Are you a Florida realtor looking to empower your clients with homeownership opportunities? You're in luck! Florida Housing's Board of Directors has just approved an additional $36 million for the Hometown Heroes (HTH) Loan Program. This program is a game-changer, assisting over 13,000 first-time borrowers living and working in Florida. Here's your concise guide to the new funds:
The Hometown Heroes Program Essentials:
- Designed for first-time homebuyers who work full-time for Florida-based employers.
- Offers up to 5% of the loan amount (ranging from $10,000 to $35,000) for down payment and closing cost assistance.
- The second mortgage becomes due upon property sale, refinancing, deed transfer, or if the homeowner no longer occupies the property as their primary residence.
- Not a forgivable loan.
Usage and Limitations:
- Eligible for down payment and customary closing costs, but not for real estate agent commissions or covering the gap between sales price and appraised value.
- Not influenced by FHA, USDA, and VA PMI rates.
- Income limit requirements vary by county.
- First-time homebuyer status, full-time employment of 35 hours or more per week, and occupation verification are mandatory.
Program Details:
- Available for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages.
- Primarily for 1-unit single-family residences and PUDs, and 2-4-unit properties (with the borrower occupying one unit and the property being at least 5 years old).
- This applies to condos and manufactured homes with varying FICO scores and DTI ratio requirements.
- Borrowers cannot own other properties except for veterans or active military members.
Program Exceptions and Restrictions:
- No high-balance loans or waiver of UW fees.
- Non-occupying co-borrowers or co-signors are not allowed.
- Escrow waivers, co-ops, single-wide manufactured homes, land trusts, and temporary rate buydowns are prohibited.
- Standalone or piggyback HELOCs are not allowed.
Take Immediate Action: Limited Availability!
- These additional funds will be in high demand and fully allocated soon after the release on November 6th.
- As a Florida realtor, you have a unique opportunity to assist your clients in realizing their homeownership dreams. Reach out and guide them through the Hometown Heroes Program.
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This additional funding is a game-changing opportunity to help aspiring Florida homeowners. By staying informed and acting quickly, you can support your clients on their homeownership journey and elevate your reputation as a trusted and knowledgeable Florida realtor. Don't miss out on this chance to make a real difference in your clients' lives.