What kind of down payment do I need?

The amount of down payment you need to buy a home depends on several factors, including the type of mortgage you choose, your credit score, and the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio.

1. Conventional mortgage: For a conventional mortgage, the minimum down payment is typically 20% of the purchase price. This means that if you’re buying a $200,000 home, you’ll need a down payment of $40,000. However, there are programs available that offer lower down payment options, such as 3% or 5% down, but these may come with higher interest rates or additional fees.
2. FHA loan: For an Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan, the minimum down payment is 3.5% of the purchase price.
3. VA loan: For a Veterans Affairs (VA) loan, no down payment is required.
4. USDA loan: For a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan, no down payment is required.
5. Credit score: Your credit score can also impact the amount of down payment you need. Lenders may require a higher down payment if you have a lower credit score.

It’s important to keep in mind that a larger down payment can help you secure a lower interest rate, lower monthly payments, and build equity faster. However, if you’re unable to make a large down payment, there are programs available to help you purchase a home with a smaller down payment. It’s important to speak with a lender to understand the options available to you based on your financial situation.