The Florida Hometown Heroes Loan Program is designed to provide down payment and closing cost assistance to first-time, income-qualified homebuyers who work and serve in their local community. The program offers special benefits, including a lower first mortgage rate, to individuals who have served or continue to serve their country.
Here are some key details about the program:
- Eligible frontline workers can receive lower than market rates on various types of first mortgages, such as FHA, VA, RD, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac.
- The program offers reduced upfront fees, with no origination points or discount points.
- Qualified borrowers can receive up to 5% of the first mortgage loan amount (maximum of $25,000) in down payment and closing cost assistance.
- The down payment and closing cost assistance is provided as a 0% interest, non-amortizing, 30-year deferred second mortgage.
- The second mortgage becomes due and payable in full under certain conditions, such as the sale of the property, refinancing of the first mortgage, transfer of deed, or if the homeowner no longer occupies the property as their primary residence.
- It's important to note that the Florida Hometown Heroes loan is not forgivable.
This program aims to support and facilitate homeownership for those who serve their community and have limited financial resources. If you're interested in applying or need more specific information about the program, I recommend reaching out to a local housing counseling agency or a participating lender who can guide you through the application process.
