What is it?

The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program is geared towards expanding on Florida’s existing housing programs to reach critical workers and those who have served our country. It is available to first-time, income-qualified homebuyers who are eligible frontline community workers. This became available to Floridians on June 1st, 2022, and has the highest and most inclusive eligibility of all Florida Housing down payment assistance programs.

What are the details?

According to The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program’s official website, here are some helpful program details to note:

  • Eligible frontline workers can receive lower than market rates on an FHA, VA, RD, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac first mortgage, reduced upfront fees, no origination points or discount points, and down payment and closing cost assistance.
  • Borrowers can receive up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount (maximum of $25,000) in down payment and closing cost assistance.
  • Down payment and closing cost assistance is available in the form of a 0%, non-amortizing, 30-year deferred second mortgage. This second mortgage becomes due and payable, in full, upon sale of the property, refinancing of the first mortgage, transfer of deed or if the homeowner no longer occupies the property as his/her primary residence. The Florida Hometown Heroes loan is not forgivable.

Who is Eligible, and how can I qualify?

Eligible frontline community workers can apply through a qualified bank. This includes law enforcement officers, firefighters, educators, healthcare professionals, childcare employees, and active military or veterans.

To qualify for this program, homebuyers must connect with a participating loan officer, have a minimum credit score of 640, provide certification for one of the eligible occupations, and meet the income threshold for their county. Eligible borrowers will receive up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount (up to a maximum of $25,000) in down payment and closing cost assistance in the form of a 0%, non-amortizing, 30-year deferred second mortgage.

Can any bank help me with this?

No, they must be qualified to do so. Luckily, we know some friends who do! Northepointe bank offers programs that can help while in partnership with the Florida House Finance Corporation. Qualified borrowers can receive 5% of the loan amount and up to $25,000 towards your downpayment and closing costs with the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program.

How can I check my eligibility?

Contact our friends at Northepoint Bank for more information, and say we sent you!

Direct Contact: Chris A. Heidt | chris.heidt@northpointe.com | www.northpointe.com/chris-heidt

What homes are eligible for use at Triple Crown Homes?

This is for end loans only, a specific type of long-term loan that an individual procures to pay off a short-term construction loan or other interim financing structure.