At the NC Housing Finance Agency, we believe that home starts here. National Home Ownership Month this June is an ideal opportunity to explore resources that make buying a home more affordable and achievable. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a military veteran or someone looking to move into a space that better fits your needs, the Agency offers programs designed to help overcome some of the most common barriers to home ownership.
Barrier #1: “I Don’t Have Enough Saved for a Down Payment.”
Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest challenges for home buyers, especially for renters balancing everyday expenses with future goals.
To bridge this gap, the Agency’s NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ helps eligible first-time and move-up buyers by providing down payment assistance up to 3% of the loan amount, along with a competitive fixed-rate mortgage. In 2025 alone, the program helped 4,760 households purchase a home.
First-time home buyers and military veterans who qualify for the NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ could get an extra boost with the NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment which offers $15,000 in down payment assistance. That assistance is deferred and forgiven over time, helping buyers get into a home sooner.
Barrier #2: “I’m Worried I Can’t Afford a Mortgage Payment.”
Many potential buyers assume home ownership is automatically more expensive than renting, but the right financing structure can make monthly housing costs predictable and manageable.
While the NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ can help secure long-term affordability through stable, fixed-rate financing. Through a statewide network of participating lenders, buyers can utilize the program to access FHA, USDA, VA or conventional loan options that best fit their budget.
By locking in a predictable monthly payment and reducing upfront borrowing costs, these flexible options help buyers build long-term stability through home ownership.
Barrier #3: “I’m a Low or Moderate Income Buyer and Need Extra Support.”
Some buyers may qualify for additional assistance beyond the NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ and the NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment programs.
The Community Partners Loan Pool (CPLP) offers 25% down payment assistance or up to $50,000 (whichever is less) for eligible low- and moderate-income buyers. This zero-interest loan must be paired with the NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ or a USDA Section 502 Direct loan.
For buyers purchasing through Habitat for Humanity, the Self-Help Loan Pool (SHLP) helps provide zero-interest, shared mortgage financing through participating Habitat affiliates. Buyers contribute sweat equity by helping build or rehab the home they will purchase.
Barrier #4: “I Don’t Even Know Where to Start.”
The home buying process can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers trying to navigate a mountain of new information all at once.
That’s why the Agency offers more than just mortgage products. To help you get your bearings, the Agency provides easy-to-use educational resources and calculators to explore what’s possible. When you’re ready, you can connect directly with participating lenders, real estate agents and housing counselors across the state who will guide you through the process step by step.
The NC Housing Finance Agency is committed to providing safe, affordable housing opportunities to enhance the quality of life of North Carolinians. Since our creation, we have helped thousands of buyers navigate the path to home ownership—proving that with the right support, home starts here.