How to Apply for Florida Hometown Heroes — Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for Florida Hometown Heroes is not as complicated as it sounds, but the process does require specific steps in the right order. You cannot apply directly to the state — everything goes through a participating lender. Here is exactly how the application works from start to finish.

Step 1: Confirm You Meet the Basic Requirements

Before reaching out to a lender, confirm you meet the eligibility criteria. You must be a first-time homebuyer (no ownership interest in a primary residence in the past three years), employed full-time by a Florida-based employer, earning at or below the area median income for the county where you plan to buy, and a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or qualified alien.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, a quick call to Barrett Henry at (813) 733-7907 can clarify your eligibility in minutes.

Step 2: Find a Participating Lender

This is the most critical step. You must work with a lender approved by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation. Not all mortgage companies are on the approved list. Barrett Henry, REALTOR® with REMAX Collective, works with multiple participating lenders across Tampa Bay and can match you with one based on your financial situation and target area.

Step 3: Get Pre-Approved

Your lender will pull your credit, verify your income, and determine which Florida Housing programs you qualify for. They will run your numbers through both Hometown Heroes and FL Assist (and potentially other programs) to show you the best option. Pre-approval typically takes 1 to 3 business days.

Step 4: Complete Homebuyer Education

Most DPA programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Complete this as early as possible — ideally during or immediately after pre-approval. Online courses through eHome America typically cost about $99 and take 4 to 8 hours at your own pace.

Step 5: Find a Home and Make an Offer

With your pre-approval letter in hand, start house hunting. Your REALTOR® will help you find homes within the purchase price limits and prepare a competitive offer. Make sure your offer mentions that you are using DPA — sellers and listing agents need to know, as the process involves additional documentation.

Step 6: Complete the Loan Process

Once your offer is accepted, your lender handles the DPA paperwork alongside your regular mortgage application. This includes submitting your application to Florida Housing for reservation of funds, completing the underwriting process, ordering the appraisal and title work, and coordinating with your REALTOR® and the seller's side.

Step 7: Close on Your New Home

At closing, the DPA funds are applied automatically. You sign the Hometown Heroes second mortgage documents along with your first mortgage. The process adds a small amount of extra paperwork at the closing table but does not significantly extend the closing timeline.

How Long Does the Full Process Take?

From initial lender contact to closing, the typical timeline is 45 to 60 days. The pre-approval stage takes 1 to 3 days. Home search varies — could be weeks or months. Once under contract, closing takes 30 to 45 days.

Barrett Henry, REALTOR® with REMAX Collective, guides buyers through every step. With 23+ years of real estate experience, Barrett ensures nothing falls through the cracks. Call (813) 733-7907 to start your Hometown Heroes application today.