Charleston Home Moving

First-Time Homebuyer Programs in James Island, SC (2026)

James Island homes

James Island is a charming coastal community just minutes from downtown Charleston, offering waterfront living, great schools, and easy access to Folly Beach. First-time homebuyers will find a range of affordable options with access to state and federal down payment assistance programs.

Population

12000

Median Home Price

320000

Estimated Closing Costs

8000

Charleston County Programs

Program NameTypeAmountMin Credit ScoreFirst-Time Buyer Required?

South Carolina State Programs

Program NameTypeAmountMin Credit ScoreFirst-Time Buyer Required?
SC Housing Homebuyer ProgramForgivable Loan$10,000620Yes
Palmetto Heroes ProgramForgivable Loan$10,000640Yes
SC Housing Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC)Tax CreditUp to $2,000 federal tax credit per year640Yes
Palmetto Home AdvantageForgivable LoanUp to 5% of loan amount (3%, 4%, or 5% options)640No

Federal Programs

Program NameTypeAmountMin Credit ScoreFirst-Time Buyer Required?
FHA Loan ProgramGovernment-Insured Mortgage$0 down payment assistance (3.5% minimum down payment required)580No
VA Home Loan ProgramGovernment-Guaranteed Mortgage$0 down payment requiredNone statedNo
USDA Rural Development LoanGovernment-Guaranteed Mortgage$0 down payment requiredNone statedNo

Nonprofit Programs

Program NameTypeAmountMin Credit ScoreFirst-Time Buyer Required?

How to Apply

To apply for down payment assistance in James Island, contact Paul Thompson at Paul@venturehomelending.com or Paul@Pluffmudrealty.com to get pre-qualified and identify the best program for your situation.

FAQ

FAQ content coming soon.

Find Every Dollar Available to You

Tell us about your situation and we'll match you with every program you qualify for in your target city.

Information on this site is for educational purposes and is not legal, tax, or lending advice. Program terms and availability change frequently and may vary by borrower profile. Equal Housing Opportunity.