First-Time Homebuyer Programs in South Carolina (2026)

South Carolina First-Time Buyer Programs at a Glance

2 state-administered programs currently available

Down Payment Scenarios at South Carolina's Median Price

Based on $305,800 median home price

FHA vs. Conventional Payment Calculator

Pre-loaded with South Carolina's median price of $305,800 and current rate of 6.4%

South Carolina Conforming Loan Limits (2026)

Loans above these limits require jumbo financing with stricter credit and reserve requirements

Source: FHFA Conforming Loan Limit Values

How Much Home Can You Afford in South Carolina?

Most programs require a debt-to-income ratio under 45%. Enter your income to see what you qualify for at 6.4%.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) in South Carolina

Required on conventional loans with less than 20% down — typically 0.5%–1.5% of the loan per year until you reach 20% equity

How to Apply for South Carolina First-Time Buyer Programs

1. 1

   Check your credit and DTI

   Most South Carolina programs require a minimum 620 credit score and DTI under 45%. Pull your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and calculate your debt-to-income ratio before shopping lenders.

2. 2

   Find an approved lender

   South Carolina's state programs are only available through lenders approved by South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing). Visit the program website for the lender directory — not all mortgage lenders participate.

3. 3

   Complete homebuyer education

   Many South Carolina programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing. These take 6-8 hours and can be completed online for $25-$75. Complete this early to avoid closing delays.

4. 4

   Get pre-approved

   Pre-approval locks in your rate and confirms program eligibility. For South Carolina programs, bring 2 years of tax returns, 2 months of bank statements, recent pay stubs, and photo ID. The lender handles the state program paperwork.

5. 5

   Apply for down payment assistance (if using DPA)

   Apply for the SC Housing Down Payment Assistance at the same time as your mortgage — they must be coordinated. The South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing) processes DPA separately from the primary lender. Forgiven after 10 years of owner-occupancy; proportionally repaid if sold before 10 years.

6. 6

   Close and record

   At closing, your DPA funds are applied directly to your down payment and closing costs. Budget 45-60 days from application to keys. Closings in South Carolina require a real estate attorney — typically another $800 on closing day.

FHA Loan Payment Calculator — South Carolina

Pre-loaded with South Carolina median price and current rate at 3.5% FHA minimum down.

Down Payment Savings Calculator

How long to save for a South Carolina home at $305,800

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer in South Carolina?

Most South Carolina programs define first-time buyers as those who have not owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. Must not have owned a primary residence in the past 3 years; minimum 640 credit score. This means you can qualify even if you previously owned a home.

What is the minimum down payment for first-time buyers in South Carolina?

South Carolina's state mortgage programs allow down payments as low as 3% — that's $9,174 on a $305,800 home. FHA loans also allow 3.5% down ($10,703). Conventional loans with PMI typically start at 3-5%.

How much down payment assistance is available in South Carolina?

South Carolina's SC Housing Down Payment Assistance offers up to $12,000 in down payment assistance. Repayment terms: Forgiven after 10 years of owner-occupancy; proportionally repaid if sold before 10 years. Income limits apply: Same as SC Housing first mortgage income limits.

Can I use South Carolina programs with an FHA loan?

Many South Carolina first-time buyer programs are compatible with FHA loans. FHA allows 3.5% down with credit scores as low as 580, making them attractive for buyers with limited savings. At the current South Carolina median price of $305,800, FHA's 3.5% down is $10,703. Confirm compatibility with your specific state program administrator.

What credit score do I need for South Carolina first-time buyer programs?

Most state mortgage programs require a minimum credit score of 620–640. FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 for 3.5% down, or 500–579 for 10% down. Higher credit scores (680+) typically unlock the best rates under South Carolina's program. Your DTI ratio (total monthly debt ÷ gross income) generally must be below 45-50%.

How long does the South Carolina homebuyer program process take?

State-backed programs add 2-4 weeks to a standard 30-day closing because they require income verification and approval from the state agency, not just the lender. Plan for 45-60 days from application to close. Working with a lender approved by South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing) speeds this process significantly.

Are South Carolina first-time buyer programs available statewide?

Available through SC Housing-approved lenders statewide; homebuyer education required Income and purchase price limits vary by county, so buyers in high-cost areas may face tighter eligibility. Some programs may have waitlists — apply early.