South Carolina homebuyers can access up to $10,000 in down payment assistance through the South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing). On the state's $305,800 median home price, that covers roughly 16% of a standard 20% down payment. South Carolina has 2 state DPA programs total.
Primary Program: SC Housing Palmetto Heroes / DPA
maximum assistance
Forgiven after 10 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
- Administering Agency
- South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing)
- Income Limit
- 80% of Area Median Income
- Purchase Price Cap
- $481,176
- Forgiveness Term
- 10 years
Additional South Carolina DPA Programs
SC Homeownership and Employment Lending Program (HELP)
Forgivable Loan$15,000
Forgiven over time if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
Apply / Learn MoreHow Down Payment Assistance Works
Most state DPA programs are layered on top of a first mortgage — you apply through an approved lender who originates both the primary loan and the DPA second lien at the same closing. The DPA funds reduce the cash you need upfront.
Grants
Free money — no repayment ever. Typically the smallest amounts but highest value.
Forgivable Loans
Balance forgiven after a set period (usually 3–15 years) if you stay in the home. Selling early triggers repayment.
Deferred Loans
No monthly payments. Balance due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Down Payment Calculator
Down Payment Planner
South Carolina median pre-loaded
Your Savings Plan
Timeline
10.3 yrs
saving $500/mo
No PMI at 20% down
20% or more avoids private mortgage insurance entirely.
Estimate only — does not include investment returns on savings.
Full Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
What down payment assistance is available in South Carolina?
South Carolina's primary DPA program is the SC Housing Palmetto Heroes / DPA, administered by the South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing). It provides up to $10,000 as a forgivable loan. Forgiven after 10 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence. Additional programs include SC Homeownership and Employment Lending Program (HELP).
How much down payment do I need in South Carolina after using DPA?
On a $305,800 home (South Carolina median), a 20% down payment is $61,160. With the SC Housing Palmetto Heroes / DPA covering $10,000, your remaining gap would be $51,160. Many buyers combine DPA with a 3–5% conventional or FHA loan to reduce their cash needed further.
Do I have to repay South Carolina down payment assistance?
Forgiven after 10 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
Can I combine South Carolina DPA with other assistance programs?
Yes — South Carolina's DPA programs can generally be combined ("stacked") with local city and county assistance programs, employer homebuyer benefits, and federal programs. Check with an approved lender or HUD-approved counselor to identify all programs you qualify for.
What are the income limits for South Carolina down payment assistance?
The SC Housing Palmetto Heroes / DPA requires income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. AMI limits vary by location and household size. Your lender or the South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing) can confirm the exact limit for your area.
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