House Charlotte Program
How much assistance
Up to $10,000 for households at or below 80% AMI; up to $7,500 for households at 80-110% AMI. Up to $17,000 in select high-cost neighborhoods. (Forgivable Loan)
0% interest deferred forgivable second mortgage. Pro-rated forgiveness at 20% per year starting at year 5; fully forgiven after 10 years of owner-occupancy. Repayment of unforgiven balance required if sold, refinanced, or transferred before full forgiveness period.
Eligibility
- Income limits: Household income at or below 110% of Area Median Income (AMI) for Mecklenburg County. Two tiers: at or below 80% AMI (up to $10,000) and 80-110% AMI (up to $7,500).
- Purchase price limit: $365,000
- First-time buyer required: Yes — HUD definition — have not owned a home as primary residence in the past 3 years
- Geographic restrictions: Must purchase within Charlotte city limits (Mecklenburg County)
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
Notes
City-funded through Charlotte Housing Trust Fund and federal CDBG/HOME funds. Can be layered with NC Home Advantage Mortgage + NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment ($15,000) + CPLP for significant combined assistance. DreamKey Partners is the designated CPLP community partner for Charlotte/Mecklenburg area. Higher $17,000 tier available in select high-cost neighborhoods — verify specific neighborhoods with DreamKey. Credit score minimum not specified; likely defers to underlying first mortgage requirements (640 for NC Home Advantage).