Discover the new rules for the Hometown Heroes 2025 program: more people qualify, and you can receive up to $35,000 to buy a home in Florida.

The Hometown Heroes program is proposed to return in 2025 with up to $35,000 in financial assistance for Florida homebuyers. However, unlike the 2024 version, the new program includes significant changes and is not yet active. It is currently pending review and approval by Governor DeSantis.

What is the Hometown Heroes Program?

Hometown Heroes is a state initiative that offers financial assistance toward down payment and closing costs through a second mortgage with 0% interest and no monthly payments. The loan is only repaid if the property is sold, refinanced, or transferred. While the 2024 version was available to all full-time Florida workers, the proposed 2025 version introduces stricter eligibility requirements.

What’s New in the 2025 Program?

• Only available to full-time employees in Florida working in specific eligible occupations (listed below).
• The approved state budget allocates $50 million, as part of an expected total of $100 million.
• Funds will NOT be available on July 1, 2025. Availability depends on final approval by the Governor.
• Once approved, Florida Housing will release an updated guide and training schedule for participating lenders.

Eligible Occupations for 2025

The 2025 program will only be open to individuals employed full-time in Florida in one of the following roles:

• Healthcare workers
• School staff members
• First responders
• Public safety employees
• Court employees
• Childcare workers
• Members of the U.S. military or reserves, U.S. Coast Guard or its reserves, or the Florida National Guard
• Veterans employed full-time by a Florida-based employer

General Requirements

• Minimum credit score of 640 (660 for manufactured homes)
• Must not have owned a home in the past 3 years (veterans are exempt)
• Must use the home as a primary residence
• Must close in less than 30 days after approval

How Much Assistance Can You Receive?

• Up to 5% of the total loan amount
• Maximum assistance: $35,000
• Minimum: $10,000 for loans of $200,000 or less
• Can be used for down payment and closing costs

Compatible Loan Types

• FHA Loans
• VA Loans
• USDA Loans
• Conventional Loans

When Will Funds Be Available?

Despite some promotions claiming a July 1, 2025 start date, the program will NOT be available until the Governor officially approves the budget. After approval, Florida Housing will release an official guide, occupation list, and lender training schedule.

What Can You Do Now?

• Check if your occupation may be included in the final list.
• Consult a licensed real estate advisor for early guidance.
• Prepare in advance: improve your credit, gather documents, and complete the HUD course if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the program active now?

No. It will launch only after the Governor's review and final approval.

Who decides if my job qualifies?

Florida Housing will release the official list. No individual occupation evaluations are being made at this time.

Does the $35,000 benefit still apply?

Yes, up to that amount is expected to remain, depending on loan type and terms, but final approval is still pending.

Ready to Get Started?

If you believe you may qualify and want to buy a home in Florida this year, now is the time to prepare.

Get pre-qualified here or schedule a consultation with a professional advisor.