Complete Florida Hometown Heroes Program Guide
Written by Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Florida licensed mortgage broker
The Florida Hometown Heroes program helps eligible Floridians buy a home with down payment and closing cost assistance. It offers a zero-interest second mortgage that makes ownership reachable for many working residents.
This guide explains how the program works, who qualifies, and how to use it. Mortgage Capital, NMLS# 1859012, helps Florida buyers access Hometown Heroes.
How the program works
Hometown Heroes provides up to 5% of the loan amount, capped, as a zero-interest second mortgage for your down payment and closing costs. The assistance pairs with a first mortgage like FHA or conventional.
The second mortgage is deferred, meaning no monthly payment, and is repaid only when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first loan.
Who qualifies
The program is open to many Florida workers who meet income limits, are first-time buyers in most cases, and will occupy the home as a primary residence. It once focused on specific professions but has broadened.
You also need a qualifying credit score and to complete a homebuyer education course.
Income and price limits
Income limits are set by county, and the home must fall within program price limits. These vary across Florida's markets, so we confirm both for your area.
Many buyers are surprised to find they qualify under the current limits.
Combining with your mortgage
Hometown Heroes layers on top of an FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional first mortgage. Both close together, with the assistance funds flowing to closing alongside your loan.
Pairing it with a low-down first mortgage can get you into a home with very little cash.
Using Hometown Heroes in Florida
Because the assistance covers both down payment and closing costs, it directly reduces the cash you bring to the table, which matters given Florida's insurance and closing expenses.
We coordinate the first mortgage and the assistance so the timeline holds and your costs stay low.
Complete Florida Hometown Heroes Program Guide: step by step
Frequently asked questions
What is Florida Hometown Heroes?
A state program offering up to 5% of the loan amount, capped, as a zero-interest second mortgage for down payment and closing costs.
Who qualifies for Hometown Heroes?
Many Florida workers within county income limits, usually first-time buyers, who will occupy the home and complete homebuyer education.
Do I have to repay the assistance?
Not monthly. The second mortgage is deferred and repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first loan.
How much assistance can I get?
Up to 5% of the loan amount, subject to a cap, applied to your down payment and closing costs.
Can I combine it with an FHA loan?
Yes. Hometown Heroes layers on top of FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional first mortgages.
Are there income limits?
Yes, set by county. Many buyers qualify under the current limits, which we confirm for your area.
Is it only for certain professions?
It once focused on specific professions but has broadened to many Florida workers who meet the income limits.
Do I need homebuyer education?
Yes. A short homebuyer education course is required before closing.