The MDEAT Homeownership Assistance Program makes buying a home easier with zero-interest down payment and closing cost support.
Verify Your Miami-Dade Advocacy Trust Grant Eligibility
The Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust (MDEAT) Homeownership Assistance Program is designed to make homeownership more accessible for local families.
Since 1995, the program has helped thousands of residents achieve the dream of owning a home by reducing upfront costs.
Through this grant-style assistance, qualified buyers receive support that lowers financial barriers and makes it easier to secure mortgage approval.
By partnering with lenders, housing counselors, and community organizations, the program continues to expand opportunities for Miami-Dade residents.
The MDEAT Homeownership Assistance Program is designed to support Miami-Dade residents who are ready to purchase a home but need help covering upfront costs. This program is ideal for:
First-time buyers and repeat buyers purchasing a primary residence in Miami-Dade County.
Families and individuals with household incomes up to 140% of the area median income (AMI).
Homebuyers looking for down payment or closing cost support to qualify for a mortgage.
Residents purchasing a single-family home, condo, or townhome that is move-in ready.
Borrowers who want to combine assistance with other state, county, or local housing programs.
If you’re serious about buying a home in Miami-Dade, this grant can make the difference between renting and owning.
The Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust (MDEAT) Homeownership Assistance Program offers powerful benefits that make buying a home more affordable.
Up to $28,000 in financial assistance for down payment and closing costs.
Zero-percent interest, deferred loan with no monthly payments.
Ability to combine with other local, state, and federal programs.
No sales price cap—flexibility to purchase homes that fit your needs.
Eligible for single-family homes, condos, and townhomes in Miami-Dade County.
With these benefits, the Miami-Dade Advocacy Trust Grant makes homeownership possible for more families across the county.
To take advantage of the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust (MDEAT) Homeownership Assistance Program, homebuyers must meet certain eligibility requirements.
Household income must fall within Miami-Dade County limits (not exceeding 140% AMI).
Buyer contribution of 1%–3% of the purchase price from personal funds, based on income level.
Property must be an immediately habitable single-family home, condo, or townhome in Miami-Dade County.
Borrower must qualify for a first mortgage with a licensed Florida lender.
Completion of a HUD-approved Homebuyer Education Course may be required when combining with other programs.
By meeting these requirements, buyers can access valuable assistance to reduce upfront costs and achieve homeownership in Miami-Dade County.
Income eligibility is based on your household size and percentage of the Area Median Income (AMI). Households must fall at or below 140% of AMI to qualify for assistance.
| Household Size | Very Low (≤50% AMI) | Low (50.01–80% AMI) | Median (80.01–100% AMI) | Moderate (100.01–120% AMI) | Moderate Max (120.01–140% AMI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $43,400 | $69,440 | $86,800 | $104,160 | $121,520 |
| 2 Person | $49,550 | $79,280 | $99,100 | $118,920 | $138,740 |
| 3 Person | $55,750 | $89,200 | $111,500 | $133,800 | $156,100 |
| 4 Person | $61,950 | $99,120 | $123,900 | $148,680 | $173,460 |
| 5 Person | $66,950 | $107,120 | $133,900 | $160,680 | $187,640 |
| 6 Person | $71,900 | $115,040 | $143,800 | $172,560 | $201,320 |
| 7 Person | $76,850 | $122,960 | $153,700 | $184,440 | $215,180 |
| 8 Person | $81,800 | $130,880 | $163,600 | $196,320 | $229,040 |
Note: Income limits are updated annually by HUD and were last revised April 1, 2025.
Getting started with the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust Homeownership Assistance Program (HAP) is simple. Follow these three steps to see if you qualify and secure your funding:
Use our free online eligibility test to see if you meet the requirements.
Work with a licensed lender to submit your application along with the required documentation.
Once approved, your down payment and closing cost assistance will be applied at closing to make your home purchase more affordable.
Below are the most common questions homebuyers have about the MDEAT Homeownership Assistance Program (HAP).
Eligible buyers can receive up to $28,000 in down payment or closing cost assistance, depending on income level.
No. Both first-time and repeat buyers can qualify, as long as the home will be your primary residence.
You can purchase a single-family home, townhome, or condo in Miami-Dade County that is immediately habitable.
Yes. HAP assistance may be layered with county, state, or federal programs to maximize your benefit.
The loan is zero-interest and deferred. It may be forgiven if you don’t refinance or change ownership.
A HUD-approved homebuyer education course is strongly recommended and may be required if combining programs.
Income must be at or below 140% of Miami-Dade’s Area Median Income (AMI), adjusted for family size.
No. You can work with any licensed Florida lender, but lenders familiar with assistance programs are recommended.
Yes. Bank-owned properties and short sales may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
No. The program only assists with down payment and closing costs for home purchases.
Choosing the right partner can make the difference between a smooth path to homeownership and a stressful one.
Our team specializes in Miami-Dade down payment assistance programs and knows exactly how to navigate the MDEAT Homeownership Assistance Program (HAP).
We’ll guide you step-by-step, help maximize the benefits you qualify for, and ensure your application moves quickly through the process.
With proven experience, trusted lender relationships, and a focus on making homeownership affordable, we’re here to make your journey simple and successful.
