By Phil Ganz
Edited by Ryan Skerritt
The Florida Hometown Heroes Program helps frontline workers, veterans, and first-time homebuyers afford homeownership through up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.
But there’s one rule that matters more than almost any other: You must work with a Florida Housing–approved lender to access Hometown Heroes funds.
What Is the Florida Hometown Heroes Program?
The Florida Hometown Heroes Program is a state-run homebuyer assistance initiative administered by Florida Housing to support eligible full-time workers and veterans purchasing homes in their communities.
Key Program Highlights (2026)
- Up to $35,000 (or 5% of the first mortgage) in assistance
- Assistance provided as a 0% interest, deferred second mortgage
- No monthly payments
- Repayment only upon sale, refinance, or payoff of the first mortgage
- Compatible with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans
- Exemption from Florida documentary stamp and intangible taxes, reducing closing costs
Core Eligibility Rules
- First-time homebuyer (veterans exempt)
- Minimum 640 credit score
- Household income ≤ 150% of county AMI
- Full-time employment in an approved occupation
- Purchase in the same Florida community where you work
Why You Must Use a Florida Hometown Heroes Approved Lender
Not every lender in Florida is authorized to offer Hometown Heroes loans. This is one of the most common—and costly—mistakes buyers make.
A lender cannot “add” Hometown Heroes later. A lender cannot “submit it for you” if they’re not approved. A lender cannot transfer the benefit to another lender mid-process.
If your lender is not officially approved by Florida Housing, you cannot receive Hometown Heroes funds, regardless of what’s promised verbally.
Are There “Top” Florida Hometown Heroes Lenders?
Florida Housing does not rank or endorse lenders publicly. However, strong participating lenders typically share these traits:
- Active Florida Housing approval
- Dedicated program knowledge
- Proven experience with funding windows and pauses
- Clear communication about eligibility and timelines
Rather than chasing a “top 5 list,” buyers are best served by working with:
- A verified approved lender
- A loan officer who regularly closes Hometown Heroes loans
How to Choose the Right Florida Hometown Heroes Lender
Not all approved Hometown Heroes lenders operate the same way. Choosing the right lender can impact your approval speed, rate, grant availability, and overall experience.
Use this checklist when comparing lenders:
Confirm Active Hometown Heroes Approval
Make sure the lender is currently approved by Florida Housing and actively originating Hometown Heroes loans. Some lenders appear on lists but are not accepting new Hometown Heroes applications.
Ask About Program Availability & Funding Windows
Hometown Heroes funding is limited and time-sensitive. Choose a lender that:
- Monitors funding releases closely
- Can lock your loan quickly when funds open
- Has experience submitting files during high-demand periods
Verify Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance Options
Ask if they can combine Hometown Heroes with other Florida assistance programs. Some lenders:
- Offer only the base program
- Others layer additional assistance (local grants, employer programs)
Experience With First-Time Buyers
Hometown Heroes is designed for first-time and moderate-income buyers. Look for lenders who:
- Explain income calculations clearly
- Help document job eligibility properly
- Guide you through homebuyer education requirements
Turn Times & Communication
Fast, clear communication matters—especially in competitive markets. Ask:
- Average pre-approval turnaround time
- Underwriting and closing timelines
- Who your main point of contact will be
Local Florida Knowledge
Florida-specific experience matters. A strong Hometown Heroes lender understands:
- County income limits
- Condo approval rules
- Insurance and flood zone issues
- Property tax and homestead exemptions
Florida Hometown Heroes Lender FAQs
Common questions about approved lenders, how to choose one, and what to expect when using the Florida Hometown Heroes program.
Do I have to use a Florida Hometown Heroes-approved lender?
Yes. To use the Florida Hometown Heroes program, your loan must be originated through a lender approved by Florida Housing for Hometown Heroes.
Can I shop rates between multiple Hometown Heroes lenders?
Yes. You can compare interest rates, fees, and service levels among multiple approved Hometown Heroes lenders before choosing one.
Are banks and mortgage brokers both approved Hometown Heroes lenders?
Yes. Approved lenders may include banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokers that meet Florida Housing requirements and are authorized to originate Hometown Heroes loans.
Does using an approved lender guarantee approval for the Hometown Heroes program?
No. Borrowers must still meet program requirements such as income limits, job eligibility, credit and underwriting guidelines, and property eligibility.
Can my lender reserve Hometown Heroes funds for me?
Typically, funds are reserved after key approval milestones (such as underwriting/commitment), not at pre-qualification. Lenders experienced with the program can help you act quickly when funds are available.
The Bottom Line
The Florida Hometown Heroes Program remains one of the most valuable homebuyer assistance programs in Florida in 2026—but only if you use it correctly.
With limited funding and strict lender approval rules, choosing the right lender matters as much as qualifying for the program itself.
If your lender is not officially approved by Florida Housing, you will not receive Hometown Heroes assistance and may lose time, contract opportunities, or funding windows.
Work with experienced, participating lenders who understand the program end-to-end.
With over 50 years of mortgage industry experience, we are here to help you achieve the American dream of owning a home. We strive to provide the best education before, during, and after you buy a home. Our advice is based on experience with Phil Ganz and Team closing over One billion dollars and helping countless families.
About Author - Phil Ganz
Phil Ganz has over 20+ years of experience in the residential financing space. With over a billion dollars of funded loans, Phil helps homebuyers configure the perfect mortgage plan. Whether it's your first home, a complex multiple-property purchase, or anything in between, Phil has the experience to help you achieve your goals.
About Editor - Ryan Skerritt
Ryan Skerritt has over 10+ years of experience in the residential financing space. With over two hundred and fifty million of funded loan volume, Ryan has the skill set to help any homebuyer configure the perfect mortgage plan.
