First-Time Buyers
You might be a first-time buyer and not know it.
Many loan and assistance programs count anyone who has not owned a principal residence in the past 3 years as a first-time buyer. If that is you, there may be help you did not expect.
Program definitions and eligibility vary. Always confirm with your lender.
How the process works
- Step 1
Talk through your timeline and budget
A 10 minute call tells us what you need, when you need it, and what is realistic. No pressure, no forms to fill out first.
- Step 2
Get pre-approved
A lender reviews your income, credit, and savings and tells you what you can borrow. This is also where first-time buyer programs get identified.
- Step 3
Shop with a plan
We tour homes that fit the plan, compare neighborhoods and commutes, and talk through new construction versus resale.
- Step 4
Write a strong offer
Price, closing date, due diligence period, and what you ask the seller to cover. I walk you through every line before you sign.
- Step 5
Due diligence and inspections
South Carolina gives you a negotiated window to inspect, review, and renegotiate or walk away. We use every day of it well.
- Step 6
Closing
South Carolina is an attorney-closing state. The attorney handles title, funds, and recording, and you get the keys.
Budgeting beyond the down payment
The down payment gets all the attention. These are the other numbers we plan for together.
Earnest money
Deposited after your offer is accepted and credited back at closing.
Inspections
Home, termite (CL-100), and sometimes well, septic, or HVAC.
Appraisal
Ordered by your lender once you are under contract.
Closing costs
Attorney, title, lender fees, prepaid taxes and insurance. Some can be negotiated with the seller or covered by assistance programs.
Moving and the first month
Utilities, deposits, a lawn mower, the things nobody budgets for.
South Carolina down payment assistance
South Carolina has state and local programs that can help with down payment and closing costs for buyers who qualify. Income limits, purchase price limits, and the 3 year rule differ from program to program, and they change.
Nothing on this page is a loan offer or a promise of eligibility. Your lender confirms what you qualify for.
Let's find out what you qualify for
Tell me a little about your timeline and I'll follow up personally, usually the same day. Or book a consultation.