State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, North Carolina housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
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The NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in North Carolina. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
Competitive mortgage with DPA for first-time and move-up buyers.
Additional $8,000 DPA for first-time buyers and military veterans.
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Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $335,000 home: approximately $8,040
North Carolina charges a deed excise tax of $2 per $1,000 of sale price (0.2%), paid by the seller — but it's worth knowing when negotiating net proceeds.
North Carolina is an attorney-closing state. A licensed NC real estate attorney must examine title and conduct the closing. Budget $600–$1,000.
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Find an Inspector →As an attorney-closing state, North Carolina requires a licensed real estate attorney to conduct your closing. You'll also want one to review your purchase agreement.
Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.
Browse Legal Guides →Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.
Get Legal Help →Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.
Browse Real Estate Forms →North Carolina first-time buyers can access programs through the NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) (https://www.nchfa.com/), including the NC Home Advantage Mortgage (Up to 3% of loan amount as a 0% deferred second — forgiven after 15 years) and the NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment ($8,000 deferred at 0% — forgiven after 15 years). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in North Carolina typically run 2.4% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: 0.2% ($2 per $1,000). North Carolina charges a deed excise tax of $2 per $1,000 of sale price (0.2%), paid by the seller — but it's worth knowing when negotiating net proceeds.
North Carolina is an attorney-closing state. A licensed NC real estate attorney must examine title and conduct the closing. Budget $600–$1,000.
The median home price in North Carolina is approximately $335,000. Property taxes average 0.8% of assessed value annually.
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