Durham & Triangle Homebuyer Assistance Finder
Navigate NC down payment assistance, NCHFA programs, and Durham-specific grant opportunities for first-time buyers across the Triangle region.
Assistance Programs Overview
Homebuyer assistance programs can significantly reduce the cash required to purchase a home — sometimes covering the entire down payment for qualifying buyers. The challenge is that these programs change frequently, have varying eligibility requirements, and are often unknown to first-time buyers.
Program availability, income limits, purchase price limits, and funding change frequently. Information below is educational and may not reflect current terms. Contact each program directly or work with a HUD-approved housing counselor for accurate, current information.
NC Statewide Programs
NC Home Advantage Mortgage™
Administered by the NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA), this program offers a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with up to 3% down payment assistance. Available to first-time and move-up buyers meeting income and purchase price limits. Assistance is structured as a second mortgage forgiven after 15 years.
- Income limits vary by county and household size
- Minimum 640 credit score typically required
- Must complete a homebuyer education course
- Contact: NCHFA.com or 1-800-393-0988
NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment
Available to first-time buyers and military veterans using the NC Home Advantage Mortgage. Provides up to $15,000 in down payment assistance as a 0% deferred second mortgage — forgiven at 20% per year beginning in year 11.
NC Home Advantage Tax Credit (MCC)
A Mortgage Credit Certificate allows qualifying first-time buyers to claim a federal tax credit of up to 30% of mortgage interest paid annually (up to $2,000/year) for the life of the loan — a dollar-for-dollar reduction in federal tax liability.
Durham & Triangle Local Programs
City of Durham Homebuyer Assistance Program
Durham's Community Development department periodically offers forgivable loan assistance for income-qualifying buyers purchasing within Durham city limits. Program availability changes based on funding cycles — contact Durham Community Development directly for current status.
Self-Help Credit Union
A Durham-based CDFI with a national reputation for equitable mortgage lending. Self-Help offers mortgages to borrowers who may not qualify for conventional financing — including flexible underwriting, lower down payment requirements, and buyer assistance programs.
Habitat for Humanity of Durham
For qualifying very low-income buyers, Habitat offers affordable mortgages with no interest and no profit. Requires sweat equity participation and homebuyer education. Contact Durham Habitat directly for eligibility and waitlist information.
Work with a HUD-approved housing counselor before beginning your home search. HUD-approved counselors provide free or low-cost guidance on program eligibility and the purchase process. Find one in NC at HUD.gov or call 1-800-569-4287.
Free Educational Content
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This educational resource is available to all community members at no cost. UTC believes that access to quality financial education should not be limited by ability to pay. Download, share, and use this content freely to support your financial journey.
All resources offered by Understand The Culture Inc. (UTC) are for general educational and informational purposes only. Nothing in this resource constitutes personalized financial, investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. UTC is not a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, licensed CPA, tax attorney, mortgage originator, insurance agent, or law firm. Past results discussed are illustrative examples only and do not guarantee future outcomes. Always consult a licensed financial professional before making financial decisions.
Ready to Explore Homeownership?
UTC can help you understand your options, identify programs you may qualify for, and prepare for the home purchase process.