Raleigh & Wake County Down Payment Assistance
The Triangle is one of North Carolina's priciest markets, so NCHFA's help goes a long way here. Up to 3% for any buyer, or $15,000 for first-time buyers and veterans, forgivable over time. Here is how it works across Wake County.
How NCHFA works in Wake County
Raleigh and the wider Triangle have drawn tech, research, and steady in-migration, and prices have followed. NCHFA down payment assistance helps first-time and move-up buyers keep pace. Any NC Home Advantage buyer can take up to 3% of the loan; first-time buyers and veterans can take the flat $15,000, which on Triangle prices is usually the bigger benefit. The second is a zero-percent deferred lien with no monthly payment, and a 640 credit score qualifies.
Buying across Wake County and the Triangle
Wake County spreads well beyond Raleigh. Inside the city, southeast and north Raleigh carry affordable homes, and the growth has filled in Wake Forest, Knightdale, Zebulon, Fuquay-Varina, and Holly Springs. Across the Triangle, Durham County and Johnston County (Clayton, Smithfield) are common more-affordable markets, and Chapel Hill/Orange County runs higher. Because the NCHFA income limit is statewide, a buyer priced out of central Raleigh can shop the outer county with the same assistance.
The $15,000 option for Triangle first-time buyers
For a first-time buyer in the Triangle, the NC 1st Home Advantage $15,000 is usually the move. It is a flat amount, larger than 3% on most Wake County price points, and it carries the same forgiveness, gone entirely if you keep the home 15 years. Military veterans qualify for the $15,000 too, even if they have owned before. Compare the two amounts on our 3% vs. $15,000 page.
NCHFA sets a single statewide income limit and sales-price limits that change periodically; confirm the current figures on the NCHFA before relying on one. See our eligibility page.
Common questions
How much down payment assistance can I get in Raleigh?
NCHFA offers up to 3% of the loan for any buyer, or a flat $15,000 for first-time buyers and military veterans. Both are 0% deferred seconds forgiven 20% per year in years 11-15. On most Triangle price points the $15,000 is the larger benefit for first-time buyers.
What is the income limit for down payment assistance in Wake County?
North Carolina uses a single statewide NCHFA income limit rather than a per-county figure, and it changes periodically. Check the current limit on NCHFA before relying on it; a 640 credit score is also required.
Is Raleigh down payment assistance forgivable?
Yes. The NCHFA second is forgiven 20% per year in years 11 through 15, fully forgiven at 15 years. You repay it only if you sell or refinance before year 11.
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