Exclusive Home Buyer Assistance for First Responders
Hero Nextdoor offers exclusive homebuyer support for First Responders to make homeownership more attainable. As part of our nonprofit-backed program, you’ll gain access to vetted professionals who waive fees, reduce closing costs, and donate back to support heroes like you. Additionally, you’ll be eligible to apply for the Hero Nextdoor Grant. These benefits are only available through our vetted professional network.
Why We Support First Responders
First Responders play a pivotal role in our communities. We often forget they are human, and we are always grateful when we need them. They experience many different challenges dedicating their lives to helping others.
- Mental Health Challenges
- More than 80% of First Responders endure traumatic events on the job
- First Responders attempt suicide 10x more than average American
- 85% have experienced symptoms of mental illness
- 68% experience stress, 59% report burnout, and 52% suffer from anxiety
- Essential but Undervalued
- First Responders median annual wage is 17-35% less than the average U.S. worker (35% for EMTs, 23% for paramedics, 17% for fire).
- Community Heroes
- First Responders are often the frontline heroes during crises, natural disasters, and emergencies. They are role models and community leaders.
Who Qualifies for Hero Nextdoor?
Hero Nextdoor’s First Responder Home Buyer Program is open to a broad range of emergency response workers. Contact us if you have questions regarding eligibility.
- Firefighters (career, volunteer, wildfire)
- Airport fire operations
- Fire Chief, Commissioner, Lieutenant
- Paramedics
- Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT)
- Emergency dispatchers and 911 operators
- Police Officers
- Flight Nurse
- Transport and Pre-Hospital Nurse
- Search and rescue personnel
- Hazardous materials (HAZMAT)
- Retired first responders receiving a pension
- Ski Patrollers
First Responder Estimated Savings
Use the slider below to learn how much you could save by using Hero Nextdoor! Estimates are based on national averages and will vary by market.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the program is available to all qualifying first responders, regardless of previous homeownership.
No — this is a nonprofit initiative by Hero Nextdoor, a 501(c)(3) organization that partners with responder-friendly professionals to offer real savings.
Savings typically range from $4,000–$8,000 or more, depending on factors like size and location. Use the Hero Savings Calculator on this page to estimate your personalized benefit.
To access the savings, you must work with our approved partners. However, your current provider may apply to join the program.
Absolutely. Our first responder home buyer benefits can be combined with VA, FHA, or conventional loans to maximize savings and support.
Yes, it can be combined with most state and local grant programs for first responders.
Simply click “Get Started” to verify eligibility and get matched with a participating lender or real estate agent in your area.