📉 Reduced Funding Means Faster Action Is Required
For the 2025–2026 fiscal year, Florida allocated $50 million to the Hometown Heroes Program. That is half of last year’s budget. The program is expected to run on a first-come, first-served basis, and funding could run out quickly.
Loan reservations are expected to open to participating lenders on August 18, 2025.
If you are planning to buy a home in Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Clearwater, or St. Petersburg, you should begin preparing now to apply as soon as the funds become available.
🛠️ New Occupation Requirements
The eligibility requirements for 2025 have been narrowed. To qualify, buyers must be employed full-time by a Florida-based employer and work in one of the following fields:
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👉 See the full 2025 eligible occupations list:
Click here to view the PDF
💵 Program Benefits for Buyers in the Tampa Bay Area
If you qualify for the Hometown Heroes Program, you can receive:
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Up to 5% of the first mortgage loan, with a maximum of $35,000
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A minimum of $10,000 for homes priced under $200,000
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A zero-interest, deferred-payment second mortgage, with no monthly payments
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Assistance that can be used for both the down payment and closing costs
This assistance is only repaid when you sell the home, refinance, or pay off your primary mortgage.
📍 2025 Income Limits for Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties
You must meet household income limits to qualify. The cap is set at 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for each county.
| County | 150% AMI Limit |
|---|---|
| Hillsborough | $143,250 |
| Pasco | $143,250 |
| Pinellas | $156,450 |
These limits allow many dual-income households across the Tampa Bay region to qualify.
✅ Basic Eligibility Checklist
To participate in the Hometown Heroes Program in Hillsborough, Pasco, or Pinellas, you must:
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Be a first-time home buyer (no ownership in the past 3 years). Veterans are exempt.
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Be employed full-time in an eligible occupation.
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Be purchasing a primary residence in Florida.
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Have a minimum credit score of 640.
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Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course.
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Work with a lender offering FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans through the program.
🏠 Why This Program Matters for First-Time Buyers in Tampa Bay
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With high home prices and rising rents across Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater, it can be difficult for first-time buyers to save enough for a down payment. This program helps close that gap. In competitive markets like Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Lutz, and Brandon, every dollar of assistance can help you make a stronger offer and reduce your out-of-pocket costs at closing. |
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⏱️ What to Do Now
If you are planning to buy a home this year in Hillsborough, Pasco, or Pinellas County, follow these steps:
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Check the occupation list to make sure you qualify.
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Verify your income based on your county’s limit.
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Complete the required homebuyer education course.
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Get preapproved with a participating lender.
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Be ready to act when loan reservations open on August 18.
🔍 Local Help for Tampa Bay Home Buyers
If you live or work in the Tampa Bay area and want to take advantage of the Hometown Heroes Program, now is the time to prepare. Funding may go quickly, and starting the process early can make a major difference.
I can help you connect with a trusted lender, understand the application process, and find a home that qualifies for this unique opportunity.