863-340-1402
Pathway Home Program

Your Path From Renter To Owner Starts Here

Stop paying someone else's mortgage. The COHA Group's Pathway Home Program helps Polk County renters — even those with credit challenges — become homeowners in Central Florida.

MultipleDown payment options
FlexibleBuyer pathways
9 CitiesServed in Polk County
Who This Is For

You Don't Have To Be Perfect To Own A Home

The Pathway Home Program was built for people who thought homeownership was out of reach. If any of these sound like you, we can help.

No credit? Low credit? We have optionsAssistance options may be availableFlorida Hometown HeroesRent-to-own pathwaysLocal Polk County experts

Long-Term Renters

Tired of rent increases with nothing to show for it? We'll show you how your monthly payment could be building equity instead.

Credit Challenges

Some loan options may consider credit scores around 580, while requirements vary by lender and program. We help buyers understand the next practical step.

No Down Payment Saved

Florida and local programs may offer down-payment or closing-cost assistance to eligible buyers when funding is available. We help you explore current options and connect with participating lenders.

Heroes & First Responders

Eligible workers may qualify for Florida Hometown Heroes when funding is open. Occupations, limits, terms and availability can change by program cycle.

Rent-To-Own Seekers

Not quite ready for a traditional mortgage? Our rent-to-own pathways let you move in now and buy when you're ready.

First-Time Buyers

Never bought before? Perfect. We walk you through every step from pre-qualification to the day you get your keys.

The Process

How The Pathway Home Program Works

We guide you through every step so there are no surprises — just a clear road from where you are to where you want to be.

01

Free Consultation

We review your current situation, goals, and budget — completely free. No pressure, no obligation.

02

Find Your Programs

We help you explore current assistance and financing options that may fit your situation, then connect you with participating lenders who determine eligibility.

03

Get Pre-Qualified

Our lending partners work with all credit profiles. We'll match you with the right lender for your specific situation.

04

Find Your Home

Browse homes across Polk County — Winter Haven, Lakeland, Auburndale, Haines City, and more — within your budget.

05

Close & Get Keys

We handle the paperwork, negotiations, and logistics so you can focus on planning your move-in day.

Program Details

Everything You Can Access Through Pathway Home

We combine multiple programs and resources to maximize what's available to you.

Down Payment Assistance

  • Florida Hometown Heroes — when funded, eligible workers may access up to 5% of the first mortgage (maximum $35,000) as a repayable deferred second mortgage
  • Local SHIP assistance — availability, amounts and repayment terms vary by local program
  • Polk County local assistance programs
  • FHA loans with as little as 3.5% down
  • USDA 100% financing for eligible rural areas
  • VA loans with zero down for veterans

Credit & Qualification Help

  • Credit guidance for a range of borrower profiles
  • Rapid rescore strategies to boost approval odds
  • HUD-approved housing counselor referrals
  • Debt-to-income ratio optimization guidance
  • Non-traditional credit history options
  • Co-signer and co-borrower strategies

Rent-To-Own Options

  • Move in now, buy when you're ready
  • Portion of rent credited toward down payment
  • Lock in today's price while you prepare
  • 12–36 month transition timelines
  • Build payment history toward mortgage approval
  • Dedicated support throughout the lease period

Cities We Serve

  • Winter Haven — homes near Chain of Lakes
  • Lakeland — Polk County's largest city
  • Auburndale — growing family community
  • Haines City — affordable entry-level homes
  • Bartow — historic county seat
  • Lake Wales, Davenport, Dundee & Eagle Lake

Program availability, funding levels and eligibility change by program year. Nothing here is a commitment of financing or a guarantee of approval. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Real Results

Polk County Renters Who Became Homeowners

★★★★★

"I had been renting in Winter Haven for 8 years and thought I'd never qualify. Chad's team found me a down payment grant and I closed in 45 days. I still can't believe I own my home."

MJ
Marcus J.
Winter Haven, FL
★★★★★

"As a nurse, I qualified for Hometown Heroes and got $25,000 toward my down payment. The COHA Group walked me through every step. I moved into my Lakeland home last spring."

DS
Danielle S.
Lakeland, FL
★★★★★

"My credit was 591 and I had no savings. They started me on a rent-to-own in Auburndale, helped me rebuild my credit, and 18 months later I officially own my house. Life-changing."

TR
Tanya R.
Auburndale, FL

Get Your Free Eligibility Check

A free 15-minute call could change everything. We'll help you identify which paths may be worth exploring and what your next step should be — no obligation.

Your Name(Required)
Please include the city or area, your ideal timing, price range or monthly budget, and any questions about financing or down payment assistance.
Choose the option that best matches what you want help with right now.

Talk To Someone Who Lives Here

Prefer to just talk it through? Call and you'll get a straight answer about where you stand — not a pitch.

863-340-1402 Chad@theCOHAgroup.com 129 Ave E SW, Winter Haven, FL 33880

Start looking while you get ready

You don't have to wait until you're approved to start shopping. Set up your search now — we'll send new listings as they hit the market so you know exactly what your money buys by the time you're ready.