secure your funding. The County operates on a first-qualified, first-served basis.
1
Housing Counseling
Contact the St. Johns County HUD Housing Counseling Team to register. This intake process is the mandatory first step.
2
Homebuyer Education
Complete the required 8-hour Homebuyer Education class and receive your certificate (valid for 1 year).
3
Lender Pre-Approval
Obtain a pre-approval letter for a fixed-rate first mortgage from a participating lender. No ARM loans allowed.
4
SHIP Application
Submit your complete SHIP application package with all documentation for final eligibility review.
Common questions about the 2026 St. Johns County SHIP Program.
How much down payment assistance is available in St. Johns County?
Qualified first-time homebuyers can receive up to Up to $100,000 in assistance. These funds can be applied toward your down payment, closing costs, principal buy-down, and eligible repairs. The total assistance amount cannot exceed the value of your first mortgage.
What are the income limits for the St. Johns County SHIP program?
Income limits are based on household size and the area median income (AMI). For 2025, an 80% AMI household of four typically caps around $82,000. However, limits vary by year and household size, so official verification by the County is required during the application process.
Do I have to pay back the down payment assistance?
The assistance is structured as a 0% interest, deferred second mortgage. No monthly payments are required. The loan is forgiven at a rate of 10% per year starting in year 6. If you stay in the home for the full 15-year term, the loan may be fully forgiven.
What is the minimum credit score for the program?
Applicants must have a minimum credit score of 640. Additionally, you must complete a Homebuyer Education class provided by a St. Johns County HUD Certified Housing Counselor to qualify for the funding.
Can I buy a mobile or manufactured home?
Yes, manufactured or mobile homes are eligible, but only if they are part of a home/land package and are 20 years old or newer. Standard single-family homes, condominiums, duplexes, and townhomes are also eligible.
Do I need to live in St. Johns County to qualify?
Yes. You must currently live or work in St. Johns County for at least 12 consecutive months prior to applying. You will need to provide documentation to prove your residency or employment history within the county.
Is there a maximum purchase price for homes?
Yes. The purchase price of the home must not exceed $400,000. This limit applies to all eligible property types, including single-family homes and townhomes.
What happens if I sell the home or refinance?
If you sell, transfer title, or stop occupying the home as your primary residence before the loan is forgiven, you must repay the balance in full. Cash-out refinancing is prohibited, though some rate-and-term refinances may be allowed with approval.
Are repairs covered by the funds?
Yes. Funds can be used for eligible repairs to major systems like roofing, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. However, repair funds are not available for condos, duplexes, or townhomes—only for single-family structures.
How do I apply for the program?
The process begins by contacting the St. Johns County HUD Housing Counseling Team to start education and intake. You must also get pre-approved for a fixed-rate first mortgage with a participating lender before submitting your full SHIP application.
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