Frequently asked questions
Upstate SC Heroes FAQ
What is the Upstate SC Heroes Program?
The Upstate SC Heroes Program honors veterans, military, firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, doctors, nurses, healthcare workers and teachers by helping them save thousands of dollars when they buy or sell a home in the Upstate of South Carolina.
Who qualifies as an Upstate SC Hero?
Veterans and active military of every branch (including National Guard and reserves), firefighters, police officers, sheriff's deputies, EMTs, paramedics, 911 dispatchers, doctors, nurses, healthcare workers, and teachers and school staff.
What can I save on?
Hero benefits can reduce costs on real estate commissions, mortgage services, closing attorney fees, home inspections, pest (CL-100) inspections, homeowners insurance, staging and more.
Is there any cost or obligation?
No. Requesting your hero benefits is free and there is never any obligation.
What areas do you serve?
The South Carolina Upstate, including Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Pickens and Oconee counties: Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Greer, Simpsonville, Mauldin, Easley, Taylors, Fountain Inn, Travelers Rest, Clemson, Seneca and surrounding towns.
Is this a loan or a government program?
No. It is a local program of real estate and home-service partners. You can use it with any loan type, including VA, FHA, USDA, SC Housing and conventional mortgages.
Veterans & Military
Can I use this program together with my VA loan?
Yes. The Upstate SC Heroes Program is not a loan. It reduces the costs around your purchase or sale, and you can pair it with a VA loan, FHA, USDA, SC Housing or a conventional mortgage.
Do National Guard members and reservists qualify?
Yes. Army National Guard, Air National Guard, reservists, active duty, retirees and honorably discharged veterans of every branch all qualify.
I'm relocating to Upstate SC on PCS orders. Can you help remotely?
Yes. Our partners regularly help military families buy in Greenville, Spartanburg and Anderson County with video tours and remote closings when needed.
Firefighters, Police & EMS
Do volunteer firefighters qualify?
Yes. Career and volunteer firefighters, law enforcement, EMTs, paramedics and 911 dispatchers all qualify for Upstate SC Heroes benefits.
Is this a down payment assistance program?
No. It reduces the costs of the services around your move. Our lending partners can tell you whether you also qualify for SC Housing or other down payment assistance programs.
Can I use the program to sell my home too?
Yes. Hero benefits apply when you buy, when you sell, or when you do both.
Doctors & Physicians
Can residents and fellows use the program?
Yes. Residents, fellows and attending physicians all qualify, along with dentists, PAs, pharmacists and veterinarians.
Can I buy before my start date?
Some lenders can approve a loan with a signed employment contract before you start. Our partners can confirm what applies to your situation.
Nurses & Healthcare Workers
Do CNAs, techs and other healthcare staff qualify?
Yes. Nurses at every level, CNAs, medical techs, therapists and other healthcare workers qualify.
I'm a travel nurse. Can I still use the program?
Yes, if you are buying or selling a home in Upstate South Carolina.
Teachers & Educators
Do school staff other than teachers qualify?
Yes. Administrators, counselors, coaches, paraprofessionals, aides and college faculty qualify.
Can this be combined with SC Housing programs?
Our program reduces service costs and can be used alongside loan or down payment programs you qualify for. Our lending partners can review your options.