Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program Guide

Guide to the Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program

The Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program offers special home financing benefits to military veterans and active-duty service members. This program aims to make homeownership more accessible to those who have served or are currently serving our country. For 2025, the program continues to provide financial assistance, including down payment help and affordable mortgage rates, to support those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Below is a detailed guide on how the program works, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

1. Program Overview:

• Purpose: The Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program is designed to honor the service of veterans and active-duty military members by providing them with affordable home financing options. The program helps reduce the upfront financial burden of purchasing a home by offering down payment assistance and favorable loan terms.
• Loan Terms: The program offers a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, ensuring stable and predictable monthly payments. Competitive interest rates make homeownership more affordable for eligible veterans and active-duty members.
• Down Payment Assistance: In addition to favorable loan terms, the program provides up to $10,000 in down payment assistance to qualified applicants. This assistance is designed to help reduce the out-of-pocket costs required for purchasing a home.

2. Eligibility Requirements for 2025:

To qualify for the Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program, you must meet the following criteria:

• Veteran or Active-Duty Service Member: The program is available to U.S. military veterans or active-duty service members who are purchasing a home in Florida. You may be required to provide proof of military service, such as a DD214 or active-duty documentation.
• Income Limits: Your household income must fall within the program's guidelines. These limits vary by county and are updated annually to reflect changes in the local housing market.
• Credit Score: A minimum credit score of 640 is required to apply for the program. Some flexibility may exist, but meeting the minimum credit score is typically necessary for approval.
• Property Requirements: The property being purchased must be located in Florida and must serve as your primary residence. The home must meet certain price limits set by the program to ensure it remains affordable.
• Homebuyer Education: While not required for all applicants, homebuyer education may be a requirement for some. This course ensures that you are well-prepared for the responsibilities of homeownership.

3. How to Apply:

The application process for the Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to apply:

• Assigned Loan Officer: Once you start your application, you will be assigned a dedicated loan officer who will guide you through the entire process. Your loan officer will assist with verifying your eligibility, gathering the necessary documentation, and answering any questions you may have.
• Required Documentation: Be prepared to provide proof of income, credit reports, military service documentation, and a certificate for homebuyer education (if applicable).
• Submit Your Application: After gathering all the required documents, submit your completed application to your loan officer. They will process your application and inform you of your eligibility and the next steps.

4. Down Payment Assistance:

• Assistance Amount: The Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program offers up to $10,000 in down payment assistance for eligible veterans and active-duty military members. This grant helps cover the upfront costs of purchasing a home.
• Assistance Terms: The down payment assistance is provided as a grant, which means it does not need to be repaid as long as you meet the program's terms. In most cases, you must remain in the home for at least five years to avoid repayment of the grant.

5. Finalizing the Loan:

• Approval Process: Once your application is reviewed and approved, your loan officer will help you complete the final steps, including reviewing the loan terms, signing the documents, and preparing for closing.
• Closing Costs: While the Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program helps with down payment assistance, you may still be responsible for some closing costs. Your loan officer will provide a complete breakdown of all costs involved and explain which costs are covered by the program.

Our dedicated loan officers are committed to guiding you through the homebuying process with the utmost care and attention. They will ensure you fully understand the Florida Salute Our Soldiers Program and support you every step of the way, from the initial application to closing. With their help, you can confidently take advantage of the benefits of this program and move one step closer to homeownership.