Florida Hometown Heroes Program — What You Need to Know in 2026
By Barrett Henry, REALTOR® & Broker Associate at REMAX Collective
The Florida Hometown Heroes program is one of the most generous down payment assistance programs in the state. Administered by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, it provides up to 5% of the first mortgage amount as a forgivable second mortgage to help eligible Florida workers buy their first home.
Who Qualifies for Hometown Heroes?
According to Florida Housing, Hometown Heroes is available to first-time homebuyers who are employed full-time by a Florida-based employer. Unlike earlier versions of the program that were limited to specific professions, the current Hometown Heroes program is open to all employed Floridians who meet the requirements.
You must have a household income at or below the area median income (AMI) for the county where you are purchasing, a minimum credit score of 640, and you must complete a homebuyer education course through an approved provider.
How Much Does Hometown Heroes Provide?
The program offers up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount. On a $350,000 home, that is up to $17,500 toward your down payment and closing costs. The assistance comes as a 0% interest, non-amortizing second mortgage that is forgiven after you remain in the home as your primary residence for a set number of years.
Income Limits by Tampa Bay County
Income limits change annually. As of 2026, limits vary significantly across Tampa Bay counties. Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties tend to have higher limits than surrounding areas due to higher area median incomes. Barrett Henry can check the current limits for your specific county and household size.
How to Apply for Hometown Heroes in Tampa Bay
The application process requires working with a participating lender approved by Florida Housing. You cannot apply directly to the state. Barrett Henry, REALTOR® with REMAX Collective, works with approved lenders throughout Tampa Bay and can connect you with the right one for your situation.
Call Barrett at (813) 733-7907 to start your Hometown Heroes application.
Find Out Which DPA Programs You Qualify For
Barrett Henry offers free, no-obligation guidance on every down payment assistance program available in Tampa Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Barrett Henry
REALTOR® & Broker Associate at REMAX Collective
Barrett Henry has 23+ years of real estate experience and specializes in helping Tampa Bay homebuyers find and use down payment assistance programs. REMAX Hall of Fame 2024 recipient.
(813) 733-7907Free Housing Resources
- HUD Counseling: 1-800-569-4287 — Free housing counseling referrals
- FHA Resource Center: 1-800-225-5342 — FHA loan questions
- HOPE Hotline: 1-888-995-4673 — Foreclosure prevention help
Related Guides
What Is Down Payment Assistance and How Does It Work?
Down payment assistance (DPA) programs help homebuyers cover their down payment through grants, forgivable loans, or deferred-payment second mortgages. Learn how DPA works in Florida.
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Tampa Bay — 2026 Guide
Tampa Bay first-time buyers have access to grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates. Here are the top programs available in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, and surrounding counties.
FL Assist vs. Hometown Heroes — Which DPA Program Is Better?
Comparing Florida's two biggest DPA programs: FL Assist offers $10,000 with no monthly payments, while Hometown Heroes provides up to 5%. Here is how they compare for Tampa Bay buyers.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. DPA program details, income limits, and eligibility requirements change frequently. Contact a DPA-approved lender for current program terms. Barrett Henry is a licensed REALTOR® and Broker Associate with REMAX Collective. Equal Housing Opportunity.