HOMEBUYER PROGRAMS IN THE CHARLESTON AREA

Are you a homebuyer looking to purchase your dream home in the Charleston area but not sure how to afford the down payment? As experienced local realtors who have spent over 20 years helping folks become homeowners, we want to make the process of purchasing your first home as easy and achievable as possible. There are several excellent programs available right here in the Lowcountry to help with qualifying and down payment assistance.

PALMETTO HEROES PROGRAM

One program we see help many families is the Palmetto Heroes program. This provides a grant of typically up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs to South Carolina teachers, firefighters, EMS, law enforcement officers and active duty or honorably discharged military. No repayment is required! We’ve helped many brave public servants use this grant to buy their first home. This program begins usually in April and the funds go quick so if this is a program you are interested in contact us ASAP and we can walk you through the process and have you ready to go when the funds are released.  

SOUTH CAROLINA STATE HOUSING GRANT

For other first time buyers, the South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority offers down payment assistance loans of up to 5% of the purchase price with an interest rate as low as 0%. This state grant does not need to be repaid as long as you live in the home for at least five years.

100% FINANCING MORTGAGE PROGRAMS FOR THE CHARLESTON AREA

In the Charleston area there are also local programs to explore. Local banks and credit unions often offer special first time homebuyer rate reduction programs that lower your interest rate. We have a couple programs we have put together with local lenders for our buyers that are helping a lot of people, one is a 100% financing program from a local bank and another is a free rate buy down program with a no cost refinance from another local lender. 

CHARLESTON AREA NEW HOME BUILDER FINANCING INCENTIVES

Many new home builders in the area provide special financing promotions with reduced or no down payment options as well to make new construction affordable. We have access to everything from rate reduction programs (we recently got a buyer a brand new home with a rate 2 full points less than what was available on a resale home!) to an exclusive Home Buyers Club where $500 secures your new home and as the home is being constructed they work with you to build your credit so you can be approved for your mortgage by the time the home is completed!

CHARLESTON AREA VA AND USDA LOANS

Of course we cannot forget the two 100% financing government loan programs; VA loans for active duty and military veterans and USDA loans which aren’t just for farm lands, USDA loans are what built Nexton. USDA loans are for homes that are in areas designated to be rural according the census tract data and you would be surprised what areas qualify. 

Don’t let not having a big down payment or great credit stop your homeownership dreams. With our deep knowledge of the assistance available we can make you a homeowner. All of these programs have restrictions and are subject to change but we keep up to date on that for you so we will always guide you to the program that is best for you. 

FIRST STEP TO BECOMING A HOMEOWNER IN THE CHARLESTON AREA

Let’s chat today about your home buying goals and let us show you how we can help you get your very own home sweet home. With our experience, knowledge and unbeatable dedication to our clients you can count on us to guide you smoothly through the entire process. We’re ready to get you moved into the home of your dreams! You can contact us below or you can always call or text us at 843 900 4692.