Florida Down Payment Assistance Programs (2026)

The biggest hurdle for many first-time buyers isn't the monthly payment — it's the cash to close. Florida has real programs to help, and the flagship one relaunched for 2026. Here's the overview. (This is general information, not lending advice — programs, funding, and eligibility change, so always verify with a participating lender.)

Florida Hometown Heroes

Administered by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, Hometown Heroes is the state's largest down payment assistance program. Key points for 2026:

• Up to $35,000 toward down payment and closing costs (5% of the loan amount, with a minimum).
• Structured as a 0% interest, deferred second mortgage — no monthly payments, repaid when you sell, refinance, or the home stops being your primary residence.
• Eligibility is based on where you work (a full-time job with a Florida-based employer), not your job title, and covers dozens of occupations — healthcare, K-12 school staff, first responders, military and veterans, childcare, and more.
• Income limits apply (tied to area median income and county) and there are purchase-price caps.
• It relaunched July 13, 2026 with $50 million, first-come, first-served — and historically the funding runs out before year-end.

Other layers to ask about

Florida also offers first-mortgage programs (like Florida First and the HFA Preferred/Advantage conventional options) that can pair with second-mortgage assistance, plus some county and city programs. A good lender will stack the options you qualify for.

Why timing matters

Because assistance funds are limited and first-come, first-served, buyers who get pre-approved early are first in line. Waiting can mean the round is depleted before you're ready.

What to do next

Down payment assistance is administered through approved lenders, not directly by buyers, and never carries an upfront application fee. Get pre-approved with a participating lender, confirm the current funding status and the latest eligibility rules, and line up your program before you shop.

Tamily Abdo is a REALTOR® with the Kendall Bonner Team at eXp Realty (FL License SL3261339). We're not a lender, but we can connect you with trusted local lenders who handle these programs. Reach out and we'll point you in the right direction.