Florida Hometown Heroes assistance is a deferred second mortgage, not free money. Confirm current eligibility, lender approval and funding before including it in a purchase plan.
Reviewed and corrected October 5, 2026. Original publication date retained.
Understand the assistance amount
Florida Housing’s program page states assistance of up to 5% of the total first mortgage amount, with a minimum of $10,000 and maximum of $35,000, toward down payment and closing costs. It is not calculated from the home’s sale price.
Repayment matters
Florida Housing describes a 0%, non-amortizing, 30-year deferred second mortgage that is not forgivable. It becomes due in full upon sale, refinancing of the first mortgage, deed transfer or when the homeowner no longer occupies the property as a primary residence.
Use an actual total loan amount
For a clearly hypothetical $400,000 total first mortgage, 5% is $20,000. That arithmetic does not prove borrower eligibility or available funding. Have the participating lender identify the total loan amount used under the current guidelines rather than substituting a base loan that excludes financed charges.
Verify the current program
Florida Housing’s current page identifies eligible occupational and employment categories for the 2026 program. Ask a participating lender to confirm your eligibility, income and purchase limits, any first-time-buyer requirement or exception, and the availability of funds for your intended closing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the assistance forgiven after a set number of years?
The program page says the loan is not forgivable.
Is it 5% of the purchase price?
No. The stated calculation uses the total first mortgage amount.
Talk with our team
Contact MVP Home Group to discuss the property and the next step that fits your plans. For legal, tax, loan or insurance questions, obtain advice from the appropriate qualified professional.
About MVP Home Group
Nelson Cruz, P.A. is the Founder & CEO of MVP Home Group, brokered by Real Broker LLC. He brings nearly two decades in law enforcement to his work in real estate. Contact our team through Nelson’s profile.