Florida’s Hometown Heroes Housing Program is set to return for its fourth year on July 1, 2025, continuing its mission to make homeownership more attainable for the state’s workforce. This initiative provides substantial financial assistance to first-time homebuyers, particularly those employed in essential roles across Florida.
Program Highlights for 2025
- Up to $35,000 in Assistance: Eligible buyers can receive up to 5% of their first mortgage loan amount, capped at $35,000, to cover down payment and closing costs
- 0% Interest, Deferred Second Mortgage: The assistance comes as a non-forgivable second mortgage with 0% interest, repayable only when the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer used as the primary residence.
- Expanded Eligibility: While initially targeting frontline workers, the program now includes all full-time employees working for Florida-based employers, provided they meet other criteria.
- Income Limits: Applicants must have a household income not exceeding 150% of the area median income (AMI) for their county.
- Credit Requirements: A minimum credit score of 640 is required, with a higher threshold of 660 for manufactured homes.
✅ Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for the Hometown Heroes Program in 2025, applicants must:
- Be first-time homebuyers (not having owned a primary residence in the past three years).
- Be employed full-time (35+ hours per week) by a Florida-based employer.
- Plan to purchase a primary residence in the community where they work.
- Meet the specified income and credit score requirements.
Notably, veterans and active-duty military members are exempt from the first-time homebuyer requirement.
Eligible Property Types
The program supports the purchase of various property types, including:
- Single-family homes
- Townhomes
- Condos
- Manufactured homes on permanent foundations
- These properties must be intended for use as the buyer’s primary residence.
Income Limits by County
Income limits vary by county. For example:
- Miami-Dade County: $170,250
- Broward County: $158,400
- Palm Beach County: $160,650
- Orange County: $144,750
- Hillsborough County: $143,250
These figures represent 150% of the AMI for each respective county.
How to Apply
- Find a Participating LenderLike Us:
- Get Pre-Approved: We will ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and obtain pre-approval for a mortgage.
- Complete Homebuyer Education: Attend a certified homebuyer education course.
- Reserve Funds: We will take care of reserving your funds when you are under contract for a home.
- Close on Your Home: We will finalize the purchase with the assistance funds applied at closing.
Act Quickly
The Hometown Heroes Program operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and funds are limited. In previous years, allocated funds were exhausted rapidly due to high demand.
Get Started Today
If you’re a full-time employee in Florida dreaming of homeownership, the Hometown Heroes Program could be your pathway to achieving that goal. Reach out to MIAMI CAPITAL Lending or visit us at MCL to learn more, you can also begin your application process.
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