Florida Hometown Heroes Program Reopens August 18, 2025 — A Lifeline for Miami-Dade’s Essential Workers
On August 18, 2025, the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing (HTH) Program officially reopened, replenished with $50 million in funding to support first-time homebuyers in critical professions across the Sunshine State. Miami-Dade County—where the Area Median Income (AMI) limit is approximately $170,250—now has renewed access to the program’s benefits.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, buyers must:
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Be a first-time homebuyer, generally defined as someone who hasn't owned a primary residence in the past three years (veterans are exempt).
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Be employed full-time (35+ hours/week) by a Florida-based employer in approved fields—like healthcare, education, first responders, childcare, public safety, courts, or the military—or be a veteran in full-time Florida employment.
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Meet income limits—no more than 150% of local AMI (roughly $170,250 in Miami-Dade).
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Have a minimum credit score of ~640 (higher for manufactured homes), complete a homebuyer education course unless exempt, and work through an approved lender.
What’s on Offer?
Eligible buyers may receive a deferred, 0% interest second mortgage—up to 5% of the first mortgage, capped at $35,000 (minimum $10,000)—to cover down payment and closing costs. The funds must be repaid upon sale, refinance, transfer, or when no longer owner-occupying.
Florida Realtors note that early application is key—funding is first-come, first-served, and the available $50 million may be exhausted rapidly.
Voices from Miami-Dade
“I recently closed on a condo in Little Havana thanks to the Heroes program,” shares Ana Rodríguez, a public school teacher. “Without it, I’d still be renting—this help made all the difference.”
— Ana Rodríguez, Miami-Dade educator
Local real estate agent Javier Morales adds, “Our essential workers here are among the hardest hit by rising housing costs. This program is truly a game-changer—it gives them an actual shot at ownership in their own communities.”
With funding time-limited and demand high, now is the moment for eligible buyers in Miami-Dade to act. If you’re in health care, education, public safety, childcare, or military service—or serving in one of those key roles—this program could be your entrance into homeownership. Let me know if you'd like help connecting with a local lender or navigating the application process!
