Hillsborough County
13 articlestagged “Hillsborough County”
USDA vs FHA Loan: Which Is Better for Tampa Bay First-Time Buyers in 2026?
USDA loans offer zero down payment and cheaper mortgage insurance than FHA — but only in eligible areas. Compare both programs side-by-side for Tampa Bay first-time buyers, including 2026 loan limits, income caps, and a real monthly cost example.
Private Well Water Homes in Tampa Bay: What First-Time Buyers Must Know Before Closing
Thousands of Tampa Bay homes use private wells, not city water. Learn about well inspections, water testing requirements for FHA and USDA loans, what contaminants to screen for, and how to negotiate when problems are found. Call (813) 733-7907.
Impact Fees on New Construction in Tampa Bay: What First-Time Buyers Must Understand
Impact fees add $15,000–$35,000+ to new home prices in Tampa Bay. Learn what they are, how they vary by county, and how they affect your purchase in 2026. Call (813) 733-7907.
Chinese Drywall in Tampa Bay Homes: What First-Time Buyers Must Know Before Closing
Thousands of Tampa Bay homes built between 2003 and 2008 may contain defective Chinese drywall that corrodes wiring, destroys AC systems, and harms occupant health. Here's how to detect it before you buy. Call (813) 733-7907.
Home Sweet Home Hillsborough: Up to $15,000 from the County HFA for First-Time Buyers
Hillsborough County's Housing Finance Authority gives first-time buyers up to $15,000 at 0% interest with no monthly payments. Call (813) 733-7907.
ADU Tampa Bay: How a Backyard Unit Can Help First-Time Buyers Afford Their Mortgage
Florida's 2025 ADU law requires every city to allow accessory dwelling units on single-family lots. Call (813) 733-7907.
Buying a Home With a Septic System in Tampa Bay: What First-Time Buyers Must Know
Thousands of Tampa Bay homes run on septic, not city sewer. Here's how to inspect, negotiate, and budget for a home with a septic system before you sign.
FHA 203k Renovation Loan Tampa Bay: Buy a Fixer-Upper With One Mortgage
The FHA 203k loan lets Tampa Bay first-time buyers finance a home purchase AND up to $75,000 in renovations with one mortgage. Call (813) 733-7907.
Mortgage Credit Certificate: The $2,000/Year Tax Credit Tampa Bay Buyers Miss
The MCC program gives first-time buyers a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit up to $2,000/year for the life of their loan.
Renting vs Buying in Tampa Bay 2026: The Full Financial Picture
Tampa Bay rent averages $2,000/month while comparable mortgages build equity. Call (813) 733-7907.
Westchase Tampa First-Time Buyer Guide 2026: Prices & HOA Costs
Westchase homes list $400K-$650K with HOA fees of $75-$400/month. Call (813) 733-7907.
Temple Terrace FL First-Time Buyer Guide: Homes From $310K
Temple Terrace has homes from $310K, below comparable Tampa neighborhoods. See DPA programs, neighborhoods. Call (813) 733-7907.
Valrico FL First-Time Buyer Guide 2026: Schools, Lots & DPA
Valrico has strong schools, larger lots, and Hillsborough County DPA, below Brandon prices. Call (813) 733-7907.
Ready to see which programs you qualify for?
2-minute eligibility check, no commitment, no credit pull.
Find Out in 2 MinutesOr call Barrett directly: (813) 733-7907