The Florida Hometown Heroes Program is designed to assist eligible first-time homebuyers in purchasing a primary residence by providing down payment and closing cost assistance. To apply for this program, follow the steps outlined below.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
To qualify for the Florida Hometown Heroes Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
First-Time Homebuyer: You must not have owned and occupied a primary residence within the past three years.
Employment: At least one borrower must be employed full-time by a Florida-based employer.
Credit Score: A minimum credit score of 640 is required.
Income Limits: Your income must not exceed 150% of the area median income (AMI) for your county.
Step 2: Connect with a Participating Loan Officer
Begin the application process by connecting with a participating loan officer approved by Florida Housing. These professionals are knowledgeable about the program’s requirements and can guide you through the application process. You can find a list of approved loan officers on the official Florida Housing website or by visiting hometownheroesprogram.org.
Step 3: Complete a Homebuyer Education Course
Before finalizing your application, you must complete a pre-purchase homebuyer education course approved by the program. This course can be taken online or in person and is valid for two years from the date of completion.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
With the assistance of your loan officer, complete and submit your application for the Florida Hometown Heroes Program. Ensure that all required documentation, including proof of employment, income verification, and credit information, is provided.
Step 5: Await Approval and Proceed to Closing
After submitting your application, await approval from the program administrators. Once approved, you can proceed to close on your new home, utilizing the down payment and closing cost assistance provided by the program.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information about the Florida Hometown Heroes Program, including income limits specific to your county and a list of participating lenders, visit the official program website at hometownheroesprogram.org.
By following these steps, eligible first-time homebuyers can take advantage of the Florida Hometown Heroes Program to make homeownership more attainable.