Lisa Penny, Realtor

06/04/2026

🏡 Buyer Tip: You do not need 20% down to buy a home in NC.

This is one of the biggest myths that keeps buyers waiting longer than they need to.

A lot of people think they need a huge savings account before they can even start the conversation. The truth is, many buyers use loan options that require much less than 20% down.

Here are a few options buyers may be using right now:

🏦 FHA Loan
As low as 3.5% down, with more flexible credit requirements.

🏦 Conventional Loan
As low as 3% down for qualified first-time buyers.

🏦 USDA Loan
0% down for eligible rural areas. Many parts of Johnston and Cumberland County may qualify.

🏦 VA Loan
0% down for eligible veterans and active-duty service members.

There are also down payment assistance programs through the NC Housing Finance Agency for qualified buyers. These programs may help with your down payment or closing costs.

And if you are looking at new construction, many builders are offering incentives right now that may help cover closing costs. That can mean thousands of dollars you may not have to bring to the table.

The bottom line: you might be closer to ready than you think.

A quick conversation with a lender can help you understand your options, your numbers, and what steps to take next.

📞 919-651-HOME
🌐 aprilstephens.com

DM us and we’ll connect you with a lender who knows the programs.

05/16/2026

Open House tomorrow 5/16 from 9-11. Come see me!

05/12/2026

🏡 More space feels different when it actually fits your life.

At 260 Chestnut Oak Lane in Lillington, you’re getting more than extra square footage. You’re getting a backyard that gives you room to breathe too. 🌿

This 4-bedroom home sits on a corner lot with a fully fenced yard, perfect for cookouts, pets, kids playing outside, or simply having your own private space to relax after a long day.

And the lifestyle goes beyond the property line 👇

Living in Matthews Ridge means access to:
🏊‍♀️ Community pool
🛝 Neighborhood playground
🌳 A community designed for everyday living

Inside, the layout gives you the flexibility so many buyers are looking for:
✨ 2,652 sq ft
✨ Open-concept living spaces
✨ Quartz countertops
✨ Energy-efficient appliances
✨ Refrigerator included

📍 Lillington, NC
💰 $359,900
🛏 4 Bedrooms
🛁 2.5 Bathrooms

Some homes check one box. This one checks several, space, function, neighborhood amenities, and a backyard you’ll actually use.

📲 Want to take a look in person?
Call 919 651 HOME

🔗 https://aprilstephens.com/.../Matthews-Ridge/MLS/10157565

05/05/2026

$20,000 buyer incentive just dropped in Earp Farm North 💥

That’s $20,000 you can use your way when you work with the builder’s preferred lender, Liberty Ridge Lending. Think closing costs, rate buy down, upgrades, or a mix of all three.

This is one of the strongest incentives we’ve seen in this price point.

📍 Earp Farm North, Selma NC
🏡 Only 4 homes currently available
💰 Avg price $583,456

Why buyers are paying attention here
• Custom JSJ floor plans with flexible layouts
• Vaulted ceilings that open up the space
• Kitchens built for real life and entertaining
• Minutes to Flowers Plantation, but still feels tucked away

👀 Want to see it in person
Join us for our Broker Open

📅 Thursday, May 28th, 2026
🕛 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
📍 139 Bandelier Drive (Lot 4), Selma NC

To RSVP
https://www.eventcreate.com/e/earp-farm-north-broker-open
If you’ve been waiting for the right combination of price, location, and incentive, this is worth a look.

More info here
https://aprilstephens.com/New-Home-Communities/Neighborhood/id/2382

📲 Call 919-651-HOME to schedule your tour

05/04/2026

Call us for a private tour!!! 919-651-HOME 🏠❤️

05/01/2026

04/30/2026

🏡 You don’t just need more space inside… you want it outside too.

At 260 Chestnut Oak Lane in Lillington, you get both 👇

This 4-bedroom home sits on a corner lot with a fully fenced backyard, giving you the kind of space that actually works for real life. Think kids playing, dogs running, weekend cookouts, or just having your own private spot to unwind. 🌿

And it doesn’t stop at the backyard…

Living in Matthews Ridge means you also have access to:
🏊‍♀️ Community pool for those hot NC summers
🛝 Playground space for everyday fun close to home

Inside, the layout gives you room to spread out without feeling disconnected:
✨ 2,652 sq ft of functional living space
✨ Open flow for everyday living and entertaining
✨ Quartz countertops and energy-efficient appliances
✨ Refrigerator included, so you’re ready from day one

📍 Lillington, NC
💰 $359,900
🛏 4 Bedrooms | 🛁 2.5 Bathrooms

This is one of those homes where the space, layout, and neighborhood all come together.

📲 For more info or to schedule a showing
Call 919 651 HOME
Or take a closer look here:
https://aprilstephens.com/Home-For-Sale/Lillington/Matthews-Ridge/MLS/10157565

04/18/2026