Home Sweet Home – FL First Time Home Buyer Programs Made Easy

If you're a first-time homebuyer in Florida, especially in Hillsborough, Duval, Clay, or Brevard Counties — the Home Sweet Home Program is designed with you in mind. Get up to $30,000 in assistance toward your down payment and closing costs through this trusted government-backed program.

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What Is the Home Sweet Home Program?

Financial Help That Actually Helps

 
The Home Sweet Home Program is a 0% interest second mortgage offered by the Housing Finance Authority (HFA) of several Florida counties. The funds are deferred — meaning you don’t have to make monthly payments, and you only repay it if you sell, refinance, or rent out your home.

Who Qualifies for the Program?

FL First-Time Home Buyer Requirements
 
1. Must be a first-time homebuyer (or haven’t owned in the past 3 years).
 
2.Must occupy the home as a primary residence
Complete a homebuyer education course.

3. Minimum FICO score: 640 (or 660 depending on your loan type).
 
4.Must meet household income limits
 
*Veterans and buyers in targeted areas may qualify even if not technically first-time buyers.
How to Apply for the Home Sweet Home Program
 
Get pre-approved with an authorized Florida lender (that’s us!).

Submit proof of employment and income.

Complete your homebuyer education.

Close on your home and receive your assistance.
 
⛔ Beware of scams! You should never be charged to apply.

Let’s Get You Home

 
The Home Sweet Home is more than a First Time Homenbuyer Program — it's a game changer for hardworking Floridians who dream of owning a home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the program still available in 2025?
Yes — but funding is limited and can run out. It's best to apply early.

Q: Can I use this for a new construction home?
Absolutely — as long as it’s your primary residence and meets loan requirements.

Q: What if I refinance or sell the home?
The second mortgage becomes due. There’s no penalty for prepaying it early.

Q: Are You a Veteran or Active Duty?Good news — you can qualify for special exemptions: Skip the employment and education course requirements and your still eligible for the full benefit.

Q: Max Assistance
5% of loan amount (up to $3K)

Q: Min Credit Score

640 (660 for some manual/MH underwrites).

Q: Property Types

Single-family, townhomes, condos, some 2–4 unit properties

Q: Owner-Occupied?

Yes – must move in within 60 days

Jose Mejia
Jose Mejia

Broker

+1(727) 271-6900 | jose@the-locals.org

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