Sarasota County residents can now apply for home purchase assistance and owner-occupied home rehabilitation assistance through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program. Applications are accepted on a first-qualified, first-served basis from Nov. 3, 2025, through June 30, 2028, or until all funds are spent. Applications must be submitted online at HEROSRQ.net/SHIP. Sarasota County received approximately $2.9 million in SHIP funds for Fiscal Year 2025–2026 (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). The program expands the availability of safe and affordable housing within Sarasota County by providing 0% interest deferred loans for eligible households. Available aid through the program includes assistance to purchase a single-family home, townhome or condominium and assistance for home repairs, accessibility requirements and maintenance or modifications to preserve and improve the home. Rehabilitation assistance will be completed by the program through approved contractors.  For interested homeowners residing within the City of Sarasota, visit the City of Sarasota Office of Housing and Community Development website. 

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