Hometown Heroes is back!
Florida's most popular down payment program is reopening August 2026 with $50M in new funding. Funds go fast — ask me about getting pre-qualified now.
Hometown Heroes Program
Florida Housing Finance Corporation
⭐ Just Reopened
Florida's flagship program for first responders, teachers, healthcare workers, military, and more. Get up to $35,000 toward your down payment — no monthly payments ever.
Max AssistanceUp to $35,000
Interest Rate0% Deferred
Min Credit640+
Income LimitUp to ~$195K
VA Loan
Dept. of Veterans Affairs
The gold standard for veterans and active-duty military. No down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates — one of the best mortgage benefits available.
Down Payment0%
PMI RequiredNone
Min Credit580+
FHA Loan
Federal Housing Administration
The most accessible loan for buyers with lower credit scores or smaller savings. Just 3.5% down and flexible qualification guidelines — great for first-time buyers.
Down Payment3.5%
Min Credit580+
Loan Limit$524,225
Pinellas County First-Time Buyer Program
Housing Finance Authority
Pinellas County's own down payment assistance — one of the most generous in the state. Up to $75,000 at 0% interest, deferred until you sell or refinance.
Max AssistanceUp to $75,000
Interest Rate0% Deferred
Max Price$544,232
USDA Rural Development Loan
U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
Zero down payment for buyers in eligible areas. Many parts of Pasco, Hernando, and rural Pinellas qualify — more areas than most people expect.
Down Payment0%
PMILow Annual Fee
Min Credit640+
Home Key Plus 2nd Mortgage
Florida State Program
A 2026 statewide program offering up to $10,000 in down payment assistance as a 0% deferred second mortgage — can be stacked on top of other programs.
Max AssistanceUp to $10,000
Interest Rate0% Deferred
Min Credit660+
Conventional Loan
Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac
The standard choice for buyers with solid credit. As little as 3% down, no PMI once you hit 20% equity, and the highest loan limits available.
Down PaymentAs Low as 3%
Min Credit620+
Loan LimitUp to $806,500
Not sure which program fits you?
I'll help you find the right program, connect you with a trusted lender, and walk you through every step — at no cost to you.
Let's Talk — It's Free
No pressure. Just answers.