Buying your first home in North Carolina is easier when you know which programs fit your situation. The Local Ledger helps first-time buyers across Fayetteville, Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro, Wilmington, and Jacksonville choose the right loan and assistance stack — with honest numbers and no pressure.
NC first-time buyers most often use FHA (3.5% down), Conventional 97 (3% down), VA (zero down for veterans and Fort Liberty / Camp Lejeune service members), or USDA (zero down in rural areas). Each has different credit, income, and property rules — we’ll match you to the best fit.
The NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) offers the NC Home Advantage Mortgage with up to 3% down payment assistance, plus the NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment program providing $15,000 in DPA for qualifying first-time buyers and military veterans. These can stack with FHA, USDA, VA, or Conventional loans.
Pre-approvals typically issued within 24 hours. Call (843) 376-6213 or apply online to get clear numbers and a plan built around your market and timeline.