A Reminder of the Importance of Florida’s Hometown Heroes Program

A Friendly Reminder of the Importance of the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program and changes effective July 1, 2023

The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program makes homeownership affordable for eligible community workforce. This program provides down payment and closing cost assistance to first-time, income-qualified homebuyers so they can purchase a primary residence in the community in which they work and serve. The Florida Hometown Heroes Loan Program also offers a lower first mortgage interest rate and additional special benefits to those who have served and continue to serve their country.

While the program has expended its initial $100 million, however, the 2023 Florida Legislature expanded the program and added an additional $100 million, which becomes active on July 1, 2023. The “Live Local Act” passed during the 2023 session made some changes to the state’s Hometown Hero Program, including an expansion of eligibility requirements and the maximum loan amount offered.

After the July 1 start, the Hometown Heroes program will receive $100 million for the 2023-2024 fiscal year to continue assisting Florida families in purchasing their first home. The maximum down payment assistance amount will increase to $35,000, or up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount.

Here is a breakdown of some of the occupations that are eligible for this program