Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program
Update June 6, 2025: The proposed 2025–2026 Florida state budget includes a $100 million allocation for the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program, with eligibility now expanded to include State Guard members. If the budget is approved, funds may be available starting July 1, 2025.
The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program now extends its support to first-time homebuyers, including full-time workers (regardless of occupation) across all counties in Florida. Eligible participants can receive up to $35,000 in assistance for down payment and closing costs. Start your journey towards affordable homeownership today with one of the best down payment assistance programs in the nation!
Program Highlights:
- 5% down payment assistance up to $35,000
- $10,000 grant minimum for loans of $200,000 or less
- $0 origination fee, no discount points and reduced fees
- Rate is lower than current market rates
- VA, FHA, USDA & Conventional loan types
- 30 or 15 year fixed rate mortgage
- Close in 30 days or less
- First-time homebuyer requirement waived for Veterans
Funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Request a quote today before funds run out.
See if you qualify by completing the form below for a free quote. Homebuyers that do not meet the Hometown Heroes eligibility requirements, or located in other states, may still be eligible for other 100% down payment assistance programs.
Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program 2025
The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program is designed to make homeownership more affordable for first-time homebuyers across the state by providing substantial down payment and closing cost assistance. This program is especially vital given the sharp rise in Florida's median home prices, which now exceed $389,000, making it increasingly difficult for many families to afford their first home.
Expanded Eligibility and Purpose
Originally aimed at frontline workers such as teachers, firefighters, police officers, and healthcare workers, the 2025 update significantly broadens eligibility. Now, all full-time employed Florida residents working for Florida-based employers qualify, including occupations previously excluded. This inclusivity ensures a wider pool of residents can take advantage of this life-changing opportunity.
How the Program Works
The program offers eligible buyers a deferred, zero-interest second mortgage for up to 5% of their loan amount, capped at $35,000, with a minimum assistance of $10,000. This assistance can cover down payment, closing costs, prepaid taxes, homeowners insurance escrows, upfront mortgage insurance premiums, and principal reduction, reducing the upfront cash buyers need to close.
Income Limits and Property Requirements
Applicants must have household incomes below 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI), which varies by county. The home purchased must be a primary residence in Florida, owner-occupied, and meet loan requirements. Eligible loan types include Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA. Investment properties, refinancing, and land-only purchases are excluded.
Additional Eligibility Requirements
- First-time homebuyer status is generally required, meaning no ownership in the past 3 years (exceptions for veterans).
- Minimum credit scores of 640 for traditional homes and 660 for manufactured homes.
- Completion of an approved HUD homebuyer education course (exemptions for veterans using VA loans).
- Employment with a Florida-based company at 35+ hours per week (veteran exemptions apply).
Why This Program Matters
By reducing the cash needed at closing, the Florida Hometown Heroes Program removes one of the biggest hurdles for first-time homebuyers. It empowers more Floridians to achieve homeownership, build equity, and strengthen their communities. With $100 million allocated annually, the program plays a crucial role in addressing Florida’s housing affordability crisis.
Learn More in the FAQs BelowFlorida Hometown Heroes Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible for the Hometown Heroes Program?
- Income-eligible first-time homebuyers in Florida meeting program requirements can apply. All occupations qualify as of 2025, not just frontline workers. Veterans have some exemptions.
- What types of occupations qualify for the program?
- As of 2025, the program expanded to include all Florida workers employed full-time by a Florida-based employer, not just traditional 'heroes' such as teachers, police, firefighters, or healthcare workers.
- What is the maximum down payment assistance amount?
- The program offers down payment and closing cost assistance up to 5% of the loan amount, capped at $35,000, with a minimum assistance of $10,000.
- Is the assistance a grant or a loan? Do I have to repay it?
- The assistance is a 0% interest, deferred second mortgage, which is due upon sale, transfer, or refinancing of the property. It is not forgiven.
- What are the income limits to qualify for the program?
- Household income must be below 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI) which varies by county. For example, Miami-Dade is $170,250, Tampa Bay area is around $143,250.
- What is the minimum credit score requirement?
- A minimum credit score of 640 is required for most properties. Manufactured homes require a minimum credit score of 660.
- Are manufactured homes eligible for the program?
- Yes, manufactured homes are eligible but require a slightly higher minimum credit score and must meet FHA guidelines.
- Can I use the program for investment or rental properties?
- No. The program only applies to primary residences that the borrower will occupy.
- Does the program cover closing costs as well as down payment?
- Yes, the assistance can be applied toward both down payment and closing costs, including prepaid taxes and insurance.
- Are new construction homes eligible?
- Yes, new construction homes qualify if they meet program requirements and are primary residences.
- Is a homebuyer education course required?
- Yes, an approved HUD homebuyer education course is required for most borrowers, except veterans using VA loans.
- Do I need to be employed by a Florida-based employer?
- Yes. At least one occupying borrower must be employed full-time by a Florida-based employer. Veterans are exempt.
- Can this assistance be combined with other state or local housing programs?
- Yes, it can be combined with programs such as the Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) or SHIP down payment assistance if you qualify.
- Is there a fee to apply for the Hometown Heroes Program?
- No upfront fees are charged by the program, but your lender may charge fees for credit reports and loan processing.
- Can I apply for the program after I purchase my home?
- No, the assistance must be applied for and approved during the home purchase transaction.
- Are refinancing transactions eligible?
- No, refinancing is not eligible for the Hometown Heroes down payment assistance.
- What loan types qualify for the program?
- Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans are eligible under the program.
- What happens if I sell or refinance my home?
- The deferred second mortgage must be repaid in full upon sale, transfer, or refinancing of the property.
- Is funding guaranteed throughout the year?
- No, funding is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Early application is advised.
- How do I apply for the Florida Hometown Heroes Program?
- Contact Mario Hart, Branch Manager, at 727-400-3293 or request a free quote on this page to get started.
- Are veterans eligible and do they have special benefits?
- Yes, veterans are eligible and have exemptions from certain requirements such as homebuyer education. VA loans qualify under the program.
- Can the program be used for properties outside Florida?
- No, the property must be located within Florida to qualify.
Is My County Eligible for the Hometown Heroes Program?
The Hometown Heroes Program is available statewide, across all 67 counties in Florida. Whether you live in a large metro area or a rural county, you can qualify for this program as long as you meet the income and employment requirements.
This program supports residents employed full-time by Florida-based employers, offering up to 5% in down payment and closing cost assistance with a maximum of $35,000. It aims to make homeownership accessible throughout the state regardless of location.
Florida Counties Eligible for 2025 Hometown Heroes Program
- Alachua
- Bay
- Bradford
- Brevard
- Broward
- Calhoun
- Charlotte
- Citrus
- Clay
- Collier
- Columbia
- DeSoto
- Dixie
- Duval
- Escambia
- Flagler
- Franklin
- Gadsden
- Gilchrist
- Glades
- Gulf
- Hamilton
- Hardee
- Hendry
- Hernando
- Highlands
- Hillsborough
- Holmes
- Indian River
- Jackson
- Jefferson
- Lafayette
- Lake
- Lee
- Leon
- Levy
- Liberty
- Madison
- Manatee
- Marion
- Martin
- Miami-Dade
- Monroe
- Nassau
- Okaloosa
- Okeechobee
- Orange
- Osceola
- Palm Beach
- Pasco
- Pinellas
- Polk
- Putnam
- St. Johns
- St. Lucie
- Santa Rosa
- Sarasota
- Seminole
- Sumter
- Suwannee
- Taylor
- Union
- Volusia
- Wakulla
- Walton
- Washington
Additional Program Details
- Income limits: Household income must be below 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the county you purchase in.
- Employment: At least one borrower must be employed full-time by a Florida-based employer.
- Loan types accepted: Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans.
- Property types: Single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and manufactured homes located within the eligible counties.
- First-time homebuyer requirement: Generally required except for veterans.
- Down payment assistance: Up to 5% of loan amount, max $35,000.
- Repayment: Deferred, zero-interest second mortgage due on sale, transfer, or refinance.
How to Apply
To determine your eligibility or start your application, contact Mario Hart, Branch Manager at 727-400-3293, or Request Free Quote. Funding for this program is limited and available exclusively through mortgage companies approved by the Hometown Heroes Program in Florida. Borrowers incur no upfront fees or costs to apply for this or any other loan program. Applications can be submitted at any time; however, interest rates cannot be locked until a fully executed sales contract is in place.