3 Loans Making Homeownership Easier in 2025

🏡 3 Loan Programs Helping First-Time Buyers Get into Homes for Less

By Phil Slezak, Raleigh Real Estate Expert

If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Raleigh, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “you need 20% down to buy a home.” Let me be the first to bust that myth. In reality, there are smart loan programs available that can get you into a home with far less upfront cost—and many of my clients have used them to land their first house sooner than they expected.

Let’s break down 3 powerful loan programs helping first-time buyers unlock the door to homeownership in the Triangle.

💡 1. FHA Loans – Just 3.5% Down

What it is: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration
Who it’s for: Buyers with average credit and limited savings
Why it works: You can put down as little as 3.5%, and guidelines are flexible with credit scores starting around 580

✅ Great for buyers who’ve been renting but want to start building equity
✅ Available throughout Raleigh and Wake County

As your local agent, I’ll connect you with lenders who specialize in FHA approvals to ensure a smooth path forward.

🌾 2. USDA Loans – 0% Down for Rural-Eligible Areas

What it is: A loan backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Who it’s for: Buyers purchasing in suburban or rural areas near Raleigh
Why it works: No down payment required and low interest rates

Many buyers are surprised to find that areas like Rolesville, Wendell, Zebulon, and even parts of Wake Forest qualify for USDA financing.

✅ Perfect for buyers who want a little more space
✅ Offers significant savings upfront

Click here to Watch!

💸 3. Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Programs in North Carolina

What it is: A state-supported program providing forgivable or deferred loans to help cover down payments and closing costs
Who it’s for: First-time buyers or buyers who haven’t owned in 3+ years
Why it works: You can receive up to $15,000 in assistance depending on income and location

Programs like the NC Home Advantage Mortgage pair with FHA, USDA, or conventional loans and are designed to help buyers who just need a little push to get started.

✅ Reduces the upfront cost significantly
✅ You may not need to repay the funds if you stay in the home long enough

📍 Raleigh Is Still Full of Opportunity for First-Time Buyers

Even in a competitive market, these programs are helping first-time buyers win homes. I’ve guided buyers through the process of qualifying, applying, and closing—even when they thought they couldn’t afford it.

Whether you’re buying a condo in downtown Raleigh, a townhome in Garner, or a single-family home in Clayton, there’s likely a loan option that fits your financial situation.

How Phil Slezak Real Estate Can Help You

At Phil Slezak Real Estate, brokered by LPT Realty, we do more than just help you find a home—we make sure your entire moving process is stress-free and seamless. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or relocating, we have the resources, expertise, and connections to guide you every step of the way.

Why Work With Us?

✔ Exclusive Off-Market Listings – Get access to homes before they hit the market.
✔ Zero-Commission Selling Options – Save thousands when selling your home.
✔ Relocation Assistance – We connect you with the best movers in Raleigh for a smooth transition.
✔ Buyer Home Guarantee – If your home isn’t perfect, we’ll sell it for zero listing commission.
✔ Sold Zero Commission – Maximize your profits with no listing commission when selling your home.
✔ Cash Offers – Get 4 cash offers on your home in minutes

Conclusion:

You don’t need 20% down or perfect credit to buy a home in Raleigh. With the right strategy and loan program—like FHA, USDA, or state-level down payment assistance you can make your dream of homeownership a reality sooner than you think. I’ve helped dozens of first-time buyers move from “just looking” to “just closed” using these very tools. If you're ready to explore your options and get into a home for less, let’s talk. I’ll help connect you to the right lenders and programs that fit your needs.

📲 Want expert advice on your next move?

📞 Call or text me at +19196074844 or connect with me on social media. I help people just like you every week make smart real estate decisions—let’s chat about yours!