The Florida Hometown Heroes Loan Program is designed to make homeownership more affordable for the people who serve our communities and country. This includes first-time homebuyers, veterans, military personnel, and frontline professionals. At North Star Mortgage Network, we proudly help eligible Floridians navigate this unique program, which now includes updated guidelines for 2025 under both the BOND and TBA options.

What Is the Florida Hometown Heroes Loan Program?

The Hometown Heroes Loan Program provides a 30-year, fixed-rate first mortgage combined with a second mortgage offering up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. It’s administered by Florida Housing Finance Corporation and is available through approved lenders like North Star Mortgage Network.

The program is available under two structures:

• HTH Bond Loan Program: Requires household income qualification and considers the first-time buyer status of all adults on title.
• HTH TBA (The Bond Alternative): Considers only the income and first-time homebuyer status of the borrower(s) listed on the loan note.

Both versions offer the same second mortgage assistance: 5% of the loan amount (minimum $10,000, capped at $35,000). This loan is 0% interest, non-forgivable, and repayable only when the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer owner-occupied.

Who Qualifies for the Program?

To qualify for the 2025 Hometown Heroes Program:

• Borrowers must be first-time homebuyers unless purchasing in a federally targeted area or eligible under the veterans’ exemption.
• The borrower must work full-time for a Florida-based employer that has a physical in-state location.
• Borrowers must occupy the property as their primary residence and complete an approved homebuyer education course.
• Income and purchase price limits vary by county and loan program type.

Income Guidelines and Limits

For the Bond Program, all household income (ages 18 and up) must be counted, including non-purchasing spouses.

For the TBA Program, only the borrower(s) on the loan note are subject to income limits.

Refer to the 2025 income and purchase price chart or ask our team at North Star Mortgage Network to help you determine your eligibility.

Loan Program Options

Government Loans (FHA, VA, USDA-RD)

• Fixed 30-year term
• Determined by Florida Housing
• Eligible for the second mortgage down payment assistance

Conventional Loans

• HFA Advantage (Freddie Mac) – Available under both BOND and TBA options
• Reduced mortgage insurance for borrowers with income ≤80% of area median income (AMI)
• Rate set by Florida Housing

Note: FNMA (Fannie Mae) options have been removed from the TBA program as of 2025.

Key Benefits

• No 1% upfront origination fee
• Reduced mortgage insurance for qualifying conventional borrowers
• Up to $35,000 in second mortgage assistance
• Support for Florida’s military, first responders, teachers, healthcare workers, and more

Important Guidelines for Borrowers and Lenders

• Loans must be underwriter certified and delivered within 60 days of reservation to avoid cancellation or penalties.
• The second mortgage is not forgivable and will be repaid upon sale, refinance, or change of occupancy.
• Borrowers using the Hometown Heroes first mortgage must also take the second mortgage.

From North Star Mortgage Network: Why It Matters

At North Star Mortgage Network, we believe in rewarding those who give back to our state through service and sacrifice. This program is more than just assistance—it’s an opportunity to build lasting roots where you serve. Let us help you explore your eligibility, understand the program’s benefits, and lock in the best terms.