Home Buyers Don’t Need 20% Down Payment

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that many are still confused about what is required to qualify for a home mortgage. The report, Aspiring Home Buyers Profile, surveyed future first time home buyers and homeowners expecting to purchase a home. The results of the survey show that non-homeowners cite the main reason for not currently owning a home, as not being able to afford one.

This brings me to two major misconceptions to address.

1. Down Payment

NAR’s survey revealed that consumers overestimate the down payment funds needed to qualify for a home loan. According to the report, 39% of non-homeowners say they believe they need more than 20% for a down payment on a home purchase. Home buyers don’t need 20% down payment In actuality, there are many loans written with a down payment of 3% or less.

Many renters may actually be able to enter the housing market sooner than they ever imagined with new programs that have emerged allowing less cash out of pocket.

2. FICO® Scores

An Ipson survey revealed that 62% of respondents believe they need excellent credit to buy a home, with 43% thinking a “good credit score” is over 780. In actuality, the average FICO® scores of approved conventional and FHA mortgages are much lower.

The average conventional loan closed in August had a credit score of 752, while FHA mortgages closed with a score of 683. The average across all loans closed in August was 724. The chart below shows the distribution of FICO® Scores for all loans approved in August.

FICO Score Distribution

Bottom Line

If you are a prospective buyer who is ‘ready’ and ‘willing’ to act now, but are not sure if you can. We should discuss the details help you understand your true options.