How to Save Money Buying Your Central Florida Home in Summer 2025
Buying a home in Central Florida is an exciting step—whether you're settling down in Orlando, Winter Garden, Lake Nona, or anywhere in between. But with rising home prices and high demand, many buyers are looking for ways to make smart financial decisions. If you're planning to buy a home this summer, here’s how you can save money and still land the house of your dreams in the Sunshine State.
1. Mark Your Calendar: Hometown Heroes Returns July 1, 2025
Florida’s Hometown Heroes Housing Program has helped thousands of employees in Central Florida become homeowners by offering significant down payment and closing cost assistance. While the program is temporarily closed, it’s set to reopen with new terms on July 1, 2025.
Here’s what we expect (based on previous versions):
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Up to $35,000 in assistance for down payment and closing costs
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0% interest, deferred payment loans
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Eligibility for a wide range of professions, including anyone with a brick and mortat jon location in Central Florida, healthcare workers, teachers, first responders, military members, and more
If you think you might qualify, now is the time to start preparing your finances and get pre-approved, so you’re ready to apply as soon as the new guidelines are released.
Pro tip: Our team will be keeping a close eye on updates and can help guide you through the application process as soon as the program is available again.
2. Shop Mortgage Rates Aggressively
As of summer 2025, mortgage rates have slightly improved, but affordability is still a challenge. That’s why comparing rates from multiple lenders is crucial. A difference of even 0.25% can save you thousands over the life of your mortgage.
We work closely with experienced lenders across Central Florida and can connect you with those offering competitive rates and buyer-friendly programs.
3. Explore New Construction Deals
In fast-growing areas like Horizon West, Saint Cloud, Winter Haven, and Minneola, homebuilders are offering generous buyer incentives this summer. These may include:
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Builder-paid closing costs
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Rate buydowns
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Free upgrades like luxury finishes or smart home packages
Builders with move-in ready inventory are especially motivated to close deals before the end of the summer—this gives buyers a perfect window to negotiate.
4. Act Before Late-Summer Market Competition Heats Up
Central Florida's real estate market tends to get more competitive as July and August approach, with families aiming to move before the new school year. Shopping early in the summer helps you avoid bidding wars and gives you more leverage in negotiations.
5. Don’t Overlook Local Down Payment Assistance
While Hometown Heroes is paused for now, there are still other assistance options available through Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Polk counties, including:
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Forgivable second mortgage loans
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Grants for first-time buyers
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Programs targeted at moderate-income households
These programs can be layered with other incentives to help reduce your upfront costs—even if you’re not a first-time buyer.
Ready to Make a Smart Move This Summer?
Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or relocating to a new part of Central Florida, our team is here to help you navigate the process with confidence. From down payment assistance and new construction opportunities to personalized lender connections, we’ll help you find the best ways to save money and secure the right home.
📞 Call or text us today at 321-329-0030 to get started with a free consultation. Let’s make your homeownership goals happen this summer—without breaking the bank.
