The Hometown Heroes Down Payment Assistance Program for 2026 starts today, 7/13/2026. This program was designed for first responders and other eligible occupations with assistance on their down payment and closing costs to buy a home in Florida. The fund was granted $50,000,000 for 2026. It sounds like a lot of money but it will go quickly. Keep reading for more information about the program.
What are the main requirements?
1. You must be one of the eligible occupations. Some of the occupations include law enforcement, teachers, fire fighters, nurses, childcare, paramedics, veterans, and many other occupations. Call me to see if your job is on the list of eligible occupations.
2. You must be a first time homebuyer or have not owned a home in the last 3 years.
3. Work full time for a Florida based employer with offices in Florida.
4. The home must be for your primary residence and not investment.
5. Credit score must be 640 or higher.
What are the benefits of this program?
1. Maximum of $35,000 up to 5% of the mortgage amount with a minimum of $10,000 to be used for down payment and closing costs.
2. No interest or payment on the benefit. The mortgage is deferred until you sell the home and then you must pay the loan back to the fund.
What are the next steps?
1. Contact me and I will put you in touch with a lender that offers the program to see if you qualify.
2. As soon as you are preapproved, we can start your home search.
Xcellence Realty, Inc.
David Shippey
863-521-4517