For many buyers here on the Space Coast, the biggest obstacle to homeownership isn’t qualifying for a loan—it’s coming up with the cash needed for the down payment and closing costs. That’s exactly where the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program steps in.

This program was designed to support the people who serve and strengthen our communities every day—making homeownership more accessible and affordable right here in Brevard County.

What Is the Hometown Heroes Program?

The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing (HTH) Program provides down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible, income-qualified buyers who work full-time for a Florida-based employer.

In addition to assistance funds, the program also offers:

Competitive first mortgage interest rates

Reduced upfront fees

No origination or discount points

How Much Assistance Is Available?

 Eligible buyers can receive:

Up to 5% of the total loan amount

Minimum: $10,000

Maximum: $35,000

These funds can be used toward:

Down payment

Closing costs

How Does Repayment Work?

The assistance is structured as a:

0% interest second mortgage

No monthly payments

Deferred for up to 30 years

Repayment is only required if:

The home is sold

The loan is refinanced

The property is no longer your primary residence

Ownership is transferred

Important:

This loan is not forgivable, but because it’s deferred with no payments, it still provides major upfront relief.

 Who Qualifies?

The program is available to buyers who:

·       Work full-time for a Florida-based employer

·       Meet income requirements

·       Are purchasing a primary residence

·       Eligible occupations include:

·       Healthcare workers

·       School staff members

·       First responders

·       Public safety employees

·       Court employees

·       Child care workers

·       Active military and reserves

·       Florida National Guard

·       Veterans (must be employed full-time)

In Brevard County, this includes a large portion of our workforce—from teachers and nurses to aerospace and public service professionals.

Income Limits (Important)

To qualify, buyers must fall within the program’s income limits.

You can view the current limits here:

Florida Housing Finance Corporation official guidelines:

https://www.floridahousing.org/docs/default-source/programs/homebuyers/hometown-heroes/2025-hometown-heroes-limits-rev-8-18-2025.pdf?sfvrsn=ea4efb3c_1

Income limits vary by county and household size, so it’s important to review the details or speak with a knowledgeable lender.

What Loan Types Can Be Used?

The Hometown Heroes Program can be paired with:

FHA loans

 VA loans

 USDA (RD) loans

Conventional loans

Why This Program Matters in Brevard County

Here in Brevard County, we have a strong workforce made up of professionals who serve our community every day—but many are still priced out due to upfront costs.

The Hometown Heroes Program helps bridge that gap by:

Reducing the cash needed to close

Making monthly payments more manageable

Allowing buyers to stay and invest in the communities they serve 

Local Insight

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear from buyers is:

“I need 10–20% down to buy a home.”

In reality, many buyers using programs like Hometown Heroes are able to purchase with significantly less out of pocket—sometimes just a few thousand dollars or less depending on how the offer is structured.

 Thinking About Buying?

If you’re wondering whether you qualify—or how to combine this program with other options—I have great lender who is very knowledgeable with this program.  If you would like the lenders information, click HERE and send me a quick message!

If you live and work in Brevard County and have been thinking about buying a home, the Hometown Heroes Program could be the opportunity that makes it possible sooner than you expected.