Thank you for attending the Florida Housing Hometown Heroes Program

Lunch & Learn on Sept. 12th!

To view the recording click on this link.

To view the webinar slide deck click on this link.

The Lunch & Learn focused on compliance reminders, required documentation, and common mistakes.

Here are the key takeaways:

Program Reminders & Eligibility

• Only one borrower must meet Hometown Heroes eligibility (excluding non-occupying co-signers).

• Documentation must include: VOE confirming full-time status, 1003 with correct employer, and signed Borrower Certification.

• Missing VOE, 1003, or Borrower Certification = not a Hometown Heroes loan (treated as regular bond/TBA).

Documentation Best Practices

• Use EHP Front Porch to pull the correct compliance checklist for each loan type (Bond, TBA, Hometown Heroes).

• Never submit a compliance file without the checklist – ensures complete and accurate submissions.

• Upload full packages (avoid piece-mealing) and use the notes feature to communicate missing items or special circumstances.

Homebuyer Education Requirements

• Required for one occupying borrower and must be pre-purchase counseling.

• Required for all first-time buyers (even Veterans).

• Certificates valid up to two years if from HUD-approved provider or meeting national standards.

First-Time Buyer & Spouse Requirements

• For bond loans, collect three years of signed tax returns or transcripts for all borrowers and spouses (including non-purchasing spouses).

• If unavailable contact eHousingPlus for options.

• If too complicated, consider switching to TBA loan (spouse requirement waived).

Top Deficiencies Identified by Lakeview

• Missing pay history for principal reductions on closing disclosure.

• Incomplete or missing 1003 SCIF form (especially homebuyer education section).

• Missing second Loan Estimate for loans with second mortgages.

• Uncleared exclusionary list items (requires name ID clearance).

• 4506-C issues – unchecked signatory box or missing co-borrower form/signature.

Compliance & Communication Tips

• Use Collaboration Station to communicate questions and exceptions quickly.

• Add notes when uploading to reduce delays and avoid unnecessary deficiencies.

• Aim for a “clean file” on first submission to speed funding and avoid repeated requests