{"id":27884,"date":"2018-07-19T14:00:42","date_gmt":"2018-07-19T14:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/one.sightlinemg.com\/armytimes\/uncategorized\/2018\/07\/19\/not-just-va-4-more-states-with-military-friendly-home-loan-programs\/"},"modified":"2026-08-07T20:55:26","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T20:55:26","slug":"not-just-va-4-more-states-with-military-friendly-home-loan-programs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/one.sightlinemg.com\/armytimes\/home-hq\/2018\/07\/19\/not-just-va-4-more-states-with-military-friendly-home-loan-programs\/","title":{"rendered":"Not just VA: 4 more states with military-friendly home loan programs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Even if troops and veterans have mastered the VA-backed loan process<\/a>, that doesn\u2019t mean they know every bit of housing benefit they\u2019ve earned from their service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many states offer some sort of home-buying help for those who\u2019ve worn the uniform, though the assistance takes many forms: Lower interest rates, zero-interest loans for down payments, and other benefits. Most of these come with restrictions, eligibility requirements and other fine print that can exclude some veterans or properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We\u2019ve outlined some of these<\/a> programs before<\/a>, and five more are listed below. The list is far from comprehensive; do your own research and consult with your Realtor to find out if another state-based program could give you a better deal, or could allow you to improve your offer in a rough real estate market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Georgia: <\/b>The Georgia Dream program offers assistance to first-time buyers, those who haven\u2019t owned a home in three years, or those purchasing homes in certain \u201ctargeted areas.\u201d While most applicants can receive $5,000 in down-payment assistance in the form of a zero-interest loan, active-duty service members, first responders and some other groups can get up to $7,500. This brochure (PDF)<\/a> and this FAQ<\/a> outline a variety of restrictions, including location-based price caps and income limits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Florida: <\/b>The Florida Housing Finance Corporation offers the Florida Military Heroes loan to service members and veterans seeking affordable housing. Loan-users may also qualify for down payment assistance or other FHFC programs that can be used concurrently with the Military Heroes program. Restrictions apply; use the program\u2019s online wizard<\/a> to determine specific rates and eligibility rules for your home\u2019s location.<\/p>\n\n\n\t