First-time home buyer programs in North Carolina
North Carolina's NCHFA offers one of the country's larger flat-dollar assistance packages: the NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment puts $15,000 toward a first-time buyer's purchase, on top of the NC Home Advantage Mortgage that any qualified buyer can use with percentage-based help.
Brokers in our network can pair these programs with competing loan offers — free, no obligation.
NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment
$15,000 for first-time buyers and military veterans.
- $15,000 as a 0% deferred second mortgage
- Forgiven 20% per year in years 11–15 — fully forgiven after year 15
- Minimum 640 credit score; price cap generally under $495,000
- 30-year fixed FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional first mortgage
NC Home Advantage Mortgage
The agency's core mortgage — open to first-time and move-up buyers — with percentage-based help.
- Down payment assistance up to 3% of the loan amount
- Available to repeat buyers, not just first-timers
- Same deferred, forgiven-over-time second-lien structure
- Apply through participating NC lenders — no government office visit
Program terms, income limits, and funding availability change throughout the year — confirm current details with NCHFA or a licensed North Carolina broker before relying on them.
Pair assistance with an FHA loan in North Carolina
Most North Carolina first-time buyers combine down payment assistance with an FHA first mortgage. 2026 FHA one-unit limits run from $541,287 (the national floor) up to $634,800 in Raleigh–Durham.
See all 2026 North Carolina FHA loan limits →Find a broker in your North Carolina market
Local brokers know which programs are funded right now and how to stack them:
North Carolina first-time buyer FAQ
How much is North Carolina's first-time buyer assistance?
The NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment provides a flat $15,000 for first-time buyers and veterans, as a 0% deferred second that's completely forgiven after 15 years in the home. The broader NC Home Advantage Mortgage offers up to 3% of the loan for any qualified buyer.
Does the $15,000 ever have to be paid back?
Only if you sell, refinance, or move out before the forgiveness window completes. The balance forgives 20% per year in years 11 through 15, then it's gone entirely.
What do I need to qualify in North Carolina?
A 640+ credit score, income within NCHFA's county limits, a home generally under $495,000, and first-time-buyer status (or veteran status, or a targeted census tract). You apply through a participating lender.
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