Hometown Heroes 2025 

Current Status Update

The Governor has completed his line item veto and signed off on the budget - that's the good news. We're still waiting for confirmation of the eligible occupations for 2025 funding.

Here's what we know: The 2025 Hometown Heroes program will most likely not roll out until mid-August. I know, I know - your clients are asking, and you want answers. Just hang tight a little longer!"

Program Overview

"For those new to the program, let me give you the big picture. The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program is designed to make homeownership affordable for our community workforce - think teachers, firefighters, nurses, law enforcement, and other essential workers who serve our communities."

Key Benefits:

"Here's what makes this program so valuable for your eligible buyers:

Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance: Your clients can receive up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount - that's a maximum of $35,000 and a minimum of $10,000 - to help with down payment and closing costs.

Competitive Interest Rates: The program offers competitive first mortgage interest rates, plus additional special benefits for those who have served our country.

Zero Percent Second Mortgage: The assistance comes as a 0%, non-amortizing, 30-year deferred second mortgage. Translation? No monthly payments on that assistance."

Important Details to Know:

1. This is for first-time, income-qualified homebuyers only. They must be purchasing a primary residence in the community where they work and serve.

2. The second mortgage becomes due and payable in full when they sell the property, refinance the first mortgage, transfer the deed, or if they no longer occupy it as their primary residence.

3. And here's something important - this loan is NOT forgivable. It will need to be repaid under those circumstances I just mentioned."

2025 Program Specifics

For 2025, here's what we're working with:

Total Funding: $50 million has been allocated

Eligible Occupations: We're still waiting for the final list to be approved

Training: Details are still to be determined, but training will be conducted once the program is finalized

So what should you be doing right now?

Start identifying potential clients who might qualify - think about the essential workers in your network.

Stay tuned for updates on eligible occupations - this list will be crucial for determining client eligibility.

Mark your calendar for mid-August when we expect the program to launch.

Be ready to move quickly once it's available - these programs can have high demand."

"The bottom line? The Hometown Heroes program is coming back in 2025 with significant funding to help our community workforce achieve homeownership. While we're waiting on final details, now's the time to prepare.

Keep an eye out for updates, and remember - when this program launches, you'll want to be ready to help your eligible clients take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

Questions? Comments? Drop them below, and I'll do my best to get you answers. Until next time, keep helping those hometown heroes find their perfect home!"