Unlocking Florida’s Down Payment Assistance Programs: A Guide for Homebuyers

Buying a home in Florida can feel like an uphill battle—especially when the biggest hurdle is the down payment. What if we told you there’s money available that could make your dream home much more accessible?

If you’re a first-time buyer, a returning homeowner, or someone working in one of Florida’s essential roles, you might qualify for help. In some cases, it’s thousands of dollars you don’t have to pay back.

Here’s a breakdown of the top down payment assistance programs in Florida, what they offer, and the fine print you need to know.

Florida Hometown Heroes Program (2025 Update)

Big news for Florida buyers! The 2025 state budget includes $50 million in funding for the Hometown Heroes Program. However, this year comes with significant changes.

What We Know

• Funds will not be available on July 1st like last year. We’re still waiting on final approval from the Governor.

• Once approved, Florida Housing will update its guidelines and begin training approved lenders.

  
  

Who’s Eligible (pending final approval):

• Healthcare workers

• School staff

• First responders

• Public safety & court employees

• Childcare workers

• Active military & veterans (must be full-time and employed by a Florida-based employer)

  
  

Pros:

• Up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.

• 0% interest on a deferred second mortgage—no payments while you live in the home.

• Doesn’t have to be repaid until you sell, refinance, or move out.

  
  

Cons:

• Must be a first-time homebuyer (unless you’re a veteran).

• Must work full-time in Florida and purchase in the same community.

• Subject to income and credit guidelines (640+ score and ≤150% of AMI).

• Not available until the final budget is signed and released.

  
  

Pro Tip: Get your documents in order now—pre-approval, pay stubs, IDs, and more—so you’re ready when funds are released. Our team is monitoring the rollout closely and can add you to our update list so you don’t miss your window.

Florida Assist (FL Assist) Down Payment Program

FL Assist is a state-funded option through Florida Housing that provides valuable support to buyers each year. It offers up to $10,000 as a 0% interest second mortgage to help with your down payment.

Pros:

• No interest and no monthly payments.

• Works well with first-time buyer mortgage programs (FHA, VA, USDA).

• Helps bridge the affordability gap without impacting your budget.

  
  

Cons:

• Funds are limited and may run out.

• Must be repaid when you sell, refinance, or stop occupying the home.

• Requires housing education and income documentation.

  
  

This program is a solid choice for those who don’t qualify for Hometown Heroes or want extra support in their financing.

Local City & County Assistance Programs

In addition to statewide offerings, many Florida counties and cities have their own down payment assistance programs. Some of these can be quite generous.

Examples Include:

• Hillsborough County: Offers forgivable loans to first-time buyers who meet income guidelines.

• Pasco County: Provides monetary assistance for eligible buyers.

• Pinellas County: Features down payment and closing cost grants based on income and household size.

• Large cities like Orlando, Jacksonville, and Miami-Dade also have programs for residents.

  
  

Pros:

• Many of these are forgivable after a few years of homeownership.

• Can often combine with statewide assistance.

• Tailored to local housing costs and resident needs.

  
  

Cons:

• These programs vary widely by county and city.

• Many have long waitlists or limited funding.

• Typically, they require income restrictions and additional documentation.

  
  

If you're buying in one of these areas, we’ll assist you in checking if local funds are available and guide you through the eligibility process step-by-step.

Tips for Getting Approved

Getting approved for down payment assistance can be straightforward if you prepare.

• Have your financial documents ready: tax returns, pay stubs, and identification.

• Contact our team. We’ll help you identify which programs you qualify for and create a personalized action plan.

• Don’t delay! Some programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and funds can run out quickly.

  
  

Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on Down Payment Assistance

Bottom Line: Florida has more down payment assistance than many people realize. From statewide programs like Hometown Heroes to local grants, there’s a strong chance you qualify for something. At Shupe Lending Group, we specialize in matching buyers with the right assistance. Let’s discuss your options and help you secure your new home without draining your savings!

Jonathan Shupe Branch Manager

Jonathan Shupe NMLS ID# 1649211 is the Manager of Shupe Lending Group NMLS ID# 2478065. Jonathan Shupe and his team of loan officers are licensed in multiple states. Many borrowers of Shupe Lending Group are individuals who did not qualify at other lenders due to those lenders' overlays on government and conventional loans. We have a reputation for being able to work with over 270 different lenders to offer our clients dozens of non-QM and alternative financing loan programs. Our team is available 7 days a week, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.