Hometown Heroes – Approved Occupations

Florida Hometown Heroes 2025: Occupations & Program Launch

Florida Hometown Heroes 2025: Program Launch & Approved Occupations

Launch Date: August 18, 2025

Funding: $50 million has been allocated for the 2025–2026 fiscal year to assist first-time homebuyers who qualify under the Hometown Heroes program.

Why This Matters for Real Estate Agents

Agents can leverage this program to help eligible buyers—such as teachers, first responders, healthcare professionals, and military members—access down payment and closing cost assistance. Understanding the approved occupations is key to guiding clients effectively.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility includes individuals employed full-time by a Florida-based employer in the following sectors:

  • Healthcare Workers: Nurses, technicians, therapists, physicians, pharmacists, mental health workers, social workers, and more.
  • School Staff Members: Teachers, counselors, principals, aides, cafeteria staff, and librarians.
  • First Responders: EMTs, firefighters, paramedics.
  • Public Safety Workers: Law enforcement officers, correctional officers, 911 operators, probation officers.
  • Court Employees: Judges, attorneys, clerks, court reporters, public defenders, and state attorneys.
  • Child Care Workers: Employees of licensed child care centers or registered family day care homes.
  • Military & Veterans: Active service members and veterans (with honorable discharge) employed by Florida-based employers.

Detailed Occupation List

Below is the comprehensive list from the 2025 approved occupations:

CategoryExamples
Healthcare WorkersRegistered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Clinical Technician, Physical Therapist, Pharmacist, Social Worker, Home Health Aide
School StaffClassroom Teacher, Principal, Librarian, School Counselor, Teacher Aide, Cafeteria Staff
First RespondersEMT, Firefighter, Paramedic
Public Safety911 Dispatcher, Correction Officer, Probation Officer, Law Enforcement Officer
Court EmployeesJudge, Court Clerk, Attorney, Assistant State Attorney, Court Reporter
Child Care WorkersAny licensed child care center staff or registered family day care workers
Military & VeteransActive duty and reserve members of Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force, and Florida National Guard; veterans with honorable discharge

Key Dates & Action Steps for Agents

  • Program Opens: August 18, 2025 – Be ready to guide eligible clients to apply immediately, as funds are limited.
  • Verify client’s occupation and full-time status with Florida-based employer documentation.
  • Collaborate with lenders approved for Hometown Heroes loans to streamline transactions.