If you’ve ever thought about buying a home but felt like the upfront costs were holding you back, this is one of those programs you’ll want to know about. The Palmetto Heroes Program, offered through South Carolina Housing, was created to support the people who serve our communities every single day—our teachers, nurses, first responders, military members, and more. It’s a way of saying thank you, while also helping make homeownership more attainable.

At its core, the program provides up to $10,000 in down payment assistance along with competitive fixed interest rates, which can make a significant difference when it comes to getting into a home. For many buyers, that assistance can cover a large portion (or even all) of their upfront costs—removing one of the biggest barriers to homeownership.

What we love about this program is how many professions it actually includes. It goes beyond just the obvious roles and recognizes a wide range of “everyday heroes”—from classroom teachers, librarians, and guidance counselors to medical professionals like nurses, therapists, and technicians. It also includes law enforcement, firefighters (even volunteer!), EMTs, correctional officers, and both active-duty military and veterans. It’s truly built to support the people who keep our communities running.

There are a few important things to know if you’re considering taking advantage of it. Buyers do need to meet South Carolina Housing’s first-time homebuyer requirements, and the program works alongside different loan types like FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional financing. Funds are also limited and interest rates can change, so timing matters—this isn’t something to sit on if you think you might qualify.

That said, this is just one of many options out there. While the Palmetto Heroes Program is an incredible opportunity for those who qualify, we work closely with a wide network of trusted local lenders who offer a variety of programs—some that may be an even better fit depending on your situation. And even if you don’t fall into one of the “official” hero categories, there are still creative financing options, grants, and strategies that could help you achieve the same goal.

At the end of the day, whether you’re a hometown hero by title or just someone working hard and ready to take that next step, there are more paths to homeownership than most people realize—and we’re here to help you find the one that makes the most sense for you.