Homebuyers in South Carolina have the opportunity to take advantage of new financial support. South Carolina (SC) Housing is now offering downpayment assistance and incentives to qualifying first-time homebuyers through the 2026 Palmetto Heroes Program. Beginning on March 16, 2026, applicants were able to start submitting applications.
The program is designed to recognize and support individuals who serve the public in essential roles. This includes educators, first responders and community service professionals working in law enforcement, corrections, firefighting, emergency medical services, and healthcare. Eligibility also extends to members of the military, including active-duty service members, reservists, and veterans. Prospective borrowers must also comply with SC Housing’s first-time homebuyer requirements detailed in the Homebuyer (BOND) Program Manual.
The down payment assistance program offers eligible homebuyers $10,000 in the form of a second mortgage with benefits including zero percent interest, no monthly payments and a completely forgivable loan after 15 years. This $10,000 can help cover down payment, closing costs and/or prepaid expenses—making homeownership more accessible. However, there are some important guidelines to keep in mind. The funds cannot be used for mortgage insurance premiums, covering gaps in appraisal values or paying real estate commissions.
Borrowers will need to meet all standard program and first mortgage insurer requirements to qualify. Selling the home, refinancing or moving out before the 15-year period ends will require the borrower to repay the full DPA amount at that time. Additionally, the DPA cannot be subordinated to other loans.
Ready to make your homeownership dreams a reality? Connect with a Lennar New Home Consultant at one of our communities in the Columbia area and start your homeownership journey today.
For buyer requirements and program eligibility information, contact a Lennar Mortgage, LLC Loan Officer.
*Certain restrictions apply. Loan program is through SC Housing Finance Agency and availability is limited. FHA, Conventional, VA, or USDA first loan, buyer is responsible for payment of closing cost and other fees. This is not a commitment to lend, applicants must qualify. Rates may change or not be available or funds may be exhausted at the time of loan commitment, lock-in, or closing. Buyer is subject to qualifications for specific loan terms, occupancy, down payment, credit and underwriting requirements, and/ or investor program guidelines. Not an offer to enter into an interest rate or discount point agreement and any such agreement may only be made in writing and signed by both the borrower and the lender. Homeowners Association (HOA) fees may apply. For buyer requirements and program eligibility information, contact a Lennar Mortgage Loan Officer. Lennar Mortgage, LLC (“Lennar Mortgage”) is Lennar’s affiliated lender. Lennar Mortgage’s loan process is voluntary and participation is not required in order to purchase a home from Lennar. Lennar Mortgage is an affiliate of seller and use of Lennar Mortgage is not required to participate in this process or purchase a home ( See Affiliated Business Arrangement Disclosure ) Lennar Mortgage, LLC, NMLS # 1058. Columbia Branch NMLS # 2570324. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, and designs vary and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Items shown are artist’s renderings and may contain options that are not standard on all models or not included in the purchase price. Availability may vary. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2026 Lennar Corporation and Lennar Mortgage, LLC. All rights reserved. Lennar, Lennar logo, Lennar Mortgage and the Lennar Mortgage logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. Seller’s broker(s): Lennar Carolinas, LLC. Date 03/26
