South Carolina residents hoping to buy a home could now get up to $10,000 in down payment assistance that may not have to be repaid, and other help from the state's housing agency.
The article from The Post and Courier discusses the challenges of homeownership in South Carolina, particularly focusing on the financial hurdles related to down payments. It highlights that the state's housing market has seen significant price increases, making it tougher for first-time buyers to enter the market. To address this, various programs are available to assist potential homeowners. The South Carolina Housing Finance and Development Authority (SCHFDA) offers down payment assistance through programs like the Palmetto Home Advantage, which provides up to $10,000 in forgivable loans for down payments and closing costs. Additionally, there are federal programs like FHA loans, USDA loans for rural areas, and VA loans for veterans, which also help reduce the upfront costs of buying a home. The article also mentions local initiatives and non-profit organizations that provide grants or low-interest loans to help with down payments, emphasizing the importance of these aids in making homeownership more accessible in the state.