Florida down payment assistance programs — including up to $35,000 through the Hometown Heroes program — are funded on a first-come, first-served basis. Pools open and close throughout the year. The buyers who secure assistance aren't smarter or luckier. They simply started earlier.

Most DPA programs provide funds as a grant or a second mortgage, which may be forgivable, deferred, or require repayment only if you sell or refinance the home within a set period.