First-Time Homebuyers

First steps to buying a home
Establish your team
Your team consists of you, your lender, and your real estate agent. As your lender, we will help you at every step.
Choose a location
There are many factors to consider when choosing your home location: schools, safety, hospitals, commute to work, etc.
Get prequalified
Before searching for a home, get prequalified to show sellers you’re serious about buying.
Learn More
Are you currently renting? See if you can save by owning.
To own a home, some renters simply need help with financing and guidance. Use this guide to learn more about whether or not buying a home is right for you.

Review Our Guide >         Rent Vs. Own Calculator >

Why choose South Carolina Federal Credit Union.

We offer competitive rates, personalized service, and we are local.

(843) 569-5145    |    Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 6:00pm

Our prequalification process. We’ll help guide you at every step.
Get prequalified Apply online
Get prequalified
See how much house you can afford before you go shopping.
Learn more View our calculators
Shop and make an offer
Once you find your dream home, it’s time to make an offer.
Learn more about prequalifying
Complete your application
Provide some information about yourself and the property. 
Underwriting
Our team will evaluate your application and make a determination. 
Closing
Sign all necessary documents and take ownership of your new home!
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See what our members have to say about us.
My fiancé and I purchased our first home in June of 2023. Katherine was our loan officer and she was amazing. I highly recommend South Carolina Federal to anyone with a mortgage need!
Read More of this testimonial
- Alexis C.
I did a great deal of research first, and found that SC Federal was in the best position to not only get me a great rate, but also to navigate all the other associated costs and concerns. And getting home insurance with Insurance Solutions made it quick and easy to close.
- Mary H.

Estimated Home Cost List

The costs listed below are averages and estimates. Costs will vary depending on your home location, the type of home and the type of mortgage loan you select.

One time costs during closing

  • Down payment - 3% or more of the purchase price
  • Closing cost - 2-5% of the purchase price
  • Appraisal fee - $600 - $1200 estimated
  • Inspection fee - up to $300
  • Lender/processing fee - $1500 (with SC Federal)
  • Points - 1 point = up to $300
  • Title Survey - $400
  • Closing attorney fees - $1500 - $2000
  • LOL Flood cert, Credit Report, Tax services, and UDM Alert Fees - $100 - $150

Recurring monthly costs for owing a home

  • Monthly mortgage - Varies. Try our calculator to estimate the cost.
  • Property taxes - $100 - $300 
  • Homeowner insurance - $100 - $250
  • HOA fees, if applicable - up to $1000
  • Private mortgage insurance (only applies if down payment amount is lower than 20% of the purchase price) - based on the loan amount.
  • Utilities - up to $300
  • Maintenance and repairs - Depends on your property

Mortgage Calculators

Figure out how much you can put away to start saving for a down payment on your home.
Use this calculator to determine the home price and monthly housing cost you can afford.
Figure out how much you can put away to start saving for down payment on your home.