Florida Hometown Heroes Program: $35,000 Down Payment Assistance Guide 2025

Get up to $35,000 to buy your first home in Florida

The Florida housing market is tough for first-time buyers. With home prices hitting nearly $389,000 (up 50% in five years), many feel locked out. But there's hope: the Florida Hometown Heroes Program offers up to $35,000 in down payment help.

What is Hometown Heroes?

The Florida Hometown Heroes Program helps first-time homebuyers purchase their primary residence. Originally for essential workers like teachers and firefighters, it expanded in 2025 to include ALL income-eligible first-time buyers.

Top Benefits

Financial Help:

• Up to $35,000 down payment assistance
• 0% interest for 30 years
• Lower mortgage rates
• No origination fees
• Reduced closing costs

Who Qualifies:

• First-time homebuyers
• Florida workers or veterans
• Meet income limits
• 640+ credit score

Am I Eligible?

First-Time Buyer Rules

You qualify if you haven't owned a home in the last 3 years. Veterans and buyers in certain areas may have exceptions.

Work Requirements

You need either:

• Full-time Florida job (35+ hours/week)
• Military veteran status (with DD214)
• Work location in Florida

Money Matters

Income Limits: Must stay under your county's limit
Credit Score: Minimum 640 (660 for some loans)
Debt Ratio: Under 50% with good credit

Education Required

Complete a HUD homebuyer course (veterans exempt with VA loans).

How Much Money Can I Get?

The program gives up to $35,000 (5% of your mortgage amount) as a second loan with:

• 0% interest
• No monthly payments
• 30-year term

Important: You Must Pay It Back

Unlike free grants, you repay this money if you:

• Sell your home
• Refinance
• Move out
• Transfer ownership

What Homes Qualify?

Property Types

• Single-family houses
• Townhomes
• Condos
• 2-4 unit buildings (you live in one)
• Manufactured homes (1994+)

Loan Types

• FHA loans
• VA loans
• USDA loans
• Conventional loans

All are 30-year fixed rates with no prepayment penalties.

Program Funding: Act Fast!

Limited Money Available

The program runs on first-come, first-served funding. In 2024, $100 million helped over 6,400 families but ran out quickly.

Timeline Tips

1. Get pre-approved fast
2. Have a signed contract ready
3. Work with approved lenders
4. Check funding status regularly

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Process

1. Check Eligibility
Use the online tool to verify you qualify.

2. Take the Class
Complete required homebuyer education.

3. Find a Lender
Connect with approved loan officers through the state website.

4. Get Pre-Approved
Secure mortgage approval first.

5. House Hunt
Find an eligible property.

6. Apply
Submit your program application.

7. Close
Finalize both loans and get your keys!

Documents Needed

• Pay stubs and tax returns
• Bank statements
• Credit reports
• Education certificate
• DD214 (veterans)
• Purchase contract

Success Tips

Maximize Your Chances

• Move quickly when funding opens
• Stay updated on availability
• Use experienced professionals
• Prepare your finances early
• Complete education before shopping

Avoid These Mistakes

• Waiting too long to apply
• Shopping without pre-approval
• Choosing wrong property types
• Not maintaining primary residence

Program Comparison

Hometown Heroes vs Others

Advantages:

• Higher assistance ($35,000)
• Broader eligibility (all first-time buyers)
• Multiple property types
• Competitive rates

Limitations:

• One-time use only
• Can't combine with other state programs
• Must repay assistance

Real Impact Stories

Thousands of Florida families have used this program to buy homes where they work and serve. Teachers can afford homes near their schools. Firefighters stay in their communities. Healthcare workers build equity instead of paying rent.

2024 Results

• 6,400+ families helped
• Millions in assistance provided
• Communities strengthened statewide

Mobile-Friendly Resources

Quick Links

• Eligibility Check: Florida Housing website
• Find Lenders: Approved loan officer directory
• Education Courses: HUD-approved online classes
• Funding Updates: Program availability alerts

Contact Options

• Website: Florida Housing Finance Corporation
• Phone: Speak with loan officers
• Email: Program information requests

What's Next for 2025?

The expansion to all first-time buyers shows Florida's commitment to affordable housing. As prices keep rising, this program becomes more valuable for building diverse communities.

Stay Informed

• Check funding regularly
• Follow program updates
• Connect with approved lenders
• Join waiting lists when available

Your Next Steps

Ready to buy your first Florida home? Here's what to do now:

1. Check if you qualify using online tools
2. Start homebuyer education today
3. Connect with approved lenders
4. Monitor funding availability
5. Get pre-approved when ready

Bottom Line

The Hometown Heroes Program can turn your homeownership dreams into reality. With up to $35,000 in help, lower rates, and reduced fees, it's one of Florida's best first-time buyer programs.

Don't wait – funding moves fast. Start your application process today and join thousands of Floridians who've used this program to buy their first home.

Ready to get started? Visit the Florida Housing Finance Corporation website or call an approved lender to begin your journey to homeownership.

This guide covers the Florida Hometown Heroes Program as of 2025. Program details and funding availability change regularly. Always verify current information with official sources before applying.