Florida Relaunches Program to Help Frontline Workers Buy Their First Home

Good news for Florida's frontline workers: a popular homebuying assistance program is back.

The Florida Hometown Heroes Program has relaunched, offering up to $35,000 to help certain workers cover down payment and closing costs when purchasing their first home.

Who Can Apply?

The program is designed for full-time employees who work for Florida-based employers in specific frontline fields, including:

• Law enforcement officers
• Firefighters
• Educators
• Healthcare workers
• Childcare employees
• Active-duty military members
• National Guard and Reserve members
• Veterans (who are also employed full-time by a Florida employer)

How Does the Assistance Work?

The money is provided as a loan with zero percent interest. You don't have to make payments on it until you either sell the home or finish paying off your main mortgage.

Act Fast — Funding Is Limited

The Florida legislature set aside $50 million for the program this year, but experts say it won't last long. Deidre Graybill, president-elect of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association, expects most of the money to run out within 30 days.

Graybill has seen how much the program helps families.

"It's delightful because there's so much money needed just to move, just to pay for movers, just to pack," she said. "Having that extra resource makes the transition into your home a lot easier."

She strongly recommends working with a real estate agent who has experience with the program.

"This is something you have to prepare for. It helps to work alongside a professional who understands the guidelines," Graybill explained.

Other Requirements to Qualify

• You must be buying a primary residence in Florida and move in within 60 days of closing.
• You must work at or report to a physical Florida location. Fully remote workers do not qualify. Hybrid workers must be on-site at least three days per week.
• You must generally be a first-time homebuyer, meaning you haven't owned a primary residence in the past three years. Veterans and buyers in certain targeted areas may be exempt from this rule.
• At least one buyer must complete an approved homebuyer education course before closing. Some military and veteran exemptions apply.

Want More Information?

Visit the official Florida Hometown Heroes Program website to learn more about eligibility and how to apply.

This information is based on reporting from WKMG ClickOrlando.

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