A look at Florida's statewide down payment assistance program for teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, and veterans.
By Ryan Kennedy, NMLS #1434300 · Orlando Mortgage Broker, Icon Mortgage Group
One of the most valuable resources available to eligible Orlando-area homebuyers is Florida's Hometown Heroes program, run through the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.
Hometown Heroes provides down payment and closing cost assistance structured as a 0% interest deferred second mortgage, generally up to 5% of the first mortgage amount, subject to a program minimum and maximum. It's layered on top of a first mortgage — typically FHA, conventional, or VA.
Eligible occupations include healthcare workers, teachers and school staff, first responders, public safety and court employees, childcare workers, and active-duty military and veterans, subject to income limits and other program requirements.
Hometown Heroes is funded in rounds through the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, and can pause once a round's funding is fully reserved until the next round opens. That means current availability should always be confirmed before you count on it as part of your purchase plan.
There is never a fee to apply for Hometown Heroes assistance. Be cautious of anyone charging an upfront fee for "access" to the program — that's not how it works.
Depending on your situation, other state, county, or employer-based down payment assistance programs may also apply. We check what you qualify for as part of your pre-approval, rather than assuming Hometown Heroes is the only option.