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Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in North Carolina

Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in North Carolina

Last updated: September 2025

This hub is built for single moms in North Carolina who need clear, current, no‑nonsense info on down payment help. Every paragraph includes direct links so you can click and act fast.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

What Counts as a “Grant” in North Carolina?

Most “down payment grants” here are structured as second mortgages that are deferred and later forgiven, or due only if you sell or refinance early. That’s still powerful help when cash is tight.

Statewide Down Payment Programs You Can Use Right Now

North Carolina’s statewide programs run through the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA). You apply through participating lenders. Confirm funding before you sign a purchase contract.

Program Snapshot Table — Statewide (verify limits with your lender)

Program Typical Amount Key Terms Who It’s For Notes
NC Home Advantage Mortgage Up to 3% of loan 0% DPA; forgives 20%/yr in years 11–15; due-on-sale/refi before year 15 First‑time and repeat buyers Income limits increased in 2025; price cap now $495,000. (nchfa.com)
NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment $15,000 0% deferred second; forgiveness years 11–15 First‑time buyers, veterans, or buyers in targeted tracts Pairs with NC Home Advantage first mortgage. (nchfa.com)
Community Partners Loan Pool (CPLP) Up to 25% price (max $50,000) 0% subordinate loan; due upon sale or at term end Low‑ to moderate‑income buyers 2025 state budget shows up to $12M allocated. (nchfa.com)
Self‑Help Loan Pool (Habitat) Up to 50,000(50,000 (35,000 in some cities) Shared mortgage with Habitat affiliate Buyers of Habitat‑built homes 2025 SHLP budget up to $10M statewide. (nchfa.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender to check FHLBank Atlanta Set‑Aside grants, explore USDA Direct 502 for 100%‑financing in rural areas, and book a free session with a HUD counselor to build a 90‑day action plan. (corp.fhlbatl.com)

The Most Useful City and County Down Payment Programs (2025)

Use these local programs to stack with NCHFA assistance. Funding windows and rules change—call to confirm before you write an offer.

Big 6 Local Programs at a Glance

Location Program & Amount Basic Eligibility Contact / How to Apply
Charlotte (Mecklenburg) HouseCharlotte up to $80,000 Income banded; education required; city limits Administered by DreamKey Partners, 1-704-705-3999; lender applies with your file. (charlottenc.gov)
Raleigh (Wake) Homebuyer Assistance up to 45,000citywide;upto45,000 citywide; up to 60,000 in target areas Income & price caps; HUD class; approved lender Start at DHIC, 1-919-832-4345; see city program page. (raleighnc.gov)
Durham (City) Down Payment Assistance up to $80,000, 0% forgivable over 15 years ≤80% AMI; first‑time buyer; city limits Work with an approved lender; city DPA team 1-919-560-4570. (durhamnc.gov)
Greensboro (Guilford) Homebuyer Assistance up to 20,000;upto20,000; up to 30,000 in select areas First‑time buyer; city limits Contact Housing Consultants Group, 1-336-553-0946 x101; funding increase posted July 2025. (greensboro-nc.gov)
Winston‑Salem / Forsyth County/City AHOP and DPA (amounts vary, often five‑figure) ≤80% AMI typical; property location rules Start with Forsyth CED 1-336-703-2684 and City Homeownership. (co.forsyth.nc.us)
Wilmington (New Hanover) HOP (Home Ownership Pool) up to $25,000 Low‑ to moderate‑income; city limits Apply via city application; homebuyer education required. (wilmingtonnc.gov)

Reality check: City funds run out—fast. Expect lender and city review to add 2–3 weeks to your closing timeline. Ask your lender to order both the first‑mortgage and DPA file submissions at the same time to avoid “last‑minute” DPA conditions. Use a contract with a longer financing period if your city is backlogged.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Pivot to NC 1st Home Advantage $15,000 with CPLP layered in; or have your lender pull FHLBank Atlanta grant options through their member bank. (nchfa.com)

Stacking Strategy That Works for Many Single Moms

  • Start with a state mortgage that comes with DPA: pair NC Home Advantage Mortgage with either the built‑in up to 3% assistance or NC 1st Home Advantage $15,000. Ask your lender to model both, including monthly payment and cash‑to‑close. (nchfa.com)
  • Add a larger silent second if needed: ask about CPLP, which can fill up to 25% of the price (max $50,000) when paired with an NCHFA first or USDA Direct. CPLP requires extra underwriting time—build that into your contract. (nchfa.com)
  • Layer a local grant: if you’re in Durham, Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, or Wilmington, add that city’s DPA on top where allowed. Bring letters showing every layer is approved. Use your HUD counselor to map this stack. (durhamnc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about 3%‑down HomeReady or Home Possible while you keep saving; rural buyers should look at USDA Direct (502), which is 100% financing and allows seller credits. (yourhome.fanniemae.com)

Eligibility Rules You’ll See Everywhere

  • Income bands: NCHFA raised the income limit for NC Home Advantage to as high as 152,000andseta152,000 and set a 495,000 sales price cap in 2025—your lender confirms what applies to your county and loan type. See the NCHFA June 26, 2025 press release. Read details. Verify before you shop. (nchfa.com)
  • Credit score minimums: most NCHFA options require 640+, with 660 for new manufactured homes; city programs often follow lender overlays. Check the official NCHFA Help/FAQ and your city’s page. Ask about exceptions for veterans. (nchfa.com)
  • First‑time definitions: “First‑time” usually means no home owned as your primary residence in the past 3 years; veterans and targeted tracts may be exempt under NC 1st Home Advantage. Document your status early. (nchfa.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income for city help, some banks can use FHLBank Atlanta Community Partners for essential workers; otherwise pivot to HomeReady/Home Possible with gifted funds. (corp.fhlbatl.com)

Required Documents (Have These Ready)

Bring everything to your lender and your HUD counselor so they can pre‑underwrite your stack.

  • Photo ID and SSN: driver’s license; Social Security card; or acceptable alternatives documented by HUD. Name updates from separation or divorce must match. (hud.gov)
  • Income proof: last 30 days of pay stubs; two years W‑2s/1099s; benefit letters; child support or alimony orders; if self‑employed, two years tax returns. Ask your counselor how to document variable hours. Find a counselor. (consumerfinance.gov)
  • Assets and obligations: two months bank statements; gift letter if receiving help; copies of student loan statements; custody or separation agreements. Cities may request more—see your city’s program page (like Raleigh). (raleighnc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender for a “TBD underwrite” so you know what’s missing. If paperwork is the barrier, schedule an appointment with Legal Aid of NC or your HUD counselor to fix name, support, or identity documentation gaps. (legalaidnc.org)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

  • Government photo ID and Social Security card
  • Last 30 days of pay stubs (all jobs) and two years W‑2s/1099s
  • Two months of bank statements (all accounts)
  • Benefit letters (TANF, SSI/SSDI, child support, VA), if any
  • Divorce or separation judgement; child support orders
  • Pre‑approval letter from an NCHFA participating lender
  • HUD homebuyer education certificate or class registration
  • Signed gift letter (if receiving gift funds)
  • Property insurance quote (ask your agent for a binder)
  • DPA program applications (city, CPLP) started with your lender

Step‑by‑Step: From First Call to Keys

  • Call a HUD counselor and book class: you’ll get a budget, action plan, and certificate. Use HUD’s directory or CFPB’s tool. Ask for Spanish or interpretation if needed (they can arrange it). (hud.gov)
  • Get pre‑approved with an NCHFA lender: tell them you want NC Home Advantage, NC 1st Home Advantage, and CPLP layered if needed, plus your city’s DPA. Ask for one combined timeline. (nchfa.com)
  • Shop homes with longer financing windows: if you’re using city DPA, write a contract with enough time for city underwriting. Use your counselor to prep your offer strategy. If a utility shutoff threatens closing, call NCUC Public Staff for a hold. (ncuc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your first lender says “no,” ask a second participating lender. If your market is too hot, consider temporarily pivoting to USDA Direct (502) areas where competition is lighter. (rd.usda.gov)

Tables You Can Use

Table — Your Likely Timeline (adjust with your lender)

Step Typical Time Action to Speed It Up
HUD class + counseling 1–2 weeks Ask for cancellations; take an online option through a listed agency. Find agencies. (hud.gov)
Lender pre‑approval (NCHFA) 2–5 days Upload all docs the same day; authorize e‑verification. Program basics. (nchfa.com)
Contract to close with state DPA ~30–45 days Order inspections early; avoid big purchases; keep your job hours steady. NCHFA FAQ. (nchfa.com)
City DPA underwriting (if used) +10–20 days Have your lender submit city and state files together; attend any required orientation. City pages. (durhamnc.gov)

Table — Federal and Conventional Loans You Can Pair with DPA

Loan Type Down Who Benefits Why It Helps
USDA Direct 502 0% Rural buyers with low incomes Payment assistance can lower effective rate; often lower than rent. (rd.usda.gov)
VA Loan 0% Eligible veterans/spouses No PMI; can layer with some DPA; contact VA for guidance. (benefits.va.gov)
FHA 3.5% Buyers with moderate credit Flexible credit; allows verified grants and seconds toward down payment. (hud.gov)
HomeReady 3% Income ≤80% AMI Uses grants and Community Seconds; PMI can drop at 20% equity. (yourhome.fanniemae.com)
Home Possible 3% Income ≤80% AMI Supports gifts, secondary financing; education required. (myhome.freddiemac.com)

Table — City Programs and Who to Call

City/County Max Help (2025) First Call
Charlotte Up to $80,000 DreamKey Partners, 1-704-705-3999. (dreamkeypartners.org)
Raleigh 45,000–45,000–60,000 Raleigh HBA Program, DHIC 1-919-832-4345. (raleighnc.gov)
Durham Up to $80,000 Durham DPA, 1-919-560-4570. (durhamnc.gov)
Greensboro Up to 20,000–20,000–30,000 Homebuyer Assistance, 1-336-553-0946 x101. (greensboro-nc.gov)
Wilmington Up to $25,000 HOP. (wilmingtonnc.gov)
Fayetteville Up to 20,000–20,000–30,000 Homebuying HERO. (fayettevillenc.gov)

Table — Statewide Support Numbers (save these)

Need Number Link
HUD housing counselors 1-800-569-4287 Find a counselor (hud.gov)
NC 211, 24/7 referrals 1-888-892-1162 NC 211 (nc211.org)
NCUC Public Staff (shutoffs) 1-866-380-9816 Consumer Services (ncuc.gov)
USDA RD Single Family 1-888-796-0538 USDA in NC (rd.usda.gov)
VA Home Loans 1-877-827-3702 VA contact (benefits.va.gov)

Region‑by‑Region Resources (Who Helps Where You Live)

Charlotte Area (Mecklenburg + nearby)

Tap HouseCharlotte for up to $80,000 on top of NCHFA; take class with DreamKey Partners or HUD agencies. Consider FHLBank grants via a member bank. Save this number: 1-704-705-3999. (charlottenc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check CPLP for an added silent second; explore Habitat Charlotte Region if you’re open to sweat equity. (nchfa.com)

Triangle (Wake, Durham, Orange)

Use Raleigh’s 45k–45k–60k, Durham’s $80k, and county HOME‑funded options (Orange often funds organizations like Community Home Trust). Pair with NC Home Advantage and CPLP. Raleigh DHIC: 1-919-832-4345. (raleighnc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If city funds are tapped, ask your lender about FHLBank Atlanta products and add NCHFA layers. Check HUD counselors for more options. (corp.fhlbatl.com)

Triad (Guilford, Forsyth, surrounding)

Apply for Greensboro DPA (up to 20k–20k–30k) and ask about lender list; in Forsyth, start with Forsyth CED and the City Homeownership page. Add NC Home Advantage or CPLP to stretch your budget. (greensboro-nc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Get help from Financial Pathways of the Piedmont (Center for Homeownership) for counseling and credit tune‑ups; then re‑apply when funding refreshes. Phone: 1-888-474-8015. (financialpaths.org)

Mountains / Western NC (Buncombe, Henderson, etc.)

Check Buncombe‑supported DPA delivered through nonprofits like Asheville Area Habitat and Mountain Housing Opportunities (MHO) for city‑limit and county options; many loans are shared‑appreciation or deferred. Stack with NC Home Advantage and CPLP. (ashevillehabitat.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Explore USDA Direct (502) for rural nearby counties; book class with OnTrack WNC right away to stay prepped. (rd.usda.gov)

Sandhills / Southeast (Cumberland, Fayetteville; Robeson; New Hanover)

Use Fayetteville’s Homebuying HERO (up to 30,000forpublic‑serviceheroes;upto30,000 for public‑service heroes; up to 20,000 for residents) and Wilmington HOP (up to 25,000)ifyoubuyincitylimits;Robeson/Lumbeememberscanaccess[∗LumbeeTribeDPA(25,000) if you buy in city limits; Robeson/Lumbee members can access [*Lumbee Tribe DPA (10k–$20k)*](https://www.lumbeetribe.com/down-payment-assistance-program) statewide. Pair with CPLP. (fayettevillenc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you looked at storm‑area help, note ReBuild NC HAP closed to new applications Sept. 26, 2024; try USDA RD offices for rural financing. (rebuild.nc.gov)

Special Section — Diverse Communities

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a program can’t accommodate you, document the barrier (dates, names) and request a reasonable accommodation in writing. Then call the Fair Housing Project for advice and consider a complaint with HUD FHEO. (fairhousingnc.org)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in North Carolina Today

If you’re behind on lights or gas while you line up closing, act now.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to verify funding: moms lose homes because a city program paused mid‑year. Bookmark your city DPA page (like Durham) and call weekly until you lock. NCHFA programs also have caps. (durhamnc.gov)
  • Over‑promising gift funds: lenders must source every dollar. Confirm gift timing and use HUD counseling to prep a gift letter and bank statements. Ask about FHLBank grants instead. (hud.gov)
  • Ignoring property type rules: some programs exclude certain manufactured homes or duplexes. Check NCHFA property eligibility and your city’s rules before you offer. Ask your lender to verify. (nchfa.com)

Reality Check

  • Funding dries up: Greensboro increased DPA in July 2025, then experienced high demand; first‑come means you must act fast. Monitor Greensboro news updates. Pair with NC Home Advantage if the city queue slows. (greensboro-nc.gov)
  • Some popular tools ended: the NC Home Advantage Tax Credit (MCC) posted a notice that it would terminate around March 2025 as funds were exhausted; ask your lender if any reservations remain, but plan without it. Consider HomeReady instead. (nchfa.com)
  • Processing takes time: CPLP can add a week or more; Durham’s $80k is generous but underwrites like a mortgage. Get all signatures and disclosures done quickly and expect follow‑up conditions. See Durham DPA guidelines. (durhamnc.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Situation First Call Link You Need Tip
You’re mortgage‑ready and need cash to close NCHFA lender finder NC Home Advantage Mortgage Ask about $15k 1st Home Advantage. (nchfa.com)
You need a big second to bridge the gap CPLP partner CPLP Plan extra underwriting time. (nchfa.com)
You serve your city (teacher, health care, etc.) City DPA office Charlotte HouseCharlotte or Raleigh HBA Essential workers may access larger local grants. (charlottenc.gov)
Rural and low‑income USDA office USDA in NC Direct 502 can beat rent after subsidy. (rd.usda.gov)
You suspect discrimination Legal Aid Fair Housing Fair Housing Project Keep notes and emails; call to file. (fairhousingnc.org)

Real‑World Examples You Can Model

Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your counselor to escalate to state or federal partners (NCHFA, HUD) and request a case review. You can also contact HUD Greensboro Field Office for referrals. (hud.gov)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

  • Durham County: City DPA up to $80,000 with 0% and 15‑year forgiveness; lenders must be approved; first‑come until funds run out. Always use the city’s approved‑lender list. Durham program page. (durhamnc.gov)
  • Mecklenburg County (Charlotte): HouseCharlotte amounts vary by income band and employee status; confirm match grants and 30‑year terms; counseling required. Start at DreamKey Partners. (dreamkeypartners.org)
  • Wake County (Raleigh): Standard vs. enhanced areas have different purchase price caps (384,750vs.384,750 vs. 450,000) and assistance levels. See Raleigh’s instructions and call DHIC for the next steps. (raleighnc.gov)
  • Guilford (Greensboro): July 2025 funding boost increased grants and neighborhood bonuses up to $30,000; timing matters. Start at Housing Connect GSO and review the city news item. (greensboro-nc.gov)
  • New Hanover (Wilmington): HOP provides up to $25,000 and requires city‑limit purchases and classes. Use the city forms and add NC Home Advantage. Wilmington HOP page. (wilmingtonnc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your county is quiet on DPA, lean on state programs—CPLP and NC Home Advantage—and ask a member bank about FHLBank Atlanta grants. (nchfa.com)

FAQs — North Carolina Single‑Mom Edition

  1. How much help can I actually stack in NC?
    You can often pair NC 1st Home Advantage 15,000∗](https://www.nchfa.com/home−ownership−partners/nc−1st−home−advantage−down−payment)with[∗CPLPupto15,000*](https://www.nchfa.com/home-ownership-partners/nc-1st-home-advantage-down-payment) with [*CPLP up to 50,000 and one city program (amount varies), plus possible FHLBank Atlanta grants if your lender is a member. Lenders must confirm combined lien limits. (nchfa.com)
  2. Is the NC Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) still available?
    The NC Home Advantage Tax Credit posted a notice that it would terminate around March 2025 based on funds. Ask your lender if any allocation remains, but plan your affordability without it. Consider HomeReady as an alternative savings path. (nchfa.com)
  3. What credit score do I need for NCHFA help?
    Most NCHFA programs need 640+ (660 for new manufactured homes). Confirm on NCHFA’s FAQ and with your lender. If you’re close, a HUD counselor can build a fast plan. (nchfa.com)
  4. How long does closing take with DPA?
    Plan ~30–45 days with state DPA and add 10–20 days if your city program underwrites a second loan. Start early and send complete files. See Durham’s DPA steps. (durhamnc.gov)
  5. Can I buy outside city limits and still get help?
    Yes—state programs (NC Home Advantage, CPLP) are statewide. Rural areas may qualify you for USDA Direct 502. (nchfa.com)
  6. I’m a veteran—what’s my best path?
    Start with VA Home Loan and ask about pairing a city DPA or FHLBank Community Partners. You may also qualify for NC 1st Home Advantage even if you owned before (veteran exemption). (benefits.va.gov)
  7. Are there programs for tribal members?
    Yes—Lumbee members can apply for Lumbee Tribe DPA; Eastern Band of Cherokee members can check with EBCI Housing Services. You can still use NCHFA programs if you meet eligibility. (lumbeetribe.com)
  8. What if I’m not ready this month?
    Keep working with a HUD counselor and stack savings. Ask your bank about FHLBank grants when funds open; set alerts for your city DPA pages. (consumerfinance.gov)
  9. Where can I report a shady lender or DPA scam?
    File with the NC Office of the Commissioner of Banks and use the online complaint portal. For general scams, call NC DOJ Consumer Protection. (nccob.nc.gov)
  10. What if I lose heat while saving for closing?
    Call NCUC Public Staff to stop a shutoff and apply for LIEAP through your county DSS. Use NC 211 after hours. (publicstaff.nc.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección se generó con herramientas de traducción de IA. Verifique datos y montos con las fuentes oficiales antes de aplicar.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. It is not legal, tax, or lending advice. Program rules, funding, and income limits change. Always confirm current amounts, eligibility, and timelines with the program administrator, your lender, or a HUD‑approved counselor. For official guidance, contact the agencies linked above or your city/county housing department.

Learn more:

  1. Nationally HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies directory | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
  2. NC Home Advantage Mortgage | NCHFA
  3. Home – NC 211
  4. North Carolina | Rural Development
  5. Regional Loan Center Contact Information – VA Home Loans
  6. NCUC: Public Staff Info
  7. Get Help – Legal Aid of North Carolina
  8. NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment | NCHFA
  9. Community Partners Loan Pool | NCHFA
  10. FHLBank Atlanta Commits $60M for Homeownership Grants
  11. Self-Help Loan Pool | NCHFA
  12. Homeownership – City of Charlotte
  13. Apply for Homebuyer Assistance | Raleighnc.gov
  14. Down Payment Assistance Program | Durham, NC
  15. Homebuyer Assistance Program | Greensboro, NC
  16. Community & Economic Development
  17. Home Ownership – Wilmington, NC
  18. HomeReady Low Down Payment Mortgage | Fannie Mae
  19. More North Carolinians Now Eligible for Affordable Mortgages and $15K Down Payment Assistance | NCHFA
  20. Help | North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
  21. About Housing Counseling | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
  22. Find a Housing Counselor | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
  23. Single Family Housing Direct Home Loans in North Carolina | Rural Development
  24. National Homeownership Month 2025 | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
  25. Unlock Homeownership with Just 3% Down – My Home by Freddie Mac
  26. House Charlotte Program | DreamKey Partners
  27. Homebuying Hero Program | City of Fayetteville, N.C.
  28. City News | Greensboro, NC
  29. Contact – Financial Pathways of the Piedmont
  30. Homeownership – Asheville Habitat for Humanity
  31. Homeownership Assistance Program | ReBuild NC
  32. Contact Us — Fair Housing Project
  33. Down Payment Assistance Program | lumbee-tribe-of-nc
  34. Consumer Services Division | NC Public Staff
  35. NC DHHS: Low Income Energy Assistance
  36. NC Home Advantage Tax Credit | NCHFA
  37. North Carolina | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
  38. Welcome to the NC Office of the Commissioner of Banks Website | nccob

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