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How Much Down Payment Do You Need on a House? The Real Numbers for 2026
On a $400,000 home the minimum is $0 with VA/USDA, $12,000 (3%) conventional and $14,000 (3.5%) FHA — while 20% down is $80,000. The median first-time buyer puts down 10% (NAR), and 20% down saves $727 a month against 3% down at 7% over 30 years.
Asad · Nov 12, 2026 Read article →