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First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Goose Creek, SC

Population 52,010 · Updated November 2026

Estimated Median Home Price

$235,000

Affordable

Based on South Carolina market data and city size. Actual prices vary by neighborhood.

Affordability Snapshot

Est. Monthly Payment
$1,623/mo

P&I $1,433 + Tax $112 + Ins $78

Property Tax Rate
0.57%

$1,340/yr in South Carolina

FHA Loan Limit
$498K

Standard limit in South Carolina

Down Payment Breakdown

For a $235,000 home in Goose Creek:

FHA Loan (3.5% down)

Min. 580 credit score

$8,225

Conventional (5% down)

Min. 620 credit score

$11,750

VA / USDA (0% down)

Veterans / eligible rural areas

$0

Plus closing costs of $4,700 - $11,750 (2-5%)

South Carolina Homebuyer Programs

SC Housing Palmetto Home Advantage

Down Payment Assistance
Up to 4% of loan amount

SC Housing provides up to 4% of the loan amount as a forgivable DPA loan after 10 years.

Federal Loan Programs

ProgramDown PaymentCredit ScoreEligibility
FHA3.5%580+ (3.5%) or 500+ (10%)All buyers
Conventional3-5%620+All buyers
VA0%No minimum (most lenders want 620+)Veterans, active military, surviving spouses
USDA0%640+ (most lenders)Eligible rural/suburban areas, income limits

FHA loan limit in South Carolina: $498,257. Rates and requirements as of 2026.

7 Steps to Buying Your First Home in Goose Creek

1

Check your credit score

FHA requires 580+ for 3.5% down; conventional needs 620+. Free annual reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Goose Creek has 2 HUD-approved counseling agencies that offer free credit counseling.

2

Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified)

Pre-approval involves a full credit check, income verification, and asset documentation. It tells sellers you are a serious buyer with confirmed financing. Pre-qualification is just an informal estimate.

3

Apply for South Carolina assistance programs

South Carolina offers 1 homebuyer program that can reduce your down payment or closing costs. Apply before you start house-hunting — some programs take 2-4 weeks to process.

4

Find a buyer's agent

A buyer's agent represents your interests and is typically paid by the seller. Look for agents who know the Goose Creek market and have experience with first-time buyers and DPA programs.

5

House hunt with your budget

With a median price of $235,000 in Goose Creek, your total monthly housing cost would be approximately $1,623/month. Most lenders recommend keeping housing costs below 28% of gross income.

6

Make an offer and get an inspection

Your agent helps structure the offer. Always get a home inspection ($300-$500) — it can reveal costly problems. In competitive markets, resist pressure to waive the inspection contingency.

7

Close on your home

Closing typically takes 30-45 days after an accepted offer. Budget $4,700-$11,750 for closing costs. Review all documents carefully at closing — you have 3 days to review the Closing Disclosure before signing.

HUD-Approved Housing Counselors in Goose Creek

Approximately 2 agencies offer free homebuyer education and credit counseling

First-Time Homebuyer Facts

Median Buyer Age

36 years

National Association of Realtors, 2025

Avg. Down Payment

8%

National Association of Realtors, 2025

Use DPA Programs

40% of first-time buyers

National Association of Realtors, 2024

Closing Costs

2-5% of purchase price

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying in Goose Creek

What first-time homebuyer programs are available in Goose Creek, SC?
South Carolina offers 1 state-level homebuyer assistance program: SC Housing Palmetto Home Advantage. In addition, federal programs including FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% down for veterans), and USDA (0% down in eligible rural areas) are available to Goose Creek buyers.
How much do I need for a down payment on a home in Goose Creek?
Based on the estimated median home price of $235,000 in Goose Creek: an FHA loan requires $8,225 (3.5%), a conventional loan requires $11,750 (5%), and VA/USDA loans require $0 down. About 40% of first-time buyers use down payment assistance programs to reduce these amounts.
What is the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Goose Creek?
For the estimated median home price of $235,000 in Goose Creek with an FHA loan (3.5% down, 6.5% interest rate, 30-year term), the estimated principal and interest payment is approximately $1,433/month. Add property taxes (0.57% in South Carolina), homeowner's insurance, and mortgage insurance for the full monthly cost.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Goose Creek?
FHA loans require a minimum 580 credit score for the 3.5% down payment option (or 500 with 10% down). Conventional loans typically require 620 or higher. Higher scores qualify for better interest rates. Free credit counseling is available through the 2 HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in the Goose Creek area.
What are closing costs for buying a home in Goose Creek, SC?
Closing costs in Goose Creek typically range from $4,700 to $11,750 (2-5% of the purchase price). These include lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, recording fees, and prepaid property taxes. Some South Carolina DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Homebuyer Programs in Other South Carolina Cities

Charleston$330,000
Moderate
Columbia$250,000
Moderate
North Charleston$305,000
Moderate
Mount Pleasant$240,000
Affordable
Rock Hill$215,000
Affordable
Greenville$240,000
Affordable
Summerville$225,000
Affordable
Greer$205,000
Affordable
Back to Goose Creek overviewAll homebuyer programsGoose Creek safety data

Home prices are population-based estimates and may not reflect current market conditions. Program details, eligibility requirements, and amounts are approximate and subject to change. Contact your state housing finance agency or a HUD-approved counselor for current information. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

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