Home Loans in South Carolina
The Palmetto State offers Southern charm and coastal living. NorthStar Funding serves SC buyers statewide. All credit scores welcome — even no score.
South Carolina Housing Market
About the South Carolina Real Estate Market
South Carolina offers Southern charm, coastal living, and affordable prices. Charleston's historic beauty and Greenville's revitalized downtown attract buyers nationwide. The state's low property taxes and growing job market make it attractive for relocations and retirement.
Loan Programs Available in South Carolina
We offer a variety of mortgage options to fit your unique situation. All programs welcome borrowers with less-than-perfect credit.
SC Housing Programs
South Carolina State Housing programs with down payment assistance for qualified buyers.
FHA Loans
Government-backed loans popular in SC with flexible credit requirements.
VA Loans
Zero down payment for SC veterans. Strong military presence at multiple bases.
Non-QM / Bank Statement
Perfect for SC entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals.
Check Your Eligibility
See if you qualify for special loan programs with lower down payments and flexible income requirements.
Income Eligibility Checker
HomeReady® & Home Possible® - 3% Down Payment Programs
HomeReady®by Fannie MaeIncome must be ≤80% of Area Median Income (AMI). No geographic restrictions.
Home Possible®by Freddie MacIncome must be ≤80% AMI. Some census tracts have no income limit.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | HomeReady® | Home Possible® |
|---|---|---|
| Min. Down Payment | 3% | 3% |
| Min. Credit Score | 620 | 620 |
| Income Limit | ≤80% AMI | ≤80% AMI* |
| Homebuyer Education | Required | Required |
*No income limit in designated underserved areas
Why Choose NorthStar Funding in South Carolina?
What South Carolina Homeowners Say
"NorthStar helped us buy in downtown Charleston. They understood the historic district's unique requirements."
The Johnson Family
"Found our dream home in Greenville with NorthStar. Great downtown and outdoor access!"
Michael & Sarah K.
"SC Housing assistance made homeownership possible in Columbia. NorthStar guided us through everything."
The Williams Family
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need to buy a home in South Carolina?
NorthStar Funding welcomes all credit scores in South Carolina, starting as low as 500 with FHA loans (10% down). For scores 580+, you may qualify for just 3.5% down.
What are the best mortgage programs available in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, we offer FHA loans, VA loans (popular near military bases), USDA loans for eligible rural areas, conventional loans, and bank statement loans. SC Housing programs provide down payment assistance.
How much is the average home price in South Carolina?
The median home price in South Carolina is approximately $300K. Charleston and coastal areas are higher, while Columbia, Greenville, and inland areas offer more affordable options.
Are there first-time homebuyer programs in South Carolina?
Yes! SC Housing offers the Palmetto Home Advantage program with down payment assistance up to 4% of the loan amount. The program is available to first-time and repeat buyers.
What are property taxes like in South Carolina?
South Carolina has very low property taxes at approximately 0.6% of assessed value for primary residences, thanks to the 4% assessment ratio for owner-occupied homes.
Can I get a mortgage in South Carolina with no down payment?
Yes! VA loans offer 0% down — very popular near Joint Base Charleston, Fort Jackson, and Parris Island. USDA loans offer 0% down in many SC rural areas.
How long does it take to close on a home in South Carolina?
The typical closing timeline in South Carolina is 30-45 days. SC uses attorneys for closings. The Charleston market can be competitive, so pre-qualification is important.
Does NorthStar Funding offer manual underwriting in South Carolina?
Yes! We specialize in manual underwriting for SC borrowers. This is ideal for military families, retirees, and borrowers with non-traditional income.
What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage in South Carolina?
Typical documents include 2 years of tax returns, recent pay stubs, bank statements, W-2s or 1099s, and ID. Self-employed borrowers can use bank statement programs.
Can self-employed borrowers get a mortgage in South Carolina?
Absolutely! Our bank statement programs work well for SC entrepreneurs, especially in the growing Charleston and Greenville markets.
NorthStar Funding Licensing Information
NMLS #: 123456
Licensed in: Multi-State
Years in Business: 15+
Total Loans Originated: $2B+
Ready to Get Started?
See your options in minutes with no impact to your credit score. Our team is ready to help you find the right loan for your South Carolina home.