First-Time Home Buyer Programs

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 What Programs Are Available for First-Time Buyers? 

First-time home buyers may qualify for a variety of mortgage programs designed to make buying a home more accessible. These include VA loans, FHA loans, USDA loans, and select conventional programs, many of which offer low down payments, flexible credit guidelines, and buyer-friendly terms.

Buying your first home looks different than it did a few years ago. Home prices, competition, and financing options all matter.

“First-time buyer” doesn’t always mean you’ve never owned a home. In many cases, buyers may still qualify if they haven’t owned a home in recent years or are purchasing for the first time with a spouse.

Understanding your program options early helps you shop confidently and avoid common first-time buyer mistakes.

VA loans are often the best option for qualifying first-time buyers with military service.

VA loan highlights:

• $0 down payment in most cases
   
• No monthly mortgage insurance
   
• Flexible credit guidelines
   
• Competitive interest rates
   

VA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and are commonly used by first-time buyers.

FHA loans are popular with first-time buyers who have limited down payment savings or are rebuilding credit.

FHA loan features:

• Low down payment options
   
• More forgiving credit requirements
   
• Widely accepted by sellers
   

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and are commonly used across Upstate South Carolina.

USDA loans offer $0 down financing in eligible areas

USDA loan basics:

• $0 down payment
   
• Income limits apply
   
• Property must be in an eligible location
   

USDA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and can be a strong option in parts of Travelers Rest, Anderson, and surrounding areas.

Some conventional loans are designed specifically for first-time buyers.

Conventional program features:

• Low down payment options
   
• No upfront mortgage insurance
   
• Competitive long-term flexibility
   

These programs work well for buyers with strong credit profiles purchasing in Greenville and nearby Upstate markets.

No you don't. 

Many programs consider you a “first-time buyer” if:

• You haven’t owned a home in the past few years
   
• You’re buying for the first time with a spouse
   
• You previously owned but no longer do
   

This flexibility surprises many buyers 

First-time buyers across Upstate South Carolina often run into challenges that can be avoided with the right guidance:

• ❌ Waiting too long to get pre-approved
   
• ❌ Assuming 20% down is required
   
• ❌ Not exploring VA or USDA eligibility
   
• ❌ Shopping without understanding monthly payment comfort
   
• ❌ Choosing a lender unfamiliar with local markets
   

Early planning makes a meaningful difference.

Do I need perfect credit to buy my first home?
No. Many programs allow for moderate or improving credit profiles.

How much money do I need to buy a home
That depends on the loan program. Some options allow low or even zero down payment.

Can first-time buyers use VA loans?
Yes. VA loans are often one of the best options for eligible first-time buyers.

• VA Home Loans
   
• VA Loan Eligibility Guide
   
• FHA Loan vs Conventional Loan Comparison
   

Buying your first home is a big step—and having clear guidance matters.

Jed Barker and Best Life Mortgage help first-time buyers across Greenville, South Carolina and Upstate South Carolina understand their options, compare programs, and move forward with confidence.

📱 Call or text 864-800-9251 when you’re ready to get started.

Best Life Mortgage

First-Time Home Buyer Loans | Greenville, South Carolina
Serving Upstate South Carolina with clarity, patience, and local expertise