Florida Hometown Heroes — 2025
Up to $35,000 in Assistance
Helping Florida public service workers buy a home with zero-interest assistance for down payment & closing costs.
What is the program?
The 2025 Florida Hometown Heroes program provides zero-interest assistance (a deferred second mortgage) of up to $35,000 to eligible public service workers to help with down payment, closing costs, and certain upfront fees. Funds are limited and often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Key benefits
- Assistance up to 5% of the first mortgage (subject to program caps)
- 0% interest, typically a 30-year deferred second mortgage — no monthly payment until sale, refinance, or payoff
- Can be used for down payment, closing costs, prepaid escrows and some mortgage insurance premiums
- Works with FHA, VA, USDA and conventional loans (when eligible)
Who typically qualifies?
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Full-time Florida-based public service worker (healthcare, education, first responders, military, corrections, child services, etc.) Contact Kristine at 904-514-6969 for an eligibility check. |
| First-time buyer | Generally cannot have owned a home in the last 3 years (some exemptions may apply) |
| Income cap | Household income typically must be ≤ 150% of the Area Median Income (varies by county) |
| Credit | Minimum credit score often around 640 (lender requirements may vary) |
| Property | Primary residence in Florida (single-family, townhome, or approved condo) |
| Other | Must meet standard mortgage lender requirements (DTI, documentation, etc.) |
Exact eligibility rules and limits vary by county and lender — confirm details for your area.
How to prepare & apply
- Confirm your occupation qualifies for the program. Call Kristine at 904-514-6969
- Check your county’s income limit (150% Area Median Income) for your household size. Call Kristine at 904-514-6969 for a check of your current county's limit.
- Review and, if needed, improve your credit score.
- Get pre-approved by a Florida Housing–approved lender.
- Gather documentation: employment verification, pay stubs, tax returns, asset statements.
- Submit your application quickly when program funds open — funds are limited.
Why it matters
This program helps essential workers overcome the largest barrier to homeownership — the up-front costs — and supports keeping talented professionals in the communities they serve.
Call Kristine to confirm eligibility, get county income limits, find approved lenders, and start your application.
