Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program

What is the Hometown Heroes Housing Program? 

This program makes homeownership affordable for eligible frontline workers such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, educators, health care professionals, childcare employees, and active military or veterans. It provides down payment and closing cost assistance for first-time homebuyers to purchase a primary residence in the community they serve. The hometown heroes program offers lower first mortgage rates on Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA VA, and USDA first mortgage loans. In addition, it provides reduced upfront fees and no origination or discount points as an added benefit.   

How does the Hometown Heroes Program work?

Eligible buyers that qualify for one of the loan programs from  Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA VA, or USDA first mortgage loans. Buyers can receive up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount to a maximum of 25,000. The assistance is a second mortgage with 0% interest, amortized over 30 years without any monthly payments required. The second mortgage is repayable in full when the home is sold and refinanced, a transfer of deed is recorded, or the homeowner no longer occupies the house as a primary residence.  

Who is eligible for the Florida Hometown Heroes Program?  

Eligible categories of frontline workers employed by a municipality, private companies, or self-employed individuals are acceptable. Verification of employment from employers and licensing or certification documentation are needed to confirm the occupation for self-employed individuals. The list of eligible occupations is inclusive and can be found here for our convenience.

What are the qualifications for the Hometown Heroes Program? 

Eligible buyers must meet at least one of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, or USDA loan program guidelines.   Your loan officer for the best program for your financial situation determines the loan program for the first mortgage. In addition: 

• At least one borrower must be a first-time homebuyer
• Subject to loan amount limits for FHA and conventional loans
• Borrowers must not exceed program income limits per County 

Please complete the form below to receive loan and income limits for your Florida County and eligible occupations.

CharterStone Mortgage will help you decide the best mortgage program to fit your goals. We guide you through the pros and cons of each loan and compare them. We will find the best loan program to meet your financial goals. We have the expertise and experience to guide you through the complex guidelines of many down payment assistance programs. You decide what works best for you. Call us for more information and discuss the possibilities. We are happy to help!