Florida’s Hometown Heroes Program: Helping Local Heroes Achieve Homeownership

jgang21
Aug 8
2 min read

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a home in Florida but feel like rising costs are putting that goal out of reach, the Florida Hometown Heroes Program might be the key to making it happen.

Designed to support the people who keep our communities running, this program provides financial assistance to help qualified homebuyers with down payments and closing costs.

What Is the Florida Hometown Heroes Program?

The Florida Hometown Heroes Program is a state initiative that offers down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible full-time workers in more than 100 critical professions. These are the individuals who dedicate their lives to serving their communities — from first responders and healthcare workers to educators and military members.

The program makes it easier for these local heroes to buy a primary residence in the communities they serve.

Who Qualifies?

You may qualify if you:

Work full-time for a Florida-based employer in an approved occupation (teacher, firefighter, law enforcement officer, nurse, EMT, military, and many more).
Earn less than 150% of your county’s area median income (AMI).
Intend to purchase a primary residence in Florida.
Meet standard mortgage credit requirements.

(Pro Tip: Many professions qualify — it’s worth checking even if you’re unsure!)

How Much Assistance Can You Receive?

The program offers up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance (not to exceed 5% of the first mortgage amount). This comes as a 0% interest, non-amortizing, 30-year deferred second mortgage — meaning no monthly payments, and repayment is only required if you sell, refinance, or transfer ownership.

Why the Hometown Heroes Program Matters in the Florida Panhandle

In communities like Pensacola, Gulf Breeze, Navarre, Milton, Pace, and Perdido Key, housing costs have been steadily rising. The Hometown Heroes Program ensures that the very people who make our towns safe, healthy, and thriving can also afford to live here.

Whether you’re a teacher moving closer to your school, a firefighter buying your first home, or a military service member stationed in the Panhandle, this program can help you plant roots where you serve.

How to Apply

Check your eligibility – Review the official list of qualifying occupations.
Get pre-approved – Work with a participating lender who knows the Hometown Heroes Program inside and out.
Start your home search – Partner with a local Realtor® (like me!) who understands how to maximize your benefits.
Close with confidence – Use your assistance to reduce your upfront costs and keep more money in your pocket.

Ready to See If You Qualify?

As a local Realtor® and Florida Panhandle expert, I can help you connect with trusted lenders, find the right home, and make the most of the Florida Hometown Heroes Program.

📩 Let’s get started today — contact me through PanhandleMove.com , send me a DM on Instagram @ListWithJordan.or give me a call at 850-361-8170 today!

Your dream home might be closer than you think — and this program could be the boost you need to get there.