Hometown Heroes Assistance Program Returns for 2025 — What You Need to Know

Great news for Florida’s frontline workers: the Hometown Heroes Program is back for 2025, repowered by $50 million in funding to aid eligible homebuyers. Whether you're in healthcare, education, public safety, the military, or child services, this assistance could help you step into homeownership. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

Who Qualifies?

Only frontline workers in specific roles are eligible, including:

- Healthcare personnel

- School staff

- First responders (emergency medics, police, fire)

- Public safety and court employees

- Childcare providers

- Active duty military, National Guard, Coast Guard

- Florida-based veterans employed full-time

Additional requirements:

- First-time homebuyers (no ownership in the past 3 years)—veterans are exempt

- Must work full-time for a Florida-based employer

- Household income ≤ 150% of Area Median Income (AMI) in your county (e.g. Alachua: $160,050)

- Minimum credit score of 640

- Must purchase a primary residence in the same community where you work 

What’s the Benefit?

- Up to 5% of your first mortgage, capped at $35,000, for down payment and closing costs

- Delivered via a 0% interest, 30-year deferred second mortgage—no monthly payments until sale, refinance, or pay-off 

- Exemptions on documentary stamp and intangible taxes, offering further savings

- Compatible with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional mortgage options

What’s Changed in 2025?

- Funding reduced from past levels to $50M—funds may run out quickly

- More limited eligibility, now focused on specific frontline roles—many jobs eligible in 2024 are no longer included

- Program start delayed, pending Governor’s approval—likely open after July 1, 2025

What You Can Do Now

1. Check occupation eligibility

2. Confirm income meets county AMI limits

3. Maintain or improve credit (min 640)

4. Find a Florida Housing–approved lender

5. Get pre-approved in advance

6. Submit your Hometown Heroes application as soon as funds are released

Why It Matters

By tapping into this program, frontline workers can significantly reduce their upfront homebuying costs and enjoy tax savings—while securing a primary home in the communities they serve. But with stricter rules and less funding this year, early preparation is crucial.

We're Here to Help

Our team has experience guiding buyers through the Hometown Heroes program and other assistance options. If you're a healthcare worker, teacher, first responder, military member, or serve your community in another role—let’s connect. We’ll help you assess eligibility, gather documents, pursue pre-approval, and submit early to maximize your chances.

To learn more about the Hometown Heroes program you can visit this FAQ article from makefloridayourhome.com.