City of Florence CDBG target area down payment assistance

How the Florence help is calculated

This City of Florence Community Services program pays a percentage rather than a flat amount: 20% of the price, capped at $20,000. On a $100,000 home that would be the full $20,000 cap; on a lower price it is less. The assistance is a 10-year deferred forgivable second mortgage, so it disappears if you stay a decade.

Funding depends on the City's CDBG budget, and the program summary still linked from the City's page was last revised November 24, 2021. Call 843-665-3175 to confirm current terms.

Who qualifies

• Income eligible under CDBG rules (80% AMI); the summary does not print the dollar figures.
• Approved for a first mortgage by a lender.
• Buying in the North, Northwest or East Florence target areas.
• Completes a homebuyer education class.
• Brings at least $500 and pays a $25 application fee.

The home must pass a City/state inspection.

Florence alongside other programs

Florence County is one of SC Housing's targeted counties, where its first-time rule is looser. The City also runs a separate, larger program for new North Pointe and redevelopment homes. Whether this CDBG help stacks with SC Housing's DPA is not stated; a participating lender confirms whether they combine. Rural buyers nearby can ask the USDA office at 215 Third Loop Road (843-669-9686) about 0% down loans.

Who fits best? A buyer already approved by a lender who wants a resale home in North, Northwest or East Florence. Because the help is a percentage, a lower-priced home gets less in dollars, and the $500 minimum plus the $25 fee are the only cash the summary lists from you beyond normal closing costs. Ask the City whether 2026 funds remain and whether the 2021 summary still reflects current rules.

Keep in mind that the City and state inspection can require repairs before closing, which can stretch the timeline; build that into your contract dates.

Steps

1. Get pre-approved with a lender.
2. Confirm the address is inside a target area.
3. Take the homebuyer class.
4. Apply with the $25 fee and schedule the inspection.

See the Florence County page, the cash needed to buy guide, or check eligibility.

County guides for the area served: Florence County

Questions about City of Florence CDBG Target Area Down-payment Assistance

Ask whether I qualify for this program

Our account follows the official program page as of November 2026. Funds and rules can change, so please confirm the present terms with the program or a participating lender. South Carolina Down Payment Assistance has no connection with this program.