✦ Free tool · 2 minutes
Do I qualify for down payment help?
Nine quick questions to see whether North Carolina down payment help is worth reviewing for you, plus your next 3 steps.
There may be up to $15,000 toward the down payment plus closing-cost assistance programs, subject to qualification. This quiz doesn't ask for your name or phone and isn't a loan application or a loan approval — it gives you an educational estimate in bands.
Your next 3 steps:
This result is an educational estimate, not a loan approval or a pre-approval. It is based on bands; eligibility is decided by the participating lender and the program. Educational information; not financial advice.
Want Berenice to review your result?
Optional. Berenice will message you on WhatsApp or call to go over your result calmly, in English or Spanish. No cost, no obligation, no pressure.
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Want more detail? Read the down payment help page, the guide how to buy a home in North Carolina step by step, or estimate a range with How much home can I afford?
Frequently asked questions
Does this quiz tell me if I qualify?
No. It gives you an educational read based on general bands. Eligibility for any assistance program is decided by the participating lender and the program after reviewing income, credit, the property and documents. The quiz tells you whether your case is worth reviewing and which steps to take first.
How much down payment help is available in North Carolina?
Depending on the case, there may be up to $15,000 toward the down payment plus closing-cost assistance programs, subject to qualification. Amounts depend on the program, county, home price and loan type, and terms can change.
Why do you ask whether I owned a home in the last 3 years?
Because NCHFA's NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment is for first-time buyers (no principal residence owned in the past three years) and veterans. If you've owned recently, the NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ does not require first-time buyer status.
Can I use the quiz if I have an ITIN?
Yes. State programs and FHA require lawful status, so with an ITIN the path is usually a separate portfolio loan that typically needs a larger down payment. Your result shows how to prepare, and Berenice reviews each case individually and confidentially.
Do you store my answers?
The quiz runs in your browser and sends nothing unless you fill in the optional form at the end. If you do, Berenice receives your name, phone and a summary of your answers so she can contact you.
Sources (checked October 8, 2026): NCHFA, NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment ($15,000 for first-time buyers — no principal residence owned in the past 3 years — and veterans; 640 minimum score; income limits vary by county and household size, see NCHFA limits) · NCHFA, NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ program guide (July 2026) ($158,000 statewide income limit; 640 minimum score; first-time buyer status not required) · HUD, Mortgagee Letter 2025-09 (since May 25, 2025, FHA is limited to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, with narrow exceptions) · AnnualCreditReport.com. The only limits this quiz treats as fixed facts are the $158,000 and 640 figures cited above; everything else is handled in bands. Eligibility is decided by the lender and the program. Berenice Cruz is a North Carolina real estate broker and does not originate loans.