Homebuyer Grants in Orlando: 2025 Update

Homebuyer Grants in Orlando: 2025 Update

TL;DR: Homebuyer Assistance in Orlando

• Multiple Florida and Orlando-based programs exist for first-time and income-qualified buyers

• Florida Housing’s Salute Our Soldiers and Hometown Heroes offer down payment and closing cost help

• Orange and Seminole County SHIP funds can assist with up to $45K in total support

• Income limits based on AMI (Area Median Income) and profession

• Working with a local expert like Ted Moseley of Orlando Nest | Real Broker, LLC makes a huge difference in accessing these benefits

What Grants Are Available for First-Time Homebuyers in Orlando?

In 2025, first-time homebuyers in Orlando have access to a variety of state and local assistance programs aimed at easing the path to homeownership. These include Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) offerings, SHIP-funded local aid, and special initiatives like Hometown Heroes, which return periodically to support essential workers.

Key Orlando-Area Programs:

1. Florida Hometown Heroes (2025 version pending funding)

• Offers up to 5% of the loan amount (max $35,000) for down payment and closing costs

• Available to teachers, firefighters, healthcare workers, veterans, and more

• Funds are typically deferred 0% loans, repaid only when you sell or refinance

• Eligibility tied to income caps and full-time employment in an eligible occupation

2. Salute Our Soldiers (Veterans & Active-Duty)

• Offered through Florida Housing for military-connected buyers

• Combines first mortgage options with reduced-rate loans and assistance

• Also includes potential exemptions from income limits for VA borrowers

3. Orange & Seminole County SHIP Programs

• Locally administered programs offering up to $45,000 in assistance (varies by city and income)

• Focus on low-to-moderate-income first-time buyers

• Funds are often forgiven over time if you maintain the home as your primary residence

• Cities like Orlando, Apopka, Winter Park, and Altamonte Springs administer their own SHIP funds with unique requirements

4. Florida Assist (FL Assist)

• Offers up to $10,000 as a 0% deferred loan

• Must be used with a Florida Housing first mortgage

• No monthly payments and due only when the home is sold or refinanced

5. FL HLP Second Mortgage

• Additional $10,000 in assistance with low monthly payments

• May help fill the gap if you’re close to qualifying but need extra help

Who Qualifies for These Orlando Homebuyer Grants?

Most programs follow the federal HUD definition of a first-time buyer—meaning no ownership in the last 3 years. Other key criteria include:

Income Limits (2025):

• Tied to AMI (Area Median Income) for the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford MSA

• 80% AMI for a 2-person household ≈ $65,300

• Expanded programs like Hometown Heroes allow up to 150% AMI—about $122,400+ for a household of two

Basic Requirements:

• Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education class

• Work with a participating lender and use the property as a primary residence

• Meet credit score minimums, usually 640+

• Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio must fall within lending guidelines (typically under 45%)

Other Conditions:

• Minimum occupancy terms—3 to 10 years depending on the program

• Location restrictions—some funds only cover homes in specific cities or zip codes

• Property type—usually limited to single-family homes, condos, or townhomes under price limits

Local Insight: The Orlando Price vs. Income Gap

A common frustration among local renters:

"Homes in Winter Garden or Lake Nona are pushing $500K+—how does someone making $70K ever compete?"

That’s where grants and layered financing come in. One of Ted Moseley’s recent buyers used both the FL Assist and Orange County SHIP funds to reduce out-of-pocket costs by over $30,000—turning an impossible dream into a reality.

Pros & Cons of Using Orlando Homebuyer Grants

Pros

✅ Up to $35K+ in savings on down payment and closing costs
✅ No monthly payments on deferred loans (many are forgivable)
✅ Homebuyer education improves budgeting and ownership success
✅ May reduce or eliminate PMI with the right structure

Cons

⚠️ Income and occupation limits may disqualify some buyers
⚠️ Funding runs out fast—especially for programs like Hometown Heroes
⚠️ Property price caps and zip code restrictions can limit inventory
⚠️ Repayment clauses or equity share conditions may apply

Can You Stack Programs in Florida?

Yes—but with guidance. Some buyers can combine Florida Housing programs with SHIP grants from their local municipality. It takes the right lender and an experienced agent to structure it correctly.

Tips for Success:

• Get pre-approved by a participating Florida Housing lender

• Ask your real estate agent (like Ted Moseley) to target eligible homes

• Apply early—some funds are first-come, first-served

How to Apply for a Florida or Orlando Homebuyer Grant

1. ✅ Check your household income against current limits

2. ✅ Take a HUD-certified homebuyer class

3. ✅ Get pre-approved with a qualified lender

4. ✅ Apply through Florida Housing, Orange/Seminole County portals, or city SHIP programs

5. ✅ Explore stacking options like FL Assist + SHIP or Hometown Heroes

6. ✅ Work with a local expert like Ted Moseley who knows the programs inside and out

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I’m a nurse or teacher—am I eligible for anything extra?
A: Yes! You may qualify for Hometown Heroes and local bonuses from SHIP or other nonprofit partners.

Q: Is the money a grant or a loan?
A: Some are grants (forgivable), others are deferred loans, and a few are second mortgages—always check the repayment terms.

Q: Can I buy a new construction home?
A: Often yes, but verify with your lender—some programs are more flexible than others.

Q: Can I use these programs with a VA or FHA loan?
A: Yes—many programs pair well with FHA, VA, and USDA loans.

Q: Why do I need a real estate agent?
A: Agents like Ted Moseley know how to find grant-eligible homes, coordinate with lenders, and avoid costly mistakes.

Your Next Step: Let’s Make Your First Home Happen

Don’t go it alone. Whether you're a first-time buyer in Winter Park, a nurse looking in Lake Mary, or a veteran in Kissimmee, I’m here to help you unlock the grants and programs that can turn your goals into reality.

Call or text Ted Moseley at (321) 321-2025
Or visit OrlandoNest.com to schedule your free consultation today.