Richland County, home to Columbia and Fort Jackson, offers a unique combination of military support, capital-city energy, and a wide range of housing options. Whether you’re stationed in the area or settling here after service, VA loans make buying or building a home more affordable.
Why Use a VA Loan in Richland County?
- $0 Down Payment – No need for a large upfront investment
- No PMI – Eliminate costly monthly insurance premiums
- Competitive VA Rates – Lower average interest rates than conventional loans
- Available for Building, Buying, or Multi-Unit Living
- Lenient Credit Requirements – Easier qualification
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VA Purchase Loans
VA-backed purchase loans in Richland County can be used for:
- Single-family homes
- Townhomes and VA-approved condos
- Duplexes, triplexes, or fourplexes (with occupancy in one unit)
Top areas for VA buyers include:
- Columbia – Close to Fort Jackson, USC, and VA medical services
- Forest Acres – Suburban feel with access to downtown
- Elgin (Richland portion) – Affordable new builds near I-20
- Hopkins & Gadsden – Rural and eligible for VA construction
VA One-Time Close Construction Loans
Planning to build a custom home? The VA One-Time Close (OTC) loan lets you purchase land and finance construction with one mortgage. Ideal for buyers looking to:
- Avoid multiple closings
- Build on rural land
- Customize their living space from the ground up
Best construction areas:
- Hopkins
- East Columbia outskirts
- Rural northeast near Elgin (Richland side)
- Gadsden and beyond
2025 VA Loan Limits for Richland County
Property Type | VA Loan Limit |
---|---|
1 Unit | $766,550 |
2 Units | $981,500 |
3 Units | $1,186,350 |
4 Units | $1,474,400 |
Why Veterans Choose Richland County
- Fort Jackson is one of the nation’s largest training posts
- Columbia VA Health Care System is centrally located
- Access to USC, state government jobs, and local amenities
- Suburban, urban, and rural housing available
Our team proudly supports service members in Columbia, Fort Jackson, and throughout Richland County with expert VA loan solutions and local insight.