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One of the biggest challenges for aspiring homeowners is coming up with a down payment. The amount you need depends on several factors, including the type of mortgage you choose, the home’s purchase price, and whether you qualify for specific loan programs. Down payments are typically described as a percentage of the home’s total cost, and saving up for one can take time. But how much do you need to set aside for a down payment on a house?

The most common figure is 20% of the home’s purchase price. This is often cited as the ideal amount for a down payment, especially for conventional mortgages. However, many options are available for buyers who can’t reach that 20% mark, with some loans offering lower down payments—or even none at all. Let’s break down the various down payment options to see what might work best for you.

The 20% Down Payment: Why It’s Often Mentioned

The idea of putting down 20% of the home’s purchase price comes from conventional mortgage requirements. With a 20% down payment, you avoid certain costs and get more favorable loan terms. Here are some benefits of the 20% down payment:

While 20% is considered the traditional down payment, it’s not always feasible for everyone. Fortunately, several options exist for buyers who can’t meet this threshold.

Lower Down Payment Options

If saving up for a 20% down payment seems out of reach, don’t worry. There are other ways to buy a home with significantly less money upfront. Depending on the loan program you choose, you may be able to make a down payment as low as 3%—or even skip it altogether.

Conventional Loans with PMI

You can still get a conventional loan with a down payment as low as 3%, but in this case, you’ll have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) until you reach 20% equity in the property. PMI is typically rolled into your monthly mortgage payment and varies based on the loan amount and credit score.

While paying PMI adds to your monthly costs, it’s a trade-off that allows you to get into a home sooner without waiting to save up a larger down payment. Plus, the PMI payments can be removed once you’ve built up enough equity (typically when you’ve paid off 20% of the home’s value).

FHA Loans

An FHA loan might be a good option for buyers with less-than-perfect credit or a smaller savings cushion. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), these loans allow you to buy a home with as little as 3.5% down.

FHA loans also tend to have more relaxed credit requirements than conventional loans, making them accessible to a broader range of buyers. However, you will need to pay for mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) for the duration of the loan, regardless of your down payment amount. This adds to your monthly payments, but FHA loans are a solid choice if you need a more flexible down payment and credit option.

VA Loans

You may be eligible for a VA loan if you’re a veteran, active-duty military member, or qualifying surviving spouse. Backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans don’t require any down payment and don’t come with PMI.

VA loans are a fantastic benefit for those who qualify, but you’ll still need to meet specific service-related requirements to be eligible. You may also pay a VA funding fee, which helps support the program. This fee can be financed as part of the loan, meaning you won’t have to pay it upfront.

USDA Loans

Another no-money-down option is a USDA loan, available to buyers purchasing homes in rural or suburban areas. Backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA loans don’t require a down payment or come with PMI, making them an excellent option for those looking to buy in eligible locations.

To qualify for a USDA loan, your property must be in an eligible rural or suburban area, and your income must meet specific guidelines. Like VA loans, USDA loans make homeownership accessible to a broader range of buyers without requiring significant upfront costs.

The Advantages of a Larger Down Payment

While low and no-down-payment options are available, it’s worth considering the benefits of making a larger down payment if you’re able. The more you put down upfront, the less you’ll need to borrow, which can lower your monthly payments and the total interest you pay over the life of the loan.

Additionally, making a larger down payment can help you:

However, while a larger down payment can be advantageous, balancing this with keeping enough savings for emergencies and home maintenance after the purchase is essential.

Down Payments for Second Homes and Investment Properties

Down payment requirements are usually stricter when purchasing a second home or an investment property. Lenders typically expect a larger down payment for a second home, often around 10% to 20%. You may be required to put down as much as 25% for investment properties—especially for multi-family or commercial loans.

Conclusion

Your down payment is essential to home-buying, but it doesn’t always have to be 20%. While larger down payments offer benefits like lower monthly payments and avoiding PMI, several mortgage options, such as conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans, provide opportunities to buy a home with more minor or no down payments. Understanding your options and working with a lender to find the best fit for your financial situation will help you secure a home without stretching beyond your means.

FAQs

What is a down payment on a house?

A down payment is the upfront cash you pay to purchase a home, typically expressed as a percentage of the total purchase price.

Do you have to put a 20% down payment on a house?

No, a 20% down payment is not required. Many loans, like FHA and conventional loans, allow for down payments as low as 3% to 5%.

How much is the mortgage payment of $100,000 for 30 years?

The monthly mortgage payment on a $100,000 loan for 30 years, at an average interest rate of 3.5%, would be around $450, excluding taxes and insurance.

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