What Is Homes for Heroes®? How Teachers, Nurses, First Responders & Veterans Save in Arizona

The short answer: Homes for Heroes® is a national program that helps community heroes save when they buy a home, sell a home, or refinance a mortgage. When you work with an affiliated real estate or mortgage specialist, you receive a Hero Rewards® check after closing, plus potential savings on lender, title, and inspection fees. According to Homes for Heroes, heroes save an average of $3,000 when buying or selling, and $6,000 when they do both. There’s no cost to sign up, and the Felix Home Team is a local Homes for Heroes® affiliate serving the Phoenix area.

Who qualifies?

Active, former, and retired heroes in these groups can qualify:

• Teachers
• Healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, medical technicians, and other healthcare workers
• Firefighters
• EMS, including paramedics and EMTs
• Law enforcement, including police officers, troopers, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers
• Military: active duty, reserves, and veterans

Not sure if you qualify? Ask us, and we’ll help you check.

How do Hero Rewards® work?

1. Reach out before you start. Contact our team or register with Homes for Heroes® through Isela’s page (it’s free), so you’re connected directly with our team.
2. Buy, sell, or refinance with affiliated specialists, such as our team for real estate and an affiliated lender if you need a loan.
3. Close on your home. Homes for Heroes® mails your Hero Rewards® check after closing.

Your savings depend on your home’s price and which specialists you use, so every situation is different. We’ll walk you through an estimate before you start.

Can I combine it with a VA loan or other programs?

Often, yes. Hero Rewards® come from the affiliated specialists, so they can usually be used alongside VA, FHA, or conventional loans. You may also qualify for down payment assistance or first-time buyer programs. Your lender will confirm what works with your specific loan.

Why it matters in the West Valley right now

With more homes for sale and builders offering incentives in Goodyear, Buckeye, Peoria, and across the Valley, heroes may be able to stack savings: builder incentives or seller concessions plus Hero Rewards®. For military families stationed at Luke Air Force Base, that can make a real difference in what your BAH covers. Comparing areas? Read our guide, Goodyear vs. Buckeye: Which West Valley City Is Right for Your Family?

Join our free Homes for Heroes® seminar

Want the full picture in under an hour? Join Isela for a free online seminar on Tuesday, November 10, at 12 PM. You’ll learn how the program works, who qualifies, and how to get the most savings when you buy or sell. Bring your questions, en inglés o español.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Homes for Heroes® cost anything?

No. Signing up is free, and there’s no obligation.

Do I have to be active military or currently working to qualify?

No. Veterans and reserves qualify, and Homes for Heroes® also serves former and retired teachers, healthcare workers, firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement.

When do I receive my Hero Rewards®?

After closing, Homes for Heroes® sends your Hero Rewards® check. We’ll explain what to expect for your purchase or sale.

Can I use Homes for Heroes® when selling my home?

Yes. Hero Rewards® are available whether you’re buying, selling, or both. Curious what your home is worth? Get a free home value estimate.

Can I use it on a new-construction home?

Often, yes. Contact us before your first model-home visit, because many builders require your agent to be with you or registered at that first visit.

¿Atienden en español?

¡Sí! Our team serves heroes and their families in English and Spanish. Call or text (623) 888-8608 or send us a message.

About the author: Isela Felix leads the Felix Home Team with eXp Realty and is a proud Homes for Heroes® affiliate specializing in military relocation and first-time buyers across the West Valley.

Savings figures are averages reported by Homes for Heroes®. Actual Hero Rewards® vary and require registering with Homes for Heroes® and using its affiliated specialists. Homes for Heroes® and Hero Rewards® are registered trademarks of Homes for Heroes, Inc. Felix Home Team | eXp Realty. Equal Housing Opportunity.