The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program is designed to support full-time essential workers employed by Florida-based employers—along with eligible active-duty service members and veterans—in achieving homeownership. The program offers up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance through a second mortgage, along with favorable loan terms, making homeownership more accessible for those who serve their communities.
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Eligible heroes can receive up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.
The Florida Hometown Heroes Loan Program is a vital initiative aimed at helping first-time homebuyers who are employed full-time by Florida-based employers. It offers generous financial assistance and favorable loan terms, making homeownership more attainable for those who serve and support their communities every day. Active-duty military and eligible veterans also benefit from expanded access.
Qualified homebuyers can receive up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance through a 0% interest, non-amortizing second mortgage. The assistance is calculated as 5% of the first mortgage loan amount, with a minimum of $10,000, ensuring meaningful support for homes of all price ranges.
The program is designed with accessibility in mind. Key eligibility highlights include:
Full-time employment with a Florida-based employer is required for at least one occupying borrower.
A minimum credit score of 640 is accepted.
Income must not exceed 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the county in which the property is located.
First-time homebuyer status is generally required (no ownership in a primary residence in the last three years), though exemptions apply for active-duty military, certain veterans, and purchases in federally designated target areas.
Only primary residences are eligible, including single-family homes, 2–4 unit properties, condos, and townhomes.
The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program acknowledges the invaluable contributions of Florida’s essential workers—from healthcare professionals and educators to first responders and court employees. By lowering financial barriers and expanding access to responsible homeownership, the program helps create long-term stability for those who keep Florida thriving.
The Doce Mortgage Group proudly supports this initiative, helping eligible buyers navigate the application process with confidence and clarity.
Eligible applicants must:
Be currently employed full-time by a Florida-based employer (at time of closing).
Be a first-time homebuyer (no ownership in a primary residence within the past 3 years), unless exempt.
Be purchasing a primary residence in Florida.
Work in an eligible occupation, such as healthcare, education, first responders, public safety, court employees, child care, or qualifying military/veteran status.
Be a Florida resident.
Not have been convicted of a sex offense against a minor (per 34 U.S.C. § 20911).
Note: Only one occupying borrower must meet the employment and occupation criteria. Co-signers and non-occupying borrowers do not qualify under these rules. Active-duty service members are exempt from the Florida employer requirement.
Up to $35,000 in the form of a second mortgage, which can be used toward both down payment and closing costs.
Borrowers must have a minimum credit score of 640.
Yes. Borrowers must not exceed the maximum income limit for the county in which the home is being purchased. These limits are based on Area Median Income (AMI) and vary by location but are generally capped at 150% of AMI.
Eligible properties include:
Single-family homes
2–4 unit homes
Townhomes
Condos
These must be used as the borrower’s primary residence.
Yes. Veterans are eligible if they are:
Discharged under other than dishonorable conditions, and
Employed full-time by a Florida-based employer at the time of closing.
(Note: Veterans are not exempt from the Florida employer requirement — only active-duty service members are.)
While the PDF doesn’t explicitly mention homebuyer education requirements, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation typically requires a homebuyer education course for first-time homebuyer assistance programs. It’s safe to assume this applies unless otherwise noted in the program’s current official application materials.
Applicants must apply through an approved Florida Housing loan officer or lender. The lender will help verify eligibility, collect documentation (such as employment and income proof), and process the application.
Yes. The up to $35,000 second mortgage may be used for both the down payment and closing costs.
The Doce Mortgage Group’s commitment to personalized service and extensive industry knowledge ensures that every participant in the Hometown Heroes Program in Miami and throughout Florida receives the best possible advice and support.
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