Down payment options for every buyer.
Your down payment shapes your loan size, monthly payment, mortgage insurance, and how much cash you'll need at closing. Program choice matters as much as the number itself.
Direct answer
You do not need 20% down. Common programs allow 3–5%, VA and USDA can allow 0% for eligible borrowers, and gift funds are often permitted.
Key takeaways
- 01
Conventional loans commonly allow 3–5% down.
- 02
FHA typically allows 3.5% down with flexible credit.
- 03
VA and USDA can allow 0% down for eligible borrowers.
How much is enough?
The right down payment balances upfront cash, reserves, and long-term cost of mortgage insurance.
Gift funds and assistance
Most programs allow gift funds from family; many areas have down-payment assistance programs worth exploring.
Related calculators
Related loan programs
Frequently asked
Do I lose money by putting less down?
Not directly — you preserve cash and reserves. The trade-off is mortgage insurance until you reach 20% equity on most conventional loans.
Can family gift my down payment?
Most programs allow documented gift funds from eligible family members.
Is 20% down still worth it?
It can eliminate mortgage insurance and lower your payment, but 20% is not required.
Explore more
Ready when you are.
Turn what you've learned into action with a Vabasso mortgage expert.