Buying your first home can be an exciting milestone - but for many Floridians, the upfront costs like down payment and closing expenses create a tough barrier. The good news? Florida’s Hometown Heroes Housing Program is making a comeback this year, offering financial assistance to help more residents overcome these hurdles and get into their own homes.
Hometown Heroes Program Returns in 2025
Since its launch in 2022, the Hometown Heroes program has made a significant impact across Florida, successfully helping more than 21,700 families achieve homeownership. In 2024 alone, over 6,100 families took advantage of the $100 million allocated by the state legislature. The demand was so high that the funds were fully reserved within just two months of becoming available - a clear sign of how vital this program remains for many Floridians.
Who Is Eligible?
The initiative was initially designed with Florida’s frontline heroes in mind including law enforcement officers, active military members, veterans, teachers, firefighters, and healthcare professionals, among others. But in 2023, eligibility broadened to include all qualified working residents who meet the income and employment criteria. This expansion means even more people can benefit from the program’s support.
To qualify, applicants typically must:
- Be a first-time homebuyer (not having owned a home in the past three years). Veterans are exempt from this requirement
- Be employed full-time by a Florida-based employer (35+ hours per week). Veterans are also exempt here
- Meet county-specific income limits, which are set at up to 150% of the area median income
- Have a minimum credit score of 640
- Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course
What Does the Program Offer?
The Hometown Heroes Housing Program provides down payment and closing cost assistance in the form of a zero-interest, non-amortizing second mortgage - meaning no monthly payments are required on these funds. Buyers can receive up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount, with a maximum assistance cap of $35,000.
This second mortgage is deferred for 30 years and only becomes due when the home is sold, refinanced, transferred, or if the homeowner no longer occupies the property as their primary residence. This structure offers critical financial breathing room, especially in competitive housing markets or upscale communities, where upfront costs can be particularly daunting.
Additionally, borrowers benefit from lower-than-market interest rates on their first mortgage loans, which can be FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans. Upfront fees are reduced, and there are no origination or discount points, making the overall financing more affordable.
How to Apply
The Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) administers the program, and interested buyers should start by contacting an approved participating lender. These lenders are familiar with the program guidelines and can help determine eligibility, guide applicants through the paperwork, and explain the loan options available.
Applicants will need to provide proof of employment, income verification, credit information, and complete the required homebuyer education course. Given the popularity of the program and limited funding, it’s a good idea to act quickly once the 2025 funds become available.
For more information, prospective buyers can visit the official Florida Housing Finance Corporation website at floridahousing.org or consult with a local real estate professional who is knowledgeable about Hometown Heroes.
Is 2025 Your Year to Buy?
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to buy your first home, the return of Florida’s Hometown Heroes Housing Program could be the opportunity you need. By helping reduce the financial barriers that often hold buyers back, this program is opening doors for thousands of Floridians who serve their communities every day.
Keep an eye out for the program’s official launch in July, and consider reaching out to a lender or real estate expert now to prepare. Your dream home could be closer than you think.
