Discover Florida’s top assistance programs for homebuyers in 2025—Hometown Heroes, down payment help, and closing cost aid for first-time buyers.

Homebuyer Assistance Programs in Florida (2025)

If you're planning to buy your first home in Florida in 2025, there are several assistance programs that can help you achieve that goal. From down payment and closing cost aid to special loans with reduced interest, the state and its counties offer multiple options designed to make homeownership more accessible. Here’s an overview of the most relevant programs currently available.

1. Hometown Heroes Program 2025

This is one of Florida’s most impactful state-level programs, offering up to $35,000 in assistance for down payment and closing costs to full-time Florida residents or veterans.

• Second mortgage with 0% interest and no monthly payments.
• Minimum credit score: 640.
• Income limit: up to 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
• Funds available starting July 1, 2025, with an initial $50 million budget.

For full details, read our in-depth article: Hometown Heroes 2025: New Opportunities to Buy a Home in Florida.

2. Florida Assist (FL Assist)

This statewide program provides up to $10,000 as a deferred second mortgage with 0% interest and no monthly payments.

• Repaid only when the property is sold, refinanced, or transferred.
• Can be combined with FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional loans.
• No payments required during the life of the first mortgage.

3. Florida Homeownership Loan Program (FL HLP)

This program offers up to $10,000 as a second mortgage loan at a 3% fixed interest rate, repaid over 15 years.

• Affordable monthly payments.
• Must be paired with a Florida Housing-approved first mortgage.
• Great for buyers with stable income but limited savings.

4. Salute Our Soldiers Military Loan Program

Exclusively for active-duty military, veterans, and their families, this program includes:

• Assistance for down payment and closing costs.
• Access to competitive interest rates.
• May be combined with Hometown Heroes or FL Assist in certain cases.

5. SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership Program)

Managed at the county or city level, SHIP distributes local funding through housing agencies. Benefits vary by region but often include:

• Direct grants for down payment assistance.
• Support for home repairs and improvements.
• Personalized guidance through the buying process.

Contact your local housing office to check availability and eligibility.

6. Local County Programs (Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach)

🔹 Miami-Dade County Housing Assistance

Programs offered include:

• Second Mortgage Assistance: up to $35,000 in deferred loans.
• Homebuyer Counseling: required courses to access assistance.

🔹 Broward County Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program

• Up to $40,000 for low- and moderate-income residents.
• Available to first-time buyers or those who haven’t owned in 3+ years.

🔹 Palm Beach County Housing Programs

• Up to $45,000 for down payment assistance.
• Completion of certified homebuyer education is required.

Tips for Florida Homebuyers

Before applying for any of these programs, follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility (income, credit score, first-time status).
2. Complete a homebuyer education course—required for most programs.
3. Speak with a licensed real estate agent who specializes in state programs.
4. Get pre-qualified to find out which programs you can combine with your mortgage.

Ready to Use These Programs?

If you’re planning to buy a home in Florida this year, these assistance programs can help you make the leap from renting to owning. Take advantage of what's available and start your journey toward homeownership today.

Get pre-qualified for free here or contact a professional advisor now.