Florida’s Hometown Heroes Program is back—and the newly announced 2025 income limits mean more buyers than ever can now qualify for help.
This popular state-backed program offers up to $35,000 in assistance for first-time homebuyers, helping with down payment and closing costs through a 0% interest, non-forgivable second mortgage that is deferred for 30 years. And thanks to these updated limits, many more households are now eligible.
The biggest change is the updated household income caps—now raised across nearly every Florida market. This helps open the door for more middle-income families and individuals to qualify.
Some highlights:
Miami-Dade County: Up to $170,250
Broward County: Up to $158,400
Palm Beach County: Up to $160,650
Orlando Area (Orange, Osceola, Seminole): Up to $144,750
Tampa Area (Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco): Up to $143,250
Monroe County (Key West / Key Largo): Up to $178,950
To be eligible for the Hometown Heroes Program, buyers must:
Have a household income at or below 140% of the area median
Complete an approved homebuyer education course
Use the home as their primary residence
Be employed by a Florida-based employer (unless using a VA loan)
Be a first-time buyer (or have not owned a home in the past 3 years)
Eligible property types include single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and even manufactured homes on a permanent foundation.
With housing affordability still a major challenge across Florida, down payment assistance can make a huge difference. Many qualified buyers may not even realize they’re eligible, especially under the new 2025 income limits.