How Can You Buy a Home with Less Than 20% Down?

  • Understanding Low to No Down Payment Options for Home Buying

    Are you thinking about buying a home but worried about the down payment? Or are you a real estate agent assisting first-time home buyers? You won’t want to miss this comprehensive guide on low to no down payment options for purchasing a home.

    Common Misconceptions

    Many potential homebuyers are discouraged from starting the process because they believe a 20% down payment is necessary. This belief often serves as the biggest barrier to entry into the housing market. However, there are several loan options available that require significantly lower down payments.

    FHA Loans

    Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans are often misunderstood and mislabeled as First Time homebuyer loans. While this is certainly not the case, as they are available to all qualified buyers, not just first-time homebuyers.  Additionally, they potentially have the largest downpayemnt requirement of all of the options for qualified fist time homebuyers that will be discussed here.

    • Down Payment: Minimum of 3.5%.
    • Features: FHA loans are ideal for buyers with lower credit scores or higher debt-to-income ratios.
    • Mortgage Insurance: Required for the life of the loan, and you are also required to pay an upfront premium that is typically financed into the loan.

    Conventional Loans

    Conventional loans are divided into conforming and non-conforming categories. Conforming loans adhere to guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.  For the purposes here, we will stick to conforming products.

    • Down Payment: Minimum of 3% for specific programs geared towards first-time buyers, such as Home Possible and Home Ready.
    • Mortgage Insurance: Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) can be removed once you reach 20% equity in your home, or under other specific circumstances.

    VA Loans

    VA Loans are exclusively available to eligible veterans and offer significant benefits.

    • Down Payment: Potentially zero down payment required.
    • Benefits: No monthly mortgage insurance, very competitive interest rates, and the option for the seller to pay all normal and reasonable closing costs.
    • Eligibility: Must be an eligible veteran and meet qualification standards.

    USDA Loans

    USDA Loans are designed for home purchases in designated rural areas.

    • Down Payment: No down payment required.
    • Features: No mortgage insurance required, but you must meet geographical and income restrictions.

    Down Payment Assistance Programs

    There are state and local programs that offer down payment assistance through grants or silent second mortgages.

    • Types: These programs may include the SHIP program and various local grants.
    • Considerations: Ensure funds are available, understand if the assistance needs to be repaid, and compare the overall cost with traditional loans.

    Making the Right Choice

    When considering low to no down payment options, it’s crucial to compare different loan types to find the best fit for your financial situation. Consulting with a knowledgeable loan officer can provide personalized advice and help you make an informed decision.

    Contact Morgan Financial

    At Morgan Financial, we are dedicated to providing honest advice to help you navigate your home buying journey. Located in Melbourne, Florida, our veteran-owned and operated company specializes in helping veterans and first-time homebuyers.

    If you need assistance or have questions about your mortgage options, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you every step of the way.


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    ns and reduce stress.


If you live in Florida and want honest and helpful professional advice, please reach out to Morgan Financial in Melbourne, Brevard County. Our team is here to assist you in making the right choice for your homebuying journey. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a real estate agent looking to expand your knowledge, we are here to help.

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For more information and personalized assistance, contact Morgan Financial today. Let us help you turn your homeownership dreams into reality!

Talk with a Mortgage Expert!

Ready to explore how the this information affects your home-owning journey? Contact us today for expert guidance. Your property journey begins with confidence, backed by the local expertise of Morgan Financial. Call 321-757-7530

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