Buy Your Ocala Home for $0 Down: Marion County SHIP Program + Eligible Pool Property at 6814 SE 53rd Place
Your Path to Homeownership in Ocala
For first-time homebuyers in Marion County, the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program offers life-changing financial assistance. This official county program provides:
✅ Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance (up to $50,000)
✅ 0% Interest Deferred Loan (forgiven after 20 years)
✅ Support Throughout Your Homebuying Journey
And right now, 6814 SE 53rd Place qualifies for this program – a 3-bedroom pool home priced at $252,900!
SHIP Program Essentials
(Source: Marion County Community Services)
| Program Aspect | Official Requirements |
|---|---|
| Eligible Buyers | First-time homebuyers (or haven’t owned in 3+ years) |
| Income Limits | ≤120% Area Median Income (Verify current limits) |
| Credit Score | Minimum 620 |
| Property Location | Marion County (outside Ocala city limits) |
| Education Requirement | Completion of 8-hour HUD-approved homebuyer course |
| Assistance Type | Second mortgage (no monthly payments) |
Property Must Be:
- Your primary residence
- Priced within SHIP limits ($252,900 qualifies!)
- Located in unincorporated Marion County (like Florida Heights)
Why 6814 SE 53rd Place is a SHIP Smart Choice
This Florida Heights property meets all SHIP criteria while offering exceptional value:
🏊 Pool & Outdoor Living
- Private 10’x22′ screened pool
- Fully fenced 0.23-acre corner lot
- Storage shed for tools/equipment
💡 Home Features
- 3 beds • 2 baths • 1,534 sq ft
- Split-bedroom layout for privacy
- Solar panels with assumable loan
- Fiber-optic internet ready
💰 Financial Advantages
- Priced $49,100 below SHIP maximum
- No HOA/CDD fees
- Flood Zone X (no flood insurance required)
Your Step-by-Step SHIP Journey
- Get Pre-Approved
Work with a SHIP-approved lender - Complete Education
Take the $55 homebuyer course (8 hours) - Submit SHIP Application
Create a ZoomGrants account - Property Search
Tour SHIP-eligible homes like 6814 SE 53rd Place - Close & Move In
Use SHIP funds for down payment/closing costs
⏰ Time-Sensitive: SHIP funds are distributed first-come, first-qualified
SHIP Program FAQ
Q: How much assistance can I receive?
A: Up to $50,000 for down payment/closing costs through a 0% deferred loan.
Q: What costs am I responsible for?
A: Approximately $3,000-$4,000 for:
- Home inspection
- Appraisal
- Credit report
- Insurance escrows
Q: How long until the loan is forgiven?
A: The loan is completely forgiven after 20 years of primary residency.
Q: Can I use SHIP for repairs or pool maintenance?
A: No – SHIP homebuyer funds are only for acquisition costs. (Rehabilitation programs are separate).
Q: What makes a home SHIP-eligible?
A: Must be:
- Single-family residence
- Primary residence
- Priced below county limits
- In unincorporated Marion County
Take Your First Step Today
Ready to explore this SHIP-eligible pool home?
Contact your REALTOR®. If you don’t have one, click here.
Schedule a Private Tour of 6814 SE 53rd Place
Download SHIP Application Checklist
SHIP Program Contacts:
📞 (352) 671-8770
✉️ housing@marionfl.org
🌐 Official SHIP Program Page
