Escambia County Housing Finance Authority

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.

1How do you reach Escambia County Housing Finance Authority (ECHFA)?

Phone: 800-388-1970 -OR- 850-432-7077
Address: 700 South Palafox St., Ste. 310, Pensacola, FL 32502
Email: Visit our Contact Page

2How can ECHFA help me?

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.

3Must the Deferred Second Mortgage be repaid?

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.

4What areas are served by ECHFA?

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.

5Does ECHFA handle only low-income housing?

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.

6Are ECHFA’s Programs available only to people who have never owned homes.

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.

7What is the minimum credit required?

Borrowers must meet normal standards of credit worthiness and have a FICO score of 640 or higher.

8What type of housing is eligible?

Single-family homes (both detached and attached), as well as condominiums, townhomes and PUDs. Learn more details on what properties qualify.

9How long has ECHFA been in business?

We have been in business for nearly 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.

10Who oversees the ECHFA?

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.