First Step

Buying your first home is a major step. But with the right guidance and support, it doesn’t have to be stressful. LBC Capital makes the process simple by helping you access North Carolina’s top first-time homebuyer programs. Whether you’re looking for down payment assistance, tax credits, or affordable mortgages, we ensure you find the right fit based on your financial goals.

Who Qualifies as a First-Time Homebuyer in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, a first-time homebuyer is typically someone who hasn’t owned a home used as their primary residence within the last three years. This definition can also apply to certain exceptions. For example, you may still qualify if you’re a single parent who owned a home with a former spouse or a displaced homemaker who previously owned property jointly.

LBC Capital helps you determine if you meet these guidelines or qualify under a special case. Understanding your eligibility is the first step toward accessing assistance that could save you thousands.

Key Statewide Programs from the NCHFA

North Carolina’s statewide homebuyer assistance is managed by the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA). These programs are designed to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for first-time buyers. LBC Capital works directly with these programs to help you qualify, apply, and close smoothly.

NC Home Advantage Mortgage

This is a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage option available through the NCHFA. It comes with the opportunity to receive up to 3% of the loan amount in down payment assistance. This second mortgage is interest-free, deferred, and fully forgiven after 15 years, provided you stay in the home.

To qualify, you must:

  • Have a credit score of 640 or higher (660 for manufactured homes)
  • Meet income limits, which vary by county but are generally capped at $140,000
  • Purchase a home within the maximum price limit for your area

LBC Capital ensures you meet all requirements and guides you through the application process quickly and efficiently.

NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment

This program provides up to $15,000 in down payment assistance for eligible first-time buyers and military veterans. The assistance is structured as a zero-interest, deferred second mortgage that is forgiven after 15 years. You must qualify for the NC Home Advantage Mortgage to access this additional benefit.

Because eligibility is based on income, credit score, and purchase price limits, LBC Capital helps you prepare your documents and evaluate your options. Many first-time buyers in North Carolina can benefit from this generous program when paired with the right mortgage product.

NC Home Advantage Tax Credit

This benefit offers a Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) that reduces your federal income tax bill. You can claim up to 30% of mortgage interest on existing homes (up to $2,000 annually) and 50% on new constructions.

To qualify, you must:

  • Be a first-time homebuyer or military veteran
  • Purchase an eligible home within program limits
  • Apply for the certificate before your loan closes

LBC Capital ensures you don’t miss this valuable tax break. We coordinate early in the mortgage process so you can claim your MCC starting in the first year of homeownership.

Community-Based Support for Low-to-Moderate-Income Buyers

If you meet certain income criteria, North Carolina offers additional community programs backed by NCHFA. These support systems often include zero-interest loans and deferred payments, making them ideal for buyers needing extra help.

Community Partners Loan Pool (CPLP)

This program helps qualified buyers with incomes below 80% of the area median income. You can receive up to 25% of the home’s purchase price or a maximum of $50,000 in assistance. The funding comes as a zero-interest second mortgage, which is due when you sell, refinance, or complete your first mortgage.

To participate, you must also complete a homebuyer education course and work with a qualified lender. LBC Capital connects you with approved housing counselors and ensures you meet CPLP guidelines to secure this funding.

Self-Help Loan Pool (SHLP)

This program is specifically for buyers purchasing a home through Habitat for Humanity or similar nonprofit partners. The assistance is structured as a 0% shared mortgage, which greatly reduces monthly payments. Depending on the home and program terms, the affordability period may vary.

LBC Capital works with local housing organizations to coordinate financing and documentation, helping qualified families use SHLP funds to become homeowners.

Local Programs in North Carolina Cities

Several cities in North Carolina offer their own first-time homebuyer assistance. These programs often work in tandem with state-level programs, giving buyers multiple layers of financial support.

Raleigh First-Time Homebuyer Assistance

The City of Raleigh offers zero-interest down payment loans of up to $45,000—and as much as $60,000 for homes in priority neighborhoods. To qualify, you must:

  • Be a first-time buyer
  • Complete a homebuyer education course
  • Work with a city-approved lender

There is no waiting list in 2025, making this an ideal time to apply. LBC Capital helps you secure city and state assistance to maximize your savings.

House Charlotte Program

Charlotte’s House Charlotte program provides between $10,000 and $80,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. Eligibility is based on income, home location, and job role—city employees and first responders may qualify for the higher amounts.

This assistance is offered as a forgivable second mortgage. Depending on the amount you receive, the loan is forgiven over 15 to 30 years. LBC Capital works directly with city agencies to ensure your loan package includes every available benefit.

Durham Homebuyer Assistance

Durham offers up to $80,000 in zero-interest loans for down payment and closing costs. The funds are forgiven after 15 years if you remain in the home. Eligibility is focused on first-time buyers with low to moderate incomes.

Through LBC Capital, you can pair Durham’s program with state-level options like the NC Home Advantage Mortgage or MCC tax credit. We help you stack these opportunities to reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Why Work with LBC Capital?

First-time buyers often miss out on benefits simply because they don’t know what’s available or how to apply. LBC Capital removes the confusion and handles the hard parts for you. We evaluate your eligibility for local, state, and federal programs—and help you combine them for the best financial outcome.

We also walk you through each step, from pre-qualification and homebuyer education to mortgage selection and closing. Our personalized service means you’ll never feel lost or overwhelmed.

Start Your Homeownership Journey with Confidence

North Carolina offers a wide range of first-time homebuyer programs. Whether you need down payment assistance, a lower monthly mortgage, or long-term tax savings, these resources can help you build a stable financial future.

LBC Capital ensures you get the support you need—from application to keys in hand. Contact us today to find out which programs you qualify for and how we can help you purchase your first home in North Carolina.