← All episodes · Episode 14
19:21 · Published August 15, 2026
A 19-minute walk through the four loan programs first-time home buyers in the Triad North Carolina use in 2026. Real down payment math on a 385,000 dollar median Triad home. Credit score tiers and what each one costs in rate. The structural difference between PMI on conventional loans and MIP on FHA loans, including why FHA insurance often runs for the life of the loan. USDA eligibility across Wilkes County, Yadkin, and the outer Triad. VA loan mechanics for eligible service members. Seller concession caps by program. NC-specific closing cost math with attorney closings. The four-question decision tree that identifies which program fits which buyer.
The 3,354-word deep-dive article with pricing tables, credit tier chart, seller concession caps, and the printable decision worksheet is at homesintriadnc.com/blog/complete-first-time-home-buyer-loan-guide-triad-nc-2026-fha-va-usda-conventional-anchor.