Effective July 1, 2023: Florida Hometown Heroes Program Expanded To All Eligible First-time Homebuyers
In March 2023, the “Live Local Act” was approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis. The Live Local Act will increase funding and expand the program’s eligibility and the program will be open to all first-time homebuyers, regardless of occupation. Veterans remain exempt from being First Time Buyers! This expansion aims to help more people achieve homeownership and establish roots in their local Florida communities.
Along with broadening eligibility criteria, the maximum Down Payment Assistance (DPA) funds offered will increase from $25,000 to $35,000. This significant boost aims to provide even greater financial support for people looking to buy their first home in Florida.
Under this program, eligible first-time home buyers can receive 5% of their total mortgage loan amount, up to a maximum of $25,000 (up to $35,000 on July 1, 2023), for down payment and/or closing costs. The assistance is provided as a deferred second mortgage with 0% interest. This second mortgage does not need to be repaid until you sell, refinance, pay off your primary mortgage, transfer the deed, or no longer live in the property as your primary residence.
What are the Florida Hometown Heroes Eligibility Requirements?
To qualify for the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program, you must satisfy the requirements below:
Primary Residence – The property you purchase must be your new primary residence.
First-time Homebuyer – You have not owned a home in the past three years as your primary residence. (OR, you are a veteran – veterans are exempt from this requirement (active duty is not exempt).
Income Limits – Click here to view the Hometown Heroes Program income limits. You must not exceed the income and loan amount for the county you plan on buying in.
Credit Qualifications – Minimum credit score 640.
