One of the privileges of being a Realtor here in Naples is working with first-time buyers. Many times, first-time buyers will call me and they are looking for ways to overcome a number of hurdles–closing costs, down payments, and securing financing can be challenging for anybody.

Luckily, Collier County has a fantastic program called the Safe Housing Initiative Program (S.H.I.P.) that I have experience using with two of my clients. It is a wonderful program to help first-time buyers get housing here in Naples. If accepted into the program (which I can help with), buyers receive 15% of the purchase price! So what’s the catch?

There isn’t a catch! Buyers just need to meet some easy requirements. First, one person households cannot make more than $39,100 annually. Two people cannot make more than $44,700. Second, you cannot have owned property within the past three years. Finally, you must live in the home you are buying. Easy enough, right?

Once you meet those basic requirements (there are a few others but they are simple), Collier County takes an application and likely approves you for the program! With that, you will receive 15% of the purchase price of your home to use as a down payment or to cover closing costs! The SHIP program through Collier County is outstanding!

It must be noted that this money is not a gift. However, you do not pay this money back like you would with a traditional mortgage. This money only gets paid back when you refinance your mortgage or sell the property. The best part is, this 15% of the purchase price does not accrue interest! Let’s say the county gives you $20,000–if you live in the property 15 years, you only pay back the original $20,000!

The SHIP program does have some hoops you need to jump through but I have the experience and knowledge to help you with the process! Please call me at (239) 248-8171 so we can find your first home in the Naples Real Estate market!

You can read more about the Collier County SHIP Program on their website.