NC Home Advantage
The statewide program and the two DPA amounts.
North Carolina Down Payment Assistance: Up to $15,000, Forgivable
North Carolina keeps it simple and generous. NCHFA gives any buyer up to 3% of their loan, or first-time buyers and veterans a flat $15,000, and it can be forgiven entirely if you stay. Here is how to use it.
How North Carolina down payment assistance works
Buying a home in North Carolina does not have to mean saving 3% to 5% in cash first. NCHFA, the state housing agency, runs one first-mortgage program, NC Home Advantage, and pairs it with down payment assistance. Any buyer can take up to 3% of the loan; first-time buyers and military veterans can take a flat $15,000, usually the larger benefit. The assistance is a zero-percent deferred second with no monthly payment, and it forgives 20% a year in years 11 through 15, so a buyer who stays 15 years never repays it. A 640 credit score qualifies.
The North Carolina options at a glance
The $15,000
For first-time buyers and veterans.
3% vs. $15,000
Which amount you qualify for, and which is bigger.
Forgiveness & repayment
Forgiven years 11–15 — when you repay.
DPA + FHA loan
Cover FHA's 3.5% down with assistance.
Eligibility & limits
640 credit, statewide income limit.
Why work with us
A participating lender, not a referral site.
Cornerstone First Mortgage originates your NC Home Advantage loans directly, we are an approved participating lender, not a lead broker that sells your information. Mike Certo has closed these loans across Charlotte, the Triangle, the Triad, and eastern North Carolina, and he will tell you straight which option, the 3% or the $15,000, is bigger for your purchase before you apply. No obligation, no pressure.
Ready to see what you qualify for?
Tell us your county, credit range, and whether you have owned before or served, and we will map your NCHFA options in a no-pressure call. Start with the quiz above, or reach Mike at (480) 296-6513.
Local guides
Down payment assistance by county
Income limits change from county to county. Start with yours.
Charlotte / Mecklenburg
Fast-growing metro — up to 3% or the $15,000.
Raleigh / Wake
The Triangle — $15,000 stretches on high prices.
Greensboro / Guilford
Affordable Triad — $15,000 covers most of a purchase.
Fayetteville / Cumberland
Fort Liberty — $15,000 for veterans.
Asheville / Buncombe
High-demand mountain market.
Eligibility & limits
640 credit · statewide income limit.
Compare your options
The $15,000
First-time buyers and veterans.
3% vs. $15,000
Which amount you qualify for, and which is bigger.
Forgiveness & repayment
Forgiven years 11–15 — when you repay.
DPA + FHA loan
Cover FHA's 3.5% down with assistance.
DPA + VA loan
Zero-down VA plus the $15,000 for veterans.
NC DPA blog
Guides and updates as programs change.
FAQ
Common questions
How much down payment assistance can I get in North Carolina?
NCHFA offers two options: up to 3% of the loan amount for any buyer, or a flat $15,000 for first-time buyers and military veterans. Both are 0% deferred seconds with no monthly payment, forgiven 20% per year in years 11-15.
Is North Carolina down payment assistance forgivable?
Yes. The NCHFA second has no forgiveness for the first 10 years, then forgives 20% per year in years 11 through 15, fully forgiven at 15 years. You repay it only if you sell or refinance before it fully forgives.
What credit score do I need for NC down payment assistance?
NCHFA requires a 640 minimum credit score. You also need income under the statewide limit and a primary-residence home. The assistance pairs with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional first mortgages.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer in North Carolina?
Not for the 3% option, which is open to any buyer. The flat $15,000 (NC 1st Home Advantage) is for first-time buyers and military veterans, and veterans do not have to be first-time buyers.
See your North Carolina options
Tell us your county, credit range, and price target, and we’ll map your North Carolina path in a no-pressure 20-minute call. No obligation.